- Disney Plus joins the summit as a major strategic industry partner
- The event focuses on building a sustainable digital media ecosystem
- Global creators gather in Dubai to share storytelling and production tips
- Collaboration helps local talent reach massive audiences with high quality content
Dubai is set to become the epicenter of the global creator economy this January. The 1 Billion Followers Summit recently confirmed that Disney Plus has joined its fourth edition as a strategic partner, signaling a massive shift in how streaming giants and independent creators interact. This collaboration brings a powerhouse of cinematic history to a stage where the next generation of digital storytellers is currently being forged.
The digital landscape is shifting away from simple viral clips toward high-production storytelling that mirrors traditional cinema. With audiences demanding more substance, the “Content for Good” theme of this year’s summit feels particularly timely. By bringing Disney Plus into the fold, the UAE Government Media Office is bridging the gap between Hollywood-level expertise and the agility of social media stars. This isn’t just about fame, it is about professionalizing an industry that now commands billions of eyes every single day.
For creators in the Middle East, this partnership represents a unique bridge to global recognition. Tamim Fares, Director of Disney Plus Middle East, noted that the streaming service has already seen incredible results from working with regional talent on recent campaigns. The goal now is to provide these voices with the structural support needed to turn a creative passion into a sustainable business. By offering access to world-class production knowledge, the summit ensures that local stories don’t just stay local, but instead find a home on the global stage.
The fourth edition of the summit is shaping up to be a record-breaking affair at the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers. Beyond the Disney Plus announcement, the event features a one million dollar AI-generated film award and a dedicated pavilion for content companies. These initiatives reflect a commitment to innovation and a belief that the creator economy is the new frontier of global business. It is a space where a single creator can have the impact of a traditional media house, provided they have the right tools and partnerships.
This alliance highlights the UAE’s role as a leading hub for the creative economy. As Her Excellency Alia AlHammadi pointed out, the inclusion of Disney Plus is a qualitative addition that meets the global standards participants now expect. For any creator looking to scale their brand or master the art of meaningful narrative, this January is the time to be in Dubai.
Join the movement and witness the future of digital entertainment first-hand. Learn more about the event and register at the official 1 Billion Followers Summit website.
