As the Arab Media Summit 2026 unfolds under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and guided by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the Dubai Press Club, the event promises to be a vibrant gathering of intellectuals and authors. Taking place from September 15 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this prominent media summit, organised by the Dubai Press Club, will feature a series of book signings showcasing some of the latest works that have garnered significant attention in both cultural and intellectual circles, regionally and internationally.
An Invitation to Dialogue
This year, the summit anticipates attracting around 10,000 participants from the fields of media, opinion making, content creation, and communications. It will provide an interactive platform where writers can engage with journalists, content creators, and cultural enthusiasts, enriching the knowledge base and fostering thought-provoking discussions.
Enriching Cultural Dimensions
Mariam Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, confirmed that bringing together this distinguished group of writers and thinkers aligns with the Club’s vision to solidify the cultural dimension of the summit. She highlighted the significance of creating a dynamic platform for thousands of attendees to interact directly with contemporary authors, exploring their intellectual and creative journeys. “Honouring thinkers and authors has become an annual tradition that parallels the evolution of the summit and enriches dialogues among media leaders and experts from the region and beyond,” Mulla stated. She added that book signing sessions offer a unique opportunity to broaden the discussion on media, culture, and identity, reinforcing the summit’s role as a space for exchanging ideas and sharing expertise.
Interactive Experiences
Ruqayya Al Jabri, a member of the organising committee for the Arab Media Summit 2026, expressed that the committee has focused on delivering a comprehensive experience this year. The event will encompass key sessions and discussions as well as various interactive spaces and activities that allow participants enhanced opportunities for direct communication with writers, journalists, and thought leaders. “The book signing sessions, along with other events such as media chats, are crucial elements of the summit experience,” Al Jabri remarked. “These initiatives help bridge the gap between creators and their audience, facilitating discussions that are both intimate and engaging. Each iteration of the summit aims to innovate and diversify these spaces, reflecting the participants’ interests and enriching the three-day event with dialogue, knowledge, and connections.”
Notable Book Signings
Throughout the three days of the summit, several book signings will take place at the Dubai Press Club platform, starting with Zahin Shaheen as he presents his novel “One Blood.” Additionally, the doctor and novelist Dr. Osama Abdel Raouf Al-Shazly will sign his book “Prophet of the North,” while Ahmed Al-Muslimani, the head of the National Media Authority of Egypt, will showcase his book “Close to History: Intellectual Sessions with Global Figures.”
International Contributions
This year’s summit will also host international contributions, such as the esteemed journalist Hala Korani, who will sign her award-winning book “But You Don’t Look Arab,” which has earned her an Emmy from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) in the United States.
Having organised book signings for over 200 titles during its previous 24 iterations, the Arab Media Summit aims to enhance its intellectual momentum, reaffirming its position as a significant platform that intertwines media, culture, and the creation of ideas.