1 Billion Followers Summit: A New Era for Content Creation

Organized by the UAE Government Media Office, the highly anticipated 1 Billion Followers Summit is set to take place from January 9 to 11, 2026. This landmark event aims to attract over 30,000 visitors from more than 140 countries, including a significant presence of 15,000 content creators.

A Gathering of Influencers and Innovators

The summit will feature an impressive lineup of over 400 speakers, whose collective social media following exceeds 3 billion. This diverse group will represent all major social media platforms, making it a pivotal gathering for anyone involved in the digital content landscape.

The AI Film Award: A Game Changer

One of the standout features of the summit is the AI Film Award, powered by Google Gemini. This initiative aims to encourage the creation of impactful films using cutting-edge AI tools. The award underscores the rising significance of short films as a medium for conveying powerful messages to global audiences while enhancing filmmakers’ technical and creative capabilities.

The AI Film Award is not just about recognition; it’s about fostering innovation in storytelling. As the film industry evolves, the integration of AI tools allows creators to push boundaries and explore new narratives.

Supporting the Creator Economy

In addition to the award, the summit will host the Creator’s Market, showcasing over 100 startups. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between creators and entrepreneurs, providing resources and opportunities for those looking to transition into business. The Creators Ventures accelerator is set to invest more than AED 50 million (approximately $13.6 million) to support these budding founders.

A Vision for the Future

Saeed Al Eter, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Projects and Chairman of the UAE Government Media Office, emphasized the summit’s role in nurturing talent and fostering investments in the Creator Economy. He stated, “The 1 Billion Followers Summit has grown to become a key global event in supporting talent, developing advanced skills, and fostering investments in the Creator Economy.”

The UAE is positioning itself as a global leader in innovation and technology. As the first nation to appoint a Minister of Artificial Intelligence, the UAE is committed to integrating AI into its education system, teaching it as a core subject from kindergarten through 12th grade. This strategic vision aims to empower the next generation with essential skills for the future.

Embracing Creativity Through AI

The launch of the AI Film Award comes at a crucial time when the landscape of film and content creation is rapidly changing. Creativity is no longer limited to large studios with hefty budgets; anyone with a mobile device and a vivid imagination can now create compelling content.

Anthony Nakache, Google’s Managing Director in the Middle East and North Africa, expressed the company’s belief that AI should enhance creativity. He stated, “We want Google Gemini to give every aspiring storyteller, regardless of their budget or available equipment, the power of our advanced models to bring ideas to life.” This includes tools like Veo for video generation and Imagen for image creation, which are designed to empower creators at all levels.

Submission Guidelines for the AI Film Award

For those interested in participating in the AI Film Award, submissions are open until November 20, 2025. Here are the key details:

• Film Length: Entries must be between 7 to 10 minutes long.
• AI Usage: At least 70% of the film must be AI-generated using Google Gemini tools, although other editing software can be used for non-core tasks.
• Themes: Films should explore one of two themes: “Rewrite Tomorrow” (focusing on future possibilities) or “The Secret Life of…” (uncovering untold stories).
• Technical Requirements: Clean audio, synchronized dialogue, and visual continuity are essential. Non-English films must include English subtitles.
• Disclosure: Participants must disclose the AI models and tools used and provide open files upon request.

A panel of judges will evaluate submissions based on storytelling, creativity, AI integration, execution, and thematic excellence. The top ten films will be shortlisted between November 21 and December 4, 2025, with public voting taking place from December 10 to 15. The five finalists will be announced on January 3, 2026, and their films will be screened during the summit on January 10. The grand prize winner, who will receive $1 million, will be revealed on January 11, 2026.

Open to All Creators

Participation in the AI Film Award is open to all active content creators on social media, making it an inclusive opportunity for those looking to showcase their talent and creativity. This initiative not only highlights the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation but also encourages a global community of creators to explore the potential of AI in storytelling.

As the summit approaches, excitement builds around the possibilities it presents for creators, innovators, and audiences alike. The 1 Billion Followers Summit promises to be a transformative event, paving the way for the future of content creation in an increasingly digital world.