The Abu Dhabi Creative Industries Congress 2025 is set to become one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year, taking place on September 14 and 15 at the iconic Etihad Arena. This year, the congress brings together more than a hundred global speakers, industry leaders, and creative minds under the theme “Arabic Creativity Reimagined: Innovation in Storytelling and Audience Engagement.” With sessions led by stars like Hend Sabry and Mo Amer, as well as workshops, panels, and interactive experiences, the event promises to inspire, educate, and foster meaningful collaboration in the world of Arabic creative industries.
The congress is an unparalleled platform for those involved in film, television, digital content, gaming, and other creative sectors. Its focus on innovation, storytelling, and the use of technology in content creation makes it particularly relevant for anyone invested in shaping the future of Arabic arts and media.
1. Her Narrative: Women Reimagining Arabic Creativity
Date and Time: September 14, 11:15 AM
Speakers: Hend Sabry, Tima Shomali, Butheina Kazim
The session “Her Narrative: Women Reimagining Arabic Creativity” highlights the significant contributions of Arab women in reshaping cultural narratives across multiple media platforms. Hend Sabry, a renowned Tunisian-Egyptian actress known for roles in acclaimed productions, will share her journey, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating the Arab entertainment landscape.
Joining her is Tima Shomali, a prominent director recognized for her work in groundbreaking series, and Butheina Kazim, a founder of a leading cinema initiative, both of whom have transformed storytelling in Arabic cinema. Together, they will explore the unique perspectives women bring to creativity, the impact of representation, and strategies for breaking traditional barriers.
Attendees can expect to gain insights into the evolving role of women in Arab media, understand the cultural nuances shaping female narratives, and learn how female creatives are redefining audience engagement in the region.
2. The Power of Personal Narrative in the Age of AI
Date and Time: September 14, 2:15 PM
Speakers: Mo Amer, Mo Gawdat
In a rapidly changing digital landscape, storytelling is evolving alongside artificial intelligence. This session, featuring Palestinian-American comedian Mo Amer and tech strategist Mo Gawdat, examines how personal stories can remain authentic while leveraging technology to reach wider audiences.
Mo Amer, who has gained international recognition for his comedy series and live performances, discusses the balance between humor and storytelling in addressing social issues. His perspective offers a unique lens on how humor, personal experience, and culture intersect in contemporary Arabic media.
Meanwhile, Mo Gawdat addresses the opportunities and challenges that AI presents for creators. By exploring AI-driven content tools, narrative personalization, and audience analytics, the session aims to equip participants with actionable knowledge to innovate in their creative fields while preserving the authenticity of their stories.
3. Preserving Arabic Identity Through Creativity
Date and Time: September 15, 10:00 AM
Speakers: Nadine Labaki, Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak
The session “Preserving Arabic Identity Through Creativity” focuses on the role of the arts in safeguarding cultural heritage. Lebanese filmmaker Nadine Labaki, known globally for her award-winning films, highlights how storytelling can be a vehicle for cultural preservation and identity reinforcement.
Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, a leader in creative industry development, examines the strategies needed to present Arabic culture authentically to global audiences. Together, they discuss investment in talent, cultural entrepreneurship, and how modern media can both reflect and shape the evolving identity of Arab communities. This session is particularly valuable for creatives and policymakers seeking to balance innovation with cultural preservation.
4. Generative AI Tools for Arabic Content
Date and Time: September 15, 12:00 PM
Speaker: Workshop Leader TBD
As the creative sector increasingly intersects with technology, the use of generative AI is gaining momentum. This hands-on workshop introduces participants to AI tools designed specifically for Arabic content creation.
Attendees will learn practical techniques to generate scripts, social media content, digital art, and marketing material while maintaining linguistic and cultural integrity. The session will cover both the potential and the limitations of AI, helping creators understand how to use these tools to enhance productivity without compromising creativity.
The workshop emphasizes that AI is not a replacement for human creativity but rather a complementary tool that enables storytellers to reach new audiences and explore uncharted forms of expression.
5. Arabic Calligraphy Meets Digital Design
Date and Time: September 15, 2:00 PM
Speaker: Workshop Leader TBD
“Arabic Calligraphy Meets Digital Design” is a hands-on session that combines traditional Arabic calligraphy with modern digital design techniques. Participants will explore creative tools that allow them to digitize their work, manipulate typography, and merge classical artistic practices with contemporary visuals.
This session emphasizes the importance of preserving heritage while embracing innovation. It provides designers, artists, and digital content creators with practical methods to integrate traditional aesthetics into modern platforms, bridging the gap between historical artistry and contemporary creative needs.
6. Innovation Awards: Celebrating Emerging Talent
Date and Time: September 15, 4:30 PM
Hosts: Various
The Innovation Awards ceremony recognizes and celebrates emerging talent within the Arabic creative industries. Young creatives will showcase projects that blend innovation with cultural storytelling. This session provides a platform for new voices to be discovered, offering opportunities for mentorship, networking, and exposure to industry leaders.
The awards highlight projects across multiple domains, including film, digital media, animation, interactive experiences, and immersive technologies. This celebration not only honors creativity but also encourages the next generation to continue advancing the region’s cultural impact on a global scale.
Additional Highlights of the Congress
Global Technology Presence: Representatives from major tech companies will discuss how innovation can amplify Arabic content in global markets, highlighting tools for audience engagement and digital distribution
Youth Engagement: The Congress X Youth Program provides opportunities for emerging creatives to develop professional skills, participate in mentorship programs, and gain hands-on experience in creative industries
Interactive Workshops: From screenwriting to digital storytelling and manuscript preservation, interactive workshops allow participants to gain practical skills that can be directly applied to their creative projects
Networking Opportunities: With industry leaders, global experts, and creative innovators in attendance, the congress is an ideal platform for forging collaborations, partnerships, and new ventures in the Arab creative ecosystem
Panel Discussions: Engaging panels explore topics such as content monetization, cross-cultural storytelling, intellectual property, and the role of social media in shaping modern Arab narratives
Why You Should Attend the Abu Dhabi Creative Industries Congress 2025
Attending the congress offers a rare opportunity to:
- Learn from experts and gain firsthand insights from influential figures like Hend Sabry, Mo Amer, Nadine Labaki, and other renowned leaders in the creative sector
- Stay ahead of trends by understanding how technology, AI, and digital platforms are transforming storytelling, content creation, and audience engagement
- Network globally with peers, mentors, and industry professionals from across the Middle East and the world
- Discover new opportunities by participating in workshops, panel discussions, and innovation showcases that can inspire your next project or career move
- Celebrate creativity and experience firsthand the diversity, talent, and vision of the next generation of Arabic creatives
The congress serves as both a learning platform and a celebration of Arabic creativity. Whether you are an established professional or an emerging talent, the sessions and workshops are designed to equip attendees with the knowledge, inspiration, and tools needed to excel in today’s dynamic creative landscape.
Registration Details
The Abu Dhabi Creative Industries Congress 2025 is open to all creative professionals, enthusiasts, and students, with free entry upon prior registration. Interested participants can secure their spot by registering on the official website. Early registration is recommended due to high demand and limited capacity for certain sessions and workshops.
Conclusion
The Abu Dhabi Creative Industries Congress 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the Arab creative world. From inspiring keynote speeches to interactive workshops, the congress covers every facet of creativity, from storytelling and film production to digital innovation and AI-driven content creation.
Sessions by influential figures such as Hend Sabry and Mo Amer ensure that attendees gain actionable insights, practical advice, and inspiration to elevate their creative work. By attending, participants not only stay at the forefront of regional and global creative trends but also contribute to the growth and recognition of Arabic storytelling worldwide.
For anyone passionate about creativity, innovation, and cultural expression, the Abu Dhabi Creative Industries Congress 2025 is an unmissable experience that promises to inspire, educate, and empower.
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