On the last day of the Global Media Congress, a panel discussion titled: What Will Media Look Like Next?, explored the impact of technology, mobile-first strategies, short-form content, and AI on the media industry. Discussions focused on AI-driven tools enabling precise targeting, personalized experiences, and ethical challenges like misinformation.

The panel emphasised the need for legacy media to adapt through video-centric storytelling and appealing to younger audiences while preserving journalistic integrity. Speakers highlighted the UAE’s potential to lead global media innovation through supportive policies, AI integration, and proactive strategies.

Dan Hu, Vice President, Tencent Cloud, Middle East & Africa, Tencent, discussed how content creation and technology are becoming more interconnected, with the lines between content creators and distribution platforms becoming increasingly blurred.

He highlighted the dominance of mobile-first strategies, with mobile internet accounting for 70-80% of global usage and video content—including short videos, live streams, and other formats—making up 80-85% of internet traffic. He described short-form content as a key disruptor, driven by technological advancements and affordable mobile networks.

Dan also outlined the impact of AI-powered tools in enabling precise marketing and enhancing content personalization, stressing their importance in shaping modern media consumption.

Michael Jabri-Pickett, Editor-in-Chief, Khaleej Times, focused on the critical relationship between technology and content, particularly in engaging younger audiences. He highlighted the shift toward short-form, video-based storytelling as a way to stay relevant, while maintaining the core principles of journalistic integrity.

Addressing the challenge of misinformation, Michael discussed the rapid spread of fake news and the need for collaboration between newsrooms and tech companies to develop AI solutions for content moderation. He emphasised that ethical journalism and credible practices remain essential to preserving the industry's future in a tech-driven landscape.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research and Advisory, examined the transformative role of AI in reshaping media, pointing to advancements like AI-powered newsrooms and virtual anchors.

He discussed the decline of traditional legacy media, with audiences increasingly drawn to short, video-based formats that align with evolving consumption habits. Based on research, he noted that content under 90 seconds is most effective for today’s audiences.

He also reflected on the societal impact of digital technology, including its influence on family interactions and social behaviours, advocating for proactive steps to address the ethical and social challenges posed by AI and social media platforms.