Consolidating Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for media and technology

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Linda Yaccarino, chief executive officer of X, engaged in meticulous discussions on Thursday on the UAE’s strategic directions in the field of digital transformation.

X opened its first office in the Mena region in Dubai in 2015. The massive region is home to some of the social media platform’s largest markets. X had 250 million daily active users as of mid-2024, reported The National.

Meeting objectives of Dubai Economic Agenda D33

During a meeting with Linda Yaccarino, CEO of @X , I shared the UAE’s digital transformation priorities and Dubai's role in supporting social media platforms and the broader media industry with world-class services and infrastructure. Since opening its first MENA office in Dubai… pic.twitter.com/S8qd2hfu8c

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) November 14, 2024

The discussions on Thursday also focused on the pioneering role played by Dubai in offering the finest facilities to the media sector and social media platforms. The city seeks to consolidate its position as a leading global destination for media and technology.

It comes just days after Sheikh Hamdan introduced plans to train one million people in artificial intelligence as part of a partnership with Microsoft. His Highness has also unveiled a roadmap to help attract top companies and talent in modern technology to Dubai.

During the discussions, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that X’s vision to transform into an all-in-one digital hub compliments the UAE’s focus on artificial intelligence and other technologies. He described the company as a valuable partner to support the country’s efforts.

He emphasised the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to generate Dh100 billion in annual economic value through digital transformation. The project also aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities.

It was a true honor to meet with you, Your Highness @HamdanMohammed —especially on your birthday! I was deeply inspired by the UAE’s forward-thinking digital transformation agenda and your commitment to innovation as a key driver of Dubai’s economic growth. Thank you for your… https://t.co/VcnBjRg0pO

— Linda Yaccarino (@lindayaX) November 14, 2024

Dubai Media Council and X looking for partnerships

Dubai is home to 4,000 media and tech companies. The city not only offers a supportive infrastructure but also serves as a launch pad for pioneering initiatives. Sheikh Hamdan seeks to set higher benchmarks in digital engagement in the region and beyond.

The Dubai Media Council and X are also looking for enhanced strategic partnerships. Both sides recently engaged in meticulous discussions, focusing on joint training initiatives to boost digital skills, promote job creation and support Emirati talent in the media industry.