
TDRA hosts ‘Empowering Digital Societies Summit'
DUBAI (WAM)In celebration of World Creativity and Innovation Day, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) organised the 'Empowering Digital Societies Summit' in Dubai under the theme 'AI & Innovation for Inclusive Digital Future'.The summit convened policymakers, innovators, and digital leaders to explore how artificial intelligence and digital transformation can foster inclusion and sustainability in the UAE.In his opening remarks, Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of TDRA, said, 'This summit marks a strategic milestone in our journey toward a sustainable future driven by knowledge and innovation. It reflects our leadership's vision that advanced technology and human empowerment are key to national excellence and global leadership.'He added, 'Digital transformation is no longer optional—it is essential. Summits like this serve as vital platforms to shape future visions and strengthen collaboration across sectors to realise our national goals by 2031.'The summit featured a series of keynote sessions and panels, including:Beyond Innovation: Focused on how emerging technologies are transforming communities and public services.Seize the Moment: Discussed bold thinking and innovative governance models driven by AI, data and automation.From Innovation to Impact: Highlighted the role of strategic public-private partnerships in youth empowerment and inclusive digital transformation.AI and Digital Transformation: Examined the integration of AI in public policy and government efficiency.Youth Inspirational Speech: Showcased pioneering youth-led initiatives in innovation and social engagement.Building a Thriving Digit-AI Society: Explored how youth and entrepreneurs can drive innovation and growth across communities.Alongside discussions, the summit hosted innovation exhibitions and interactive workshops, providing hands-on learning and networking opportunities that foster collaboration around national AI and digital transformation objectives.The event also concluded with the recognition of strategic partners of the UAE Hackathon 2025 and an awards ceremony honouring winners across four competition tracks.The Hackathon Innovation Exhibition showcased a wide range of tech-driven projects, reinforcing the UAE's vision of building a knowledge-based, inclusive digital economy.
The summit reflected TDRA's strategic role in digital government and its commitment to enabling a future-ready society through inclusive innovation and cross-sector collaboration.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Tahawul Tech
7 hours ago
- Tahawul Tech
Commercial Credit Card Archives
Critical industry sectors such as healthcare, government, and utilities services are becoming increasingly reliant on digital systems, and as these systems grow more sophisticated, so do the threats that target them.


Tahawul Tech
7 hours ago
- Tahawul Tech
Joanne Chehab Archives
Critical industry sectors such as healthcare, government, and utilities services are becoming increasingly reliant on digital systems, and as these systems grow more sophisticated, so do the threats that target them.


Tahawul Tech
7 hours ago
- Tahawul Tech
'SMBs are the heart of the UAE economy, and we are committed to helping them thrive.' – Joanne Chehab, TikTok
TikTok and Visa have announced a strategic collaboration to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across the United Arab Emirates, equipping them with tools, resources, and incentives to help them thrive in the digital economy. Starting 1st July 2025, SMBs that spend $250 on their TikTok campaign using a Visa Commercial card will receive $150 in TikTok Ad Credits, unlocking even greater potential to reach new audiences and grow their business. This offer is available exclusively to first-time TikTok Ads Manager users and is valid until September 30th, 2025. In addition to ad credits, eligible businesses will also gain access to a selection of exclusive benefits, including TikTok masterclasses, Q&A sessions with TikTok experts, and 'Grow with TikTok Resource Hub'. As a bonus, the first three SMBs to register will receive a free, creator-made ad. 'SMBs are the heart of the UAE's economy, and we are committed to helping them thrive in the digital era,' said Joanne Chehab, Head of Business Partnerships, Global Business Solutions, MENA – TikTok 'This collaboration with Visa provides SMBs with not just financial incentives, but also the knowledge and tools they need to show up authentically and creatively on TikTok. It aligns perfectly with the UAE's vision to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital growth. (1)' This aims to make it easier for SMBs to harness the power of TikTok to reach customers and grow their businesses online. It reflects both companies' commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in the region and aligns with the UAE's broader strategy to accelerate digital adoption and drive economic diversification through innovation.(2) 'Visa is proud to support SMBs; an essential driver of economic resilience and innovation in the UAE,' said Salima Gutieva, Visa's VP and Country Manager for UAE. 'Through our collaboration with TikTok, we are enabling businesses to access new customers not only through digital marketing but also equipping them with the skills needed to succeed. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs as part of the UAE's digital transformation agenda.'(3) This collaboration marks a significant step in bridging the gap between financial enablement and digital creativity for SMBs. By combining Visa's trusted payment solutions with TikTok's dynamic platform, the initiative opens new doors for business owners to scale with confidence in an increasingly digital-first world.