Abu Dhabi conference to focus on AI, media and family values

By AI, Created 11:36 AM UTC, May 29, 2026, /AGP/ – The 3rd International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference 2026 opens June 3 in Abu Dhabi with more than 206 speakers from 120 countries. Organizers say the event will examine how AI and new media are reshaping families, communities and social cohesion.

Why it matters: - The conference puts AI, media and family life in the same conversation at a time when digital tools are increasingly shaping daily decisions and relationships. - More than 4,500 attendees are expected, including policymakers, academics, media professionals, diplomats and international organizations. - Organizers say the goal is to explore how innovation can coexist with human values, cultural identity and social responsibility.

What happened: - The Higher Organizing Committee said the official agenda for the 3rd International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference 2026 is complete. - The conference runs June 3-5 at Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi. - The theme is “The Impact of New Media and AI on Family and Community.” - The event is presented by Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies and the Abrahamic Family House. - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the main partner. - Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities is the knowledge partner. - The Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau is the destination partner. - The conference will feature more than 206 speakers from over 120 countries.

The details: - The agenda includes keynote addresses, high-level discussions and specialized sessions. - Topics include artificial intelligence, media transformation, digital ethics, intercultural communication and social cohesion. - Elder David A. Bednar said the collaboration with Emirates Scholar is a privilege for a second consecutive year. - Bednar said the forum is an opportunity to encourage thoughtful dialogue across different sectors. - Bednar also said the theme is especially relevant in the UAE Year of the Family. - Dr. Fawaz Habbal said artificial intelligence is not the core challenge. - Habbal said the greater concern is how societies adapt as algorithms influence decisions, interests and emotions. - Habbal said protecting humanity, preserving family values and maintaining social balance should remain shared responsibilities. - The Higher Organizing Committee invited government entities, academic institutions, private sector organizations and the public to attend the sessions and workshops.

Between the lines: - The conference reflects a broader concern that technology is changing not just communication, but social norms and family structures. - The speaker lineup and international turnout suggest the event is being positioned as a global forum, not just a regional discussion. - The focus on intercultural understanding signals an effort to frame digital change as both a technological and cultural issue.

What’s next: - The conference opens in five days and will unfold over three days of programming. - Organizers are using the event to promote continued dialogue on how societies should respond to rapid digital transformation. - The discussions are expected to produce more exchange on how to balance innovation with human-centered values.

The bottom line: - IDCT 2026 is aiming to turn a conversation about AI and media into a broader debate about how communities preserve identity, cohesion and family values in a digital era.