UAE Launches BRIDGE: A Global Initiative to Transform the Media Landscape

UAE National Media Office announces a non-profit to drive innovation, sustainability, and authenticity in media

WASHINGTON, March 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a bold move to redefine the future of global media, the UAE National Media Office today unveiled BRIDGE, a groundbreaking initiative designed to create a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem that empowers media professionals, fosters innovation, and champions responsible journalism in the digital age. The initiative will be powered by a non-profit vehicle, the BRIDGE Foundation.

The initiative was launched by His Excellency Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE National Media Office, alongside His Excellency Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the UAE National Media Office, and Richard Attias, Founder & Chairman, Richard Attias & Associates. The event brought together a powerhouse of journalists, publishers, innovators, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders from around the world, united by a common goal: to shape the future of media through collaboration, innovation, and strategic action. 

"Media is the pulse of a thriving society. It informs and inspires us, it shapes global perceptions and influences international dialogues, and it connects cultures from around the world," said H.E. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed. "By convening the brightest minds from across the global media landscape, this initiative will empower the next generation of storytellers, invest in ethical AI, champion press freedoms, and ensure that authenticity and integrity remain at the core of our industry."

As the media grapples with AI-driven disruptions, shifting audience behaviors, and evolving business models, BRIDGE seeks to provide a global forum for thought leadership, investment, and technological advancement. The initiative will serve as a catalyst for future-focused media strategies, equipping industry professionals with the tools, networks, and insights needed to thrive in an era of digital transformation.

"This platform is built on the belief that partnerships, not silos, will define the future — particularly when it comes to media. The media is not just a witness to history; it is a force that shapes it," said Richard Attias. 

BRIDGE functions as a year-round platform for engagement, collaboration, and action, culminating with the world's largest and most influential gathering of media in Abu Dhabi on December 8-10, 2025. 

"BRIDGE is designed to tackle the most pressing challenges of our industry and deliver real-world solutions. It is not just about dialogue—it is about economic opportunity," said H.E. Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi. "At our flagship December conference, the BRIDGE Showcase and Marketplace will be a launchpad for startups, a deal-making hub for investors, and a catalyst for business collaboration."

BRIDGE will build upon the UAE's position as a leader in innovation, investment, and AI policy. Further details on the initiative's strategic partnerships, objectives, and roadmap will be revealed in Abu Dhabi this December.

For more information, visit The United Arab Emirates National Media Office.

Contact : Maryam bin Fahad | mfahad@nmo.gov.ae

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UAE Launches BRIDGE: A Global Initiative to Transform the Media Landscape

SHANGHAI, April 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From April 2 to 31, the Assembly Character Toys brand Blokees made its debut at the 2026 Thailand Toy Expo. Blokees unveiled its two major categories — Blokees Model Kits and Blokees Wheels, highlighting a diverse product matrix of more than 300 products across 17 globally recognized IPs, including Ultraman, Transformers, DC, Evangelion, Naruto, Minions, Jurassic World, Hatsune Miku, and Hero Infinity. Four new model kits also made their global debut, emerging as key highlights of the event.

Mario Maurer attended the opening ceremony of Blokees Thailand Toy Expo as a special guest and engaged in interactive exchanges with consumers.

In the Blokees Model Kits category, Blokees exhibited its Champion, Legend, and Fantastic Series, featuring popular IPs such as Transformers, DC, Mega Man, Saint Seiya, Evangelion, and Naruto. More than 50 products were presented to consumers. Among them, four newly launched items—including Blokees Saint Seiya-Champion Class-12-Phoenix Ikki, Blokees Saint Seiya-Champion Class-14-Andromeda Shun, Blokees DC-Champion Class 05-Batman (HUSH), and Blokees DC-Champion Class 06-Catwoman (Hush)—drew strong interest from fans.

Blokees also highlighted its HERO5 and HERO10 series, featuring well-known IPs including Transformers, Saint Seiya, and Naruto, catering to consumers of hero-themed collectible models.

The DaaLaMode series introduced a range of products inspired by popular IPs such as Hatsune Miku, appealing to female consumers. Meanwhile, the TERRAVENTURE series presented nature and creature-themed model kits based on Jurassic World, further expanding Blokees' offerings across different consumer segments.

In the Blokees Wheels category, which integrates construction, play, and customization, products are organized into the C, E, and S series. The lineup includes IP-based offerings from Transformers, Ultraman, and Batman, with upcoming collaborations featuring Fast & Furious and Ford.

In addition, Blokees highlighted its global consumer ecosystem, BFC (Blokees Family Creator). Selected works from 2025 The 3rd BFC Creation Contest Stellar Season were exhibited in Thailand for the first time, reflecting strong user creativity and engagement. 2026 The 4th BFC Creation Contest Season of Awakening has officially launched, further encouraging global participation.

Under its "Universally appealing, Stepwise pricing, Globally promoting" strategy, Blokees continues to expand across Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America. Thailand is rapidly becoming a strategic hub in its regional expansion, as the company strengthens both product innovation and community-driven growth worldwide.

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Blokees made its debut at 2026 Thailand Toy Expo, exhibiting multiple products