Abu dhabi: The third International Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance Conference 2026 opened in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday under the theme "The Impact of New Media and AI on Family and Community," bringing together government officials, academics, religious leaders, media professionals, and experts from more than 120 countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the three-day event is hosted by the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies and the Abrahamic Family House, in partnership with Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities as the Knowledge Partner and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau as the Destination Partner. The conference aims to advance intercultural dialogue and explore the role of new media and artificial intelligence in strengthening social cohesion, promoting mutual understanding, and supporting sustainable development.
The conference was officially inaugurated by Dr. Abdulla Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chancellor of Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, who emphasized the importance of instilling societal values and fostering dialogue within families to strengthen social cohesion and build stable communities. Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, highlighted the need for dialogue that promotes human understanding amid rapid digital transformation.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, Chief Executive Officer of TRENDS Group, mentioned that the conference coincides with the UAE's Year of the Family 2026, highlighting the family's role as the foundation of society despite technological changes. The opening ceremony featured addresses by Elder Adelson de Paula Parrella of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and His Holiness Brahmavihari Swamiji of BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi.
The conference welcomed over 4,500 participants from more than 120 countries and announced the recipients of the 2026 Tolerance Awards. Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri received the Person of Tolerance Award 2026 for his contributions to promoting a culture of dialogue and civilisational communication. The Organisation of Tolerance Award 2026 was presented to BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi for its role in promoting tolerance and intercultural dialogue.
Dr. Firas Habbal, President of Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, stressed the importance of equipping future generations with awareness to understand AI's impact, preventing them from becoming mere echoes of algorithmic data. The conference features platforms such as Proud of UAE, AI and Media, and Family and Community, with discussions on digital tolerance and interfaith narratives.
Speakers, including Eng. Sheikha Al Hosani, Ewan MacLeod Jones, and Lorenzo Fanara, emphasized the role of new media and AI in shaping societal awareness and promoting family and community dialogues. They called for stronger partnerships among educational, media, and community institutions to prepare generations for effective communication in the digital age.
The conference will continue with panel discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting intercultural understanding and addressing contemporary social challenges over the next three days.