BRIDGE Summit experts say the UAE is redefining global power dynamics, using economic strength, diplomatic outreach, and strategic clarity to expand its geopolitical influence amid a shifting international landscape….reports Asian Lite News
The UAE’s rise as a diplomatic heavyweight and a strategic hub for global decision-making took centre stage at BRIDGE Summit 2025, where leading geopolitical thinkers and media executives examined the Gulf region’s shifting role in a rapidly transforming international landscape.
The discussion, titled “The New Gravity of Power: From Washington to the Gulf,” explored how the UAE is using its economic influence, diplomatic outreach, and stability to strengthen geopolitical relationships at a time when global power balances are being redefined.
Sir Liam Fox, Chairman of the Abraham Accords Prosperity Group and former UK Secretary of State for Defence, opened the session with a pointed assessment of the region’s growing relevance. He said the Gulf is increasingly viewed not as a periphery player but as a centre of opportunity—economically, politically, and strategically.
“This is the moment, this is the time for investments in this region,” he said, noting that countries like the UAE are effectively using their economic and diplomatic strength to bolster geopolitical ties. Fox added that investors are also responding to the UAE’s “capital-rich environment” and its young, highly educated population, which together form a compelling long-term value proposition.
Building on the theme of regional dynamism, Andrew Sollinger, CEO and Publisher of Foreign Policy, said the Middle East today is a paradox of conflict and stabilisation. Despite ongoing tensions, he noted, the UAE is projecting a clear strategic vision that is drawing international engagement.
Under his leadership, Foreign Policy has evolved into a multi-platform global intelligence organisation, and Sollinger observed that the nation’s strategic clarity resonates across governments, investors, and institutions seeking anchors in a turbulent world.
Christopher Isham, President of CT Intelligence at CT Group and a decorated investigative journalist, said the region’s emerging strategic posture is actively contributing to a broader geopolitical realignment. He stressed that the Gulf—particularly the UAE—is reshaping how alliances are formed and partnerships are sustained.
Turning to the future of media and information, Isham warned that the accelerating use of artificial intelligence carries risks of censorship, misinformation, and disinformation. Combatting these challenges, he said, requires digital platforms to invest in building trust and credibility with audiences.
With multiple Emmys, Columbia DuPont Awards and a Peabody to his name, he underscored that integrity in news ecosystems must remain a global priority.
The session was moderated by Resham Kotecha, Global Head of Policy at the Open Data Institute, whose experience in data ethics and public policy helped frame a nuanced conversation on how technological change intersects with geopolitical strategy. The dialogue formed part of BRIDGE Summit’s extensive 300+ session programme, reflecting the scale, ambition, and global influence of the platform.
Together, the panellists presented a portrait of a region—and a country—shaping the narrative of power in the decades ahead, using diplomacy, economic strength, and a future-focused vision to forge new global partnerships.
