Abu dhabi: The Emirate of Abu Dhabi will host the 3rd edition of the International Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance Conference 2026, aligning with the UAE's leadership vision in declaring 2026 as the 'Year of the Family,' and its commitment to promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and cohesive societies. The conference will be held under the theme, 'The Impact of New Media and AI on Family and Community,' from 3rd to 5th June 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event is presented by the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, in partnership with the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (USA), and with the support of the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau. Building on previous editions, the conference aims to promote the values of tolerance, coexistence, and intercultural dialogue in the context of rapid digital transformation and new media. It will explore how AI technologies impact family and society and shape both individual and collective awareness.
The conference will examine the implications of AI on family relationships and social identity, particularly among younger generations, emphasizing the ethical use of these technologies to strengthen social cohesion, safeguard family values, and combat misinformation. It aims to bring together government officials, academic institutions, international organizations, and private sector partners within a shared vision to foster civilizational dialogue, enhance mutual understanding, and reinforce the values of tolerance and coexistence in an era of unprecedented digital transformation.
Dr. Abdulla Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chancellor of the Board of Trustees of the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, stated that hosting the conference reflects the UAE's commitment to safeguarding the family and addressing the societal impact of emerging technologies. He emphasized the potential of technology, when managed with awareness and responsibility, to strengthen social cohesion and promote tolerance.
Dr. Seppe Verheyen, Director of the Interfaith Institute Department at the Abrahamic Family House, highlighted that the core of innovation must remain anchored in human dignity and mutual respect. He stressed that shared values should guide technology, ensuring it strengthens families and sustains peaceful coexistence.
Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director-General of the Centre, noted the transformative effect of rapid digital change on social interaction, which requires greater ethical awareness and investment in digital culture. He underscored the importance of investing in digital culture to guide these transformations positively, helping societies adapt while preserving cohesion.
The conference will address a number of key themes reflecting the depth of digital transformation and its direct impact on family and society. Topics include digital parenting in the age of AI, strategies to promote healthy family dynamics, and the role of social media in shaping identity and family values. It will also discuss balancing innovation with ethical responsibility, mechanisms to combat digital misinformation, and the impact of AI on emotional intelligence and human relationships.
Additionally, the conference will explore the ethics of AI-generated content, the role of virtual communities in family cohesion, and the importance of digital literacy for building inclusive societies. It will examine the impact of AI and digital gaming on socialization within families.
