BRIDGE Summit 2025 Warns: Our Privacy and Truth are at Risk in a World Full of Misinformation

ABU DHAB: The BRIDGE Summit 2025 held a special talk called “In the Spotlight: Privacy, Risk and Resilience in the Age of Misinformation.” The session was led by Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Vice Chairman of BRIDGE. He spoke with Richard Attias, Strategic Advisor to the Chairman of the BRIDGE Alliance, and Cécilia Attias, Founder of the Cécilia Attias Foundation for Women and member of the BRIDGE Alliance Advisory Board.

The three speakers talked about how today’s digital world is moving very fast. They discussed how artificial intelligence, social media, and nonstop online information can easily spread wrong or harmful stories. They explained why it is important for both famous people and everyday citizens to protect the truth, their safety, and their private lives.

Richard Attias shared how he began his career in engineering but later moved into building global events that bring people together. He said he went from building real bridges to building bridges between people. He also said the UAE inspired him because it is a place where many cultures live together in peace.

Attias talked about how powerful AI has become and warned that people must always stay in control of technology, not the other way around. He also said that while he does not use social media much, apps like TikTok can be useful for learning, even though they also carry a lot of false information.

Cécilia Attias brought a personal touch to the talk. She spoke about family life, her children, and how hard it can be to live under constant camera attention. She said many public figures struggle with fake stories and rumours and that the best answer is often not to react at all. She also explained how important it is to keep some moments private and away from the public eye.

Both Richard and Cécilia shared warm memories of their years living in the UAE. They said they always felt safe and respected there. Cécilia said the UAE is one of the few places where privacy is truly valued. She also said the kindness of the people in the region meant a lot to their family.

Richard added that the UAE is the perfect home for the BRIDGE Summit because it welcomes dreamers and people who work hard to make ideas real.

At the end of the talk, Dr. Jamal asked whether reputation or legacy matters more. Richard answered with a smile, saying reputation changes quickly, but legacy lasts forever. Cécilia said she hopes to leave behind real contributions that future generations will remember.

This talk is one of more than 300 sessions at the first BRIDGE Summit, taking place from December 8 to 10, 2025, at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi.