DUBAI: The Dubai Press Club (DPC) recently hosted an interactive roundtable with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, bringing together top regional content creators to explore the evolving landscape of digital media.
In an engaging session titled “Shaping the Future of Content Creation and Empowering Creativity”, discussions focused on TikTok’s unique role in fostering creativity, community, and meaningful audience engagement.
The event offered a rare opportunity for creators to gain insights directly from the visionary behind one of the world’s most influential platforms and understand TikTok’s approach to empowering a global network of storytellers.
Opening the session, Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of Dubai Media Council and President of DPC, highlighted the Club’s commitment to advancing the media industry and nurturing creative talent. She noted that by welcoming global industry leaders like TikTok, Dubai is expanding its role as a leading hub for digital innovation and creative growth across the region.
The session provided a rare opportunity to examine TikTok’s strategic growth, its influence on global audiences, and its mission of “inspiring creativity and bringing joy.” Al Marri emphasised, “We are delighted that this gathering offers a unique opportunity to explore the factors behind TikTok’s remarkable growth and global impact, as well as to gain insight into the vision of the leader steering this influential platform.”
Dubai’s Creative Spirit
Shou Zi Chew expressed his admiration for Dubai's dynamic environment, which he sees as perfectly aligned with TikTok’s innovative ethos. “Dubai’s dynamism and creative spirit are truly inspiring,” he remarked, highlighting the city as a burgeoning hub of digital innovation and a strategic base for TikTok’s regional operations.
During the session, Chew detailed TikTok’s core pillars—discovery, creativity, and community—emphasising the platform’s design to engage users with tailored content while empowering creators with an extensive suite of tools. From thousands of visual effects to cutting-edge AI and generative technology, TikTok offers creators a limitless canvas for storytelling.
TikTok Communities
Chew explained that TikTok’s most profound impact is in community-building, where he sees users consistently creating uplifting, high-quality content. “High-quality videos are essential for engaging viewers. We aim to create a diverse platform with something for everyone, and our role is to provide the tools that sustain a joyful, creative experience for all users,” he said.
He added that each year, TikTok’s top videos are reflections of joy, a testament to the platform's vibrant community spirit.
Regional Creators
The roundtable enabled content creators to share stories of how TikTok has transformed their careers by expanding their reach and unlocking new creative possibilities. They expressed appreciation for this rare chance to meet with TikTok’s CEO, lauding DPC for fostering a collaborative environment that fuels creativity and innovation.
Creators noted that these dialogues with platform leaders offer invaluable insights, helping them to refine their content and connect with larger, diverse audiences.
TikTok’s Global Reach
With headquarters in Los Angeles and Singapore, TikTok has established itself worldwide, from New York and London to Dubai, making it one of the most globally influential social media platforms. This discussion with DPC highlighted TikTok’s ongoing mission to build a joyful, inclusive digital community, where users and creators alike are empowered to thrive.