#United Arab Emirates #Dubai #National Geographic #Will Smith #The Sustainable City

Will Smith Shines Bright in Dubai

On January 13, 2026, Will Smith, the renowned film star and global icon, attended the highly anticipated Middle East premiere of National Geographic's original series, Pole to Pole with Will Smith. The event took place at the SEE Institute, a remarkable facility known as the region's first net-zero emissions building, situated within The Sustainable City in Dubai.

This occasion attracted a prestigious audience, featuring government officials, regional celebrities, and influential content creators, all coming together to celebrate a unique combination of environmental storytelling and global exploration. The atmosphere was electric as attendees gathered on the blue carpet for a night dedicated to not just entertainment, but also to a pressing societal message about sustainability.

The evening featured a screening of the inaugural episode from the seven-part series that chronicles Will Smith’s extraordinary journey over 100 days across all seven continents. His adventures spanned from the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the lush jungles of the Amazon, soaring mountains of the Himalayas, vast deserts of Africa, tranquil islands of the Pacific, and the stark beauty of the Arctic icebergs.

After the screening, Smith participated in a live Q&A session alongside scientists and explorers Allison Fong, Richard Parks, and Bryan Fry, who were part of his remarkable journey. This interactive segment allowed attendees to delve deeper into the experiences and stories captured throughout the filming.

The event was adeptly organized by KS Konnect, a strategic consultancy aimed at bridging global talents with culturally relevant narratives in the Middle East. Founded by notable connectors Kris Fade and Sarah Omolewu, KS Konnect’s goal is to highlight significant projects that resonate with local audiences. Omolewu shared her thoughts: “Hosting Pole to Pole with Will Smith in Dubai holds great significance both professionally and personally. This premiere is a reflection of Dubai’s stature as a global cultural epicenter, showcasing the power of robust creative partnerships.”

During the festivities, Faris Saeed, founder and chairman of the SEE Holding, emphasized the shift toward integrating nature with urban living. He stated, “In a time of rapid technological advancements, it is crucial that we renew our connection with the environment. Pole to Pole with Will Smith serves as a reminder that true progress lies in the depth of our relationship with humanity and the Earth. Future cities must strive to enhance this connection rather than separate us from nature.”

As the audience revelled in this entertaining evening, the significance of the message shared through Pole to Pole became increasingly clear. This docuseries aims to inspire viewers not only to understand the beauty and diversity of our planet but also to acknowledge the pressing need for environmental responsibility.

Mark Your Calendars: Audiences in the Middle East can look forward to experiencing the complete journey when Pole to Pole with Will Smith airs on National Geographic on January 13, 2026, at 8:00 PM (UAE), followed by its debut on Disney+ starting January 14, 2026.

With its unique blend of excitement and awareness, this premiere successfully spotlighted both the entertainment and environmental sectors, underscoring the potential for impactful storytelling in an age where both creativity and sustainability are crucial.