Financial Media Forum Addresses Future Of UAE Financial Sector And Media's Role

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) recently hosted the second Financial Media Forum in Dubai, focusing on "Shaping the Future of the Financial Sector: The Balance Between Influence and Responsibility." This event gathered over 100 experts, students, and leaders from government and media sectors. It highlighted the media's role in promoting financial transparency amid global economic changes, aligning with the UAE's vision for sustainable development.

Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, emphasised the ministry's commitment to a strategic financial approach that enhances resource management efficiency. He stated, "The Ministry of Finance is committed to establishing a strategic financial approach that enhances resource management efficiency, in line with global economic developments, as well as to formulating flexible, sustainable financial policies that support the country’s development goals."

Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi highlighted media's crucial role in enhancing financial literacy during his speech at the forum. He noted that media now plays a fundamental part in economic empowerment due to shifts towards digital platforms. Al Shehhi stated, "Financial literacy is no longer a luxury; it is a life necessity. It empowers individuals to understand their rights, make informed decisions, and build a more secure economic future."

Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, stressed the importance of promoting financial transparency and cooperation across sectors for sustainable growth. He remarked on how hosting this forum amidst rapid global changes reflects the government's dedication to enhancing its tools and forecasting financial futures based on scientific foundations.

The forum featured four panel discussions addressing key issues and future trends in finance. The first session focused on "The Future of the Financial Sector on the Global Agenda," exploring global trends' impact on local policies. Ali Abdullah Sharafi and Dr. Ahmed Rostom discussed international institutions' roles in supporting regional transformations.

The second session examined "Financial Awareness and Creating Social Welfare," highlighting how financial literacy promotes social stability. Azza Al Jasmi outlined initiatives to enhance financial literacy, while journalist Mohammed Boutaleb discussed simplifying financial concepts for public understanding.

Public-Private Partnerships and Sustainability

The third session focused on "Public-Private Partnership: Ambitious Vision for a Sustainable Financial Future." Hamad Saeed Al Awadhi discussed empowering private sector partnerships for vital projects. Engineer Basem Al Nemer shared experiences showcasing successful collaborations between government entities and private sectors.

The final session addressed "Financial Sustainability and the Future of Government Spending." Amna Al Shamsi and Amna Salem Al Jabri discussed balancing fiscal sustainability with economic growth support. They highlighted efficient public spending policies and initiatives launched by the Ministry of Finance.

Interactive Sessions for Students

An interactive session was held for university students discussing opportunities within international financial organisations under the UAE Global Cadres Initiative. Participants included Thuraiya Hamid Alhashmi from the Ministry of Finance and Dr. Sofiene Gaaloul from the Arab Monetary Fund.

The forum concluded with a training workshop titled "Principles of Financial Data Governance and Analysis." Led by Mariam Al Hajri and her team from the Ministry of Finance, it aimed to enhance media professionals' skills in analysing financial data and developing professional reports.

Mohammed Al Hammadi emphasised that promoting financial awareness is now essential due to rapid global changes in markets and digital transformation. He stated that media institutions play a key role by simplifying complex concepts through targeted education programmes.

With inputs from WAM