Responsible Media And Influencers Reinforce National Identity And Family Cohesion In The UAE

Responsible media and the behaviour of influencers are described as vital to keeping UAE families strong. Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed said balanced content supports social cohesion, protects identity, and improves how the country is seen worldwide, especially among younger audiences who spend much time on digital platforms.

Speaking at the 5th Abu Dhabi Family Forum, during a panel titled "The Role of Media and Influencers in Strengthening Family Cohesion and Building the Nation’s Positive Image," Al Hamed explained that accurate, purposeful storytelling helps maintain stable homes. The session was moderated by media professional Ahmed Alyammahi and focused on the link between content, values, and behaviour.

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Al Hamed said the UAE considers media a key partner in education and a safeguard for society. "Fortifying the family begins with media content that speaks the language of national values," he stated, adding that constructive messages are the starting point for stability inside the home and for relationships between generations.

He stressed that the UAE leadership sees the family as the centre of national plans and the main source of continuity. According to Al Hamed, a united family protects social awareness, supports balanced development, and allows the country to advance while staying committed to humanitarian and moral principles that guide public life.

Al Hamed underlined that media professionals and influencers shape how the nation is viewed both inside and outside the UAE. "Media professionals and influencers bear a direct responsibility for shaping the nation’s image. A balanced media discourse not only projects a positive global impression of the UAE but also enhances domestic trust and strengthens overall societal stability."

He said a country’s reputation now largely reflects its digital and media output. Every post, story, or report either reinforces national identity or weakens it, he noted. This places a clear duty on content creators to weigh long-term social effects against short-term attention or trends when deciding what they publish.

Media and influencers in youth behaviour and digital narratives

Al Hamed pointed to social media as a major influence on behaviour among younger groups, which affects daily family interactions. He warned that without strong media literacy, households could become exposed to passing trends that do not match UAE values. This risk, he argued, requires more awareness and critical thinking when consuming online content.

To build a strong national reputation, he called for moving from reactive communication towards planned, proactive media work. Al Hamed said the National Media Office is leading this change by supporting a national narrative designed to take part in global discussions, rather than only responding to them, and by focusing on coherent messages.

Media and influencers in role models and family cohesion

Al Hamed highlighted the need to invest in human stories and real achievements that reflect daily life. He encouraged the development of influencer networks that operate within a shared framework tied to community values and national priorities, so their messages support family cohesion and help present positive examples for children and youth.

He praised the role of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as Mother of the Nation, whose work has focused on strengthening families and supporting future generations. Al Hamed said her vision made family empowerment a lasting approach that balances family roles and offers a conscious upbringing for children grounded in responsibility and respect.

Al Hamed also cautioned influencers about chasing visibility or engagement while ignoring core principles. He said passing fame never justifies behaviour that conflicts with UAE customs and traditions. Reminding participants that all Emiratis are the children of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, he said respect and moderation form a shared heritage and a clear national obligation.

He closed by saying that responsible media and influencers act as the first defence for national identity and the closest ally of the family in facing new challenges. Addressing influencers as a form of soft power, he urged them to treat their platforms as a trust that should support social cohesion, protect heritage, and present an Emirati family model rooted in identity yet open to the future.

With inputs from WAM