UAE Media Pioneers Forum Celebrates Contributions Of Emirati Media Leaders And Professionals

The National Media Office (NMO) recently hosted the UAE Media Pioneers Forum in Abu Dhabi, attended by Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of NMO and the UAE Media Council. This event highlights the NMO's dedication to preserving the nation's media heritage and linking past achievements with present advancements. It aims to facilitate knowledge exchange between veteran and current media professionals while honouring those who have significantly influenced the media landscape over the last 50 years.

Abdulla Al Hamed stressed that recognising media pioneers sends a clear message: the UAE values their contributions, ensuring their legacy remains part of its collective memory. He noted that the forum symbolises gratitude towards those who have made lasting impacts on the media scene. "It recognises those who laid the foundations for a national media that genuinely reflects the UAE's values and ambitions, embodying the principles of honesty and responsibility taught by our wise leadership."

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During his address, Abdulla Al Hamed conveyed greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Vice President His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He highlighted their appreciation for national media's role in promoting truth, national values, and Emirati identity. The leadership takes pride in media professionals' efforts to document the UAE's progress and development journey.

Al Hamed praised the media's role in sharing UAE achievements globally. "By delivering news in a professional and objective manner, they reflect the true image of the UAE and its people." He acknowledged that UAE media has emerged strong due to its pioneering generation, which played a crucial role in raising societal awareness through professionalism and sophistication.

The NMO Chairman highlighted how early UAE media pioneers established a unique voice using simple tools and dedication. "They built a foundation of modern media through continuous development and a commitment to truth while promoting awareness, loyalty, and national identity. Their efforts ensured that the UAE's media remains efficient and professional, allowing its voice to be heard globally." He encouraged young professionals to learn from these pioneers' experiences to succeed in today's evolving industry.

In his concluding remarks, Abdulla Al Hamed emphasised pioneering figures' significant contributions over five decades. "These individuals have not only showcased the nation's authentic values and culture but also advanced the future vision of the leadership. Their wealth of experience and commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and responsibility reflect a strong dedication to the nation and its citizens."

Future Vision for Emirati Media

The forum included a dialogue session where Abdulla Al Hamed engaged with Emirati media pioneers, local media leaders, artists, writers, and thinkers about their vision for Emirati media's future. He expressed eagerness to hear diverse perspectives that could enhance national media. The UAE aims to position its media at the forefront of over 250 indicators.

In discussions with veteran professionals, Abdulla Al Hamed reiterated NMO’s focus on developing skilled national media personnel as part of its strategy for responsible journalism that adapts to changes positively impacting society. "This is a key part of its strategy to establish a responsible media that can adapt to ongoing changes and positively impact society, thus supporting comprehensive development."

Commitment to Continuous Dialogue

He assured pioneers of regular meetings throughout the year to discuss proposals and understand their vision for future media strategies. "This aims to enhance the media strategy, solidify the country’s leading international position, align with the wise leadership’s aspirations, address the needs of Emirati society, and keep pace with rapid technological advancements in media."

Emirati pioneers expressed gratitude towards Abdulla Al Hamed for his initiative recognising citizens' efforts across various media forms. "This aims to showcase the UAE's positive image and highlight its significant developments and achievements," they stated. They urged national institutions to form advisory councils with leading figures for improved performance addressing current challenges.

The dialogue also highlighted expanding Arabic language institutes as crucial for cultivating talent capable of tackling modern issues while enhancing national media status.

With inputs from WAM