Abu dhabi: The National Media Authority has been named 'National Partner' of the Arab Media Summit 2026, which is set to take place in September under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, the summit is organised by the Dubai Press Club (DPC) and is expected to be the largest in its history, attracting significant political and media figures, leading content creators, and influential voices from across the Arab world. The partnership between the National Media Authority and the Dubai Press Club is a testament to their ongoing collaboration and dedication to advancing the UAE's role as a hub for media development and innovation. It also emphasizes Dubai's contribution to fostering a competitive Arab media sector that can make a meaningful impact regionally.
Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority, remarked that the summit, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has become a strategic platform that facilitates dialogue within the media community. It aims to anticipate future trends in the sector, helping to build a more influential Arab media landscape that can adapt to technological transformations globally.
Al Hamed further mentioned that the partnership underscores the UAE's strategy of leveraging expertise and coordinating efforts across various sectors. He emphasized the importance of a competitive media sector that merges professionalism with innovation, transforming knowledge into value and opportunities, and delivering impactful content.
He also highlighted media's central role in the UAE's vision for the future, as a key component of the nation's soft power, a driver of the creative economy, and a force for attracting investment and talent. He indicated that strategic media partnerships enable the sector to contribute actively to shaping the future, moving beyond mere reporting to inspire hope and make a lasting societal impact.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, expressed gratitude for the enduring collaboration with the National Media Authority. She noted that its role as 'National Partner' provides significant value to the summit, which serves as a platform for media stakeholders to explore challenges and opportunities within the sector.
She asserted that the involvement of key national institutions shows confidence in the summit's role in advancing the region's media sector and aligns with Dubai's approach of collaborative initiatives that drive progress and prosperity across various sectors. The upcoming edition, she added, will be the largest yet, with a growing network of partners committed to enhancing Arab media's competitiveness.
Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, emphasized that over the years, the Arab Media Summit has evolved into a key platform for shaping the future of Arab media. The partnership with the National Media Authority is crucial for uniting media institutions and experts to effectively respond to global shifts and seize new opportunities.
Al Mulla concluded that the partnership illustrates the robust cooperation among national institutions to support initiatives that bolster the Arab media landscape.
The Arab Media Summit 2026 will feature a series of specialized events, including the Arab Media Forum, the Government Communication Forum, and others. Additionally, it will continue to recognize excellence through awards such as the Arab Media Award and the Arab Social Media Influencers Award.