Emirati Media Forum 2026 Opens in Dubai to Discuss Media’s Role

The 11th edition of the Emirati Media Forum will begin tomorrow in Dubai under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.

Organised by the Dubai Press Club, the one-day forum will be held at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai. The event will bring together leading media professionals, senior government officials, thought leaders, and content creators from across the UAE to discuss the future of national media and its role during times of regional and global challenges.

This year's forum is taking place at a crucial time as the region continues to witness rapid developments and emerging challenges. Discussions will focus on how media can strengthen public trust, promote national values, support social cohesion, and enhance the readiness of the national media sector to respond effectively during crises.

One of the key sessions, titled "When the Nation Calls: Media in Times of Crisis," will feature His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE National Media Authority. The session will be moderated by Nada Al Shaibani from Dubai Media Incorporated and will examine the role of media in providing accurate information and supporting society during critical situations.

Another major session, "Beyond the Crisis: The Next Chapter," will feature His Excellency Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Defense, Interior and Foreign Affairs Committee at the UAE Federal National Council. The discussion will focus on post-crisis recovery and future opportunities. The session will be moderated by Mona Al Raisi from the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority.

The forum will also highlight the UAE's position as a global business and investment hub through a session titled "The UAE: Where Security Meets Opportunity." The discussion will feature His Excellency Mohamed Al Abbar, Founder of Emaar and Noon and Chairman of Eagle Hills. Hamed bin Karam, Editor-in-Chief of Al Bayan newspaper, will moderate the session.

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Security-related issues will also be discussed during a session titled "Guarding the Skies, Reassuring the Nation." Brigadier General Staff Pilot AbdulNasir Al Humaidi, Official Spokesperson of the UAE Ministry of Defence, will speak about national efforts to enhance public safety, strengthen community confidence, and improve coordination among national institutions during emergencies and crises.

Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, said the forum is being held at a pivotal moment that requires a fresh assessment of the media's responsibilities amid fast-changing regional and global conditions.

She stated that recent developments across political, security, economic, and media sectors have highlighted the importance of responsible journalism in raising awareness, strengthening trust, and supporting the national narrative. She added that the forum aims to encourage meaningful dialogue on how media can continue to contribute to stability and development.

Al Marri also emphasised that Emirati media have become a model of professionalism through their commitment to credibility, timely communication, and accurate reporting. She noted that public trust remains one of the greatest achievements of the media sector and a key pillar of effective communication.

Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, said the forum's agenda has been designed to address the exceptional challenges facing the region. According to her, discussions will go beyond traditional media topics and focus on important issues such as public awareness, trust-building, national narratives, and the media's role during periods of rapid change.

She added that the forum will provide a platform for media professionals and stakeholders to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and opportunities, and strengthen the future readiness of Emirati media at local, regional, and international levels.

Since its launch in 2013, the Emirati Media Forum has served as an important national platform for dialogue within the UAE's media sector. The forum continues to support the development of national media and align it with the UAE's long-term vision and ambitions for the future.