ABU DHABI (WAM)
The National Media Office (NMO), in the presence of Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of NMO and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, organised the UAE Media Pioneers Forum in Abu Dhabi.
This ceremony underscores the NMO's commitment to preserving the state's media history and connecting the past of national media institutions to their present.
It aims to foster experience exchange between pioneering and current media professionals, while honouring and recognising the contributions of pioneers who have shaped the media landscape over the past five decades.
This recognition highlights their exemplary role in responsible media work and reinforces Emirati media's status as a trustworthy voice and national platform that embodies the values and aspirations of society.
Abdulla Al Hamed emphasised that honouring media pioneers who helped shape the country's media landscape conveys a message to all media professionals: the UAE remembers their contributors, and their legacy will remain ingrained in its collective memory.
He noted that the UAE Media Pioneers Forum represents loyalty to those who have worked and achieved, offering well-deserved appreciation for contributors who left a lasting impact on the media landscape.
“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.”
During his speech, Abdulla Al Hamed conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, stressing that they value the vital role played by the national media in conveying the truth, promoting national values and consolidating the Emirati identity.
He highlighted the wise leadership's deep pride in the dedicated efforts of media professionals, who play a pivotal role in documenting the UAE's remarkable journey of progress and comprehensive development.
Furthermore, he commended the media’s prominent role in sharing the UAE’s achievements with the world.
“By delivering news in a professional and objective manner, they reflect the true image of the UAE and its people.”
He noted that the UAE media emerged strong and purposeful, thanks to its pioneering generation, playing a key role in raising societal awareness and shaping the social and cultural life of its people through professionalism, efficiency, and sophistication.
The NMO Chairman emphasised that, "If we are today in the era of artificial intelligence and modern technology in the media, the pioneers of UAE media established its distinct voice from the beginning, utilising simple tools and their 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 urged young media professionals to seek inspiration from the experiences of the pioneer generation, emphasising that these lessons can help them succeed and explore new opportunities while adapting to current tools and changes in the industry.
NMO Chairman concluded his speech by emphasising the significant contributions of pioneering figures in Emirati media over the past 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.”
The UAE Media Pioneers Forum witnessed a dialogue session in which Abdulla Al Hamed exchanged views with Emirati media pioneers, leaders of local media institutions, and a group of artists, writers, and thinkers about their vision for the future of Emirati media.
He emphasised his eagerness to hear diverse viewpoints, which will enhance the national media landscape.
Additionally, he noted that the UAE has over 250 indicators and aims to position media at the forefront of these.
During his dialogue with the pioneer generation, Abdulla Al Hamed emphasised that the National Media Office prioritises the development of skilled national media professionals.
“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.”
He assured the pioneers of his commitment to periodic meetings throughout the year to discuss completed proposals and understand their vision for the future of the media in the country.
“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 media pioneers expressed their gratitude to Abdulla Al Hamed, Chairman of NMO and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, for his initiative, which underscores the UAE's commitment to recognising its citizens' efforts and intellectual contributions across print, audio, and visual media.
“This aims to showcase the UAE's positive image and highlight its significant developments and achievements,” they stated.
In their dialogue with the NMO Chairman, media professionals urged national institutions to leverage their expertise by forming advisory councils comprising leading media figures.
“This would aim to improve national media performance and address current challenges.”
They emphasised the need to expand media and Arabic language institutes to cultivate qualified national talent capable of tackling modern media issues and enhancing the status of national media.