Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (DUBAI)
The media profession demands persistence and adaptability, especially in the era of digitalisation, said Suhail Al Abdool, an Emirati media personality.
Speaking during a session titled “The Future of the Media Sector” during the Arab Media Forum in Dubai, Al Abdool stressed the significance of young people’s expertise and the integration of artificial intelligence in media practices.
Moderating the session, Samah Alabbar, an Emirati media personality and anchor at Sama Dubai TV, highlighted that youth’s role is pivotal in media dissemination.
Alabbar also raised a poignant question regarding who is accountable for the newer generation’s inclination towards social media influencers over traditional media figures.
Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines, Alabbar said that the event serves as an umbrella that brings together media professionals from the Arab world in general, and the UAE in particular.
She noted that the session was timely, as it discussed digitisation’s transformative impact on media, and most importantly the presence of artificial intelligence.
Meanwhile, in another session titled “Writing between Two Eras: the Tangible and the Digital,” motivations behind writing took centre stage.
Moderated by Dr. Ayesha Aljanahi, an Emirati writer and speaker, the session saw the participation of Ayesha Sultan, an Emirati writer and journalist.
Dr. Aljanahi spoke about the distinctions between traditional and digital writing, shifts in the writing journey, and the declining appreciation among young people for journalistic writing.
Sultan discussed the significance of writing as a means to solidify connections with others and convey human experiences.
She acknowledged the evolution of writing, and the increasing popularity of electronic journalism.
While she remains a firm believer in the power of writing and its capacity to influence, she also recognised that social media has fastened the writer’s journey.
Sultan stressed the importance of reading for the youth in the Arab world and underlined the value of writing as a means of self-expression.
Talking to Aletihad about her participation in the event, Sultan said: “This forum is highly significant as it exhibits media experiences and developments to both media professionals and the general public. It also serves to bridge generational gaps and connect individuals interested in the media. Providing a platform for decision-makers, influencers, and media professionals to engage in dialogue amplifies the importance of this conference.”
Discussing the role of digital and print mediums, she said: “We are proponents of print media, and we hold a strong belief in its efficacy. However, we also recognise the power and influence of digital media. Its ability to swiftly reach a vast audience is unparalleled, an achievement beyond compare. It’s imperative that we acknowledge its advantages before delving into its drawbacks.”
One of the visitors of the event, Areej Hassan Jalal, a Saudi media professional, shared her experience with the event, noting that the forum “provides a unique opportunity to learn about diverse cultures from around the world”.
“The media undeniably holds significant influence within societies, serving as a vital link between individuals. What is remarkable is its inherent capacity to foster interconnectedness, where it consistently complements various facets of society. Presently, there is a notable emphasis on engaging youth within this dynamic.”
