Rashid bin Humaid Council hosts panel on media's future role

Panel discussion overview

The session was moderated by journalist Ahmed Al Yammahi, with participation from a number of experts and media specialists. The discussion provided valuable insights into the future of media in the UAE.

Key topics discussed

The session covered several crucial topics concerning the media sector, including:

• The role of national media in supporting Emirati values and aspirations
• The impact of media initiatives on elevating the country’s reputation and strengthening international relations
• The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the media sector
• Strategies to counter misinformation

Sheikh Rashid's remarks

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Municipality and Planning Department in Ajman, referenced the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, on youth empowerment and their role in shaping the future. He emphasised that young people are ambassadors of their country, and their success is key to shaping the future.

Sheikh Rashid also commended the National Media Office for its significant achievements in both domestic and international media under the guidance of the country’s leadership. He stressed that media is a powerful force in shaping national aspirations and societal ambitions.

Media’s role in national development

Sheikh Rashid highlighted the UAE’s investment in modern media technologies and urged optimal use of social media platforms for national benefit. He also pointed out the importance of reliable statistics, feasibility studies, and sustainable development plans for federal entities in attracting global investors.

Ohood Al Roumi’s praise

Ohood Al Roumi praised the Rashid bin Humaid Ramadan Council for its transparent discussions of important topics, noting that media plays a strategic role in shaping the future and a nation's global reputation.

Abdulla Al Hamed’s insights

Abdulla Al Hamed reaffirmed that the UAE's leadership prioritises the development of an advanced media sector. He discussed the BRIDGE Summit, a global initiative launched in Washington, D.C., which will be hosted in Abu Dhabi in December 2025. The initiative aims to forecast the future of media and drive transformation in the sector.

Al Hamed also stressed that 2026 would be a pivotal year for reaping the benefits of media initiatives launched in 2025 and highlighted the need for adaptation to new technologies to enhance competitiveness and credibility in national media.

Global media trends

Al Hamed pointed to the evolving media landscapes worldwide, emphasizing the importance of digital media, modern technologies, and combatting misinformation. He also discussed media's role as an economic sector and strategies for boosting the UAE’s presence on the global media map.

Key global media statistics include:

• Over 5 billion people will be using social media in 2024, with an annual increase of 266 million users.
• AI is expected to drive global media and entertainment revenues from $80 billion to $130 billion annually.
• Advertisers spent approximately $720 billion in 2023, with projections surpassing $1 trillion by 2025.

Concluding Recommendations

The session concluded with critical recommendations:

• Media professionals should keep pace with technological advancements.
• Adoption of ethical and professional standards to ensure the dissemination of credible content.
• Raising awareness of the importance of relying on official and trustworthy sources to shape positive public opinion and achieve sustainable development.