22nd Arab Media Forum Opens in Dubai

Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The 22nd edition of the Arab Media Forum (AMF) commenced today in Dubai, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The event was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, Prime Minister of the Republic of Yemen; and Jassem AlBudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Held on the second day of the Arab Media Summit 2024, the AMF also includes the Arab Youth Media Forum, which concluded yesterday, the 23rd Arab Media Award, and the fourth Arab Social Media Influencers Award.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed welcomed the guests, expressing Dubai’s pride in supporting the media sector. He emphasized the city’s commitment to fostering dialogue and establishing partnerships to accelerate media development and serve Arab interests. “Guided by the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, we are committed to enhancing Dubai’s role in forming partnerships that support the media sector in its mission and social role. Our goal is to prepare for a future where media continues to uphold national values and strengthen the connection of new generations with their rich historical and cultural heritage,” he said.

Sheikh Ahmed highlighted the importance of the gathering of leading Arab media figures in Dubai, noting its crucial role in showcasing the sector’s ability to meet the region’s future aspirations. He stated, “Media plays a key role in guiding Arab dialogue towards greater unity and coordination, building new bridges of cooperation across various fields. This supports joint efforts for broader growth and prosperity for the entire Arab world.”

The opening session also saw the attendance of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority; Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Culture, Kuwait, and numerous senior media personalities and thought leaders from across the Arab world.

In his keynote address, Jassem AlBudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, explored key developments in the GCC media sector and the need for a unified response from GCC countries to tackle future opportunities and challenges. He praised Dubai and the AMF for providing a remarkable platform for thought leadership that supports the development of Arab media across the region.

AlBudaiwi emphasized the GCC’s commitment to diversity and dialogue, highlighting the role of Gulf media in the region’s progress and achievements, supported by GCC leaders who consider media a fundamental pillar of their ambitious future visions. He also addressed the growing use of social media in the GCC, noting the region’s high engagement rates and the need for clear regulations to ensure fairness, freedom, and privacy in the age of AI.

AlBudaiwi warned of the rapid growth and misuse of social media, citing concerns over the promotion of drugs, terrorist recruitment, and negative political and economic influences. He called for international cooperation to develop strict regulations for technology use in media and highlighted the risks of unbalanced reporting driven by vested interests, particularly in covering the Palestinian cause and the ongoing war in Gaza.

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, delivered the welcome address. She highlighted the push for a new phase of accelerated media growth, emphasizing the importance of agile responses to evolution and transformation, and the need for media outlets to adapt to avoid becoming irrelevant.

Al Marri underscored the challenges faced by the Arab world and emphasized efforts focused on advancing development, coexistence, and stability amidst global shifts. She noted the core status of the Palestinian issue and the vital need for rationality, hope, and positivity, aligning with the UAE’s commitment to creating new opportunities and a brighter future for the Arab world. She advocated for thoughtful inquiry and highlighted the media’s vital role in representing diverse voices.