The 6th edition of the Emirati Media Forum (EMF) was recently held in Dubai. During the event, a session titled "The Role of Emirati Media in Times of Crisis" was held to discuss the crucial role played by the Emirati media during challenging times. The panel discussed the ability of Emirati media to adapt to various political, economic, social, and health transformations taking place in countries across the world.

Held at the Dubai Press Club (DPC), the session was moderated by TV hostess Reem Saif Al Mamari from Sharjah Media Corporation and journalist Majid Al Farisi from Sky News Arabia. The session was attended by prominent Emirati media figures, local newspapers editors-in-chief, leading writers, specialists, and scholars to discuss the importance of media in times of crisis.

The session highlighted the paramount role played by the Emirati media in addressing global crises in recent years, most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provided a practical assessment of efforts made by Emirati media in creating awareness about key issues.

Addressing the session, Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM)), said that the Emirati media emerged successful in addressing the pandemic with professionalism, credibility, transparency and impartiality.

He highlighted the necessary cooperation shown by traditional and new media platforms during the pandemic crisis in the country. Al Rayssi further ensured the Emirati media would be more powerful over the next 50 years to boost progress, prosperity, and preparedness for a brighter future.

He hailed the media's efforts in raising awareness about the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, he highlighted the key role played by periodic media briefings by the UAE government to spread reliable information. He also underscored the country's efforts and cooperation between national authorities and institutions in addressing and managing the crisis.

Al Rayssi drew attention to the leading role played by WAM's editorial teams, reporters and other platforms in spreading necessary messages and accurate information to the public about the pandemic and other key issues in 19 different languages.

"It had become increasingly important for the Emirati media to keep pace with local and international academic research and studies," he said.

He further called for supporting all national institutions that have put all possible efforts, and continue to do so, in tackling the crisis and overcoming its repercussions.

In conclusion, Al Rayssi pointed out the international recognitions achieved by the UAE for its successful efforts in addressing the pandemic in line with the directives and support provided by the country's wise leadership.

The one-day Forum held in Dubai on Wednesday saw the participation of eminent media personalities, heads of UAE media institutions, local newspapers' editors-in-chief, editorial managers, writers, intellectuals, and academics. The event was held in adherence to all precautionary measures implemented by the authorities to protect the health and safety of all participants.

As a platform for dialogue between key media players, the Emirati Media Forum provides an opportunity to all participants to discuss ongoing developments in the media industry and local and regional issues. It provides various channels of communication to journalists, media organisations, experts, and specialists from different media fields. It aims to impart local media outlets insights and knowledge about ways to develop leadership capabilities needed to excel and sustain their progress. 

WAM