The Rashid bin Humaid Ramadan Majlis 2025 organized a discussion forum titled “Media and Future-Making: Between Influence and Responsibility,” attended by Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al-Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, and His Excellency Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Batti Al-Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Media Council.
The session was moderated by the Anchor Ahmed Al-Yamahi, featuring the participation of several media experts and specialists. It eyed insightful discussions on the future of media in the UAE
The discussion revolved around several key themes that occupy the minds of those working in the media sector, beginning with the role of national media in supporting the values and aspirations of Emirati society, moving through the impact of media initiatives in enhancing the nation’s reputation and deepening its international relations, and culminating in the influence of artificial intelligence applications in media and strategies for combating misleading content.
Sheikh Rashid bin Hamid Al-Naeemi, Chairman of the Department of Municipality and Planning – Ajman (MPDA), referenced the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may Allahh protect him, regarding empowering young people and equipping them with future skills, recognizing them as ambassadors of their country, which has established a framework for the future of youth and a foundation for their excellence. He praised the National Media Office for its remarkable achievements in the media sector in home and abroad, supported by the wise directives of leadership.
Sheikh Rashid bin Hamid emphasized that the role of media transcends being merely a source of news; it serves as a powerful force that shapes national aspirations and a primary enabler of societal ambitions. He highlighted that the UAE has accorded significant attention to the media sector by providing support and modern technological capabilities to professionals and content creators within the field. He also advocated for the optimal use of social media platforms for the benefit of the nation.
Moreover, Sheikh Rashid bin Hamid pointed out that the country has established comprehensive infrastructure to attract investors from around the globe, underscoring the importance of providing reliable statistics, credible sources, feasibility studies, and sustainable development plans for federal entities.
In her statement, Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al-Roumi praised the Hamid bin Rashid Ramadan Majlis for its role in addressing significant issues with utmost transparency. She highlighted that one of these critical issues is the media and its influence on the construction of the future and the reputation of nations, which is deemed a strategic priority for the state amidst global changes.
For his part, His Excellency Abdullah Al-Hamed emphasized that the visionary leadership of the United Arab Emirates places the empowerment of a progressive media at the forefront of its priorities. He affirmed that over the past five decades, the nation has witnessed substantial growth across all sectors, paralleled by remarkable advancements within the media sector and its institutions.
He also touched upon the recently launched BRIDGE summit from the capital of the United States, Washington, which is set to take place in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10, 2025. His Excellency indicated that BRIDGE is a comprehensive global initiative aimed at envisioning the future of media, leading the sector’s transformation, and enhancing its contribution to the global economy by establishing a dynamic and inclusive framework that empowers journalists, fosters innovation, and supports responsible journalism in the digital age. He reaffirmed that 2026 will be a time to reap the benefits of these national initiatives being introduced throughout the current year.
His Excellency the Head of the National Media Office elucidated that the media landscape in various countries worldwide is undergoing rapid transformations, necessitating our adaptation to these changes and our utilization of modern innovations. This is essential to enhance the competitiveness of national media and to reinforce its position as a credible source that reflects the nation’s vision and accomplishments while addressing societal aspirations through innovative approaches and substantial content.
Moreover, His Excellency highlighted that national media has played a pivotal role in bolstering the positive reputation of the state, a legacy established by our esteemed founding fathers, may they rest in peace. Following this lineage, our wise leadership has continued this journey with a forward-looking vision and a strategy rooted in innovation and effective communication. This has further elevated the United Arab Emirates as a beacon of progress and openness, earning it the trust and respect of the global community.
His Excellency affirmed that the directives of the wise leadership have consistently served as a guiding light that enhances the values of the Emirati identity within the media sector. He noted that this has been vividly demonstrated in the positive approach adopted by content creators on social media platforms, whose work embodies the cultural image of the nation. His Excellency emphasized the pivotal role of digital media and modern technologies, as well as their impact on the evolution of the media landscape, whether in shaping legislation or fostering awareness, positioning them as effective tools in combating media misinformation and solidifying the truth.
Furthermore, His Excellency reviewed the importance of media as a competitive economic sector and the opportunities available to elevate the UAE’s status on the global media map. He also addressed the production of impactful and responsible media content that reflects the Emirati identity, with a focus on ways to enhance the media’s contribution to the national economy.
According to the latest statistics, over 5 billion individuals will utilize social media platforms in 2024, reflecting an annual increase of approximately 266 million users. Additionally, artificial intelligence is expected to drive global media and entertainment revenue growth from 80 billion to 130 billion dollars annually. Advertisers are projected to spend nearly 720 billion dollars in 2023, with expectations to surpass one trillion dollars by 2025.
The Majlis concluded with critical recommendations regarding the necessity of keeping pace with technological advancements in the media sector, adopting ethical and professional standards to ensure the dissemination of reliable media content that contributes to shaping positive public opinion and achieving sustainable development, as well as raising awareness about the importance of turning to trustworthy official sources.
