Trust in traditional media in UAE remains strong, says Raed Barqawi

The 23rd edition of the Arab Media Summit (AMS) served as a vital dialogue platform to explore the role of professional journalism in addressing the challenges of the modern era, most notably, artificial intelligence and the digital explosion, amid the rapid transformations shaping the global media landscape.

Media professionals from diverse organisations emphasised the importance of crafting a comprehensive vision for the future of Arab media and strategies for its development. They also highlighted the pioneering nature of the UAE’s media experience, which has become a reference point in the region.

Raed Barqawi, Editor-in-Chief, Al Khaleej Newspaper, told presenters that the media landscape has undergone fundamental shifts in recent years. These changes began with the rise of digital media, which opened the door to a wide range of influencers, many of whom operate without necessarily adhering to established professional standards.

Barqawi also praised the progress of UAE media, noting that media outlets in the country have demonstrated excellence in leveraging modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, video production, and multi-platform applications.

He emphasised that this advancement reflects the UAE’s commitment to innovation and its leading role in shaping the future of regional media.

Barqawi pointed out that journalism is a sacred profession with a responsibility and a significant role in people's lives. Digital transformations have strengthened this role, especially for journalists and the new tools available to them. Barqawi said that when a journalist shifts from being a professional to being a mere employee, he or she falls and fails, and must bear the responsibility of his or her words. This is because we are facing a new generation of readers who want fast food and everything fast. Here, the journalist's role is to provide valuable content so that we do not reach generations of superficial people. Everything we offer is food for the mind, an evolution of the Press.

The Executive Editor-in-Chief of Al Khaleej newspaper emphasized that traditional professional media has largely succeeded in keeping pace with transformations and establishing a presence in the virtual world, including social media platforms. It remains the trusted source of news, he noted, citing the results of the Edelman Trust Index, which confirmed that trust in traditional media in the UAE remains strong at 59%.

Regarding access to readers, Barqawi noted that media today can reach millions of followers anywhere in the world. He emphasized that the measure of any newspaper's success is not the abundance of news broadcasts, but rather the diversity and direction of its content.

He emphasized that followers of any professional media outlet on social media platforms are real followers, as professional media outlets do not purchase followers, likes, or views, as happens with some "influencers."

Nayla Tueni, Chief Executive Officer and editor-in-chief, An-Nahar and Annahar Arabi at Annahar media group, noted that challenges in the media sector are not new. “Media has always faced obstacles throughout the decades, as the world is in constant flux and technological advancement never stops,” she said.

She added, “For over 90 years, the world has undergone continuous transformation, with each era bringing a new wave of innovation. As journalists and media institutions, we must keep pace with these changes and evolve accordingly. Today’s challenges go beyond technology; they include financial and logistical hurdles as well.” Tueni stressed the importance of adapting to these changes and learning how to navigate them to deliver quality content to a diverse audience spanning all age groups.

She noted that An-Nahar remains committed to its print edition but ensures its content is renewed and aligned with contemporary demands.

The Arab Media Summit, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the Arab Media Summit is the Middle East and North Africa region’s largest media thought leadership platform. Organised by the Dubai Press Club, the 2025 edition brings together over 8,000 participants and 300 speakers from the Arab world and beyond, across more than 175 sessions and 35 workshops.