Dubai, United Arab Emirates – March 2026: The National Media Authority (NMA) hosted its highly anticipated annual Ramadan gathering today at the prestigious Royal Atlantis Hotel in Dubai. The event brought together an esteemed group of media leaders in the UAE, including editors-in-chief, senior officials from prominent Arab and international media organizations operating in the country, representatives from media companies, and influential social media personalities.
The gathering reflects the Authority’s unwavering commitment to fostering continuous engagement with media leaders and strengthening collaboration among institutions operating within the media sector. It serves as a platform to elevate media performance and support the advancement of the UAE’s media ecosystem.
This year’s event also highlighted the Authority’s ongoing efforts to deepen relationships with local, Arab, and international media partners, fostering the exchange of ideas and expertise to advance industry practices. The gathering addressed ways to navigate the rapid transformations impacting the global media landscape while reinforcing the essential role of media in supporting the UAE’s development journey and enhancing the nation’s position within the global media sphere.
In his opening remarks, His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority, welcomed the distinguished attendees. He emphasized that this year’s Ramadan gathering takes place amidst exceptional circumstances, referencing the recent treacherous Iranian attacks targeting the UAE.
He commended the unwavering resilience of the UAE’s Armed Forces, describing their heroic efforts in intercepting missiles and drones with remarkable professionalism and precision. His Excellency noted:
“These desperate attempts to undermine our security have been shattered by the bravery and vigilance of our Armed Forces, whose actions serve as a testament to their unwavering commitment to defending our nation’s sovereignty.”
He further highlighted how the exceptional performance of the country’s defenders instilled a profound sense of reassurance among citizens and residents, demonstrating that the UAE’s unity and resilience remain unshaken by external threats.
His Excellency praised the wisdom and foresight of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, in navigating the nation through these challenging times. He emphasized that His Highness’s calm and strategic leadership underscores the UAE’s ability to transform adversity into opportunities for unity and strength.
“The leadership that builds nations in times of prosperity is the same leadership that protects them in times of challenge,” His Excellency stated, adding that the UAE’s approach to crisis management reflects a deep confidence in its people and institutions.
He also underscored the importance of the media’s role during such critical moments, stating:
“Our national media is a battalion stationed in the trenches of awareness, a strong shield protecting the internal front. Responsible media messaging, grounded in balance and credibility, can often have a greater impact than the noise of the events themselves.”
His Excellency emphasized that modern conflicts are no longer confined to traditional battlefields. He described the media landscape as a parallel front, where the war on awareness, fueled by misinformation and disinformation campaigns, has become just as threatening as physical warfare. He called on the national media to uphold accuracy, truth, and professionalism as critical tools in safeguarding public opinion.
“The battle of words, images, and information is now a central front in modern conflicts. Professional and conscious media is the first line of defense against misinformation campaigns and the protection of societal awareness.”
He also addressed the downfall of professionalism in certain international media outlets, which, he said, have deviated from journalistic integrity by adopting agendas that lack credibility. He called for strategic caution, advocating for an “informational boycott” of such platforms to prevent their narratives from infiltrating societal awareness.
Speaking directly to social media influencers and creators, His Excellency emphasized the importance of responsible digital citizenship. He urged influencers to ensure that their content reflects the values of the UAE and its people, known as the “Sons of Zayed” for their nobility, dignity, and self-confidence.
He warned against engaging with abusive accounts or spreading content from unverified sources, stating:
“Removing falsehood begins with ignoring it. Be cautious when sharing unverified content, as it may be a tool in psychological warfare aimed at undermining societal stability.”
During the gathering, media professionals and social media influencers expressed their deep appreciation for the UAE Armed Forces and their exceptional dedication to protecting the nation. They praised the Armed Forces’ courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and stability.
The attendees reaffirmed their confidence in the UAE’s ability to overcome this crisis with the wisdom of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the unity of its people. They pledged to continue their role in countering misinformation, promoting public awareness, and reinforcing the spirit of national responsibility.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the UAE’s resilience in the face of challenges. It underscored the critical role of media as a guardian of truth and a unifying force, ensuring that the nation’s message of strength, unity, and confidence resonates both within and beyond its borders.
