Dubai: As part of the dialogue series organised by the Dubai Press Club (DPC), the club hosted a session on 'Regional Geopolitical Developments and Their Impact on Media Narratives', featuring Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research. The session was attended by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, and Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, along with senior leaders, media professionals, and content creators.
According to Emirates News Agency, during the session, which was moderated by Hamed bin Karam, Editor-In-Chief of Albayan Newspaper, Dr. Al Nuaimi outlined the growing link between geopolitics and media, noting its role in crisis management, shaping public awareness, and influencing regional and global opinion. He emphasized that 'media warfare' is no longer a supporting tool in conflicts but an active battle targeting minds, which can be more dangerous than conventional wars due to the lasting impact of distorted values, beliefs, and trust in facts.
Dr. Al Nuaimi highlighted the increasing importance of media in the 'fight over the narrative', extending influence across the digital space, and stressed the necessity of responsible and cohesive messaging to counter misinformation. He explained that effective media engagement today relies on strong storytelling, not just the dissemination of information, and pointed out that the UAE's strength lies in its social cohesion and trust in leadership, fostering a shared sense of belonging among its diverse society.
The session also addressed the persistent media campaigns against the UAE, with Dubai often targeted as its success and influence grow. Dr. Al Nuaimi discussed the role of language in shaping media narratives, citing how Iranian strategies adapt messaging across languages to reach different audiences. He emphasized the importance of narrative control, warning that narrative gaps allow others to shape the story and spread misinformation. He praised the UAE's narrative for its credibility and transparency, which is recognised both regionally and globally.
Dr. Al Nuaimi asserted that the UAE is confidently moving towards strengthening its strategic independence, with decisions clearly communicated rather than justified. He noted that data-driven content is central to building a strong and resilient narrative. The Dubai Press Club, he added, continues to serve as a leading platform for dialogue and exchange, reinforcing Dubai's position as a regional and global media hub.
