Abu dhabi: The National Media Authority (NMA) officially announced the formation of the NMA Youth Council, marking a strategic step to strengthen youth engagement in shaping the future of the UAE's media sector. The launch reflects the NMA's commitment to developing national talent and professional capabilities that can contribute meaningfully to the sector's continued growth.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement reflects national leadership's direction to provide a positive, enabling environment that invests in youth potential, supports their meaningful participation, and empowers them to contribute to the advancement of the UAE's media ecosystem and its future sectors. The NMA Youth Council is entrusted with a range of strategic responsibilities, including proposing and contributing to policies and initiatives that empower youth and nurture creative talent.
The council will also coordinate on an ongoing basis with federal and local youth councils to support the implementation of the National Youth Strategy. In addition, it will represent the NMA in regional and international forums, in line with broader national objectives to promote dialogue, openness, and excellence across the UAE's comprehensive development journey.
Emphasising the strategic landscape and its impact on the nation, Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority, stated, 'Today's media landscape represents a key soft power asset and a primary engine shaping the UAE's global standing.' He added, 'We are entering a new era that engages youth as strategic partners in crafting and delivering our inspiring national narrative to the world. Investing in youth is a direct investment in the nation's future.'
Highlighting the future of the sector, Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Vice Chairman of the National Media Authority, said, 'The future of media demands agility and innovation to keep pace with rapid technological advancement and digital transformation. The formation of the Youth Council is a proactive step to ensure our media ecosystem remains future-ready.'
Speaking on the initiative's impact on youth development, Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, Secretary General of the National Media Authority, said, 'Through this council, we aim to create a lasting and positive impact on the professional and personal development of young talent, enabling a transition from participation to genuine leadership and decision-making. The council will serve as a platform to nurture talents, strengthen policy understanding, and translate ambitious ideas into practical initiatives.'
Coinciding with the launch, the newly formed council held its inaugural meeting today to establish a clear roadmap for the next phase of its work. The meeting positioned the council as a direct communication channel linking the innovative perspectives of young employees with the NMA's senior leadership. Through this role, the team is expected to contribute tangible value to institutional media operations and support the UAE's continued positioning as a leading global media hub.
