Future of Arab media to be discussed at Dubai conference

The 13th Arab Media Forum (AMF) starts on Tuesday, where the future of media will be among the topics of discussion.

DUBAI // The 13th Arab Media Forum (AMF) starts on Tuesday, with the future for media among the major topics of discussion.

The two-day event at Madinat Jumeirah will include talks and presentations featuring respected figures from media organisations across the Arab world.

Mona Al Marri, chairwoman of the AMF organising committee, said the event would focus on the challenges the media faces globally and regionally.

“Through in-depth analysis and discussions, the forum will look into the current challenges that affect the industry and the best possible means to overcome them,” Ms Al Marri said.

“The forum will also discuss best scenarios to enable Arab media to cope with the fast-paced global industry developments.”

Speakers include Ibrahim Mehleb, prime minister of Egypt, Sheikh Walid Al Ibrahim, chairman of the MBC Group, and Ross Dawson, who predicted the social-network revolution in his 2002 book Living Networks.

Dawson will also give suggestions on how media outlets can survive.

“The UAE, along with Saudi Arabia, has among the highest usage of social media and highest use of mobile internet in the world,” he said.

“This has a major impact on how individuals use and access media, including news and entertainment.

“Most successful media outlets are cross-channel, covering more than one distribution medium.

“Depending on the nature of the content, audience engagement, particularly in distribution of content over social media, can be critical in driving visibility.”

AMF is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.