Noura Al Kaabi uses media wisely to further her agenda

Media discussions have reminded the FNC audience where Noura Al Kaabi's strength lies.

ABU DHABI // As a media expert who is savvy with social media, it comes as no surprise that Noura Al Kaabi’s boldest FNC moments revolve around those topics.

Although Ms Al Kaabi is often quiet in public sessions, media discussions have reminded the audience where the young parliamentary member’s strength lies.

She called for regulations to ensure photos of abused children do not appear publicly in order to protect their identity.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Foreign Minister and head of the National Media Council, agreed with her, but not before jokingly asking if he could respond to her question via Twitter.

Even when discussions were not media related, Ms Al Kaabi, who sits on the board of directors of Abu Dhabi Media, which owns The National, has managed to bring in a media aspect to the floor.

During a debate with Dr Rashid bin Fahad, chairman of Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) she called on the authority to make better use of social media and interact with consumers.

As the authority was planning to play a bigger role in monitoring clothing and children’s food, Ms Al Kaabi said they should use social media to inform consumers immediately of product recalls and what symbols to look for on products.

Dr bin Fahad said it was the best recommendation made all day.

Even with a big role, Ms Al Kaabi finds time to speak to anyone who approaches her.

“Noura [is] modest and [her] treatment of people is not impacted by their high power position,” said Hala Badri, executive vice president for du brand and communications.

She added that Ms Al Kaabi was one of the members “who make things happen”.

Many Emiratis have pointed to Ms Al Kaabi as a role model due to her accomplishments, which appeal particularly to the younger generation.

Nasra Al Rahma, a 23-year-old from Dubai, said she takes pride in seeing a female Emirati occupying a position as chief executive.

“It is nice to see an Emriati like that.”