The National’s editor-in-chief steps down

Hassan Fattah leaves The National newspaper after five years of service.

ABU DHABI // Hassan Fattah has stepped down as editor-in-chief of The National after five years at the newspaper.

For now, the deputy editor, Bob Cowan, will take on day-to-day editing responsibilities until a new editor-in-chief is appointed.

“It has been a privilege editing what has developed into a distinct, robust and rigorous voice on national and regional affairs,” Fattah said.

“As I move on to the next stage of my career, I will always look back with fondness and pride on my time at The National.”

Martin Newland, the executive director of publishing at Abu Dhabi Media, said: “On behalf of Abu Dhabi Media, I would like to thank Hassan for his dedication and professionalism in contributing to building up The National’s voice as a newspaper of record for Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

“We wish him the very best in his future plans.”

The National launched in April 2008 with Newland as its founding editor-in-chief.

Just over a year later, Fattah took on the role of heading the daily newspaper, whose parent company also owns a number of other publications including Al Ittihad Arabic-language newspaper, Zahrat Al Khaleej, Majid and National Geographic Al Arabiya.