ABU DHABI, 7th June, 2022 (WAM) — H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, has issued a Resolution establishing the National Media Office (NMO).
The decision aims to streamline efforts to develop the national media sector in line with the UAE’s interests. It will also enhance the UAE’s status regionally and internationally as a key media hub, support and enhance cooperation between the various media outlets, and ensure that high-level Emiratis in the media industry are equipped with media leadership skills.
The Resolution stipulates that the Emirates News Agency (WAM) will be affiliated with the NMO’s head, provided that work related to the agency’s administrative and financial regulations continues as before.
The NMO, which Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed will oversee, will operate with financial and administrative independence and a focused remit that will enable the office to deliver on its goals and carry out its responsibilities efficiently. To be headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the NMO can also open offices in the UAE and internationally, as directed by H.H. Sheikh Mansour.
H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that establishing the NMO embodies the vision of the leadership led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to develop the media sector, enhance its contribution to the country’s development, support its stability, and consolidate its leadership and progress.
The office will keep pace with global developments in media and the way its influence is shaped, Sheikh Mansour said. It will also play a significant role in qualifying national media leaders and coordinating the efforts of local authorities to improve the quality of media output. Furthermore, the office will enhance capabilities in monitoring and confronting various media challenges and crises, in addition to exchanging best practices and expertise with international media outlets, Sheikh Mansour added.
To achieve its objectives, the NMO will carry out several duties, proposing and developing strategic media plans, legislation, regulations and decisions on media development, while monitoring their implementation in coordination with the relevant authorities.
In addition, the NMO will train and upskill Emirati talent in news media, develop and organise the roles of official spokespersons, represent the UAE at media conferences and events in the UAE and abroad, and conduct research within the media sector.
The NMO will also work together with official and private media departments on national affairs and develop strategic relations with Arab, regional and international media outlets to exchange best practices.