Regional Media Poised For Significant Growth And Innovation, Says Rani Raad At The Arab Media Forum

The UAE, along with the region, is leading in innovation and AI, making significant investments in local content creation and distribution, according to Rani Raad, CEO International Media Investments.

Highlighting the substantial growth opportunities for regional media at a session titled Media Investments Shaping the Future, at the 22nd Arab Media Forum, Raad stated, “We need to super-serve our audience,” emphasising the importance of responsible media coverage and adaptation to new digital advancements. “Linear news is no longer attractive. It’s live events and real-time news that captivate audiences. Content will remain king, but its distribution will evolve.”

The 22nd edition of the forum commenced on Day 2 the Arab Media Summit, which also encompasses the Arab Youth Media Forum that concluded yesterday, the 23rd Arab Media Award, and the fourth Arab Social Media Influencers Award.

Speaking with Hadley Gamble—award-winning international journalist, TV presenter, and CEO of Whistlejacket Media—on the second day of the three-day Arab Media Forum at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Raad shared insights on Abu Dhabi’s investment strategy, the evolving landscape of linear TV, and the impact of recent network news coverage on journalism.

Rani Raad, whose IMI portfolio includes The National, CNN Business Arabic, and Al Ain News, with interests in Sky News Arabia and Euro News, emphasised the vision of transforming IMI into a global media powerhouse. He acknowledged CNN’s ongoing “drastic transformation,” suggesting that the network must adapt to serve a new generation of news consumers effectively.

Discussing the Telegraph, Raad revealed that Abu Dhabi’s Redbird IMI plans to sell the Telegraph and the Spectator at a premium. He expressed concerns over the potential repercussions for the UK government and Telegraph employees.

Reflecting on IMI’s strategy, Raad highlighted their capital, patience, and operational experience, predicting a new approach to advertising. He urged legacy marketing models to embrace digital advancements, focusing on monetising major clients and well-known brands.

Raad praised the UAE’s leadership in innovation and AI, highlighting the achievements of inspiring regional figures like Hazzaa Al Mansoori and Sultan Al Neyadi. “We grew up hearing about Neil Armstrong, but today’s youth see their heroes as one among them, near them. Therefore, the media needs to be more responsible in every aspect,” he stated. Raad criticised the tendency to oversimplify complex issues, particularly regarding global unrest, which undermines journalism and the media sector’s integrity.

Concluding his remarks, Raad expressed excitement about returning to the UAE after 35 years abroad and lauded the thriving regional media sector. “Regional media has huge growth opportunities. We have the resources, government support, and creative content,” he declared.