Empowering Young Emirati Writers: Insights from Dubai Press Club Workshops

Post by : Bianca Hayes

The Dubai Press Club has collaborated with the Board of Trustees of the Emirati Article Award to host expert-led workshops aimed at honing the journalistic skills of young Emirati writers and students.

These workshops served as a dynamic platform uniting esteemed Emirati writers, editors, students, digital content creators, and aspiring columnists. The focus was on fostering analytical writing, professional media standards, and opinion articles. This initiative underscores the Press Club’s dedication to elevating the UAE’s media scene by cultivating skilled local talent capable of creating impactful, responsible content.

Expert Perspectives from UAE’s Media Leaders

Participants gained from valuable discussions led by notable figures in Emirati media. Dr. Abdul Khaleq Abdullah, a renowned Political Science Professor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Emirati Article Award, underscored the significance of well-crafted articles in shaping public opinion. He elaborated on how opinion writing can clarify national issues and engage readers effectively.

Ali Obaid Al Hameli, an esteemed Emirati writer, focused on cultivating journalistic style, guiding attendees in refining language, organizing thoughts, and developing a distinct voice for writing columns and opinion pieces.

Additionally, Hamid bin Karam, the Editor-in-Chief of Al Bayan, shared insights into editorial practices, shedding light on how articles are assessed and selected within a competitive media landscape.

From Concept to Publication

The workshops emphasized practical training. Journalist Mohamed Al Hammadi guided participants in generating compelling article ideas, crafting engaging introductions, and enhancing article coherence. He also provided personalized feedback on their writing efforts.

Ibrahim Shukrallah, Editor-in-Chief of Emarat Al Youm, highlighted how Emirati-centric articles enrich national identity, noting the importance of local columnists in contributing meaningfully to public discourse.

Fostering National Media Expertise

Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, remarked that these workshops aim to nurture emerging Emirati talent, preparing writers capable of producing significant content reflecting national perspectives. She emphasized the partnership with the Emirati Article Award in enhancing the local media environment and promoting youth engagement in journalism.

According to Dr. Abdul Khaleq Abdullah, these workshops are a pivotal advancement for article writing culture in the UAE, exposing participants to various writing formats and essential publication skills.

Interactive Learning and Student Engagement

Wedad Kahoor, Section Head of Media Talent Development at the Dubai Press Club, noted that the workshops were designed for hands-on experience, guiding participants through the article development process from concept to polished draft. She highlighted strong involvement from students, reflecting an increasing demand for professional training to support Emirati media talent.

About the Emirati Article Award

Launched in early 2025, the Emirati Article Award encompasses nine categories—social, literary, economic, political, scientific, intellectual, artistic, youth (under 18), and resident writer. Each category offers a prize of AED 20,000, open to UAE citizens and residents. Submissions must explore contemporary Emirati themes while demonstrating originality and creativity, with each participant allowed one submission in a category, written in proper Arabic and between 800 and 1,000 words.

Dec. 24, 2025 10:33 a.m. 262

Global News