Dubai, Asharq Al-Awsat- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai will inaugurate 2006 Arab Media Forum to be held at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.

Ghassan Twaini, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Al Nahar newspaper of Lebanon will be the key note speaker during the opening session. Ghassan Twaini is recognized as one of the leading Arab media experts who has a wealth of expertise in various fields. Beside his involvement with media, he has a record of remarkable political and diplomatic contributions.

Mona Al Marri, Chairperson of Dubai Press Club, which is organizing the forum, extended a note of warm welcome to all the speakers and participants, underlining the importance and value of the form which will bring together a select group of media experts and decision makers from the region. ‘The forum will witness important discussions lead by a group of opinion shapers who have a indirect impact on the social, cultural and even political agenda in the Arab world,’ she added.

‘The true value of the forum lies in the fact that it serves as an ideal platform of direct interaction and dialogue among industry leaders who gather under one roof to discuss issues of importance to the Arab region,’

she explained.

‘This positive dialogue tremendously contributes towards identifying major challenges and obstacles facing the media industry in this part of the world, and subsequently charting the necessary actions that are needed to help enhance the status of the Arab media,’ Al Marri added.

The Arab Media Forum opening session is expected to be attended this year by approximately 1,000 participants.

The event is being organized by the Dubai Press Club The one-day event will be attended by key Arab media experts and prominent speakers who will explore the status of the Arab media in light of current political, economic and social developments within the region.