RIYADH (Updated) – In a series of events that mark a transformative era for Saudi Arabia’s media landscape, the Saudi Journalists Association has witnessed a historic shift. On January 28, 2024, nearly half of the newly elected board members were women, a first in the 21-year history of this prominent media professionals’ body. This milestone coincided with the election of Faisal J. Abbas, a visionary in the field, as Deputy Chairman of the Association.
Faisal J. Abbas, the Editor-in-Chief of Arab News, has been a transformative figure in Saudi media. Since taking the helm in 2016, Abbas has redefined Arab News into a global, multi-language news brand. His extensive experience, including roles at major media outlets and participation in the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders and the British Society of Authors, has positioned him as a key influencer in the industry.
Known for his appearances on international networks like CNN, BBC, and Sky News, and his engagements at prestigious institutions such as Harvard and the London School of Economics, Abbas brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role.
The election, a significant victory for the “Future” coalition, saw the group sweep the polls against independent journalists and other opposition. The coalition, a collective of Editors in Chief, Deputy Editors, and senior journalists from leading Saudi newspapers and media outlets, secured all winning spots in the fiercely contested election.
Women win big
Out of 20 candidates, 13 emerged victorious, with six women achieving board positions. These include Noor Nugali of Arab News, Thekra Al-Atyawi from the Saudi Broadcast Authority, Lama AlShethry of Sayyidaty Magazine, Fatima Aloufi from the Saudi Ministry of Sports, Bushra AlRabia of the Saudi Government Communication Center, and Mai Alsharif of Independent Arabia.
Joining these influential women are seven male counterparts, including Abbas, Adhwan Alahmari of Independent Arabia, Mamdouh AlMuhaini of Al Arabiya, Hamed AlShehri of Saudipedia, Zaid bin Kami of Asharq AlAwsat, Ali AlHazimi of Sabq, and Mohammed Albishi of Al-Eqtisadiya.
The newly elected board, with Adhwan Alahmari as chairman and Bushra AlRabia as treasurer, is set to serve a four-year term with a mandate to enhance the stature of Saudi journalists, advocate for improved compensation and rights, and provide essential training and tools to elevate Saudi journalism.
The board’s strategic vision, to be presented at their next meeting, aims to align with the association’s core objectives. Founded in 2003, the Saudi Journalists Association operates as an independent union for media professionals, previously chaired by Khalid Al-Malik, editor-in-chief of Al-Jazirah newspaper.
This election not only signifies a momentous step towards gender equality in the Saudi media industry but also highlights the growing influence and representation of visionary leaders like Abbas. Together, they are set to reshape the future of journalism in Saudi Arabia, advocating for global standards and progressive change.