His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has issued Council Decision No. (5) of 2024, approving the "Dubai News Policy." This decision introduces a set of procedures and regulations for coordinating the dissemination of news across media platforms and social media channels, covering all government entities in Dubai.
Objective of the Decision: Organizing and Coordinating News in Line with Dubai’s Strategy
The decision reflects His Highness's commitment to regulating the publication of news related to Dubai’s government, departments, and affiliated institutions. This is aligned with the rapid advancements across various sectors in Dubai. Through this policy, the Dubai Media Council aims to ensure swift and seamless dissemination of news, achieving full coordination among government entities and supporting the emirate's strategic goals.
Goals of the Dubai News Policy
The key objectives of this policy include:
- Governance of News: Ensuring that strategic news is disseminated with accuracy and clarity.
- Regulating Media Practices: Enhancing effective coordination among government entities in publishing news.
- Supporting Development Plans: Promoting the publication of news related to legislation, strategies, initiatives, and events that form the foundation of Dubai’s developmental agenda.
Responsibilities of the Dubai Government Media Office
The policy clearly defines the role of the Dubai Government Media Office (DGMO), which includes:
- Receiving Requests and Inquiries: Handling all matters related to publishing news about the emirate and coordinating with relevant government entities.
- Issuing Necessary Approvals: Granting permissions for news publication across various media channels.
- Crisis Communication: Drafting and disseminating news during emergencies and disasters in coordination with concerned authorities.
- Smart Publishing: Strategically timing news releases to align with the emirate's priorities.
Launching the "Dubai News Platform" for Seamless News Dissemination
The policy also mandates the establishment of the "Dubai News Platform," an online system dedicated to managing government news publication.
- Platform Management: The DGMO will oversee and manage this platform.
- Submission Requirements: Government entities must submit their news publication requests at least 72 hours before the scheduled release.
Enhancing Media Coordination Among Government Entities
The policy aims to foster greater collaboration between government bodies through:
- Guidelines for News Publication: Providing an operational manual outlining the use of the platform, submission procedures, and publication standards.
- Prioritizing Media Content: Ensuring strategic alignment in the choice and timing of published news across media and social platforms.
Implementation and Official Gazette Publication
The Dubai Media Council’s Decision No. (5) of 2024 takes effect from the date of issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.
This policy represents a significant step toward:
- Streamlining the News Publication Process: Aligning with the demands of the digital age.
- Enhancing Media Coordination: Strengthening collaboration between government entities to achieve Dubai's developmental objectives.
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