The Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) has received the 2026 Arab Media Excellence Award in the Institutional Category, marking another milestone in its longstanding contribution to the development of Arab media.
The award, presented in its tenth edition under the theme “Arab Media and Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges,” recognises ASBU’s outstanding role in advancing the Arab audiovisual sector and fostering cooperation among broadcasting institutions across the region.
The ceremony took place on 4 November 2026 in Cairo, during the 56th Ordinary Session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers at the League of Arab States headquarters. The distinction was presented by Nabil Fahmy, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, to Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, ASBU President, and Abdulrahim Suleiman, ASBU’s Director-General.
Recognising ASBU’s Contribution to Arab Broadcasting
The award highlights ASBU’s central role in strengthening the Arab media landscape, particularly through its continued efforts to support broadcasting organisations, encourage regional cooperation and promote the exchange of expertise and audiovisual content.
Over the years, the Union has contributed to raising professional standards and improving media production, while helping its member organisations navigate the profound changes reshaping the broadcasting industry.
A key aspect of this commitment is the integration of artificial intelligence into audiovisual media. Recognising the far-reaching impact of emerging technologies, ASBU has placed AI high on its professional agenda, organising specialised conferences, seminars and training programmes to explore its practical applications in broadcasting and journalism.
These initiatives examine how artificial intelligence can enhance content production, streamline editorial processes and improve distribution methods. At the same time, they address the challenges that come with its adoption, including misinformation, content authenticity, professional ethics and intellectual property protection.
Through these efforts, ASBU seeks to equip Arab broadcasting institutions with the knowledge and expertise needed to embrace technological innovation while safeguarding the credibility and quality of media content.
A Decade of Celebrating Excellence in Arab Media
Established in 2016 by the League of Arab States, the Arab Media Excellence Award aims to recognise outstanding contributions to the media industry, encourage innovation and highlight successful professional experiences across the Arab world.
Organised in partnership with the State of Kuwait, which sponsors the award, the initiative covers several media fields, including radio and television broadcasting, print journalism and digital media.
The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on the relationship between artificial intelligence and the future of Arab media. Its theme reflects the growing influence of AI on the way content is produced, edited and distributed, while drawing attention to the professional, ethical and legal questions raised by these rapidly evolving technologies.
This year's competition attracted 154 entries across its various categories, the highest number recorded since the award was launched. The strong participation reflects the growing recognition of the initiative and its importance as a platform for celebrating excellence, creativity and innovation in Arab media.
For ASBU, this distinction represents both recognition of its achievements and encouragement to pursue its mission of supporting Arab broadcasting institutions and shaping a dynamic, innovative and competitive audiovisual media sector.
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