Background
Launched in October 2010 by Abu Dhabi Media Network in partnership with National Geographic Society, National Geographic Alarabiya is a Pan Arab monthly magazine designed to inform, entertain, and inspire. Over 14 years, the Arabic edition has maintained the 134-year-old journalistic tradition of the flagship National Geographic Magazine, notably known for its compelling storytelling that combines a rigorous investigative narrative and breathtaking photography. National Geographic Alarabiya equally seeks to showcase the natural and human heritage of the Arab region as chronicled by local writers, explorers and photographers — with an ultimate goal of protecting the Planet.
Key achievements
Since its inception and for the last 14 years, National Geographic Alarabiya has engaged with a vast audience that spans across MENA region, highlighting the geographical and cultural wonders of the region, and showcasing the work of prominent Arab photographers, winning numerous recognitions and awards such as the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award in 2015.
Attracting over 9 million followers, the digital platforms of the magzine have been in the forefront of Arab media in spreading compelling fact-based content. In 2020, National Geographic Alarabiya adapted the Yourshot segment from the flagship edition, further engaging its MENA audience by showcasing their work based on best submissions. This formed the base of its 2021 exhibition Slice of Life held in Gulf Photo Plus at Al Serkal Avenue in Dubai.
Notable projects
One of the latest notable stories of National Geographic Alarabiya is “Heritage Stewards: Emirati Women Falconers”, highlighting the achievements of Emirati women, while celebrating the UNESCO-inscribed sport in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Given the success and impact of the story, it was translated and published on the flagship National Geographic website to reach a wider international audience.
