|
CNN EXPANDS NEWSGATHERING IN UAE |
|
|
CNN Worldwide is expanding its operations in the United Arab Emirates as part of a “multi-million dollar investment in the development of our newsgathering,” CNN spokesperson Susanna Flood told MEB Journal. The expansion includes the appointment of a new correspondent in Dubai, a Middle East bureau chief, and the opening of a bureau in the capital city of Abu Dhabi. News reports have put the investment, which includes the opening of permanent bases in nine new countries, at $10 million. Floods calls the expansion “the largest in our 27-year history.” “The key  thing is that we are seeking to grow our own business by the increased ownership of content,” said Flood, dismissing as speculation media reports that the UAE expansion is a response to competitors. Chris Forrester of Rapid TV News writes “CNN’s decision to invest in newsgathering locally is welcome, but it comes at a time when most other major news broadcasters are ahead of them in the Middle East, especially in regards to Arabic-language output.” Flood said the expansion “is not in response to any other channel, but is part of our history of spotting opportunities for growth and expansion.” The new Abu Dhabi bureau will include broadcast production facilities in Abu Dhabi’s Media Zone. CNN’s Dubai office, which heads the CNN Arabic.com website, will have a greater newsgathering role with new international correspondent Wilf Dinnik, who joins CNN from ABC News where he was Middle East correspondent. Samson Desta, an editor at CNN’s International Desk, has been appointed bureau chief. In November, CNN International started working with UAE satellite operator Thuraya for an SMS breakiting news service. The service delivers news alerts in English or Arabic to Thuraya customers, and is CNN’s first alliance with a mobile satellite provider. |
