AEOwnership & classification
Founded: 2008
Ownership
The National is an Abu Dhabi English-language outlet first published on 17 April 2008 by the government-owned Abu Dhabi Media. In 2016 it was acquired by International Media Investments (IMI), part of the Abu Dhabi Media Investment Corporation, a private investment vehicle of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister of the UAE and a member of the Abu Dhabi ruling family. It relaunched under IMI ownership in 2017.
Funding
Funded through advertising, subscriptions and the backing of its IMI owner; effectively underwritten by an Abu Dhabi ruling-family investment group rather than self-sustaining commercial revenue alone.
Affiliation & stance
Owned and bankrolled by a vehicle of the Al Nahyan ruling family, The National presents a pro-government, pro-UAE editorial line on Gulf and foreign affairs even though editors reject the 'mouthpiece' label. Because ultimate control rests with a senior member of the Abu Dhabi government, it is classified as DEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 715
82/100
Factual
77/100
Objective
966
Articles
966
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
‘Don’t sleep please, we need you’, dentist told flydubai pilot as he battled to save him
A dentist named Dr. Shota Musaev played a crucial role in saving the life of flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar during a tense incident aboard Flight FZ1073 on September 30. According to reports, the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a crash axe, leading to severe injuries including deep cuts to the captain's head and hands. Passengers and reserve pilots reportedly intervened to regain control of the plane. Dr. Musaev, who was traveling on the same flight, provided first aid by applying pressure to the wounds using T-shirts and ice packs while keeping the captain conscious. He reassured the captain throughout the 45-minute ordeal, urging him not to lose consciousness and promising assistance until they could land safely in Saudi Arabia. The UAE's Attorney General confirmed ongoing investigations into the incident, described as an attempted terrorist attack. The captain survived the incident and expressed his desire to live, despite experiencing significant pain.
Saudi Arabia has right to defend itself from Houthi attacks, says Rubio
US Senator Marco Rubio stated that Saudi Arabia has the right to defend itself against attacks by the Houthi movement in Yemen. During a press briefing in Maryland, Rubio emphasized that both Saudi Arabia and Yemen's internationally recognized government oppose Houthi control over territory. He reiterated the United States' commitment to a binding security agreement with Saudi Arabia. The comments come amid ongoing conflict in Yemen, where Houthi rebels have been engaged in fighting with Saudi-led forces.
Speed limit caps lifted in Abu Dhabi after morning fog reduces visibility
Abu Dhabi temporarily lowered speed limits on major roads due to dense fog reducing visibility, but these restrictions were lifted shortly after 8am on Tuesday. Abu Dhabi Police implemented the 80kph speed cap as a precautionary measure following a warning from the National Centre of Meteorology about hazardous weather conditions. Authorities confirmed that speed limits have returned to normal levels. However, the National Centre of Meteorology warned that additional fog is expected through Saturday. The temporary speed reduction measures were first introduced in April 2019 to improve road safety during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, sandstorms, and fog. These changes were approved by the Department of Transport’s traffic safety committee. Motorists who violate the temporary speed limits face increasing fines depending on the severity of the infraction.
Yemeni and Saudi forces launch counteroffensive against the Houthis
Yemeni government forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, have launched a counteroffensive against the Houthi rebels in an attempt to reclaim territory, particularly focusing on regaining control of the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This area is crucial for global trade and Saudi oil exports, giving the Houthis significant leverage over international powers like the U.S. and its Gulf allies. The U.S. has not committed to direct military involvement in the conflict, though it is offering intelligence and targeting support. The operation involves tens of thousands of Yemeni troops and Saudi air support, aiming to recapture the capital Sanaa, which has been under Houthi control for years. Meanwhile, the Houthis continue attacking Saudi infrastructure, including Aramco facilities. U.S. officials have expressed concerns about engaging directly in Yemen, citing potential distractions from their focus on Iran. President Trump faces internal pressure to support his ally, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while avoiding deeper involvement in the region.
The Gulf’s next industrial revolution should be made across borders
The article discusses the inaugural Made in GCC Forum in Bahrain, where leaders from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations convene to explore collaborative industrial development. It highlights the diverse industrial strengths of each GCC country, Saudi Arabia's scale, the UAE's logistics and technology, Qatar's energy resources, Oman's mineral and port advantages, Bahrain's specialized manufacturing, and Kuwait's financial expertise. The piece argues that integrating these strengths could unlock significant economic potential, positioning the GCC as a major global player. It emphasizes the strategic geographic position of the Gulf, noting its access to multiple continents and the importance of improving land transport networks to enhance supply chain resilience.
Lionel Messi set for 'Last Tango' with Argentina as Cristiano Ronaldo pouts on Portugal sidelines
Lionel Messi is set to play his final international match for Argentina against Benin in a friendly at the Monumental Stadium, marking the end of his 208-cap career. The game, nicknamed 'The Last Tango,' has sold out with all 85,018 tickets claimed within two hours, reflecting the immense support for the legendary forward. Messi, who has scored 125 goals and provided 68 assists for his country, led Argentina to back-to-back Copa America victories, a World Cup win in Qatar, and the relaunched Finalissima. His international retirement announcement came after Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final and the passing of his father, Jorge. Despite past challenges, including a red card on his Argentina debut and a previous retirement following the 2016 Copa America loss, Messi returned to international duty and helped Argentina end their trophy drought. The team will wear a special kit for the occasion, and members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad will attend.
Yemen’s armed forces say they have seized Mocha: Reuters
US President Donald Trump claimed that Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries, rather than the Iran conflict, were causing rising gasoline prices. He accused Democratic-controlled states of closing oil refineries, which could impact upcoming congressional elections. Meanwhile, Lebanon and the UK announced a joint military exercise involving troops from the US and France, aimed at supporting Lebanon's struggling military. In Yemen, the internationally recognized government, backed by Saudi Arabia, reported reclaiming the Red Sea port of Mocha from Iranian-backed Houthis. Additionally, members of the Makkah defense pact, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, planned meetings in Riyadh to discuss regional security issues, including Houthi activities. Yemen's government also launched a major military operation targeting Houthi positions, including in the capital Sanaa.
Joy Awards 2027 set to be cancelled in latest change to Saudi entertainment calendar
The Joy Awards 2027 are set to be cancelled as part of a broader reassessment of spending on major entertainment events in Saudi Arabia, according to Reuters. The televised gala, which typically takes place in Riyadh in January, will not occur in 2027. Organised by the General Entertainment Authority and MBC Group, the event has historically featured international celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan, John Travolta, and Salman Khan, and has been a significant fixture in the Arab entertainment calendar. The awards, which include public-voted categories and special honours like Lifetime Achievement and Personality of the Year, have seen performances by notable artists such as Katy Perry and Il Divo. The cancellation follows similar changes to other events, including the postponement of the Red Sea International Film Festival and the cancellation of Soundstorm. While the reasons for the decision remain unspecified, organisers have stated that year-round programmes will continue.
‘I’m Alex, who still fights’: Volkanovski returns to Abu Dhabi as UFC champion – and a changed man
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski returns to Abu Dhabi for UFC 333 on October 24, facing Movsar Evloev. This marks his fourth visit to the UAE capital in a 32-fight career, including a notable past encounter with Islam Makhachev at UFC 294, which ended in a first-round stoppage due to a high kick. Volkanovski trained extensively for this fight, emphasizing his resilience and willingness to take on challenges. He reflects on the mental toll of his previous loss, acknowledging it as a pivotal moment in his journey. Despite the setback, he maintains that his fighting spirit and dedication have shaped him into the champion he is today.
Jeffrey Archer, whose books sold 300 million copies, dies aged 86
Bestselling British author and former politician Jeffrey Archer has died at the age of 86, according to his publisher HarperCollins. Known for selling over 300 million copies of his novels, Archer passed away peacefully at his home between writing sessions. His works include 'Kane and Abel' and 'Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less,' which were popular in 119 countries. His final novel, 'Adam and Eve,' was set to be released the day after his death. Archer had a notable political career as a Conservative MP and faced legal issues in 2001 related to perjury. After serving a prison sentence, he continued writing and recently participated in a public event before his passing. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
'Can I be in the UAE after overstaying my visit visa?'
The article addresses two questions regarding legal and administrative issues in the UAE. The first query concerns whether a telecoms company can impose a travel ban due to an unpaid bill. The answer clarifies that while legal action is possible, a travel ban is only applicable for debts exceeding Dh10,000. Smaller debts result in collection efforts through licensed agencies, which must adhere to strict regulations to avoid harassment. The second question involves overstaying a visit visa due to an employer failing to secure a work permit. The response highlights that the individual has been working illegally and advises seeking legal counsel to address the situation, emphasizing potential penalties for overstaying.
Washington has picked a side in Ethiopia's new war
Ethiopia is experiencing renewed conflict as opposition groups, led by the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), have launched attacks against the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Fighting has spread across multiple regions, including Amhara and Oromia, with early battles occurring along key infrastructure routes and near the capital, Addis Ababa. While the Ethiopian military is regaining ground and reoccupying parts of Tigray, concerns over civilian casualties and displacement are growing. Neighboring countries such as Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia are reportedly supporting the TPLF, motivated by opposition to Abiy’s regional policies, including plans for new Nile dams and military actions in Sudan. The U.S. has expressed concern but has not taken strong action, with recent diplomatic efforts focusing on urging restraint rather than addressing the internal conflict directly.
From Interstellar to Project Hail Mary: Eight space films that imagine a better future
The article lists eight science fiction films that portray optimistic visions of the future of space exploration. It highlights how these movies emphasize scientific progress, cooperation, and the potential for humanity to grow through encounters with the unknown. Examples include 'Interstellar,' where despite initial pessimism, humanity finds renewed purpose in exploration, and 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture,' which portrays a future where curiosity and understanding replace hostility toward the unknown. The piece frames these films as hopeful narratives that challenge dystopian portrayals common in sci-fi, suggesting that space exploration could lead to positive societal development.