Key Themes and Activities of the Forum
1. Panel and Dialogue Sessions: Focused on best practices in business continuity under exceptional circumstances.
2. Knowledge and Experience Exchange: Presentations and case studies showcasing successful experiences of government entities and companies in crisis management.
3. Alternative National Service: Highlighting the role of the Alternative National Service Programme as a strategic tool to ensure continuity during emergencies.
4. Workshops: Providing practical tools and actionable plans for crisis planning, preparedness, and response.
Objectives of the Forum
• Enhancing institutional readiness to face emergencies and disasters.
• Ensuring the continuity of vital services under all circumstances.
• Strengthening coordination between government and private sector entities in emergency planning and rapid response.
Abdullah Rashid Al Hammadi is an accomplished Emirati journalist with over 45 years of experience in both Arabic and English media. He currently serves as the Abu Dhabi Bureau Chief fo Gulf News.
Al Hammadi began his career in 1980 with Al Ittihad newspaper, where he rose through the ranks to hold key editorial positions, including Head of International News, Director of the Research Center, and Acting Managing Editor.
A founding member of the UAE Journalists Association and a former board member, he is also affiliated with the General Federation of Arab Journalists and the International Federation of Journalists. Al Hammadi studied Information Systems Technology at the University of Virginia and completed journalism training with Reuters in Cairo and London.
During his time in Washington, D.C., he reported for Alittihad and became a member of the National Press Club. From 2000 to 2008, he wrote the widely read Dababees column, known for its critical take on social issues.
Throughout his career, Al Hammadi has conducted high-profile interviews with prominent leaders including UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and key Arab figures such as the late Yasser Arafat and former presidents of Yemen and Egypt.
He has reported on major historical events such as the Iran-Iraq war, the liberation of Kuwait, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the establishment of the Palestinian Authority. His work continues to shape and influence journalism in the UAE and the wider Arab world.
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