Al Ittihad

Profile narrative

Al Ittihad is a daily Arabic-language newspaper that publishes news, features, sports, and cultural coverage for readers in the United Arab Emirates and the wider Arab world. Its core product is the printed edition, complemented by an online platform that delivers the same content digitally. The newspaper aims to provide timely and comprehensive reporting on local events, regional developments, and international affairs.

Recognised as the UAE's oldest Arabic newspaper, Al Ittihad has been in continuous publication since its founding in the late 1960s, marking over five decades of operation. This longstanding presence gives it a historical footprint in the Emirati media landscape. While specific circulation figures are not provided in the source material, its longevity underscores a sustained readership base.

The publication distinguishes itself through its focus on Arabic-language journalism and its role as a primary source of news for the Emirati community. Its editorial team covers a broad spectrum of topics, including government announcements, economic developments, and cultural events, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive reporting. The newspaper’s website suffered a high‑profile defacement in February 2015 when ISIS‑affiliated hackers replaced its content with extremist imagery and messages, an incident that highlighted vulnerabilities in digital media infrastructure.

Structurally, Al Ittihad is published by Abu Dhabi Media Company, a state‑linked entity that oversees several media outlets in the emirate. This ownership arrangement places the newspaper within a larger media conglomerate that includes television, radio, and digital platforms. The affiliation with Abu Dhabi Media provides institutional support and resources for its editorial and operational activities.

Despite the cyber incident, Al Ittihad restored its online services and continued to deliver news without reported data loss, demonstrating resilience in the face of security challenges. The newspaper maintains its position as a longstanding fixture of UAE media, adapting to evolving consumption habits while preserving its print heritage. Its ongoing contribution to public discourse reflects the enduring relevance of a dedicated Arabic‑language news source in the region.

Incidents

1 incident linked to this organisation.