Shell to sponsor coveted Arab Journalism Awards 2005

The Arab Journalism Award, instituted by Dubai Press Club in 1999 under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE Defence Minister, has grown in scope and credibility, attracting a large number of entries every year from all over the Arab world.

Hussain Al Mahmoudi, External Affairs Manager, Shell Markets (Middle East), said, "Journalists play a central role in the Arab world as they form the vital conduit between the masses and the events that shape their daily lives. The contribution of media in creating awareness about various issues has been commendable. Journalists serve as important pillars in the direction of progress in the Middle East region and Arab Journalism Awards seeks to recognise and stimulate journalistic excellence in the Arab Media."

"Our sponsorship of the award reinforces Shell's commitment to the development of media in the Middle East region. As the award forms the pinnacle of media excellence in the region, Shell's express intent of nurturing media and media professionals has become a reality."

Around 2138 entries have been received so far for the awards that are given in 12 categories including Politics, Business, Investigative Journalism, IT, Best Columnist, Culture, Sports, Environment, Photo-Journalism, Caricature, Interview and Journalism for children, besides the Media Personality of the Year. Each prize has a cash award with a total value of US $ 230,000 for all of the awards. A judging committee consisting of 65 renowned media personalities and leading academics from the Arab world are in the final stages of evaluating the entries or the Arab Journalism Award 2005.