Culture & Education | Saturday 30 May, 2015 11:06 am |

Sky News Arabia’s first episode of the new talk-show ‘Neeran Sadeeqa’ (Friendly Fire) will air (Monday, June 1st) at 10:30pm UAE time (6:30pm GMT). Broadcast from the Channel’s international studios in London, the new show will feature a unique format with two permanent host presenters inviting the perspectives of eminent personalities and driving the conversation without the intervention of a moderator.

Headlined by media experts Mamoun Fandy and Abdul Aziz Al Khamis, the 30-minute weekly show will air every Monday offering honest and impactful insights on issues of interest to the Arab world.

Egyptian journalist Mamoun Fandy is President of the London-based think-tank ‘Global Strategy Institute’ and author of multiple books in Arabic and English. He is also a regular contributor to international and Arab newspapers. Abdul Aziz Al Khamis is a Saudi journalist and researcher in Middle Eastern affairs. He is the incumbent editor-in-chief of the London-based ‘Al-Arab’ daily, and former editor-in-chief of ‘Al-Majalla’ and ‘Arab Observer’ magazines.

Commenting on the show, Nart Bouran, Head of Sky News Arabia, said: “With Neeran Sadeeqa, Sky News Arabia seeks to redefine the concept of talk-shows in the region. The contemporary Arab audience is educated and aware, and demands honest and insightful content - currently lacking in the region. We hope to fill this void with this new format talk-show where host presenters and eminent personalities will organically debate the pros and cons, and get to the root of important issues relevant to the region.
“The show has been called Neeran Sadeeqa (Friendly Fire) to reflect the essence of its content that seeks to encourage a culture of respect for divergent opinions through on-going dialogue. In addition to offering a comprehensive analysis of the various issues at stake, the hosts will also provide balanced suggestions and solutions.”

For his part, Mamoun Fandy said: “I am delighted to collaborate with my friend and colleague Abdul Aziz Al Khamis and the participating guests on Neeran Sadeeqa. This show offers definite potential as a new platform for getting to the heart of issues and debating them objectively in a serious and professional manner to arrive at impactful solutions. While presenting facts and information, the show hopes to shape a culture of tolerance, dialogue and constructive action in the Arab world, and ultimately contribute to the maturing of the Arab media landscape.”

Abdul Aziz Al Khamis said: “Through this show, Sky News Arabia aims to build a rational and objective conversation on important issues without resorting to verbal sparring or aimless outcomes. We will focus on reconciling opinions, highlighting potential weaknesses in the Arab world that need transformation and turning the scanner on strengths that can be enhanced.

“Talk shows in the past have largely caused a fragmentation of the Arab public opinion to no actual public benefit. Our program on the other hand tries to convey a moderate voice. I believe the non-existence of an anchor reflects the fact that constructive dialogue does not need moderation. Our dialogue on Sky News Arabia is part of an overall Arab conversation that is not linked to distinct political objectives or gains.”