The CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi stands as a beacon of excellence in media training, offering aspiring journalists a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. In 2025, the program continues its mission to cultivate storytelling talent, focusing on themes like artificial intelligence, community engagement, and responsible journalism. In this article, we will explore all the details about the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi.
What is the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi?
Since its inception in 2021, the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi has trained over 270 international students, including 93 Emiratis. By the end of 2025, the academy aims to have delivered 725 hours of training through masterclasses and special sessions led by more than 25 experts annually. This commitment underscores the program’s dedication to fostering a global community of journalists.
What is the Program Structure and Curriculum?
The CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi offers a comprehensive curriculum that spans several weeks, combining online modules with immersive in-person training at the Creative Lab, Yas Creative Hub. The program is structured as follows:
Phase One is Online Training (July to October)
•Introduction to Journalism
Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of journalism, including ethics, storytelling techniques, and digital content creation.
•Artificial Intelligence in Journalism
A significant focus is placed on understanding the impact of AI on journalism. Sessions cover topics like AI verification techniques, cybersecurity, and the role of AI in content creation.
Phase Two is In-Person Training (November)
•Newsroom Simulation
Participants also engage in a simulated newsroom environment, working on real-time news stories, enhancing their skills in breaking news coverage, and understanding newsroom workflows.
•Mobile Storytelling
Training includes hands-on experience in mobile journalism, teaching participants how to capture and edit stories using mobile devices.
•Masterclasses and Workshops
Sessions are conducted by CNN journalists and industry experts, covering topics like the art of storytelling, pitching, and anchoring.
What Are the Themes and Focus Areas for 2025?
1. Artificial Intelligence and Journalism
In 2025, the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi places a strong emphasis on the intersection of AI and journalism. Participants explore how AI can be leveraged for news verification, content personalization, and data analysis, preparing them for the evolving landscape of media.
2. Community Storytelling
Aligning with the UAE’s Year of Community, the program encourages participants to focus on stories that highlight community issues, social impact, and local narratives. This initiative aims to foster a sense of responsibility and connection among journalists.
3. Responsible Journalism
The academy also emphasizes the importance of ethical journalism, teaching participants how to navigate challenges like misinformation, bias, and the ethical implications of AI in news reporting.
What Are the Notable Collaborations and Guest Speakers?
The CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi also collaborates with various organizations to enrich the learning experience. In November 2024, a masterclass on artificial intelligence was delivered by Bill Gates, providing students with insights into the role of AI in addressing global challenges.
Additionally, the program partners with the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) to provide participants with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, enhancing their training experience.
What is the Application Process and Eligibility?
The CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi is open to UAE nationals and residents over the age of 21 who have a background or interest in media and multiplatform storytelling. Applicants are required to submit an online application, including a personal statement and portfolio showcasing their work.
What is the Impact and Alumni Success?
Since its establishment, the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi has seen numerous alumni advance in their media careers. Many have secured internships and full-time positions within CNN and other media organizations, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing participants for the competitive media industry.
What Are the Benefits of Attending the Program?
Attending the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of benefits for aspiring journalists, media professionals, and storytellers. This pioneering initiative by CNN, in partnership with the Creative Media Authority of Abu Dhabi, provides world-class training in modern journalism. Here are the key benefits:
1. World-Class Training by CNN Experts
Participants receive direct mentorship and training from CNN journalists, producers, and editors. This gives them a rare opportunity to learn from some of the most respected professionals in the global news industry.
2. Hands-On Experience in a Simulated Newsroom
The program includes immersive, real-world training such as:
•Newsroom simulations
•Breaking news coverage exercises
•Mobile journalism production
These exercises prepare students to operate effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
3. Focus on Emerging Technologies
A major focus of the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi in 2025 is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into journalism. Participants learn:
•AI verification and fact-checking
•Ethical use of AI in storytelling
•Data journalism and automation
This ensures graduates are ahead of the curve in an evolving media landscape.
4. Global Networking Opportunities
The program also draws a diverse group of participants from around the world, creating opportunities for collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. Alumni become part of an international network of journalists and media professionals.
5. Skill Development Across Media Platforms
Participants also develop a wide range of skills essential for modern journalism, including:
•Video storytelling
•Investigative reporting
•Writing for digital and social platforms
•Podcasting and audio production
6. Masterclasses and Guest Lectures
Students also benefit from exclusive masterclasses by global thought leaders. Past speakers have included industry innovators and even public figures like Bill Gates, who spoke on AI and its global impact during the 2024 cohort.
7. Certification from a Prestigious Media Brand
Graduates also receive a certificate endorsed by CNN, which adds significant value to their resumes and portfolios, increasing employability across global media outlets.
8. Support for Community-Focused Storytelling
In line with the UAE’s “Year of Community” theme, the 2025 program emphasizes the importance of local and human-centered narratives. This helps participants become storytellers who can make a meaningful societal impact.
9. Career Advancement and Job Placement Opportunities
Many alumni from the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi have gone on to secure internships or full-time positions at CNN and other prominent media organizations. The program is a recognized launchpad for careers in journalism.
10. Access to State-of-the-Art Facilities
Training takes place at the Creative Lab in Yas Creative Hub, offering:
•High-end video and audio production equipment
•Editing suites and studios
•Access to CNN’s digital newsroom technology
11. Supportive Learning Environment
Participants receive ongoing mentorship and feedback throughout the program. The combination of online modules and in-person sessions allows for flexible learning tailored to individual progress and career goals.
12. Recognition in the Middle East and Beyond
As one of the few programs of its kind in the region, the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi elevates the status of local talent on the global stage and contributes to the growth of the UAE’s media and creative industries.
13. Scholarship Opportunities
Selected candidates may qualify for fully funded participation, making this elite training accessible to a broader range of applicants.
14. Portfolio Development
By the end of the program, participants have a professional portfolio of video reports, digital articles, and multimedia stories, vital for job applications and freelance opportunities.
Other than CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi, you can also explore Yenching Academy Scholarships in China 2026
Thus, the CNN Academy Program, Abu Dhabi continues to be a pivotal platform for nurturing the next generation of journalists. Through its comprehensive curriculum, focus on emerging technologies like AI, and commitment to ethical journalism, the program equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of media. As it enters its fifth year, the academy remains dedicated to its mission of empowering storytellers who can make a global impact.