Al Sharq: A Leading Voice in Qatari Media
In the heart of Doha, Al Sharq (Arabic: الشرق, meaning 'The Orient') stands as one of the most influential Arabic-language daily newspapers in Qatar. Alongside Al Raya and Al Watan, it forms the trio of leading Arabic publications that shape the national discourse. As a pro-government outlet, it serves as a critical pillar of the Qatari media landscape, providing a perspective closely aligned with the state's strategic interests.
The publication is managed by the Dar Al-Sharq Media Group and is owned by Khalid bin Thani Al Thani, a senior member of the Qatari ruling family. For those seeking news in English, the group also operates The Peninsula, which serves as Al Sharq's English-language sister newspaper.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Founded: 1987 (originally as Al Khaleej Al Youm).
- Headquarters: Doha, Qatar.
- Ownership: Khalid bin Thani Al Thani via Dar Al-Sharq Media Group.
- Political Alignment: Pro-government.
- Sister Publication: The Peninsula (English).
- Recognition: Named one of the 50 most powerful online Arab newspapers by Forbes in 2011.
History and Evolution
Al Sharq began its journey in 1987, though not under its current name. It was initially launched by the Al Watan Printing and Publishing House as Al Khaleej Al Youm (Gulf Today). After eighteen months of operation, the publication was acquired by the Dar Al-Sharq Media Group and rebranded as Al Sharq.
Over the decades, the paper has evolved its editorial focus. While it primarily focuses on general news, it has historically experimented with specialized content. In 1996, the paper briefly dedicated a full page to environmental issues; although this specific section ended, environmental reporting continued sporadically. Today, the newspaper is well-known for its extensive supplements covering business, finance, and sports.
International collaboration has also played a role in its growth. Since June 2012, Al Sharq has featured a monthly supplement developed by the Middle East and Africa regional directorate of the Anadolu Agency.
Leadership and Reach
The paper's management has seen various leaders over the years, including Abdul Latif Al Mahmoud, who served as editor and manager as of 2012, and Jaber Al Harami, who held the role of editor-in-chief in 2016.
Circulation numbers have fluctuated over the years. In the early 1990s, the paper had a circulation of approximately 10,000 copies, which peaked at 47,000 in 2000. By 2003 and 2008, estimated circulation settled at around 15,000 copies.
Ownership and Editorial Stance
The editorial direction of Al Sharq is closely tied to its ownership. Because Khalid bin Thani Al Thani is a senior member of the ruling family and maintains close ties with Qatar's elite, the newspaper's strategic decisions are controlled directly by the owner. Consequently, the publication is widely regarded as an extension of the Qatari government's communication strategy.
This alignment is evident in its reporting. For example, during the events following the 2013 coup in Egypt, Al Sharq praised the security forces, contrasting with the approach of its rival, Al Raya, which focused more on the demonstrations by supporters of the ousted President Mohamed Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood.
Financing and Legal Context
The financial operations of Al Sharq are relatively opaque. However, it is known that the paper relies heavily on advertising revenue, particularly from state entities and companies affiliated with the government. Some reports, including those from the State Media Monitor, suggest the publication may also receive direct government support.
The paper's relationship with the state has also intersected with legal issues. In 2008, a Jordanian journalist employed by the daily was sentenced to three years in prison following the publication of an article critical of the administration of Hamad Hospital.
Summary of Al Sharq Profile
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Language | Arabic |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Owner | Khalid bin Thani Al Thani |
| Publisher | Dar Al-Sharq Media Group |
| Political Stance | Pro-government |
| Sister Paper | The Peninsula (English) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Al Sharq?
Al Sharq is a prominent Arabic-language daily newspaper based in Doha, Qatar, known for its pro-government editorial stance and its role as one of the country's three leading Arabic publications.
Who owns Al Sharq?
The newspaper is owned by Khalid bin Thani Al Thani, a senior member of the Qatari ruling family, through the Dar Al-Sharq Media Group.
Does Al Sharq have an English version?
While Al Sharq is published in Arabic, its sister newspaper, The Peninsula, provides English-language news under the same media group.
How is Al Sharq funded?
The publication primarily generates income through advertising, specifically from state-affiliated companies and entities, and may receive direct support from the government.
What was Al Sharq originally called?
When it was first launched in 1987 by the Al Watan Printing and Publishing House, it was named Al Khaleej Al Youm (Gulf Today) before being renamed Al Sharq eighteen months later.