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France’s most prominent weekly news magazine, Le Nouvel Observateur, has named twofour54 CEO Noura Al Kaabi as one of 50 individuals who contribute to changing the world. Describing her as ‘Queen of Media’, the news magazine cited in its findings Noura’s numerous achievements and her presence in almost all Arab Women influencer listings. Noura is the only Arab woman to appear in the ranking, and one of only two Arabs.

To compile the ranking, the Paris based publication, which currently has a circulation of over half a million, followed the latest developments, events, and achievements of the most active personalities in the world, who contribute to driving change in their region.  Acknowledging that growth is no longer exclusive to the western world, Le Nouvel Observateur noted that the South and East are demonstrating significant development and achievements.

Founded in 1950, ‘Le Nouvel Observateur’  covers a wide range of topics from news, politics, culture and diverse issues related to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the rest of the world. It has been described as a title for French intellectuals.

Noura Al Kaabi is Chief Executive Officer of the Media Zone Authority-Abu Dhabi (twofour54), a Government initiative to develop sustainable media and creative industries for the UAE and for the region. Following Noura’s appointment to the role of CEO in 2012, the Media Zone Authority has continued to attract local, regional, and international partners. Over 220 companies are now based on twofour54’s Abu Dhabi’s campus.

Noura also oversees the Media Zone Authority’s industry building initiatives: the Abu Dhabi Film Festival, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, the Abu Dhabi Media Summit and TROPFEST Arabia which is part of the world’s largest short film festival. Noura is a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) of the UAE and sits on the board of Abu Dhabi Media, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, Image Nation and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. She is also a member of the Advisory Board for Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and a member of the Scientific Committee of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award.

This ranking from ‘Le Nouvel Observateur’ recognises Noura’s achievements in developing the media industry across the UAE and the Arab world. She was previously awarded Arabian Business’ Media CEO of the Year in 2012 and Female CEO of the Year by CEO Middle East in 2012. She was named Forbes Middle East’s 30 Most Influential Women in Government in 2013, Arabian Business’ 100 most powerful Arab Women in 2011 and 2012 and CEO Middle East’s 100 most powerful Arab Women in 2012.

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