Is Arab News Reliable? Full Review of Bias, Ownership, and Credibility
Arab News Overview and Political Bias
Observers frequently describe Arab News as a mouthpiece for the Saudi government, noting that its editorial line typically aligns with Riyadh’s foreign policy. While praised for its production values, critics argue it avoids sensitive domestic human rights issues while focusing heavily on regional rivalries, particularly regarding Iran and Hezbollah.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Right |
| Estimated number of readers | 6,000,000 |
| Israel support | Pro-Palestine (Supports Two-State Solution) |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Medium |
| Target Audience | Elite / Expatriates / International Diplomats |
Arab News History
Founded in 1975 by brothers Hisham and Mohammed Ali Hafiz in Jeddah, Arab News was the Kingdom’s first English-language daily. It has evolved from a local expatriate-focused paper into a global media outlet, launching digital editions in various languages and relocating its main editorial hub to Riyadh in 2018.
World News Map
Who owns Arab News?
The publication is owned by the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG). While listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), SRMG is widely acknowledged to have significant ties to the Saudi state and the royal family, with its leadership often drawn from the country's political and business elite.