7D News, a new English-language website focusing on Arab-world content that went live on Thursday, aims to “bridge the gaps” between cultures and promote “peace” and “diversity.” 

Speaking at a party in central London to celebrate the launch of the online paper, Dr. Ali Rashid Al-Nuaimi, editor-in-chief of 7D News and Director General of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), said the new outlet is “For building a new future and for creating a peace for all people, regardless of their religion, their nationality, their ethnicity and their color.”

The London-based platform has hired a network of journalists from around the world to provide features, film and news content that caters to a growing demand for independent news from the Arab world. 

Discussing 7D News, which is owned by Emirates Media and Research, during a speech at the launch, Sir Derek Plumbly, a British diplomat who served in the Arab world, said: “I suspect it will be a key thread in the many ties that link the United Kingdom and the Gulf.”

Catering to a global audience with a focus on key areas of interest across the region, including Libya, Yemen, Iraq and Syria, 7D News will supplement daily updates with weekly “behind the news” features focusing on topical issues, including sectarianism, education in the Arab world, immigration and women’s rights. 

Multimedia output will range from interviews with high-profile figures presented via a series of filmed political biographies and podcasts featuring 7D News editors and commentators discussing the issues of the day. The outlet also plans to act as a platform for knowledge exchange by organizing conferences and workshops around the world.