Comment Editor

About The National

The National is a leading English-language news organisation based in the Middle East, known for rigorous reporting and high-standard journalism across regional and international affairs. The publication reaches a global readership that relies on it for clear, trusted coverage of complex issues.

The Role

The newsroom is looking for an insightful and experienced Comment Editor to guide and strengthen its opinion output. The person in this role will commission, develop, write and edit opinion articles, comment pieces and in-depth analysis from prominent contributors, decision-makers and in-house columnists.

This position calls for a strong editor who can combine classic editorial judgement with effective digital and social-first presentation, helping opinion content drive meaningful discussion, strengthen credibility and reach wider audiences. Experience creating video op-eds would be an advantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Spot important world events, regional developments and newsworthy angles to commission timely and persuasive opinion pieces from respected thinkers, academics, diplomats and internal writers.
• Refine complex political, economic and cultural arguments into clear, compelling copy while preserving accuracy, balance and the publication’s editorial tone.
• Partner with social media and multimedia colleagues to tailor opinion content for digital distribution, including strong headlines, hooks and formats that work well online.
• Build and sustain a broad international contributor network made up of well-known voices, policy specialists and subject-matter experts.
• Plan ahead for major summits, elections and global milestones by shaping a proactive commentary schedule.
• Coordinate with editorial leaders, news teams and regional bureaus so opinion coverage supports and expands the broader news agenda.

Requirements and qualifications

• At least 7 years of experience writing or editing opinion, analysis or commentary at a major international newsroom or a respected foreign policy publication.
• Strong familiarity with Middle Eastern geopolitics, global economics and international relations.
• Excellent command of English writing and editing, with the judgement to sharpen arguments and handle sensitive subjects with discretion and diplomacy.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt editorial content for digital platforms and understand what drives engagement on social media.
• A well-developed network of contributors, policymakers and thought leaders already in place.
• Comfort working to demanding deadlines in a fast-moving, always-on newsroom.
• Must be located in Abu Dhabi or prepared to relocate there.

What We Offer

• A competitive compensation and benefits package.
• The chance to influence coverage of regional and international affairs from the Middle East.
• A collaborative, diverse and progressive newsroom environment.