Senior Reporter – Lifestyle & Digital Media (Dubai)

About the role

What's On is seeking an experienced Senior Reporter to join its Dubai editorial team. You will create fast‑paced, high‑quality stories for digital, social and print platforms, covering news, features, guides, reviews and lifestyle topics.

Key responsibilities

• Research, write, edit and publish engaging stories for What's On’s digital channels.
• Generate original story ideas and stay on top of UAE trends, news, launches and events.
• Write SEO‑friendly content using keywords, search trends and audience insights.
• Sub‑edit, fact‑check and ensure high editorial standards.
• Create short‑form video and social posts for Instagram, TikTok and other platforms.
• Contribute features, reviews and special reports to the print magazine.
• Cover events, press conferences and media briefings, turning them into editorial pieces.
• Manage contributors and freelancers to meet deadlines.
• Produce branded and sponsored content while maintaining the brand tone.
• Use analytics and audience data to optimise future content.

Required profile

• 5–7 years of journalism or editorial experience, preferably in lifestyle, consumer or digital media.
• Strong writing, editing, proofreading and storytelling abilities.
• Deep knowledge of the UAE media and lifestyle landscape.
• Degree in Journalism, Media, Communications or equivalent professional experience.

Required skills

• SEO
• Google Analytics
• WordPress (or similar CMS)
• Social media content creation (Instagram, TikTok)
• Video editing for short‑form platforms