Editorial Standards

FALQ Press is committed to rigorous, independent journalism that serves readers across the United Arab Emirates. Our reporting follows clear standards of accuracy, fairness and transparency. We aim to be a reliable record of events, to hold power to account, and to inform public debate. These principles guide how we gather, edit and publish news and commentary.

Accuracy

We verify information before publication. Reporters and editors cross-check facts against primary sources whenever possible — official documents, public records, contemporaneous audio or video, and direct eyewitness accounts. We verify claims made on social media and by third parties with additional, independent evidence before treating them as established fact.

If we publish an unverified claim for its news value, we label it as such and explain what is unconfirmed. We do not publish falsehoods, and we avoid speculation presented as fact. Headlines must fairly reflect story content and not mislead readers.

Sourcing

We name our sources whenever it is practical and safe to do so. Sources quoted on the record should be clearly identified by name and affiliation. When we rely on documents, data sets, or recordings, we describe their provenance and, where possible, make them available to readers.

We do not pay sources or intermediaries for news information. Payment may be considered only in exceptional circumstances (for example, to reimburse costs essential to a story) and must be approved by senior editorial management; any such payment will be disclosed in the story.

Methods of verification may include: - review of public records and official statements; - corroboration by independent witnesses or documents; - on-the-record interviews with knowledgeable parties; - expert analysis and fact-checking.

Anonymous Sources

Use of anonymous sources is an exception, not a rule. We grant anonymity only when: - the information is essential to the public interest; - the source faces a credible risk of harm, retaliation or legal jeopardy if identified; - the information can be independently corroborated to a high degree by the newsroom.

Editors must approve anonymity for significant stories and record the rationale in editorial files. When we grant anonymity we explain to readers why the source is unnamed and the steps taken to verify the information.

Conflicts of Interest

Journalists and editors at FALQ Press must avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest. Staff members must disclose personal, financial or political interests that could affect their work. When a conflict cannot be resolved, the journalist will be reassigned and the disclosure will be recorded.

We do not accept gifts, travel, hospitality or payments that could influence coverage. Sponsored content, native advertising and commercial partnerships are clearly labeled as such and are kept separate from newsroom editorial decisions. We disclose major financial relationships and commercial arrangements that bear on coverage.

Separation of News and Opinion

FALQ Press maintains a strict separation between news reporting and opinion. News stories are reported and edited independently of editorial viewpoints. Opinion pieces, columns and editorials are clearly labeled and occupy designated sections. Commentary should not be presented as factual news reporting. News staff are expected to avoid bylines on opinion content that could compromise perceived neutrality.

Corrections, Clarifications and Retractions

We correct mistakes promptly and transparently. If we discover an error, we will: - correct the text and leave a visible note at the top or bottom of the story explaining the change and when it was made; - issue a correction or clarification when important facts are wrong or incomplete; - publish a retraction and apology when a significant story is found to be materially false.

Readers who believe we have made an error or who have an editorial complaint should contact us at [email protected] or use our /contact/ form. We review complaints and corrections impartially and will respond within a reasonable timeframe.

Fairness and Respect

We treat the people we cover with fairness and dignity. Before publishing material that could seriously harm someone's reputation, we make reasonable efforts to seek comment from the affected parties and give them an opportunity to respond. We take special care when reporting on minors, victims of crime, and vulnerable individuals.

Legal Compliance and Safety

We follow applicable laws in the United Arab Emirates and international norms relevant to press freedom and responsible reporting. We balance transparency with the safety of our staff and the confidentiality of sources when required.

If you have questions about our practices or want to raise an editorial concern, please write to [email protected] or submit a message via our /contact/ form.

Last updated: May 11, 2026