Westminster alumnus and Editor-in-Chief of Arab News Faisal J. Abbas gifts new book to University library

Faisal J.  Abbas is a renowned journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Arab News, the Middle East’s leading English-language daily newspaper. His new book offers a sharp, witty and sophisticated take on the experience of being an Arab in London. Through a series of engaging anecdotes that touch on relationships, politics, religion and his experience studying at Westminster, he paints a vivid picture of his transformation from an Anglophobe to an Anglophile.

During his visit, Faisal met with Lorna Rosbottom, Development, Planning and Operations Lead at the University of Westminster, who gave him a tour of the space, highlighting how it has evolved since his time as a student. He then placed his book on the shelves, making it available to all Westminster students and colleagues.

While in the UK Faisal was also awarded with the Saudi British Society 2025 Rawabi Holding Award for Services to Saudi-British Relations at the Society’s Annual dinner on 18 February. Since 2007, the Rawabi Holding Awards have recognised individuals who have made outstanding contributions to strengthening ties between the UK and Saudi Arabia.

Faisal receiving Rawabi Holding Award at Saudi British Society dinner (Credit: Saudi British Society)

Since graduating from Westminster, Faisal has built an illustrious journalism career. In 2024, he was elected Deputy Chairman of the Saudi Journalists Association, further cementing his influence in the industry. Under his leadership, Arab News has transformed from a national publication into a digitally savvy, multilingual global news source, now available in languages including Japanese and French.

His work has earned him multiple accolades, including the 2009 British Next Century Foundation’s Cutting-Edge Award for bridging the communication gap between the West and the Arab world, and the 2017 British Council’s UK Alumni Social Impact Award in Saudi Arabia.

As a highly respected columnist on Arab-international affairs, Faisal is a regular commentator on global media platforms. He has spoken at institutions such as Cambridge, Harvard and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), part of the University of London, and has posed questions to world leaders.

Faisal said: “Coming back to campus 15 years after I graduated certainly brings back many pleasant memories. Even though the building has changed physically, it was refreshing to see the same energy and enthusiasm still flowing among students and faculty.”

He added: “I hope my book, and particularly the chapters which illustrates my experience at Westminster, inspires or at least gives hope that you can be a junior reporter, and through hard work and investing in education, you can find yourself heading the biggest daily newspaper in your country.”

Alyssa Martin, Senior Alumni Networks Manager, said: "On behalf of the University of Westminster, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Faisal Abbas on the release of his new book, Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile. We are grateful to him for donating a copy to our library, ensuring that his inspiring journey and unique perspective are accessible to current and future students. Faisal’s continued success and commitment to bridging cultures is a true testament to the impact our alumni make, and their contributions are invaluable in shaping the future of our university community. We are incredibly proud of Faisal and all our alumni who continue to make a meaningful difference globally."

Faisal’s work directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

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