Mostefa Souag

Notable work and positions

Al Jazeera Media Network - Former Acting Director General
Al Jazeera Arabic - Former Managing Director and Director of News
University of Algiers - Former Professor of Literary Theory

Biography

Dr. Mostefa Souag is a journalist and media executive who served as acting director general of Al Jazeera Media Network from 2013 until 2025. He holds a PhD in literary studies and was a professor of literary theory at the University of Algiers in Algeria until 1993, when he left academia to pursue a career in journalism, working as a correspondent for the BBC World Service and the Middle East Broadcasting Center (MBC). After joining Al Jazeera, he held a succession of senior roles, including bureau chief in London, director of the Al Jazeera Center for Studies, media adviser to Al Jazeera board chairman Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer Al Thani, director of news for Al Jazeera Arabic, and managing director of the Al Jazeera Arabic News Channel, before being named acting director general in 2013. During his tenure, Souag became the network's chief spokesperson on questions of editorial independence and repeatedly advocated for journalists detained abroad, including Al Jazeera correspondents held in Egypt. He was succeeded as director general by Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal Al Thani in September 2025.

Career highlights

• Acting Director General, Al Jazeera Media Network 2013-2025.
• Professor of Literary Theory, University of Algiers Until 1993, before leaving academia for journalism.
• National Press Club Headliners Luncheon 2018 · Discussed the future of the Al Jazeera Media Network in Washington, D.C.