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Aya Batrawy is the International Correspondent leading NPR’s Gulf bureau in Dubai, where she covers key developments in the region. Batrawy joined NPR in 2022 after more than 11 years at the Associated Press, where she served as an editor and reporter.  

During her time at AP, she reported extensively on the Arab Spring uprisings from Cairo, covering the rise and fall of the Muslim Brotherhood and the resulting regional instability. In 2013, Batrawy moved to Dubai with AP, where her reporting focused on geopolitical tensions with Iran and the increasing influence of Gulf Arab states. A significant portion of Batrawy’s work has centered on Saudi Arabia, particularly the rise of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and his sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the kingdom and consolidating power.  

In terms of previous experiences, after two years in Washington early in her career, Batrawy relocated to Cairo, where she produced for NPR correspondents Peter Kenyon and Deborah Amos. During this period, she also freelanced for outlets such as Voice of America, Pacifica Radio, and PRI's The World. 

Batrawy received her bachelor's degree at the University of South Florida, where she volunteered at WMNF, a community radio station, and at the local NPR Member station in Tampa Bay, where she grew up. She later pursued a master’s degree from SOAS University of London, deepening her understanding of international affairs and media. In addition to her reporting work, Batrawy contributed to the field by teaching journalism at the American University in Cairo. 

Batrawy’s expertise in Gulf affairs and her deep understanding of the region’s complexities make her a prominent voice in international reporting.