He earned his PhD from Indian University. His research interest lies at the intersection of cultural studies, communication studies and political science, with particular attention to the evolving dynamics of global communication. His publications include: Arab Satellite Television and Politics in the Middle East and The Culture of Al Jazeera: Inside an Arab Media Giant. Zayani is a recipient of numerous grants, including a Social Science Research Council grant. He is also a Member of the UNESCO Committee of Experts on Cultural Diversity.