Latest news with #MotivateMediaGroup
Campaign ME
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
Athar Festival 2025 picks Amy Roko as Maheerah Programme Ambassador
Athar Festival 2025 – the Saudi Festival of Creativity in Riyadh presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS – has teamed up with Saudi creative icon and influencer Amy Roko, who will take centre stage as the ambassador of the festival's widely popular Maheerah Programme, which is powered by Publicis Groupe Middle East and part of the Maheerah Network. The women empowerment initiative returns this year with new momentum, new faces and a bold new direction, while introducing an extended three-day format. Known for her fearless voice and strong presence, Roko's appointment marks a new chapter for Maheerah Programme. Roko is widely recognised for embodying the values of authenticity, ambition and community that lie at the heart of the Maheerah Programme. As ambassador, she will play a key role in amplifying the programme's mission, supporting women in the industry, and growing the reach of the network. Highlighting the significance of this new chapter, Bassel Kakish, Chief Executive Officer of Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey said, 'Maheerah has grown into something truly special. What began as a program has become a real platform, bringing women together to learn, connect and grow. As we continue building a supportive community of like-minded women within the Kingdom's creative industry, this year marks an exciting new chapter.' Kakish added, 'With a bigger and bolder programme ahead, and Amy Roko joining us as ambassador, we're amplifying everything Maheerah stands for. We can't wait to meet the inspiring women joining us this year.' Applications for this year's Maheerah Programme officially open on 22 July and will run until 10 September. For the first time, the programme will run across three days during Athar Festival 2025, featuring enhanced content and a new industry-wide networking event open to all women in the Maheerah Network. Commenting on these latest developments, Kamille Merchant, Athar Festival Director, said, 'Maheerah has become one of the most meaningful initiatives at Athar Festival, growing from a programme to a network in just three years, marking a significant step in its evolution.' Merchant added, 'Together, we are deepening our commitment to empowering women across every level of the creative industry. This is fittingly reflected by the appointment of Amy Roko as ambassador, which we are confident will bring new energy and more visibility to the programme.' Just as the festival itself prepares to return bigger, bolder, and more dynamic, so too will this year's Maheerah Programme, offering a deeper, more connected, and more impactful journey for participants. Reflecting on her appointment as the new Maheerah Programme Ambassador, Amy Roko, said, 'It's refreshing to be part of something that actually gets what it means to be a woman in this space: loud, ambitious, real, and unapologetically herself. Maheerah creates a space where women can be heard, supported, and celebrated for who they truly are, and I'm proud to be contributing to that kind of movement.'
Campaign ME
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
What's On UAE – flydubai In-Flight Entertainment (IFE)
AGENCY BIO Language: English Media rep: Motivate Media Group Phone number: +971 50 160 0301 Genre: Native Content featuring Attractions, Activities, Dining & Entertainment. Reach: Worldwide What's On UAE is a dedicated native content channel available on flydubai's In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) platform, offering travelers curated insights into the best of the UAE. The channel is designed to inform and inspire passengers as they explore or transit through Dubai. With access to a captivated, affluent, and international audience, What's On UAE provides a valuable platform for brands and businesses to promote their offerings directly to travelers. The channel presents an affordable and effective advertising opportunity within a premium travel environment.
Gulf Business
03-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Gulf Business Awards 2025: Celebrating businesses across the region
Attendees at the Gulf Business Awards 2024- File photo The Gulf Business Awards, the region's premier platform for recognising excellence and innovation across industries, is back. Scheduled for September 24, 2025, in Dubai, this prestigious event will once again honour the companies and individuals shaping the Gulf's economic and business landscape. For nominations, click For more information, click Now in its 13th year, the Gulf Business Awards continues to celebrate innovation, resilience, leadership, and impact across sectors ranging from banking and real estate to healthcare, technology, and tourism. File photo Honoring the best and brightest in business The 2025 edition promises an evening of recognition, inspiration, and high-profile networking. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region are expected to attend the gala ceremony, where the region's top performers will be recognised for their contributions to economic growth, technological innovation, and leadership. 'This event is more than just a ceremony — it's a celebration of the extraordinary efforts that drive the Gulf's vibrant business ecosystem,' said Ian Fairservice, Managing Partner and Group Editor-in-Chief of Motivate Media Group, the event's organizer. A platform for regional recognition Each year, the Gulf Business Awards shines a spotlight on achievements across both the public and private sectors, offering a rare platform for industry-wide recognition. Whether it's a startup disrupting traditional models or a conglomerate expanding regional influence, the awards represent a comprehensive celebration of business excellence. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges composed of regional experts, industry veterans, and editorial leadership from Gulf Business . The judging process ensures fairness, transparency, and acknowledgment of real merit. A look back at 2024's milestone event Last year's edition, held on September 24, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), was attended by more than 300 prominent business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. The night celebrated outstanding achievements from companies and individuals across key sectors of the economy. The 2024 ceremony also marked a special moment for Motivate Media Group, as it celebrated its 45th anniversary. Among the evening's highlights was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mishal Kanoo, chairman of The Kanoo Group. Recognised for his enduring contributions to the region's commercial and philanthropic landscapes, Kanoo has long been regarded as a pioneering force in the Gulf's business landscape. File photo 2024 winners: A legacy of excellence From innovative startups to established market leaders, the 2024 winners reflected the diversity and strength of the Gulf's economy. Awardees included: EFG Hermes ONE – Online Trading Company of the Year ADCB – Banking Company of the Year AIX Investment Group – Finance Advisory Company of the Year valU – Payment Solutions Company of the Year Amali Island by Amali Properties – Lifestyle Project of the Year TORINO by ORO24 Developments – Best Project Delivery of the Year fäm Properties – Real Estate Agency of the Year Sobha Realty – Developer of the Year Samana Barari Views – Project of the Year PRYPCO – Proptech Company of the Year Saudi Red Sea Authority – Tourism Company of the Year Millennium Hotels and Resorts – Hospitality Company of the Year Alshaya Group – Retail Company of the Year Emirates – Transport and Logistics Company of the Year Mediclinic Middle East – Healthcare Company of the Year GE Vernova – Energy Company of the Year stc Bahrain – Telecom Infrastructure Innovation LEAP 2024 – Technology Event of the Year These recognitions were decided by a distinguished panel that included Gareth van Zyl, Group Editor of Gulf Business ; Helen Barrett, Deputy Chair of the British Business Group Dubai; Robin Joffe, Managing Director of Frost & Sullivan MEASA; and Mahmoud Bartawi, serial entrepreneur and founder. Categories for the 2025 edition The upcoming 2025 Gulf Business Awards will again feature a robust list of categories designed to reflect the evolving regional landscape. This year's classifications include: Overall awards Lifetime Achievement Company of the Year Business Leader of the Year Company awards Banking Company of the Year Real Estate Company of the Year Tourism and Hospitality Company of the Year Retail Company of the Year Transport Company of the Year Healthcare Company of the Year Energy Company of the Year Technology Company of the Year Investment Company of the Year Logistics Company of the Year Leader awards Banking Leader of the Year Real Estate Leader of the Year Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year Retail Leader of the Year Transport Leader of the Year Healthcare Leader of the Year Energy Leader of the Year Technology Leader of the Year Investment Leader of the Year Logistics Leader of the Year Editor's choice awards Artificial Intelligence Innovator of the Year Blockchain Innovator of the Year SME of the Year Education Institution of the Year MICE Business of the Year These categories reflect the Gulf's forward-looking, innovation-driven economy and will help honor those pioneering new paths in both traditional and emerging industries. Why should you attend the event? For entrepreneurs, executives, and decision-makers, the Gulf Business Awards offers much more than recognition. The event is a rare opportunity to network with industry peers, share insights, and build connections with regional influencers. It also serves as an excellent platform for businesses seeking to boost their credibility and brand exposure across the GCC. With a legacy of over a decade, the Gulf Business Awards continues to play a vital role in fostering a culture of excellence and resilience among Gulf enterprises. As the region undergoes rapid transformation, events like these ensure that innovation and leadership remain at the forefront of business conversations. Mark your calendar The Gulf Business Awards 2025 will be held in Dubai on September 24. Nominations are open across all categories, and companies and individuals interested in being part of this prestigious recognition are encouraged to apply early. For more information and a full list of categories, visit the Nomination payment options To submit a nomination, all participants must register online. Fees apply per company or individual, per category, and vary depending on the number of nominations submitted: 1–4 categories: Dhs735 per category ($200) 5–9 categories: Dhs643 per category (minimum of 5 nominations required) ($175) 10+ categories: Dhs550 per category (minimum of 10 nominations required) ($150) Each registration includes online entry processing and digital collateral Please note: These fees also apply to all Leader category nominations. Click on the Judges This esteemed panel of judges brings extensive expertise across media, business, technology, and innovation. With decades of leadership experience and significant regional influence, I an F airservice ( Managing Partner and Group Editor-in-Chief, Motivate Media Group ) Ian Fairservice founded Motivate in 1979 with the launch of What's On , the UAE's first independent magazine. With a diverse portfolio of award-winning publications—including Gulf Business , Emirates Woman , and Identity —Motivate's consumer and trade brands reach over 2.5 million users per month. The group's Books division, established in 1986, has published more than 300 titles. In addition to books and magazines, Motivate produces content across video, digital media, exhibitions and events, social media, influencer marketing, out-of-home media, talent management, training, and cinema. M ishal Kanoo ( Chairman, The Kanoo Group ) Mishal Kanoo is Chairman of The Kanoo Group, one of the Gulf region's largest and oldest family-owned conglomerates. Operating across multiple sectors, the group is widely recognized for its longstanding contribution to the region's economic development. A respected business leader and futurist, Mr. Kanoo is known for his strategic foresight and economic commentary. He holds leadership roles in several companies, including Gulf Capital, KHK & Partners, Dalma Capital, Crane Industrial Services, Akzo Nobel UAE Paints, and KAAF Investments. In 2024, he received Gulf Business ' Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his regional impact. Kanoo began his career within the family business before gaining experience as an auditor at Arthur Andersen in Dubai. He holds two MBAs—one in finance from the University of St. Thomas, Texas, and another from the American University of Sharjah. Beyond business, he is a published writer in regional media and business journals, and a motivational speaker passionate about mentoring others. He upholds the Kanoo family's legacy of excellence, integrity, and philanthropy. Jawad Jalal Abbassi ( Head of Middle East and North Africa (MENA), GSMA ) Jawad Jalal Abbassi is Head of the MENA region at the GSMA, overseeing activities across 25 countries. He leads the GSMA's regional advocacy and strategic programs—focusing on 5G, IoT, AI, and digital identity—working with mobile operators, regulators, and policymakers to promote sustainable mobile broadband investment. Jawad's team collaborates with GSMA's global offices, engaging stakeholders to advance the mobile sector's role in economic development. He is a frequent speaker at regional technology and communications forums. He joined the GSMA in 2015 after founding the Arab Advisors Group in 2001, a leading research and consulting firm later partially acquired by the Arab Jordan Investment Bank. Previously, he worked as a telecoms and tech analyst with the Yankee Group and the Economist Intelligence Unit in Boston. Jawad holds a BSc in engineering from the American University in Cairo and an MSc in information systems from the London School of Economics. He has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. Dr Marwan Al Zarouni ( CEO of Artificial Intelligence, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) ) Dr Marwan Al Zarouni is CEO of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), leading the emirate's AI agenda under the 'Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence'. He is also CEO of the Dubai Blockchain Center (DBCC), placing him at the forefront of regional tech strategy. With more than 20 years of experience in technology, digital forensics, cybersecurity, and AI, Dr Al Zarouni works closely with public and private sector stakeholders to shape forward-looking AI and blockchain policies that improve quality of life and visitor experience in Dubai. His leadership at DBCC has accelerated blockchain adoption in the UAE. He is a founding member of both the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) and the Artificial Intelligence Ethical Committee (AIEC), helping guide the ethical use of emerging technologies. In 2022, CoinTelegraph named him among the top 100 influential figures in blockchain and crypto. He also served on the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Cryptocurrencies from 2020 to 2021. GARETH VAN ZYL ( Group Editor, Gulf Business ) Gareth van Zyl is Group Editor of Gulf Business , bringing over 15 years of experience reporting on technology and business in the UAE and South Africa. He has held senior editorial roles, including bureau chief for News24's business section, roles at ITWeb (Africa's largest IT publisher), and deputy editor at Earlier in his career, Gareth lived and worked in Dubai from 2008 to 2012, contributing to Windows Middle East magazine, 7DAYS newspaper, and The National . For further information and assistance, please contact: Manish Chopra: Mario Saaiby: Hitesh Kumar: Or call T +971 4 427 3000 and ask to be connected to the Gulf Business Team.
Campaign ME
26-06-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Campaign MENA Mixer at Cannes
Campaign Middle East hosted more than 50 marketers and industry leaders at its first ever Cannes MENA Mixer at the 72nd Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity this June. Powered by Motivate Media Group and hosted in partnership with The Vantage and Hearst Global Solutions at the Campaign House at the Hilton Canopy, the casual get-together gave industry leaders a chance to come together and connect during the busy Cannes week. When: 18/06/2025 5:00 PM Where: The Lounge Retreat, Campaign House at Canopy by Hilton Cannes (location link) For sponsorship opportunities and for event tickets details, please email Tarun Gangwani at [email protected] or call 052 1466150
Campaign ME
20-06-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Cannes Lions 2025: Skills, strategic thinking and take a second to slow down
The final two days at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity witnessed a strategic shift from conversations on stages to partnerships being formed and policies being shaped in closed-room discussions. Motivate Media Group, Athar Festival and Campaign Middle East hosted breakfast gatherings in partnership with the UK Advertising Association and TRACCS, as well as an in-depth round table discussion with key leaders in Saudi Arabia and the UK. Discussions at the round table revolved around the need for creative effectiveness; the need to tell the right stories well; the need for critical thinking; the need to develop a deeper understanding of local and regional contexts in the Middle East; and the need for leaders to take steps to develop a skilled workforce. Explaining how the Cannes Lions landscape has evolved over the years, Kiran Jay Haslam, Chief Marketing Officer, Diriyah Company told Campaign Middle East, 'There have been a lot of discussions around technology and the role that it will play within marketing moving forward, but very few answers because it's almost impossible to accurately predict what the future holds. The gut instinct that most people have is that these are tumultuous times and the credibility of the industry and creatives is being questioned.' 'That said, the quality of the work and the conversations that are going on about the projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are very exciting; there have been a lot of very interested attendees. We've seen people looking to come to the Middle East, especially Saudi Arabia, to explore, find out more, and see how they can be part of the journey that the Kingdom is on.' Fahd Hamidaddin, Board Member and Founding CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority also delivered a stellar keynote to a packed room at the Forum in The Rotonde, delving into the dynamic transformation taking place within the tourism landscape in the Kingdom. He called for marketers in the Middle East to build brand affinity by developing a deeper understanding of hyper-local consumers, connecting with communities, focusing on collective precision, finding their true voice, and realising the soul of the region's individuals rather than just seeing them as 'segments'. Hamidaddin also called for marketers to take a moment to 'pause and reflect' on current challenges such as inadequate attribution, complex optimisation, irrelevant data and daunting scale before diving into idealistic and futuristic conversations around the untapped potential of artificial intelligence (AI). In an exclusive conversation with Campaign Middle East, Hamidaddin said, 'We should pause to make sure we filter what's hype, what's noise, and stay true to the fundamentals. The fundamentals won't change. What is changing is consumer behaviour and that's what we need to stay very close to while leveraging AI and technology to really develop a deeper understanding of consumer behaviour.' He concluded, 'With the hype comes a global movement of speed and, conversely, an anti-movement of slow. So, I would say slow down, stay strategic, think big, stick to the fundamentals and pursue the 2080 ROI instead of the immediate results.' Meanwhile MENA agencies continue to make the region proud, adding a few more trophies to the cabinet on Day 4. Stay tuned for a separate round-up of all the winners following the announcement on Day 5. As of Day 4 at Cannes Lions, the MENA region has surpassed its tally of 22 trophies in 2024 to claim 25 trophies at Cannes Lions 2025. Of these, UAE agencies have won 13 trophies so far led by FP7 McCann Dubai (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 4 Bronze); VML Dubai (1 Silver, 3 Bronze), Impact BBDO (1 Gold, 1 Silver), LEO Dubai (1 Bronze). Meanwhile, Jordan picking up its first-ever trophy in Cannes Lions' 72-year history sharing the spoils with Impact BBDO on its Silver Lion. Representing Saudi Arabia at Cannes Lions, agencies from the Kingdom have won 12 trophies, led by BigTime Creative Shop (2 Golds, 1 Silver, 3 Bronze); SRMG Labs (1 Gold, 2 Silver), and VML Riyadh (1 Silver, 2 Bronze). The MENA wins in each of the following categories include: AUDIO AND RADIO 1 GOLD LION, 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: The Second Release Agency: SRMG Labs, Riyadh Client: Billboard Arabia, Riyadh BRAND EXPERIENCE & ACTIVATION 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: Recipe for Change Agency: FP7 McCann Dubai Client: Arla Foods 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: The Social Feed Agency: VML Dubai Client: Hungerstation CREATIVE B2B 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Recipe for Change Agency: FP7 McCann Dubai Client: Arla Foods CREATIVE COMMERCE 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: The Social Feed Agency: VML Dubai Client: Hungerstation CREATIVE DATA 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: The Social Feed Agency: VML Dubai Client: Hungerstation CREATIVE STRATEGY 1 GOLD LION Campaign title: The New President Agency: Impact BBDO, Dubai Client: Annahar Newspaper DESIGN 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: Sounds of the Land Agency: SRMG Labs, Riyadh Client: Billboard Arabia, Riyadh DIGITAL CRAFT 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: The Shaded Route Agency: VML Riyadh Client: Hungerstation Campaign title: Agency: Client: Hungerstation 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Read Better Agency: FP7 McCann, Dubai / McCANN, Bristol Client: Waterstones DIRECT 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Safe at 3AM Agency: VML Dubai Client: Dubai Tourism ENTERTAINMENT FOR SPORT 1 GOLD LION, 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: The 4th Judge Agency: BigTime Creative Shop, Riyadh Client: The Ring Campaign title: Agency: Client: The Ring 1 GOLD LION Campaign title: Obsession Agency: BigTime Creative Shop, Riyadh Client: Riyadh Season FILM CRAFT 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Obsession Agency: BigTime Creative Shop, Riyadh Client: Riyadh Season FILM CRAFT 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Everything or Nothing Agency: BigTime Creative Shop, Riyadh Client: Riyadh Season 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Obsession Agency: BigTime Creative Shop, Riyadh Client: Riyadh Season HEALTH AND WELLNESS 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: The Shaded Route Agency: VML Riyadh Client: Hungerstation OUTDOOR 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: The Shaded Route Agency: VML Riyadh Client: Hungerstation 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Not For First Dates Agency: FP7 McCann Dubai Client: McDonald's PUBLIC RELATIONS 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: Sponsored Balls Agency: FP7 McCann Dubai Client: Testicular Cancer Society PRINT AND PUBLISHING 1 SILVER LION Campaign title: NOTES ON NOTES Agency: Impact BBDO, Dubai / AdPro& Jordan Client: Capital Bank 1 BRONZE LION Campaign title: THE GREAT INDIAN DUNK Agency: LEO Dubai Client: NBA India SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 1 GOLD LION Campaign title: Recipe for Change Agency: FP7 McCann Dubai Client: Arla Foods Tune into Campaign Middle East's social media channels to stay updated on the latest of what's happening at The Palais, the Rotonde, The Carlton Hotel and stay tuned for exciting events at the Campaign House Hilton Canopy.
