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CNBC Arabiya launches innovative new program schedule

Mon, 2008-11-10 19:01 - By
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The region's first and premier 24-hour live-broadcast, Arabic Business TV channel, CNBC Arabiya, has re-launched to include 12 brand new programs.

The dedication to arenas such as women in business, the environment and private equity comes as the station moves to a more creative and interactive program schedule.

CNBC Arabiya, which celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, builds on its strengths as the preeminent business channel in the Middle East by adding a host of new programs. The aim of the new programming is to improve the viewer experience through relevant, high quality journalism, in-depth analysis and first rate coverage of issues and events and also to encourage viewers to interact with the station via phone and email.

'We are experiencing an era of economic change for businesses, markets and funds in the Middle East. CNBC Arabiya is an influential, real-time and accountable TV station at the forefront of reporting the regional and global news. Through the re-launch, we will provide innovative content for our viewers offering a fresh, new perspective,' says Steven F. Hall, CEO, CNBC Arabiya.

Al Bousalla, which means 'Compass' in English, is the brand new CNBC Arabiya anchor show airing Sundays to Thursdays 9am to 2pm (KSA time). The show acts as a platform for guest speakers, features breaking news stories with live commentary and covers all business news affecting both the region and the world.

Ma'ahonna airs on Saturdays at 8pm (KSA time). The weekly show, the first show of its kind for CNBC Arabiya, highlights and celebrates successful women within the GCC and Arab business arena. It includes interviews, profiles, insight and commentary through one-on-one interviews.

Bil Akhdar focuses on environmental issues impacting the business world, green industry, new sustainable initiatives and companies spearheading the green movement. Green Business broadcasts details regarding legislation and guidelines, offering advice to companies seeking to make their business more eco-friendly. The weekly show airs on Sundays at 8pm (KSA time).

Salat Al Bada'ael reports the latest news on buyouts, venture capital, hedge funds and growth capital affecting the world of finance. The weekly show, Wednesdays at 8pm (KSA time), discusses the most pressing issues affecting the private equity marketplace.

Amwalokom is an interactive show providing viewers with sound advice on financial investment and consumption trends. The show also focuses on personal loans and family expenses, and analyzes current investment trends.

• Fil Omoq ('In-depth' in English) puts viewers face to face with the region's decision makers and learn how they made it to where they are today.

• Murabaha ('Shari'a-Compliant Finance' in English) covers the diverse world of Shari'a-compliant business and finance, highlighting the developments and various sectors that fall under its umbrella

• Qabel Al Tadawul ('Prior to Trading' in English) prepares viewers first thing in the morning for the trading day with updates, announcements and an overview of the financial scene.

• Masareef ('Expenses' in English) tackles day- to-day consumer issues and sheds light on consumer consumption habits; how to guard their rights; and governments' role to protect them from monopolies and trade abuse.

• Ara'a Wa Mou'ashirat ('Signs & Indices' in English) tackles legislative and regulatory issues related to the various Securities & Commodities Authorities (SCA) within the region. The show aims to protect investors from the pitfalls of entering stock markets and discusses the similarities and differences among various markets.

Al Hassila, which means 'The Harvest' in English, is the second new and exciting anchor show. It summarizes the day's activities, with a look ahead at the news affecting the next work day in a vibrant, exciting manner.

Along with a new programming schedule, the CNBC Arabiya re-launch reveals a brand new studio layout with more capacity for live links. The re-designed CNBC Arabiya website will act as a genuine financial portal to cover stock markets, news alerts and breaking business news.

It also will let viewers download features and comment on the latest stories and issues affecting them.

'CNBC Arabiya is the leader in Middle East business news and reaches over 50 million households through ArabSat & NileSat. The new programming schedule will benefit our viewers with content dedicated to new arenas such as the environment, women's issues, and private equity. We also encourage more viewer-led content via, our upcoming revamped website, and calls to our studios,' says Mohammad Abdullah, CNBC Arabiya Executive Vice President.

Online marketing firm Eastline Marketing expands into MENA region

Tue, 2008-10-28 20:11 - By
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With the incredible growth of internet investments in the MENA region, Lebanon-based Eastline Marketing, specialized in online marketing strategies, is widening its operations into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Eastline Marketing complements every need that a business may have concerning increasing its exposure, worldwide internet marketing strategies, internet solutions for its websites, portals, and events, and search engine optimization (SEO) to build a stronger base for any brand, service, or product. These services and tasks are handled by a team of Lebanese experts that have more than 10 years of experience in this field in Canada and North America. Today's internet is the portal for any product from any location onto the whole world, and for this, every business deserves the best exposure possible, especially in today's crowded competition. Reaching your market at the widest coverage possible will ensure your firm's and product's presence and therefore build a deeper relationship with your current and potential clients.

CEO/Co-founder Mr. Marc Dfouni stated: 'Our policy could be summarized in our work philosophy. Eastline Marketing approaches every project with a fresh and creative perspective, working side-by-side with clients to achieve the best solution for their online marketing needs, current objectives, and future goals.'
Online marketing is entering a new era in the MENA region. Enhanced by affordable prices and high-speed connection, internet use is sweeping the MENA region at an astonishing growth rate of 1176% (Middle East) and 1030% (Africa) since 2000, as opposed to a worldwide growth rate of 290%. The potential of this industry is further strengthened with the increasing workshops and ventures focused on Middle East online marketing. 

Expanding its client base beyond North America and Europe, 2008 saw Eastline Marketing shift its focus to online marketing solutions in the Middle East, mainly Dubai, Qatar, Egypt, Syria, and Saudi Arabia. 'Whether it is to merge traditional methods with new pioneered technologies, or to create something far beyond the expectations, Eastline Marketing commits itself to offering its client services that enable it to stand out from the competition.'

IN GEAR host launches road safety infomercials on City 7 TV

Mon, 2008-10-27 22:16 - By
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IN GEAR Host, Adam Kechil of City 7 TV, UAE's leading English language channel for locally produced programmes is initiating an educational road safety campaign through a series of educational infomercials produced by the station.

An active road safety campaigner and the presenter of City 7 TV's IN GEAR show, Adam supports local motoring clubs and the various radio stations for the campaign and applauds the road safety initiative taken by City7TV to create awareness on road safety issues and educate the public on measures they need to take to save lives on the road.

'Under the guidance of Ron Kapadia, Executive Director & Chief Operating Officer of City 7 TV, the station has always supported the road safety campaign by having a segment on road safety in the dedicated motoring show IN GEAR. We have taken this a step further by dedicating a team to produce the educational infomercials for the public as part of our organisation's CSR activities,' adds Adam. 'Death through road crashes is a global epidemic! City7tv has a potential audience of 90 million outside the UAE, so this will show the rest of the world that road safety is taken seriously here'

The campaign entitled 'A Crash is no Accident' starts with an explanation why the word accident needs to be dropped by all media reporting on crashes.

Adam also supports Corvette UAE Club's safety events that encourage drivers to avoid using the highway and normal streets and get members on the race track to learn about racing safety, speed methods, car maintenance and the club hosts lectures on safety.

Recently, UK's ITV channel selected Adam for a special programme on Dubai where Piers Morgan will interview British expats in Dubai about their life in Dubai. Adam will be one of the high profile celebrities and VIPs interviewed for this special feature.

MEIFF 2008 announces winners of Black Pearl Awards

Sat, 2008-10-25 15:49 - By
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The official Black Pearl Awards ceremony for the second annual Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF), organised by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage ADACH) was presented at Emirates Palace on Sunday 19th October.

The awards were the culmination of ten action-packed days of cinema, with 152 movies and 186 screenings shown in five Abu Dhabi venues. A total of 76 feature films and 34 short films from over 35 countries competed for the MEIFF 2008 Black Pearl Awards.

Winners of the US$1 million MEIFF 2008 Black Pearl Awards were announced at the festival’s closing night ceremony, directed and choreographed by Otis Sallid.

Director Ridley Scott’s latest film ‘Body of Lies’ made its Middle East premiere at MEIFF’s Closing Night Gala, attended by star of the film, Michael Gaston, along with British actor Joseph Fiennes (Shakespeare in Love) and well-known French actress Eva Green (Kingdom of Heaven, Casino Royal). A host of Arabic personalities also attended including Yousra, Elham Shaeen, Solaf Fawakherji, Mostafa Shaban, Abdulaziz Al Jazem and Khaled Saleh.

MEIFF 2008 Black Pearl Award Winners:-

The Black Pearl for Best Narrative Film - $200,000
Disgrace
Director: Steve Jacobs. Producers: Anna Maria Monticelli, Emile Sherman, Steve Jacobs

The Black Pearl for Best Documentary – $150,000
Stranded
Director: Gonzalo Arijon. Producer: Marc Silvera

The Black Pearl Special Jury Prize- $125,000
Youssou N’Dour: I Bring What I Love
Director and Producer: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi

The Black Pearl for Best Actress - $75,000
Fawzia: A Special Blend
Actress: Ilham Shaheen

The Black Pearl for Best Actor - $75,000
Wild Blood
Actor: Luca Zingaretti

The Black Pearl for Best Artistic Contribution - $75,000
Laila’s Birthday
Screenwriter: Rashid Masharawi

The Black Pearl Audience Choice Award
Saving Luna
Co-Directors: Suzanne Chisholm & Michael Parfit. Producer: Suzanne Chisholm

The Black Pearl for Best Narrative - Short Film- $75.000
The View
Co-Directors: Hazim Bitar & Rifqi Assaf. Producer: Amman Filmmaker Cooperative

The Black Pearl for Best Documentary – Short Film- 75.000$
Breadmakers
Director: Yasmin Fedda. Producers: Jim Hickey & Robin Mitchell

The Black Pearl for Best Animation- Shot Film- 75.000$
Jacinta
Director: Karla Casteneda. Producer: Luis Tellez

Best Advertisement – Cultural Category - 25.000$
Anti Slavery
Director: Eric Lynne. Producer: Partizan Films – Midi Minuit

Best Advertisement – Consumer Category - 25.000$
Battle
Director: Traktor. Producer: Partizan Films – Midi Minuit

Best Advertisement – Artistic Contribution - 25.000$
Great Pretender
Director: Patrick Bergh. Producer: Partizan Films – Midi Minuit

The Black Pearl for Best Narrative – Student Films – 25.000$
Illusion
Director: Burhan Qurbani. Producer: Fabian Gasmia

The Black Pearl for Best Emerging Filmmaker – Student Films- 25.000$
Lullaby
Director: Serena Abi Aad. Producer: IESAV

The Black Pearl for Best Animation – Student Films – 25.000$
Adherent
Director: Julian Nazario Vargas. Producer: Rube Baggerud

ADD and ESPN join hands to bring best sporting action in Middle East

Thu, 2008-08-21 13:54 - By
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Arab Digital Distribution (ADD), a large pay television platform management company in the MENA region, announced the addition of three channels from ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports.

The channels will feature in the popular ART, Pehla and FirstNet bouquets.

Announcing the launch of the ESPN channels, Mr. Vinod D’ Mello, Executive Vice-President, Group Strategy and Planning, ADD, said: ‘We are glad to bring the best in sports entertainment to our viewers through this tie-up. ESPN carries some of the world’s most popular sports networks: our sports viewers will be able to choose from the greatest moments in international sport to US Sports that are popular not just with Americans and other Western expats, but also with the Arab and Asian communities who follow American sports across the Middle East region.’

Commenting on the tie-up, Lynne Frank, Managing Director of ESPN, Europe, Middle East and Africa said: ‘In a region that is young and dynamic, where sport plays such a vital part in the life of the people, we are thrilled to be reaching new fans. We are pleased to be able to bring ESPN, NASN and ESPN Classic to ADD subscribers. These three channels show ESPN’s desire to meet the needs of sports fans all over the world.’

ESPN Classic will be added to Pehla Basic and FirstNet Choice packages while ESPN and NASN channels will be part of Pehla Silver, Pehla Gold and FirstNet Premium packages. The channels will be available to subscribers from August 2008.

ESPN is a world leader in sports entertainment, dedicated to bringing round-the-clock programming to its viewers around the globe. Founded in the US in September 1979, the network covers the leading tournaments, leagues and championships including golf, tennis, cricket, NFL football, NBA basketball, NHL hockey, NASCAR racing and Major League Soccer. It’s programming is composed of live and near live sporting events, as well as sports-related news, documentaries and talk shows.

NASN (North American Sports Network) is a London-based sports network that is the home of North American sport in Europe, Middle East & Africa. It broadcasts a selection of professional and collegiate sports leagues (Major League Baseball, NHL, NFL, CFL, NCAA, etc) 24 hours a day on digital cable and satellite. Launched in December 2002, it was acquired by ESPN in 2007.

ESPN Classic, launched in 2003, is a classic sports network that features the greatest sporting moments of the last four decades: including sporting documentaries, profiles and biographies of famous sports stars. Programming includes English Premier League, UEFA Finals, Moto GP, ESPN Big Fights and a selection of great sport from around the globe.

Guardian Towers Appoint Proximity Communications

Tue, 2008-08-12 09:04 - By
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Guardian Towers have appointed Proximity Communications to handle the marketing and promotion of their signature development in Abu Dhabi.
 
Located within the prestigious Danat Abu Dhabi development, Guardian Towers is set to become a distinctive landmark in Abu Dhabi. Featuring two 19 storey towers and delivering modern and luxurious working and living space as well as world class retail outlets and five star services, Guardian Towers redefines modern living. Its iconic design, enviable location and superb build quality will make Guardian Towers the number one address in Abu Dhabi.
 
“Guardian Towers represents the collaboration of a real estate “dream team”, including world renowned architects, designers, developers and contractors. We are delighted that Guardian Towers have continued that trend by appointing Proximity Communications to handle their marketing communications” commented Nick Maynard, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi based Proximity Communications.
 
 

Dubai Properties hires Thinkscape for interactive marketing media

Mon, 2008-08-04 05:41 - By
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Thinkscape has delivered its creation of interactive marketing media to top-tier developer, Dubai Properties. Packaged in eight language versions in a CD-ROM, it was designed as a one-step information piece for its target consumers worldwide.

It is now already in deployment as part of the client's now on-going promotions, including at the prestigious Harrod's department store in London.

Dubai Properties is the leading UAE master developer and a regional player, with an investment of over $16.4 billion in total assets. It was formed from the core group that sparked off the latest phase of mega developments in Dubai, including Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City.

"It certainly wasn't your typical CD-ROM presentation, as it was meant to communicate about the company products to markets globally. It covers all major projects of the real estate giant; we need to do it in eight languages from Arabic to Russian, we need to do it highly engaging - and we need to do it all in style," said group managing director John Jong, speaking from his Dubai regional office.

"However, the client deserves our respect as it knows what it wants, as a top-tier firm should be. In fact, this wasn't our first engagement with Dubai Properties. It has engaged us for several other projects before this, including an interactive marketing kit for its Bay Square project," he added.

Thinkscape is an international agency for digital and creative communications headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Described by Britain's Web Designer magazine as an ideas-rich yet unpretentious creator of "some of the best digital communication out there", the group is designated MSC- (Multimedia Super Corridor) Status in Malaysia, and is an associate member of the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents (4As).

Its uniquely integrated portfolio of creative services includes 3D animation, exhibition and retail design, experiential digital media, architecture rendering, advertising, identity and collateral design, brand strategic planning, web and interactive new media.

Link Research appoints Advanced Media its distributor in UAE

Wed, 2008-07-30 09:09 - By
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Advanced Media is a major supplier of video equipment and accessories in the UAE, Middle East and Africa. The company supplies professional video equipment and accessories and delivers solutions for broadcast production, post-production, studios and TV stations.

The agreement just signed provides for Advanced Media to market Link's award-winning wireless camera systems in the Middle East. "Advanced Media have excellent technical capabilities, a deep knowledge of the Broadcast industry in and around the UAE and a very loyal and growing customer base," says Mather Al Ali, Regional Sales Manager for Link's parent company, the Vislink Group, in the Middle East and North Africa.

"We are already seeing strong interest in Link's RF and Microwave products in this region and we are confident that Advanced Media are the right company to deliver our RF-based solutions to the broadcast sector. Advanced Media Trading has invested in a complete Link L1500 portable demonstration set which will support their sales effort," Al Ali said.

"Link has built a strong reputation for innovative products and technical performance,' says Alaa Rantisi of Advanced Media. 'Their L1500 wireless transmitter for SD and HD offers camera control and interchangeable frequency modules which make it very compatible with the broadcast cameras we supply and offers our client's complete peace of mind as far as future scalability and flexibility is concerned. The HD software license upgrade option is especially attractive to my clients who are considering investing in high end wireless camera technology."

Link Research is a fully-owned subsidiary of Vislink PLC which opened a sales and distribution office in Dubai at the start of 2008. Vislink supplies satellite and microwave communications products for use in the Broadcast and Defence, Law Enforcement and Security sectors.

Al Jazeera english expands Spanish reach

Wed, 2008-07-23 11:59 - By
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Al Jazeera Network has unveiled a new contract with TSF On Sat that takes the channel to over 3.2 million households across Spain on the Hispasat satellite network. Al Jazeera English (AJE) currently reaches over 120 million households worldwide.

Al Jazeera English programming will be broadcast on TSF's satellite platform and on digital terrestrial television services in Northern Spain and Southern France (including Barcelona, the whole Pyrennes and touristic Costa Brava area); on cable in all Spanish and French major cities and on the station's Internet channel. Up to 40 Spanish independent local TV stations in Spain are affiliated to TSF.

Phil Lawrie, Director of Global Distribution for the Al Jazeera Network commented: "This is yet another excellent advance for Al Jazeera English in the region. This new partnership demonstrates the continuing strong demand for AJE in Europe, where we now reach over 50 million households.'

Lídia Nadal, TSF Europe's C.E.O. added: "Al Jazeera English is a very independent and impartial world news channel. Our partnership will be a very good news for all TSF On Sat's viewers".

Al Jazeera English can be seen three hours a day on TSF On Sat on satellite Hispasat, covering most of Europe.

Dubai-based freelance copywriter delivers direct

Wed, 2008-07-23 11:54 - By
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Dubai-based freelance copywriter, Ally Pace, announces a number of exciting new project wins.

Ally, who formally launched her UAE freelance copywriting business just four months ago, is celebrating the addition of a number of local and global brands to her portfolio.

Shortly after she officially relocated back to Dubai in March of this year, Ally won an exciting new project on behalf of leading global logistics and express services provider, DHL. A local full-service agency provided the contemporary design for a new consumer-facing magazine, whilst Ally provided the editorial leadership and content, demonstrating the experience, commitment and fast turnaround times which gave her the edge.

Discussing the project, Ally comments, "I am thrilled to have been awarded this prestigious project, and am delighted to have provided DHL's new consumer magazine, DIRECT, with editorial content tailored for their many diverse customers."

"A combination of my copywriting skills and excellent client servicing techniques has proved that I am the right choice for a project of this magnitude," she adds.

In addition to DHL, Ally has recently provided the copy for the marketing collateral of a number of Real Estate, Financial Services and Construction companies in Dubai, including Dubai Projects and the Al Habtoor Leighton Group.

Ally says, "Much of my writing work these days is commissioned directly by the client. Marketing departments are becoming more sophisticated in the UAE and require much less 'hand-holding' by external agencies. Companies who have ad-hoc copy or design requirements are happy to cherry pick a team of writers and designers from Dubai's burgeoning freelance community." She continues, "This benefits the client immensely as freelancers tend to be able to turn around a project much more quickly - and cost effectively - than large advertising or design agencies."

Ally believes that her specific skill set puts her in a unique position. Her natural talent for writing copy is backed up with almost ten years of strategic advertising industry experience, half of which has been spent in Dubai. This client servicing ability enables her to work through a brief in detail with each client, helping her to ascertain what the client truly requires from their marketing collateral. These insights allow her to apply large agency thinking to small freelance projects, which ultimately benefits both her and the client.

Ally's full client list and comprehensive portfolio can be viewed at her website, http://www.allypace.com.

Ewaan Global Residential Company appoints TBWA\RAAD Saudi Arabia as its exclusive marketing and communications agency

Mon, 2008-05-19 08:27 - By
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The agreement was signed by Mohammd S. Eid, CEO of EWAAN and Ghassan Kassabji, Managing Director of TBWA\RAAD Saudi Arabia.

A residential development worth SR1,200m is to be launched in north Jeddah following the appointment of TBWA\RAAD as marketing communications agency for EWAAN projects in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia: Sunday, May 18 - 2008

The appointment was formalized in an agreement signed by Eng. Mohammd S. Eid, CEO of EWAAN and Ghassan Kassabji, Managing Director of TBWA\RAAD Saudi Arabia.

According to Eng. Eid, the agreement is part of EWAAN’s drive to make use of international expertise in all sectors in which the company is involved in the regional market, as well as create an awareness of EWAAN’s projects and strategies.

“We decided to work with TBWA\RAAD after we observed their deep understanding of our vision, as well as their knowledge of the real estate market,” he said.

EWAAN follows a philosophy of comprehensive development of residential areas of premium quality and moderate cost, keeping in mind the need to provide a comfortable environment. Its projects cater for the Saudi middle class.

After the Jeddah project EWAAN plans to inaugurate others in the Kingdom’s major cities, to the benefit of the Saudi economy.

EWAAN’s Sales and Marketing Director Hani Khashogji said: “We chose this agency among several others. We hope the agreement will pave the way for projects that will benefit the Saudi real estate market and serve the Saudi citizen.”

Mr Kassabji expressed appreciation for Ewaan’s confidence, as well as the honour of working on EWAAN’s marketing and communications strategy which starts with planning and executing a corporate campaign.

He said: “TBWA\RAAD has the knowledge and practical know-how to carry out a communication campaign in the Kingdom and abroad. It has extensive experience in this field, with offices in more than 75 countries.”

BinSina Pharmacy awarded Superbrand status for 2nd years in a row

Sun, 2008-04-06 21:15 - By
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BinSina Pharmacy, the oldest pharmacy operator in the UAE, was named a 'Superbrand' at this year's Superbrands Award Ceremony, which was held recently at the InterContinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City.

Commenting on this achievement, Ayman Hanbali, Marketing Manager at BinSina Pharmacy said: "This award honors the UAE's most exceptional and widely recognized brands. It is a clear endorsement that BinSina Pharmacy brand is on par with worldwide giants operating in the UAE."

'Superbrands' are selected by the UAE Superbrands Council, a group comprised of individuals who are leaders in various fields of business. Council members score brands on a 100-point.

The council defines a Superbrand as any brand that 'offers consumers significant emotional and/or physical advantages over its competitors.

For the 2nd consecutive year, BinSina Pharmacy brand was voted for its exceptional set of brand values, best practices in brand management, brand reputation, intelligent marketing, high levels of customer service, product innovation and values, market share and customer oriented approach.

"This award acknowledges the brand values starting from the name which stands for integrity, in every aspect of its operation, trust between the company and customers, vendors and employees, professionalism and an intimate understanding of customer needs and an ethos of service in every aspect of its operation. The other cornerstone of the brand is innovation, which is constant and customer focussed – striving to create a living, breathing pharmacy brand," Hanbali added.

In the UAE, 68 strongest brands that have met the stringent selection criteria set by the organization were awarded a Superbrand status.

Hanbali said, "We are glad to be recognized by our stakeholders as a brand that fulfils and even exceeds expectations. The top notch nationwide campaigns we have conducted have taken us from strength to strength. As a local brand name, our strive to be the pharmacy retail sector leaders and to stand in the retail business alongside with the worldwide brands, is paying off and we are continuously growing our robust and professional image."

Hanbali concluded: "BinSina has positioned itself as personalized partner in helping customers attain and sustain” health and well-being, through  reinforcing its brand value by building relationships aimed at improving health and lifestyles. Our values are derived from a very strong heritage, with roots in the Arab world. BinSina Pharmacy history in the UAE, which spans over 40 years, has provided it with keen insights on the local consumer needs and habits. This heritage has created a unique platform for us placing it among the foremost retail brands in the region."

Started with humble beginnings, BinSina has seen phenomenal growth with almost 92 percent of all UAE nationals as its customers. The group singularly dispenses around two-thirds of all the insurance prescriptions for the major insurance companies in the UAE.

Very recently, BinSina Pharmacy in association with the UAE Ministry of Health held awareness campaign about diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure and obesity and conducted more than 10000 medical tests to date. The pharmacy chain also joined hands with the UAE Red Crescent to provide safe water to poor communities across the world.

The Superbrands Organization has also unveiled the coffee-table style Superbrands book, which includes a two-page profile of each of the Superbrands, at the tribute event.

The winners were also featured in a book including key international brands and robust local ones.

Dubai Lynx 2008 Winners Announced

Wed, 2008-04-02 20:58 - By
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Winners of the 2nd Dubai Lynx Awards, the leading advertising competition for the MENA region, were revealed this evening at the Awards Dinner & Ceremony in Dubai. After selecting a shortlist of 513 ads from the 2023 entries submitted, the jury awarded a total of 180 Dubai Lynx trophies.

The Print category was the strongest with a total of 45 winners, followed by Outdoor with 40, 28 in Direct, 24 trophies were awarded in the new Media category, 20 in TV/Cinema, there were 15 Interactive winners and 4 in Integrated as well as 4 Radio winners. See the winners here.

U.A.E. won the most awards taking home 127 trophies, followed by Qatar with 18, Lebanon with 12 and Egypt won 7 awards, including 2 Grand Prix.

The Print Grand Prix went to FP7 DOHA, Qatar, for EA Games B.D. Group, ‘Back Home’.

The Outdoor Grand Prix was awarded to Leo Burnett Beirut for Procter & Gamble’s 'Natural Colours Change’.

Leo Burnett Cairo won the TV/Cinema Grand Prix for the Melody Channel campaign ‘Akon’, ’50 Cents’, ‘Madonna’, ‘Shakira’, ‘Pussy Cats’ and ‘Britney’.

The Direct Grand Prix was award to Bates Pangulf Dubai for Dubai First credit cards ‘We Know Who You Are’.

The first Media Grand Prix went to JWT Cairo for Vodafone Egypt, ‘Truck Stickers’.

The jury decided not to give a Grand Prix in the Interactive, Radio and Integrated categories.

JWT Dubai were honoured with the Agency of the Year trophy with FP7 Doha coming in second place and Fortune Promoseven Dubai in third.

The winners of the 1st Dubai Lynx Young Creative Competition were the MediaOne team, Abdul Shafeeq and Greeshma Nair from U.A.E.

The winning work, which was judged over the last week by 29 top international creatives and media experts from 17 countries in Dubai, can be viewed at www.dubailynx.com\winners.


Yahsat signs Dhs400m deal with Emerging Markets Communications, Inc.

Sun, 2008-03-09 14:18 - By
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Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PrJsc (Yahsat), the UAE's first nationally-owned satellite communications company, signed a contract worth approximately Dhs400m contract with Emerging Markets Communications, Inc.

(EMC), operator of one of the largest teleports facilities in the world. Under the terms of the contract EMC will lease transponders on Yahsat's powerful C Band on a long-term basis to ultimately serve high profile government, commercial and non-profit organizations including the United Nations.

The announcement comes shortly after Yahsat made its first public appearance this week and confirms market confidence in Yahsat's capabilities to provide advanced satellite solutions in the region.

'Strategic partnership is among the most important business principles for Mubadala investments, and it reflects on Yahsat's strategy to have successful relationships with its partners and clients. Our participation in CABSAT for the first time has certainly been the perfect platform to kick off our strategic partnerships with potential clients, one of which has just been signed now, and lot more being studied to be finalized soon,' commented Mr. Waleed Ahmed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Chairman, Yahsat during the official signing ceremony.

EMC specializes in meeting the diverse communications needs of its customers, which include international NGOs and Fortune 500 companies. The company's satellite services are extensively deployed by International rescue operations and humanitarian activities.

EMC and Yahsat's focus on emerging markets and the commitment of both organizations to provide the best of value added telecommunication services to our respective customers make this partnership a tremendous win not only to our customers but also for our industry. Both Yahsat and EMC maintain a constant flow of investment and innovation to provide customers with the right options of services in the region as well as other emerging markets. I am extremely pleased with this relationship and the value that Yahsat adds to EMC and to EMC's valuable customers,' said EMC President Mr. Abel Avellan.

Incorporated in January 2007 and supported by a $1.7 billion investment from parent company Mubadala Development Company (Mubadala), the strategic investment and development vehicle for the Abu Dhabi Government, Yahsat will develop, procure, own and operate hybrid satellite systems based on market requirements and future applications.

Wunderman and GLCI sign agreement

Sun, 2008-03-09 14:14 - By
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Wunderman Jordan, the leading direct and interactive marketing company, and the General Lightweight Concrete Company have signed an agreement whereby Wunderman Jordan will develop and roll out two product campaigns for GLCI.

GLCI is the premier building material manufacturer and supplier in Jordan that offers a variety of innovative products such as the lightweight concrete blocks under the brand name Thermostone and the popular dry mix cement under the brand name Mix It.

'Our company is offering products that are considered 20th century achievements. For such products to be properly introduced to real estate developers, owners, architects, designers, contractors, subcontractors and even workers, we have chosen Wunderman Jordan to be our communications partner,' said Engineer Helena Bannayan CEO of GLCI.

Known to be successful in Europe, Thermostone is a revolutionary material that offers a unique combination of strength, light weight, thermal insulation, sound absorption, unsurpassed fire resistance, and unprecedented building ability in addition to being environment friendly.

On the other hand, Mix It is a ready-to-use white cement where only water is required to be added for immediate use at the construction site.

Wunderman Jordan is the first direct marketing agency in the Jordanian Market, offering diverse marketing services with powerful creative campaigns. Ms. Claudia Lemlihi, Country manager of Wunderman Jordan commented on the company's agreement with GLCI: 'It is with great pleasure that we add GLCI to our current client roster. We have developed the corporate branding and messaging for the company and will develop and carry out product campaigns using trade magazines, advertorial, online support with websites and multimedia CDs, direct marketing, and events'

Wunderman Jordan is one of the leading agencies of The Holding Group (THG) Jordan, the Middle East's largest marketing communications conglomerate, which also includes advertising agencies Team Y&R, Intermarkets, and Objects, media buying arm Media Edge: CIA, and public relations firms ASDA'A and Polaris.

Cyber Gear wins major accounts in February

Tue, 2008-03-04 19:39 - By
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Cyber Gear has got off to a flyer in 2008 with 12 large account wins in February.

According to Sharad Agarwal, CEO of Cyber Gear, 'We are delighted to have been selected as the vendor of choice by several leading multinational, local and government organisations in the region. We have consolidated our position as the largest web developer in the region with over 200 clients in 16 Middle East countries.'

Cyber Gear has signed contracts to develop the web presence, e-Business and e-Marketing applications for the following clients:

Dubai Festival Centre
Global Hyatt University
Hyatt Hotels, Dubai
Ajman Municipality and Planning Department
NAFFCO
Dheeraj & East Coast
The Event Centre at Dubai Festival City
Bridgestone
Inretail Exhibition for DMG World Media
Global Institute Middle East
One World Travel and Tourism
International Air Charter

In 2007, Cyber Gear also won 7 awards for excellence in web design adjudged by the Pan Arab Web Awards Program instituted by BSA - Microsoft. Cyber Gear plans to double its team size in 2008 when it moves to its own premises in the 'Binary Tower by Omniyat' located in Business Bay.

AMG opens Middle East sales and marketing office

Sun, 2008-03-02 20:12 - By
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Affiliated Managers Group, Inc., a diversified asset management company, today announced the opening of an office in London, England, extending the global institutional distribution capabilities for its Affiliates to the Middle East.

'The Middle East, which includes some of the largest, most sophisticated pools of managed assets in the world, offers significant opportunities for AMG to help its Affiliates service existing clients, as well as establish significant new client relationships,' said Nate Dalton, AMG's Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. 'Institutional investors worldwide are increasingly attracted to boutique investment managers, and through our global distribution initiative, they gain access to high quality, specialized investment services and products managed by our outstanding group of Affiliates.'

'AMG continues to build on a successful track record of offering business development initiatives that enhance the growth of our boutique investment firms, and we are actively identifying additional markets where our Affiliates can expand their global reach,' added Mr. Dalton.

Through this platform, AMG will provide institutional investors in the Middle East with investment services and products offered by its Affiliates across multiple investment styles and asset classes, including global and U.S. equities, real estate, currency and global asset allocation. AMG's Affiliates are recognized for their long-term track records, consistent adherence to their unique investment processes and the strength of their management teams. AMG has undertaken several initiatives to enhance the global presence of its Affiliates, including the opening of an office in Sydney, Australia, last year. AMG's Affiliates currently manage more than $70bn in assets for non-U.S. clients.

The Middle East effort is being led by David Waite, Managing Director. Mr. Waite joined AMG from ABN Amro Asset Management where he was Head of Asset Management, Middle East and Africa, responsible for client servicing, as well as marketing and sales for institutional clients. Mr. Waite previously held other roles in asset management including Head of Asset Management and Head of Portfolio Management for Gulf International Bank (UK) (formerly Saudi International Bank). Mr. Waite holds a BSc from the University of Wales, Swansea.

Mr. Dalton added, 'David is an experienced professional with an excellent reputation in the sales and marketing sector, and we are pleased to have him head up our distribution efforts in the Middle Eastern markets.'

'AMG has made tremendous progress in its efforts to grow globally by targeting markets where its boutique investment managers, which have broad appeal to sophisticated institutional investors, are recognized for their investment expertise,' said Mr. Waite. 'I look forward to supporting the distribution of its Affiliates' investment management services to institutional clients in the Middle East and providing superior execution in sales and client service for these industry-leading firms.'

Pepsi gets cool new look with teen appeal

Sat, 2008-03-01 19:50 - By
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PepsiCo International has launched a massive GCC marketing campaign to reinvigorate the Pepsi brand image by further building on and enhancing the strong relationship with teenagers who form the core of its consumer base in the region.

'We are not changing what Pepsi is, we are changing how Pepsi connects with people,' said Hossam Dabbous, Marketing Director, Beverages - GCC markets, PEPSICO International. 'Globally, technology is changing the world we live in, how we work, how we play - even how we think - and teenagers, our main market, are at the frontier of this new age, keen to adopt the latest innovations that will help them fast forward their education, their careers and the quality of their lifestyles.'

While remaining true to its brand DNA and spirit, Pepsi has redesigned the labeling of bottles, cans and cups to express today's key trends, with themes such as Digital Download, Emoticons, SMS and Global Festival, all of which have been inspired by teens. In addition, the look of Diet Pepsi has been given a makeover to connect with the interests and hobbies of female consumers.

'With the rapid advancement of technology, youth in our region are more exposed to international standards and realize that in the workplace they will have to compete with the best in the world - and they really do want to be world-class in whatever they do: in the career path they choose to follow, the sports they play and the standard of living they aspire to,' added Dabbous.

'Today, young people are multi-dimensional. They don't want just to be informed, they want to experience the real thing and Pepsi reflects the same dynamism that gives them the thrill of feeling alive.'

Now hitting supermarkets and other outlets with high impact displays, the new look of Pepsi retains the familiar blue, red and white colors that make the brand stand out from the rest, with the in-store promotions supported by a massive TV and outdoor advertising campaign.

The cool new look of the campaign scores ten out of ten for imagery that celebrates teenage energy and highlights the success of Pepsi in becoming a cultural icon of GCC youth.

International advertising community promotes social responsibility in a new program broadcasted on EuroNews

Sat, 2008-02-16 16:46 - By
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The International Advertising Association (IAA) is supporting the production of 'One Minute of Responsibility' program, which is organized by ACT Responsible, an initiative of AdForum, featuring spots for non-commercial, social and environmental causes.

The program, which is being broadcasted daily several times on EuroNews, beginning mid last month, comprises 25 campaigns which are part of the global ACT Responsible exhibition touring the world in 2007/8.

According to Mr. Mustapha Tabba, President of IAA Chapter in Jordan, the ACT Responsible exhibition is a remarkable event that discusses issues that affect our globe and lives.

'We are proud to have hosted the exhibition during the 2nd International Advertising and Marketing Communications Conference held in 2006, as it witnessed a huge attendance and appreciation by Jordanian professionals and practitioners who were given the chance to look at some of the best creative work that was done for non-commercial causes,' said Tabba.

For his part, Herve de Clerck, Dream Leader of AdForum and ACT Initiator and IAA Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility said: 'Our goal is to federate, inspire and promote great work in advertising and communication, in favour of social responsibility and sustainable development, and to show how advertising plays a significant role in raising awareness in today's crucial world issues.'

Tabba pointed out that de Clerk is one of the most renowned figures in the marketing communications industry who has participated in the International Advertising and Marketing Communications Conference for three consecutive years where his presentations saw a huge attendance due to the topics he tackled.

'Since inception, the IAA has cared about promoting social responsibility', said Joseph Ghossoub, Chairman and World President IAA. 'It is only natural that we support this initiative with ACT and EuroNews.'

Olivier de Montchenu, Managing Director EuroNews Sales, expressed the channel's delight in supporting this effort to promote social responsibility saying: 'We are proud to broadcast such a program. It shows the global capacity of the advertising industry to stimulate further the development of responsible communications.'

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