MBC Media Solutions (MMS) CEO Ahmed Al Sahhaf has been appointed as President of the newly established Saudi Chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA).
The creation of the chapter marks a significant development for the Kingdom’s advertising and creative industries, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda to foster economic diversification, innovation, and cultural exchange.
The IAA Saudi Chapter seeks to position itself as a key platform for collaboration and development within the regional advertising industry. Its establishment follows recent reforms under Vision 2030 that have simplified non-profit regulations in Saudi Arabia, enhancing governance and transparency. These reforms have enabled the formation of organisations like the IAA Saudi Chapter, which aims to provide strategic direction for the Kingdom’s growing advertising and creative sectors.
Ahmed Al Sahhaf’s appointment as president comes with a mandate to guide the chapter in addressing key industry priorities, such as empowering local talent, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting economic diversification. The chapter also aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional hub for creativity and advertising, while highlighting the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage on a global stage.
Al Sahhaf has more 20 years of experience in the advertising industry, having led numerous successful campaigns and built MMS into a prominent advertising entity since joining MBC Group in 2020.
Speaking on his appointment, Al Sahhaf said, “Being appointed as President of the IAA Saudi Chapter is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. I am honoured to be serving on its board and see this as a unique opportunity to actively contribute to the continued growth and global positioning of Saudi Arabia’s advertising industry. In collaboration with esteemed board members and industry leaders, we are committed to establishing a chapter that not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage but also fosters innovation, drives the Kingdom’s creative economy forward, and strengthens its standing on the global stage.”
The IAA Saudi Chapter is expected to act as a bridge for local and international stakeholders, facilitating dialogue and partnerships that further integrate Saudi Arabia’s advertising and creative industries into global networks.
Through its activities, the chapter will aim to provide support for industry professionals, celebrate the region’s cultural identity, and enhance the Kingdom’s visibility as a growing force in the global creative economy.
