Chafic Haddad, Chief Creative Officer, VML MENADubai Lynx, MENA’s leading platform for creative excellence and effectiveness, has named Chafic Haddad, Chief Creative Officer, VML MENA, as its 2025 Advertising Person of the Year.
One of the most prestigious Awards at Dubai Lynx, the Advertising Person of the Year accolade celebrates an individual who has made a significant contribution to the MENA region’s advertising industry over the past year.
Commenting on the recognition, Philip Thomas, Chairman, Dubai Lynx, said, “Chafic Haddad’s impact on the advertising industry in MENA has been nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to drive creative innovation and effectiveness has not only elevated brands but also set new benchmarks for the industry. We are delighted to recognise his outstanding achievements and lasting influence with this accolade.”
Ian Fairservice, Vice Chairman, Dubai Lynx, added, “Chafic takes great pride in the work he and his teams have produced – not only the award-winning campaigns but the entire body of creative output. His approach ensures that the work is not only innovative and engaging but also delivers real scale and measurable impact for top clients. His creative vision consistently drives inspiring, unexpected, and meaningful campaigns that challenge expectations and leave a lasting impact. His passion and commitment to excellence make him a standout leader, and this honour is a reflection of his remarkable impact.”
To date, Haddad remains one of the most awarded creatives in the MENA region. He was appointed Chief Creative Officer for VML MENA in January 2024, responsible for the agency’s overall creative vision and reputation. Prior to that, he served as Chief Creative Officer of Wunderman Thompson MENA, working with some of the world’s biggest brands.
His move to JWT Dubai in 2004 as Executive Creative Director turned the Dubai office into one of the region’s most awarded agencies for six consecutive years, winning more than 300 trophies at global and regional award shows such as Cannes Lions, Clio, D&AD, Dubai Lynx, Effies, LIA, NYF and One Show.
In 2010, he went on to spearhead a major transformation at JWT Riyadh, leading a series of campaigns that helped JWT and VML KSA become the most awarded agency in Saudi Arabia. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s first-ever Cannes Lions Grand Prix win. His many other notable accolades include JWT winning Agency of the Year in 2008 and being a key player in JWT MENA winning Network of the Year wins in 2010 and 2016 at Dubai Lynx.
Reflecting on the award, Haddad said, “It’s truly an honour to be named Advertising Person of the Year. First and foremost, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this possible. It’s a reflection of the brilliant people I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years; the clients, colleagues, partners who have all contributed to this journey, and all those who’ve supported me along the way. Finally, thank you to the industry for this recognition. There’s still so much left to do, so many new stories to tell.”
The presentation of the 2025 Dubai Lynx Advertising Person of the Year Award will take place during the Dubai Lynx Awards Ceremony at the Emirates Golf Club on Wednesday 9 April.
