The list below is not an endorsement. Its intention is to highlight the agencies that were shortlisted for the creative agency of the year award category by a jury of 29 client-side marketers who judged the Campaign Agency of the Year Middle East awards in partnership with Haymarket in the UK and audited by PwC, under MediaSense.
Unlike other awards in the region that are based on the agencies’ work and creative effectiveness, Campaign Middle East’s Agency of the Year Middle East Awards honour those who have raised the bar within the industry in terms of business growth, workplace culture, leadership, as well as diversity and inclusion.
Reviewed by the panel of judges, here are the best Events, Experiential and Engagement agencies in the Middle East for 2024:
Jack Morton MENAT
Jack Morton MENAT, also the winner of the category, grew significantly in 2024, recording a 17 per cent revenue increase. The agency expanded its operations in Saudi Arabia and delivered high-profile projects at COP28, including Siemens and Mastercard sustainability showcases. Other notable work included the Ithra Sync Digital Wellbeing Summit. The agency’s commitment to DEIB, mental health, and talent development is reflected in its employee engagement scores as well as recognition as a Great Place to Work®. “Jack Morton MENAT has had a transformative year, with an impressive 17 per cent revenue growth and high-profile projects.” said, one judge from the jury. The judge also highlighted the agency’s “ innovation, growth, and leadership in the experiential marketing space.”
54
A sports and entertainment agency, 54 operates across five regions, working with rights holders, governing bodies, brands, and investors of sport. The agency’s most notable projects include the Aramco Team Series and LIV Golf. As noted by one of the judges that the agency’s involvement in the large scale projects demonstrated its “strong operational capabilities”. The judge also shared the agency’s social responsibility initiatives were commendable. Another judge added, “Their contribution to Saudi sports vision is great.”
BUREAU BÉATRICE
In 2024, BUREAU BÉATRICE delivered luxury campaigns for brands like Bulgari, Richard Mille, and Swarovski, integrating AR, AI, and projection mapping. The agency was also acquired by the Independents, an international communications group specialising in luxury, fashion and lifestyle. Judges commended their creativity and high-quality creative output, as one said, “Bureau Beatrice has demonstrated significant creativity and technical expertise through their work with luxury brands”. Another judge highlighted their “great achievements in revenue growth for 2023.”
Identity
Identity managed high-profile events, including COP28, the Dubai Business Forum, and the Capital Market Summit, showcasing sustainability and innovation. The agency has a known history for delivering major global events including COPs, Leader Summits and Coronation of King Charles III. It also won some new businesses which included Mubadala and Dubai Chambers. One of the judges praised its ability to execute complex events and sustainability initiatives to deliver “flawless experiences that align with sustainability goals”. The judge added, “Their creative output, such as the COP28 brand narrative and large-scale VVIP facilities, showcases their innovative approach to event management.”
Imagination
In its 12th year in the region, Imagination Middle East delivered impactful projects for the King Salman Park initiative, also a new client win, alongside partnerships with Google and the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. They focused on AI-driven solutions, bespoke workshops, and diversity initiatives. Judges highlighted their creativity and innovation. “Imagination Middle East’s submission stands out for its creative excellence, innovation, and deep commitment to client relationships,” one judge said, “Their use of AI-driven solutions and bespoke workshops reflects their forward-thinking approach, and their dedication to nurturing talent—especially promoting female hires and Emirati nationals—highlights a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.”
