The media and advertising landscape in the region underwent significant changes in 2024, with key milestones that shaped the industry’s landscape.

From the completion of the OSN+ and Anghami merger to Dubai’s establishment of Mada Media for managing out-of-home advertising, the Media Milestones cover the key changes that took place in the region over the year 2024.

These media milestones, along with others, are detailed in Campaign Middle East’s Annual 2024 issue, which also features in-depth lists such as the Top 20 news stories and integrated and digital campaigns.

1. OSN+ and Anghami merge to create new regional streaming giant

In April, OSN Group completed the acquisition of its majority stake in audio platform Anghami. First announced in November last year, the merger brought the OSN streaming arm OSN+ and Anghami content libraries together. While the two products remained separate, they were connected to allow users to switch between the two easily. Elie Habib, co-founder of Anghami, took over the new combined business as CEO, while Joe Kawkabani remained the CEO of OSN’s TV business.
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2. Sheikh Mohammed establishes Mada Media to manage Dubai advertising sites

In an effort to manage out-of-home advertising sites, Dubai launched a new media company in September. Established by Dubai Ruler His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Mada Media Company was tasked with managing, developing, and operating advertising sites across Dubai. The move saw RTA, Dubai Municipality – in coordination with the Dubai Investment Fund – and other entities transfer their advertising-related assets, rights and obligation to the company. Mada Media Company is also responsible for investing in adtech, conducting research and ensuring regulatory compliance.
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3. IAB MENA elevates audio advertising with new task force

Industry body IAB MENA initiated a special audio task force to support audio publishers, advertising agencies and advertisers in navigating advertising in the audio mediums. A new addition to the body’s nine task forces, the audio task force was created to increase awareness and understanding of the audio advertising landscape. It aims to enhance measurement within the industry, and to ensure the effective quantification and optimisation of audio campaigns.

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4. Multiply Group buys out BackLite Media

In February, Abu Dhabi-based Multiply Group completely acquired outdoor media company BackLite Media. The acquisition saw BackLite Media join the group’s media vertical that also houses outdoor companies Viola Outdoor and Media 247. The latter was acquired by Multiply last year. The deal included all operating entities
of BackLite Media and was a step in Multiply Group’s efforts to consolidate its media vertical.
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5. Arabic attention research challenges conventional wisdom on ad measurement and OMG and Seedtag study: Contextual ads powerfully engage audience attention

Two studies were launched to measure attention using eye-tracking technology for Arabic content and ads. Conducted in collaboration with Lumen Research, Dentsu, in partnership with Snap and Teads, released its Unlocking the Currency of Attention KSA study that evaluated attention across five social, video and contextual platforms. Meanwhile, an OMG and Seedtag study compared attention and recall between traditional and contextual advertising.
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6. Al Arabia signs $142M deal for Dubai OOH rights

In January, outdoor media company Al Arabia signed a deal worth $142 million for Dubai’s out-of-home advertising rights. RTA, the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, granted Al Arabia the rights to install, operate and maintain 294 outdoor advertising billboards for 10 years and 5 months. The move also marked the official entry of Al Arabia, originally based in Saudi Arabia, into the UAE market, through the establishment of a local company.
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7. DMS to expand Pinterest digital ad solutions in the MENA region

Pinterest entered the advertising landscape in the region through a sales partnership with DMS in July. The partnership provides brands and advertisers with digital ad solutions to connect with Pinterest’s audience in key Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets, including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

8. RTA updates Dubai OOH advertising guidelines

In August, OOH guidelines for advertisers in Dubai were updated. Published in the Dubai Out-Of-Home Advertising Manual, the updates included standardised design criteria, aesthetic elements, and updated spacing criteria between billboards. Other key additions included new designated zones for advertising and new procedures for the construction of commercial signage.

9. MMS adopts new audience measurement tool ‘KSA TAM’

MBC Media Solutions announced the adoption of the audience measurement tool KSA TAM for TV channels across MBC GROUP, Saudi Sports Company (SSC), and Al Arabiya News Channel. The adoption was revealed in light of the decision by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Media Regulation to establish KSA TAM as the official national benchmark for audience measurement in the Kingdom.

10. RTA rolls out in-car interactive screens in taxis

In March, RTA announced the introduction of 4,500 in-car interactive screens in taxis. The screens showcase lifestyle, news, entertainment, offers and promotions, and create new opportunities for advertisers to place their ads. The screens were first tested as part of a pilot, conducted by RTA in 2022.

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As we enter 2025, the Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising industry in the UAE and Middle East is experiencing a dynamic shift. Fuelled by innovation, data-driven insights, and a steadfast focus on impactful results, OOH is poised to take centre stage. Reflecting on 2024, we’ve witnessed impressive growth and the realisation of many anticipated trends—setting the stage for an even brighter future.

The industry’s transformation spans several key areas where OOH intersects with technology and consumer behaviour, driving profound changes across the advertising landscape.

AI impact

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transitioning from a buzzword to a business necessity, and its role in OOH advertising is no exception. In 2025, AI will unlock deeper, data-driven capabilities—processing information from mobile devices, geolocation technology, and social platforms to uncover actionable insights. This isn’t just about data collection; it’s about enabling smarter decisions that deliver precision and impact for brands.

Programmatic surge

Programmatic Digital Out-of-Home (PrDOOH) has evolved from an emerging trend to a cornerstone of revenue growth. Its ability to enable real-time, targeted campaigns transforms how brands engage with audiences—offering unprecedented scale, precision, and results.

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Retail influence

Retail media is becoming an essential element of modern OOH strategies. Malls and shopping destinations are now pivotal touchpoints in the consumer journey, influencing purchasing decisions at critical moments. According to recent studies, over 40 per cent of global marketers plan to increase investments in retail media by 2025. Rather than replacing existing strategies, retail media enhances campaigns with highly contextual, targeted messaging that drives results.

Data-driven precision

In today’s landscape, data is the key to relevance. By leveraging first- and second-party data, we can design campaigns tailored to audience behaviours and preferences, ensuring that every message reaches the right people at the right time, in the right place.

Quality and relevance over quantity

The focus is now on more than sheer volume. Premium placements and meaningful connections are what define successful campaigns. Every billboard, screen, or asset is strategically chosen to ensure brands engage authentically with their audiences and leave a lasting impression.

Sustainable innovation

The Middle East is setting new global standards in OOH, blending innovation with sustainability. From cutting-edge DOOH displays to eco-conscious advertising solutions, we must remain committed to delivering campaigns that inspire audiences and minimise environmental impact.

The UAE and Middle East continue to thrive as global hubs for innovation and growth, and OOH advertising will play a defining role in this transformation.

With advancements in programmatic technology, deeper integration with digital channels, and creative formats powered by automation and data, OOH is competing at a new level—offering measurable, meaningful ways for brands to connect with audiences.

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GroupM’s 2024 global advertising forecast projects a robust 9.5% growth in total advertising revenue, driven by digital transformation and evolving consumer behavior. The report highlights the resilience and evolution of advertising sectors, with digital channels continuing to dominate the landscape. Performance-based digital advertising, including search and social media, remains a primary growth driver as brands seek measurable outcomes in their campaigns.

Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising, particularly its digital subset (DOOH), emerges as a key player in the forecast. DOOH is expected to account for 42% of global OOH revenues by 2025, leveraging advancements in programmatic advertising, dynamic content capabilities, and urban digital infrastructure. Its integration with smart cities and sustainability initiatives positions DOOH as a future-proof advertising medium, offering brands high visibility and contextually relevant messaging in public spaces.

Retail media also gains prominence, with advertisers investing heavily in networks that connect directly to consumer purchase behavior. Emerging markets are another bright spot, with increasing access to digital technologies contributing to advertising growth. GroupM’s report underscores the continued expansion and innovation within the global advertising ecosystem, marking 2024 as a pivotal year for the industry’s evolution.

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) can contribute to the Out of home industry in numerous ways creative consultant Dino Burbidge told World Out of Home Organization members on the WOO December Global Call last week. Dino gives a fast-paced and practical overview of how AI is being used for everything from brainstorming and media planning to video generation and creative.

Burbidge gave practical examples of how the new tool could help OOH businesses and, crucially, which organisations were using it well.. The industry, he said, should embrace the power of AI and prepare to unlock new levels of creativity and productivity.

WOO CMO Richard Saturley says: "AI frightens as many people as it excites so it was great to have an informed view from someone who understands the intersection of creativity and technology. Dino's presentation should be essential viewing.".

Watch Dino Burbidge's presentation from last weeks Global zoom call below. Our first Global call of the New Year is on January 23rd and is open to all WOO members. If you want an invitation to this one hour Zoom call contact Mark Flys at mark@worldooh.org

BackLite Media proudly emerged as a standout at Multiply Group’s Annual Growth and Strategy Day, securing three highly coveted awards that underscore our relentless pursuit of excellence:
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• Customer Satisfaction: Recognizing our dedication to delivering unparalleled service and building strong client relationships.
• Innovation: Celebrating our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking strategies in the ever-evolving advertising landscape.
• Organic Growth: Honoring our ability to achieve sustainable and strategic expansion, cementing our position as an industry leader.

These accolades are a testament to the unwavering passion, creativity, and hard work of the BackLite Media team. Each recognition reflects our core values and commitment to excellence in all facets of our operations.

Receiving these awards at Multiply Group’s prestigious event was inspiring for our team. It highlighted the incredible strides we’ve made throughout 2024 and reaffirmed our mission to innovate and excel in the dynamic world of advertising.
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We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Multiply Group for this recognition and our exceptional team for their relentless dedication. These awards fuel our drive as we look ahead to even more significant achievements in 2025 and beyond.

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The journey to true Programmatic DOOH  is well underway, but how far down the road we are remains uncertain, says BackLite Media's James Harrison

A question that has been buzzing around in my mind for the past few years. Culminating in a panel at The Campaign Middle East OOH Breakfast Briefing:where I had the opportunity to interview four of the leading minds in the world of Programmatic Digital Out of Home (PrDOOH).

In my mind, the journey to true Programmatic DOOH  is well underway, but how far down the road we are remains uncertain. Will we ever reach a point where the promise of seamless, fully integrated programmatic OOH is realised? That’s still up for debate.

For now, perhaps it’s best to sit back and enjoy the ride. The headlines have been full of bold predictions and impressive claims about the size of the global Programmatic DOOH market, with regions competing to outshine one another. But amidst all this noise, are we even speaking the same language? Are we discussing Automation—the streamlining of processes—or have we truly stepped into the nuanced and complex world of Programmatic Digital Out of Home?

To explore this, let’s rewind to the start of the journey. Along the way, we’ve picked up valuable lessons, tackled difficult questions, and discovered some answers. In the context of the UAE market, this journey has been particularly unique. Although we entered the race later than many others, we’ve managed to catch up at an impressive pace, learning from pioneers in more mature markets. From the outset, it was clear: we needed to embrace digital transformation, harness the power of data, and embark on a mission to educate—not only ourselves but also our customers. But why? If the traditional ways of doing things weren’t broken, why devote years to rethinking and reshaping them? This isn’t about fixing something that didn’t need repair; it’s about evolving the Out-of-Home (OOH) landscape, ushering in a new era of transparency, efficiency, and innovation.

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Journey to Programmatic DOOH: Key Challenges

The leap forward in recent years has been remarkable. New standards in reporting and data transparency have transformed OOH into a more accountable medium. Questions that once plagued the industry are now being answered, although not without challenges:

• “OOH isn’t measurable.”
  Traditional OOH relied heavily on estimates and general audience data. With PrDOOH, advanced audience analytics, and integration with third-party platforms, we’re now seeing measurement capabilities that can stand alongside digital and TV metrics. But the question remains: are the data standards consistent globally, or are we still fragmented?
• “OOH isn’t flexible.”
  Static media placements were locked in for weeks, sometimes months. With PrDOOH, campaigns can now be activated, paused, or adjusted in real-time, responding to changing conditions such as weather, audience movement, or breaking news. Is this flexibility uniform across all markets, or is it still limited by infrastructure in certain regions?
• “OOH isn’t easy to buy.”
  The fragmented nature of OOH buying made it daunting for advertisers. PrDOOH is simplifying this process by creating marketplaces that integrate inventory from multiple operators. However, if not all media owners are on board, is it still effective? Are there still barriers in terms of integration and accessibility?
• “OOH isn’t targeted.”
  Historically, targeting in OOH was broad—location-based and demographic-focused. With data-driven PrDOOH, advertisers can now use behavioural, contextual, and even first-party data to refine their campaigns. The question is, are we leveraging this potential fully, or are we merely scratching the surface?

Programmatic DOOH: The benefits and the big question

A critical question must be addressed is how we define PrDOOH and distinguish it from Automation. Automation in OOH refers to the use of technology to streamline workflows—reducing manual processes and speeding up operations (@ Andy Hamblin). Programmatic, on the other hand, is about leveraging real-time data and technology to buy and deliver ads dynamically, often using algorithms to optimise placement and timing.

The Benefits
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• Enhanced efficiency: Reduces lead times and manual intervention.
• Greater targeting precision: Allows brands to reach specific audiences based on data insights.

• Improved accountability: Offers metrics and reporting akin to online advertising.
• Real-time flexibility: Adjust campaigns on the fly to match shifting conditions or priorities.

But here’s the crux: do we genuinely need PrDOOH, or is it something we’ve convinced ourselves we want because it’s the next big thing? For many markets, traditional OOH still delivers exceptional results. The real value of PrDOOH lies in its ability to bridge the gap between traditional outdoor and the digital ecosystem, making OOH a more integral part of omnichannel strategies.

As we forge ahead, the UAE market has an exciting opportunity. By building on its digital infrastructure and focusing on education, transparency, and collaboration, we can shape a version of PrDOOH that not only meets global standards but sets new benchmarks. The journey isn’t over, and perhaps it never will be—because evolution, by its nature, has no final destination. What matters is how we navigate the twists and turns ahead, and how effectively we address the challenges that remain.

So, are we there yet? Not quite. But maybe the journey itself is the destination. Let’s keep asking the hard questions and finding answers as we go.
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The journey toward true pDOOH is ongoing, and while there are bold claims about the global market size, it remains uncertain how far we are in seamlessly integrating programmatic into Out of Home (OOH) advertising. In the UAE, we have made significant progress by learning from established markets and embracing digital transformation, data utilisation, and education. This shift is crucial for evolving the OOH landscape into one that prioritises transparency, efficiency and innovation.

Recent advances in reporting standards have improved accountability in OOH advertising, and while challenges remain, key questions are gradually being addressed:

• Measurability: Traditional OOH relied on estimates. pDOOH enables advanced audience analytics and third-party data integration, enhancing measurement capabilities. However, consistency in data standards globally is still a concern.
• Flexibility: Static media placements were locked for weeks. pDOOH allows real-time adjustments based on changing conditions. But is this flexibility uniform across all markets?
• Ease of buy:  The fragmented nature of OOH buying can be daunting. pDOOH simplifies this via integrated marketplaces, but effectiveness may be hindered if not all media owners participate.
• Targeted: Historically broad targeting has evolved. pDOOH enables data-driven targeting, but are we maximising this potential?

A key question is how to define pDOOH and distinguish it from automation. In Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising, automation streamlines workflows and reduces manual tasks, while programmatic advertising uses real-time data to dynamically purchase and deliver ads, optimizing placement and timing through algorithms.

Benefits of pDOOH:

• Enhanced efficiency: Reduces lead times and manual intervention.
• Greater targeting precision: Allows brands to reach specific audiences based on data insights.
• Improved accountability: Offers metrics and reporting akin to online advertising.
• Real-time flexibility: Adjust campaigns on the fly to match shifting conditions or priorities.

Ultimately, the UAE market has a unique opportunity to leverage its digital infrastructure by focusing on education and collaboration. In 2025, the journey toward effective pDOOH will accelerate  by engaging with challenges and leveraging the benefits.

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Next year’s OAAA OOH Media Conference will take place May 5-7, 2025 in Boston and registration is now open.

The event, themed ‘The Power of Presence‘ will spotlight out of home’s unmatched ability to unify communities, amplify cross-channel campaigns, and drive brand growth by creating authentic connections in a hyper-connected world.

The conference will bring together a who’s who of marketing powerhouses, bold creative thinkers, and brand leaders to reimagine the role of OOH in the modern marketing mix.

The speaker lineup already includes:

• Todd Kaplan, Chief Marketing Officer, Kraft Heinz North America
• Jeanniey Walden, Chief Marketing Officer, Rite Aid
• Caitlin Mack, VP of Marketing, LesserEvil
• Jason Dorsey, Generational researcher and best-selling author
• Terry Kawaja, Founder and CEO, LUMA Partners

“The OOH Media Conference is a cornerstone event for our industry, and brings together leaders from across the marketing ecosystem to share ideas, shape the future, and showcase the unmatched power of out of home advertising,” said Anna Bager, President and CEO of OAAA, “It’s also an opportunity to align our collective vision and demonstrate the transformative role OOH plays in driving growth for brands and delivering real value to communities. This event is where connections are made, ideas take shape, and the future of advertising is defined.”‍

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Highlights of this year’s agenda include:

• Dynamic keynotes from leading industry voices who are shaping the future of advertising and redefining consumer engagement.
• Future-focused panels exploring the latest trends in creative storytelling, measurement, and the intersection of OOH with retail media, digital, and connected TV.
• Unparalleled networking opportunities designed to spark meaningful connections with industry leaders, peers, and partners.

Set in Boston’s vibrant Seaport District, the conference provides the perfect backdrop to experience one of the city’s most innovative and inspiring neighborhoods while bringing together leaders from across the marketing and media spectrum.

Registration can be found here.

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Registration is now open for the World Out of Home Organization Annual Congress to be held in Mexico City from June 4-6, 2025. This is the first time the WOO Annual World Congress has visited Latin America and follows a successful first visit to Asia for the 2024 Annual Congress in Hong Kong, attracting over 500 delegates.

Helping to host the 2025 event will be ALOOH, the trade body representing Out of Home in the region. ALOOH was formed in 2018 and both Gabriel Cedrone (ALOOH President) and Guillermo de Lella (ALOOH General Manager) serve on the WOO Board.

WOO President Tom Goddard says: "Our Annual Congress's first visit to Latin America, will break new ground in a dynamic, fast-growing multi-country market and endorse the brilliant work ALOOH is doing to establish a strong regional network representing the various national associations.

"Mexico City is a fantastic venue for Congress and another important occasion in the coming together of the global Out of Home industry. We look forward to welcoming delegates from The Americas and our 100+ International markets, for what we expect will be our largest ever event."

Click here to register for the congress.

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