23 to power next phase of growth in sport & entertainment
The acquisition will mark a significant leap in M+C Saatchi Middle East's growth journey. The agency already offers one of the most comprehensive and competitive capability suites in the region, spanning marketing and communications, media and sponsorship, talent management, global and social issues, PR, social media, growth strategy and consulting, and production. The integration of DUNE | 23 will further strengthen its sport and entertainment offering.
Founded in 2023 by Jamie Hosie and Lloyd McMillan, DUNE | 23 is powered by a team of over 40 specialists delivering end-to-end marketing solutions — from communications and commercial strategy to activation across social media, PR, influencers, experiential, community engagement, and media buying.
In just a few years, DUNE | 23 has cemented its position as a leading agency in the region, thanks to its deep regional expertise and exclusive focus on the sport and entertainment industries. The agency's impressive client portfolio already includes Emirates Dubai 7s, Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, LIWA Festival, SailGP, Zeekr, All Things Live Middle East, Dubai Watch Week, Longines Global Champions Tour, Nada Dairy, BRED by Hypebeast, and plenty more from within the world of sport and entertainment.
DUNE | 23 will become the Middle East arm of M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, a globally awarded agency with a 20-year legacy of passion-led campaigns for iconic brands such as Barclays, LEGO, Pernod Ricard, Kia, adidas, NFL, Heineken, Sky, and UEFA. M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment has received numerous accolades, including Agency of the Year at the UK Sponsorship Awards and an unmatched seven-time win as Sport Industry Agency of the Year. Now part of the M+C Saatchi Middle East network, the newly established sixth global office of M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment will be powered and scaled by DUNE | 23's regional insight and expertise.
The addition of the DUNE | 23 team brings M+C Saatchi Middle East's headcount to over 160, a milestone that underscores the agency's evolution into a regional powerhouse of integrated communication capabilities.
Scott Feasey, CEO, M+C Saatchi Middle East, commented: 'This acquisition is a pivotal step in advancing our regional growth trajectory and strengthening our leadership in a space where brand and culture converge. DUNE | 23 brings specialist expertise, a proven track record, and a team uniquely attuned to creating lasting impact through passion and fandom. By integrating their capabilities and insight into our ecosystem, we're scaling our ability to lead in one of the world's most dynamic and fast-growing markets for sport and entertainment.'
Robin Clarke, Global CEO, M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, added: 'Our expansion into the Middle East is driven by increasing demand from clients and the rich number of opportunities that the region represents for our business. What co-founders Jamie and Lloyd have built in the region in such a short space of time makes me incredibly excited for our future together. The alchemy of M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment's global legacy and DUNE | 23's local repute will make M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment a powerhouse in a region that is fast becoming one of the world's leading hubs for sport and entertainment.'
Lloyd McMillan, Founder DUNE | 23, stated: 'The M+C Saatchi name is synonymous with creative excellence, and the Middle East operation is no exception. Joining M+C Saatchi Middle East marks a defining moment for us. One that broadens our reach, deepens our capabilities, and positions us to deliver even greater impact on behalf of our clients.'
Fellow DUNE | 23 Founder, Jamie Hosie, added: 'We're incredibly proud of what we've built in such a short time, a homegrown agency shaped by ambition, driven by creativity, and grounded in a deep understanding of the region. Now, we carry that momentum into a global network built to scale bold ideas. Together, we're ready to shape the next chapter of sport and entertainment in the region along with the people and purpose that have guided us from day one.'
About M+C Saatchi Group:
M+C Saatchi Group is a global creative solutions company and the world's largest independent creative network. We connect specialist expertise, powered by creativity, data and technology, to help build famous brands, solve the most complex business and societal challenges, and create and curate Cultural Power for our clients.
Our capabilities encompass marketing and communications; experience, technology and consulting; media and sponsorship; and specialist services like global and social issues, sport and entertainment marketing and IP, and talent management to help brands connect, influence, and thrive in a rapidly changing and complex world.
M+C Saatchi delivers Cultural Power for our clients through:
Constant Creativity Ideas that make an impact in the world.
Brutal Simplicity of Thought We make the complex simple with incisive, innovative solutions.
Cutting Edge Tools We have a suite of tools that help us understand Cultural Power and how to harness it to grow our clients' businesses.
Growth Engineering We build agile, channel agnostic teams with the sole objective of driving brand growth.
Cultural Connectivity Our team of diverse thinkers, who are experts in their fields, live and breathe all areas of culture.
Headquartered in London, operations span 22 countries with major hubs in the UK, the US, Europe, APAC, and the Middle East.
About DUNE | 23
DUNE | 23 is a Middle Eastern-based Sport & Entertainment agency specialising in integrated marketing and communications, brand and commercial partnerships, and recently placed in the top three in the Best Agency category at the 2024 Middle East Sports Industry Awards.
DUNE | 23 holds a portfolio of high-profile clients across the region, including SailGP, DP World Tour (Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, DP World Tour Championship, Team Cup and Dubai Invitational), Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Emirates Dubai 7s, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Autonomous Racing League, Argentina Football Association, Zayed Sports City, All Things Live (Ed Sheeran, Bryan Adams and Green Day), Dubai Comedy Festival, Zayed Sports City, BRED by Hypebeast, Steve Harvey's Open Fire Food Festival, BLAST Premier Esports Festival, Zayed Charity Run, UCI, The PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, Zayed Sports City, to name a few from the world of sport and entertainment.
With offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and further expertise across the region, DUNE | 23 boasts a strong presence throughout the Middle East.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
32 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Bimal Jain's eight net birdies propel him to victory at Orient Travel Monthly Stableford
Under clear skies players and members gathered at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club last weekend for the much-anticipated Orient Travel Monthly Stableford, proudly supported by the Saudi Tourism Authority. The event attracted a strong field eager to test their skills and compete for the impressive prizes generously supplied by the sponsors. The day belonged to Bimal Jain, whose exceptional play stood out amid strong competition. Posting an impressive 39 Stableford points, Jain's round was marked by eight net birdies, culminating in a three-under-par performance that earned him top honours. His display of skill and composure in challenging conditions made the victory all the sweeter. Close on his heels was Rajesh Pareek, whose 36 points and steady play nearly stole the spotlight. While he narrowly missed the top prize, Pareek's performance underscored the tight competition, and it was enough to secure him a commendable runner-up finish. Third place was claimed by Ajaz Ahmed, who also tallied 36 points, demonstrating consistent form that keeps him firmly in contention at club events. Meanwhile, in the Gross Division, Amiya Ranjan emerged victorious with a solid 27 points, rounding off a day of spirited golf. The club extended its congratulations to all participants and expressed gratitude to its sponsors for their unwavering support, which continues to elevate the profile of Sharjah's golfing community.
Khaleej Times
32 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Shabab Al Ahli's Sardar Azmoun wins UAE Pro League Golden Ball
Sardar Azmoun of Shabab Al Ahli won the Golden Ball award for Best Player, beating Mehdi Ghayedi of Kalba and Caio Lucas of Sharjah as the UAE Pro League celebrated the stars of the 2024–2025 season in a dazzling evening in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. "I'm truly grateful to receive this award. Thank you to the club owners for their trust, to my coaches and teammates for their hard work, to my family for their endless love, and to our incredible fans for their support every single game. This is for all of us!" the Iranian star wrote on Instagram. Azmoun, a prolific striker who left Italian giants Roma to join Shabab Al Ahli, helped the Dubai club win their ninth league title early this year with 11 goals. Shabab Al Ahli finished the season with 63 points from 23 matches as Sharjah finished second with 51 points and Al Wahda took the third place with 48 points. Saturday's event was attended by Abdulla Naser Al Jneibi, Chairman of the UAE Pro League, members of the Board of Directors, representatives of sponsor institutions, clubs, and a distinguished group of sports and media figures. The ceremony began with a speech by Abdulla Naser Al Jneibi, who welcomed the distinguished guests to a night that has become a highly anticipated annual tradition and a driving force for creativity in Emirati football, supported by the country's leadership. Meanwhile, Hamad Almeqbaali of Shabab Al Ahli claimed the Golden Glove award for Best Goalkeeper ahead of Ali Khaseif of Al Jazira and Adel Alhosani of Sharjah. Paulo Sousa of Shabab Al Ahli received the Leader award for Best Coach, surpassing Milos Milojevic of Al Wasl and Cosmin Olăroiu of Sharjah. Guilherme Da Silva of Shabab Al Ahli won the Golden Boy award for Best Player U23, ahead of Siaka Sidibe of Al Wasl and Brahima Diarra of Al Wahda. Nabil Fekir of Al Jazira secured the Best Goal award, beating Soufian Rahimi of Al Ain and Omar Khribin of Al Wahda. Mohamed Elneny of Al Jazira won the Fans' Player of the Year award ahead of Lucas Pimenta of Al Wahda and Fabio De Lima of Al Wasl.
Khaleej Times
2 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Metro Blue Line gives added thrust to Dubai realty boom
Major infrastructure upgrade, which is reshaping Duba's connectivity and unlocking the potential of previously underappreciated areas, is giving an added thrust to the city's real estate market boom. Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, and Mirdif, now more accessible and better integrated, are fast emerging as investment hotspots, following the launch of transformative infrastructure projects, including the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The growth is further driven by rising global investor interest, and a new generation of tech-savvy buyers, according to real estate market analysts. Market experts said there is a noticeable increase in buyer interest within infrastructure-linked zones and mature master-planned communities. The attraction lies in improved accessibility, lifestyle upgrades, and strong potential for long-term capital gains. 'We're seeing a perfect storm of opportunity: Smart infrastructure, digital empowerment, and diversified demand,' noted a spokesperson of A1 Properties. Jayakrishnan Bhaskar, director of Ozon Marketing, said the outlook remains optimistic but measured. Price growth is expected to moderate to between 3.5 and 5.2 per cent, with the median home price projected to rise from Dh1.7 million to as high as Dh1.79 million. The majority of price pressure is expected in mid-tier communities where supply remains tight. V. Sivaprasad, chairman of Condor Developers, said Metro Blue Line will be key game-changer for the Dubai real estate sector, going forward. 'With strong fundamentals, ongoing population growth, and strategic infrastructure investments such as the Blue Line and roads and flyovers, Dubai's real estate market is not just booming—it is evolving into a globally admired model of urban development, tech-enabled innovation, and investor confidence,' said Sivaprasad. The first half of 2025 reflects this surge. Residential sales exceeded Dh120 billion in the first quarter alone, marking an 18 per cent rise compared to the same period in 2024. Average residential prices climbed 5.6 per cent year-on-year, with villa prices jumping 7.9 per cent due to limited supply and high demand, while apartments saw a 4.2 per cent increase. Off-plan properties continue to dominate activity, propelled by attractive payment plans and investor enthusiasm for new developments in infrastructure-enhanced locations. International capital is flowing into Dubai at an accelerated pace. Buyers from the UK, Europe, and India are capitalising on favourable exchange rates and the value of dirham-based assets. With Dubai offering a transparent, tax-free investment environment, cross-border transactions are on the rise—now facilitated by AI-powered platforms that simplify financing, property discovery, and due diligence for overseas buyers. Despite the surge in prices, Dubai's property market remains attractively priced compared to global cities such as London and New York, offering strong value for international investors. This affordability, paired with a stable regulatory environment and a diversified buyer base spanning the GCC, Europe, Asia, and Africa, ensures resilience and cushions the market against regional shocks. Reforms introduced by the Dubai Land Department have brought enhanced transparency and discipline to financing practices, reducing speculation and mitigating bubble risks. The result is a well-grounded market with sustainable fundamentals and long-term appeal. A1 Properties expects Dubai to close 2025 with high absorption rates in infrastructure-connected zones, healthy rental yields, and sustained recognition as a global benchmark for real estate investment. Strategic factors are aligning to reinforce Dubai's position as one of the most dynamic housing markets in the world. Several broader forces are shaping the housing landscape. High mortgage rates—currently between 5.25 and 5.75 per cent—are deterring some first-time buyers and discouraging existing homeowners from upgrading. This dynamic is increasing rental retention and cooling mid-tier resale activity, while also amplifying investor focus on rental yield strategies. Supply remains a critical issue. While developers are launching new projects, actual handovers lag behind, especially in the mid-income segment. Most of the supply pipeline is concentrated in luxury or branded developments, creating a supply-demand mismatch that supports continued price growth in affordable communities. Areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle, Al Furjan, and Dubai South are experiencing strong demand as a result. Population growth is another key driver. Dubai's population surpassed 3.65 million in early 2025 and continues to expand, buoyed by residency reforms and favourable lifestyle conditions. Inflows from India, Russia, China, and Europe are fuelling demand in both ownership and rental markets, particularly in master-planned communities with proximity to transport corridors and employment hubs. While developers have launched high-profile projects in areas like Business Bay and Dubai Creek Harbour, delivery timelines remain focused on premium inventory. This leaves an underserved affordable housing segment where demand continues to rise, especially for move-in-ready units. The rental market is also tightening. High borrowing costs and rising home values are pushing many residents to rent, which in turn is keeping rental yields elevated. Investors are responding by leveraging short-term leasing and extended tenancy agreements to maximise returns. In Q2 2025, 58 per cent of all real estate transactions were driven by foreign buyers, many of whom are acquiring units for income-generating strategies. Dubai's investor-friendly policies—including zero property and capital gains taxes, long-term residency visas, and digital property registration—continue to attract international capital. Enhanced tenancy regulations and digital transaction platforms are further increasing transparency and reducing risk for overseas investors, experts argue. Inventory is likely to remain constrained, especially in affordable and mid-market segments, while high-end handovers dominate the delivery pipeline. Areas such as JVC, Arjan, and Al Furjan are forecast to see increased activity due to their relative affordability and growth potential. According to market watchers, rents are projected to rise between 3 and 4.5 per cent, with strong demand expected for one- and two-bedroom apartments. Vacancy rates are not expected to increase meaningfully due to the limited pipeline of affordable rentals, keeping pressure on existing stock.
