Fifth year of celebrating brand excellence, for Transform Awards MENA

Five years ago, the branding industry in the Middle East and North Africa was still finding its feet. There was some quality work, but companies were only beginning to recognise the value of a strong brand and brand strategy. Since then, branding has reached its maturity point in the region. Organisations of all size and sector are prioritising brand and communications and brand work is of world-class standard.

The Transform Awards MENA 2018 will celebrate that excellence for the fifth year. The programme, open for entries until 1 February 2018, will celebrate the best in rebranding and brand development across the region in its annual ceremony in May 2018.

In spring 2017, winners ranged from telecoms to banking to education, but one of the big winners was for the newly-created place Yas Island. The work, carried out by Start for Majid Al Futtaim Finance put the travel and leisure destination firmly on the map in Abu Dhabi by targeting a selective global audience. AppyKids and Bellwether took home numerous gold awards for an unparalleled focus on children’s education and app design.

But it was the public sector organisations which won the limelight. Over the past five years, government-owned corporations have embraced branding as a means of improving their employer brands, external reputations and international esteem. Last year was no exception.

Entries are being accepted this year in categories like, ‘Best brand experience,’ ‘Best localisation of an international brand,’ and ‘Best internal communication during a brand development project,’ among others. Entries accepted before 14 December receive a $100 discount.

“Branding excellence shines through as a dominant force within the MENA region,” says Transform magazine’s publishing editor Andrew Thomas. “We’re extremely proud to help set the benchmark for rebranding and brand development for the fifth year. Winners of the Transform Awards year in and year out are truly best in class in creative ability and strategic thought.”

To enter, click here. For queries, email Valentina.