Events
Anghami Launches the First Digital “Audio Day” Conference in the Region
Anghami, the leading music streaming company in the MENA region, today announced the launch of its first digital “Audio Day” conference in the region. The event has been organised with the support of its exclusive media representative Digital Media Services (DMS), the digital arm of Choueiri Group.
Over 250 regional leaders from the media industry will convene in Dubai this year to take part in the event. The conference will take place at the Media One hotel on September 11th and will discuss the latest trends in the technology, digital and advertising sectors. Hosting top international and regional speakers, the first digital “Audio Day” in MENA will address the latest innovations in the digital audio space, its rapid growth, profound impact and powerful value as an advertising medium.
Experts will discuss how brand marketers are using the power of audio to connect with audiences, and how digital delivery is offering greater choice, control and customisation to listeners. The latest global trends in audio marketing will also be featured at the event to demonstrate how these are creating highly personal and exclusive advertising experiences for brand alignment.
Elie Abou Saleh, Commercial Director at Anghami will chair the event which will also be addressed by Anna Bager, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Mobile and Video Centers, Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), an independent body which aims at empowering the media and marketing industries to thrive in the digital economy. The conference will also host world-renowned neuroscientist from New York University (NYU), Dr. Amy Belfi, who will be sharing with the delegates some of the findings of her in-depth research into the power of audio and its impact on the brain.
Other speakers include:
- Elie Habib Co-Founder, Anghami
- Youmna Borghol, Head of Data, Choueiri Group
- Benjamin Masse, Market Development & Product Strategy, Triton Digital
Elie Abou Saleh said: “Digital audio has become a powerful tool that is mobile and personalised. Digital audio generated US$1.1 billion in advertising revenue in the US last year, with mobile accounting for an overwhelming 81% of digital audio ad dollars, according to a new report by Interactive Advertising Bureau and PWC on 2016 digital media ad revenue. Delivered in a music environment, the use of audio ads is undergoing a renaissance as marketers are taking advantage of digital offerings that provide listeners with greater choice, control and customisation of their experience. Digital audio will only move in an upward trajectory and we plan on leading this growth.”
DMS’ Chief Operating Officer, Michel Malkoun, also commented on the first digital “Audio Day” in MENA and the immense potential of digital audio in marketing and said: “At the forefront of digital innovation, DMS’ commitment to broadening the scope and horizon for the region’s digital media industry is focused on delivering not only breakthrough products and services, but also the best in global insights and perspectives. We are firm believers in educating the market on developments, trends and research, which digital marketers can benefit from.”
He added: “Leveraging the inherent power of music and advanced targeting capabilities, Anghami’s premium environment and proven success across regional markets enable brands to firstly create a personal connection with their target audiences and then, cement that bond with a highly rational association. The platform uniquely excels at serving digital advertising within the right context, at the right time and most importantly, when users are in the right mood. We are really looking forward to sharing more on what Anghami can deliver to our advertising partners at this upcoming event.”
Events
HONOR Hosts ‘HONOR the INNOVATION’ Event
HONOR revealed its latest flagship, the HONOR Magic V3, at the exclusive ‘HONOR the Innovation’ event. The launch of HONOR Magic V3 highlights HONOR’s unwavering commitment to innovation and the future of foldable technology, as the company continues to push boundaries and shape the tech landscape. The event followed HONOR’s announcement from the IFA 2024 site in Germany last week, where the company, in collaboration with Qualcomm and Microsoft, unveiled a trio of pioneering mobile AI solutions, spotlighting advancements in AI-driven computing and security.
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AI Agent, an on-device assistant that enhances user efficiency by automating tasks and integrating seamlessly with various apps. Additionally, HONOR introduced the world’s first on-device AI Deepfake Detection technology, which utilizes advanced algorithms to identify manipulated media and safeguard users from digital deception.
At the heart of the event in Dubai, is HONOR’s vision to redefine the mobile experience with groundbreaking features and design, making the HONOR Magic V3 a pivotal device in the company’s product lineup. From its innovative AI-integrated features, sleek and ultra-thin foldable design, and high-end camera systems, HONOR Magic V3 represents HONOR’s mission to deliver cutting-edge technology that meets the needs of modern users.
The UAE’s focus on becoming a global hub for innovation aligns with HONOR’s mission to elevate the mobile technology standard. Through events and devices like the Magic V3, HONOR aims to contribute to the UAE’s vision of a more connected, tech-driven future. The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion, “Social Coins of Innovation”. The panel spotlighted thought leaders including Mona Ataya, Founder of Mumzworld; Sudhu Arumugam, Chief Product Officer of M2; and Rishabh Singh, Vice President of Products at Astra Tech. Attendees experienced the future of mobile technology, networked with key figures in the tech industry, and gained insights from influential speakers.
As HONOR continues to make significant strides in the UAE and beyond, the successful launch of HONOR Magic V3 reaffirms the brand’s dedication to creating transformative technology. By consistently pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, HONOR remains at the forefront of technological advancement, delivering products that are not only innovative but also practical, versatile, and designed for the future. The strong reception at the event sets the stage for HONOR Magic V3 to become a landmark device, solidifying HONOR’s role as a global leader in smart devices.
Events
YaLLa Esports Launches $1.5M Esports Circuit
Following a successful inaugural season in 2024, YaLLa Esports, the leading esports media company and tournament organiser in the United Arab Emirates, is thrilled to announce the return of YaLLa Compass in 2025. YaLLa Esports is expanding the tournament’s reach with two tier 1 LAN events planned across the MENA region, offering one of the highest Counter-Strike 2 prize pools at $1.5 million (up from $450k in 2024).
The 2024 YaLLa Compass season amassed a worldwide following with a combined viewership across all broadcasts of 50 million views and 5 million+ watch hours. YaLLa Compass transcended geographic boundaries with 30 global broadcasts in 15 languages, catering to a truly global audience.
“The rapid growth of esports in MENA has created a unique opportunity for brands to connect with passionate and engaged audiences,” said Klaus Kajetski, founder and CEO, YaLLa Esports. “We proudly stand as a local company that delivered an esports event of this scale meeting international standards. By collaborating with both local and global brands, we reached mutual goals and made a significant impact for all our stakeholders, not only in the gaming industry’s local startups, tech talents and pop culture enthusiasts.”
The first LAN event drew a massive crowd of 2,000+ but also acro visitors, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The competition featured some of the world’s top Counter-Strike 2 athletes, including 12 global elite teams and a local Abu Dhabi team- Ninjas in Pyjamas.
Open qualifiers for Compass begin on July 29th, with two additional open qualifiers planned for Q4 2024 and Q1 2025. Teams will finally compete in a closed qualifier stage in the leadup to the first LAN event which will be held at prominent MENA locations in Q2 2025.
Events
HP Igniting Next-Gen UAE Talent in Esports and Game Development
HP has announced the winners of this year’s GameOn with the HP Gaming Garage hackathon at an event that took place at the HP Gaming Garage Lab at Rochester University in Dubai. Part of HP’s commitment to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people globally by 2030, the GameOn with HP Gaming Garage hackathon fosters creativity and innovation among aspiring game developers between the ages of 13-18 in the UAE. This year’ s hackathon concluded last week with Dubai Gem Private School, GEMS Wellington Academy School -Silicon Oasis, GEMS Founders School, Barsha selected as the big winners for their Golden Horizons, Circle Quest, and Code Crusaders Game projects respectively.
“As the Online Games market in the United Arab Emirates thrives, HP remains dedicated to building talent and innovation through initiatives like the HP Gaming Garage. With the UAE market projected to reach a revenue of US$50.60 million in 2024 and an anticipated user base of 1.3 million by 2027, the UAE’s emergence as a gaming hub highlights the importance of empowering the next generation of gamers and developers” said Peter Oganesean, Managing Director Middle East and East Africa, HP.
The HP Gaming Garage initiative is designed to inspire and empower students across the globe to develop the skills required for success in the gaming and esports sectors. With backing from HP, this initiative offers an online Gaming Garage education course platform available in various languages, including English and Arabic. Registering in the free courses offered in Game Development and Esports Management that are available via the HP Gaming Garage curriculum, individuals have the opportunity to enhance their abilities and flourish in the digital landscape.
One of this year’s highlights of the HP Gaming Garage initiative is the GameOn hackathon, providing students in the UAE with the possibility to apply their skills and creativity to highlight, celebrate and thereby preserve culture with the guidance of experienced mentors. Students between 13 and 18 years old who completed 70% of at least one of the HP Gaming Garage courses were presented with the opportunity to participate in this year’s hackathon, which kicked off on March 29th, 2024. The goal is for the participating teams to cultivate their own gaming concepts and ideas, infusing them with cultural diversity and richness.
“Gaming has become a powerful trend, with the younger generation seeking connection and bonding through gameplay, fostering relationships in new and innovative ways. We believe that the GameOn with HP Gaming Garage hackathon offers students a unique opportunity to showcase their technical skills while exploring and celebrating their cultural heritage through the immersive medium of gaming,” commented Lavina Punjabi, Sustainability Lead Middle East and Africa, HP.
In collaboration with AMD, HP launched the HP Gaming Garage Lab at Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai in February 2021. Serving as a hub for gaming and esports enthusiasts, the Lab provides students with state-of-the-art gaming equipment and access to industry leaders, fostering skill development and networking opportunities. Equipped with cutting-edge PCs, monitors, and peripherals, students are welcome to use the facility to study and create while curated programs and industry encounter sessions offer valuable insights and connections, and competitions like online gaming tournaments and hackathons provide exciting opportunities for participation and growth.
The winners of this year’s GameOn Hackathon presented their projects at the HP Gaming Garage Lab to a committee of esteemed gaming, education and technology experts consisting of Dr. Omar Abdul Latif, Assistant Professor at RIT-Dubai, Girish Dhyani Chandra, Sales Lead for the Middle East market at AMD, Rishabh Khanna, Founder & Board Member of International Teachers University, USA, Salman Razzaq, Business Development Leader at HP, Maxim Komlev, HP HyperX and Nisreen AlKhateeb, Trade Compliance at HP who selected the big winners. The winning teams were awarded remarkable prizes and recognition for their cultural creations, alongside mentorship opportunities from HP experts.