Speaking about the Award, Philip Thomas, Chairman, Dubai Lynx, commented: “Chafic Haddad’s impact on the advertising industry in MENA has been nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to drive creative innovation and effectiveness has not only elevated brands but also set new benchmarks for the industry. We are delighted to recognise his outstanding achievements and lasting influence with this accolade.”

To date, Chafic remains one of the most awarded creatives in the MENA region. He was appointed Chief Creative Officer for VML MENA in January 2024, responsible for the agency’s overall creative vision and reputation. Prior to that, he served as Chief Creative Officer of Wunderman Thompson MENA, working with some of the world’s biggest brands.

Chafic’s move to JWT Dubai in 2004 as Executive Creative Director turned the Dubai office into one of the region’s most awarded agencies for six consecutive years, winning over 300 trophies at global and regional award shows such as Cannes Lions, Clio, D&AD, Dubai Lynx, Effies, LIA, NYF and One Show.

In 2010, Chafic went on to spearhead a major transformation at JWT Riyadh, leading a series of groundbreaking campaigns that helped JWT and VML KSA become the most awarded and effective agency in Saudi Arabia. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s first-ever Cannes Lions Grand Prix win. His many other notable accolades include JWT winning Agency of the Year in 2008 and being a key player in JWT MENA winning Network of the Year wins in 2010 and 2016 at Dubai Lynx.

Speaking about the Award, Chafic Haddad, Chief Creative Officer, VML MENA, said: “It’s truly an honour to be named Advertising Person of the Year. First and foremost, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this possible. It’s a reflection of the brilliant people I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years; the clients, colleagues, partners who have all contributed to this journey, and all those who’ve supported me along the way. Finally, thank you to the industry for this recognition. There’s still so much left to do, so many new stories to tell.”

Ian Fairservice, Vice Chairman, Dubai Lynx, added: “Chafic takes great pride in the work he and his teams have produced – not only the award-winning campaigns but the entire body of creative output. His approach ensures that the work is not only innovative and engaging but also delivers real scale and measurable impact for top clients. His creative vision consistently drives inspiring, unexpected, and meaningful campaigns that challenge expectations and leave a lasting impact. His passion and commitment to excellence make him a standout leader, and this honour is a reflection of his remarkable impact.”

The presentation of the 2025 Dubai Lynx Advertising Person of the Year Award will take place during the Dubai Lynx Awards Ceremony at the Emirates Golf Club on Wednesday 9 April. For further information on the Awards Ceremony, please visit www.dubailynx.com.

ENDS

Contacts:

Camilla Lambert
PR Director
LIONS
[email protected]

Tash Naidoo
Senior PR Manager
LIONS
[email protected]

Kamille Marchant
Director
Dubai Lynx
[email protected]

Press Portal:

press.canneslions.com

Awards enquiries:

[email protected]

Notes to editors:

About Dubai Lynx

Dubai Lynx is MENA’s leading Awards for creative excellence and effectiveness, in the Middle East and North Africa. Presented by Ascential, organisers of Cannes Lions, together with their regional partners, Motivate Media Group, the Dubai Lynx, is held in association with the UAE Chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA) and with the support of Dubai Media City (DMC). The Awards serve as the definitive benchmark for creative excellence, marketing strategy and effectiveness in MENA.

www.dubailynx.com

About LIONS

As The Home of Creativity, LIONS is the destination for those in the business of creativity. As the definitive benchmark of creative excellence and with unparalleled access to insight on how it works, LIONS provides those on the journey to creative excellence all they need, at whatever stage they are at and wherever they are. Our annual five-day Festival, Cannes Lions, is the meeting place for the global creative marketing community and a celebration of the world’s most excellent and effective work.

www.lionscreativity.com

About Motivate Media Group

Motivate Media Group operates across the GCC and MENA region with a diverse portfolio of media interests comprising magazines, digital, social, video, exhibitions & events, cinema and books.

A leading publisher in the Gulf since 1979, its portfolio includes market-leading magazines, eight websites and over 300 book titles. Motivate’s digital and video division is an established content provider for some of the region’s largest companies and the Motivate events team expertly stage some of the GCC’s major award ceremonies, festivals and activations.

With a staff of more than 200 experienced and dedicated professionals, Motivate is committed to providing editorial excellence, and a corporate mission to develop integrated communication channels that entertain, inform and enrich.