M&C Saatchi Acquires Dune 23 and Establishes Middle East Office

M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment has announced the acquisition of Dune 23, a leading sports and entertainment marketing agency based in the Middle East. This strategic move marks the establishment of M&C Saatchi's sixth global office and its first in the Middle East, reflecting the region's growing significance in the global sports and entertainment landscape.

Founded in 2023 by Jamie Hosie and Lloyd McMillan, Dune 23 has rapidly built a reputation for delivering impactful campaigns for high-profile clients, including Emirates Dubai 7s, Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, SailGP, and BRED by Hypebeast. The agency's team of over 40 specialists offers comprehensive marketing services, from communications and commercial strategy to activation across social media, PR, influencers, experiential, community, and media buying.

The acquisition aligns with M&C Saatchi's strategy to expand its presence in fast-growing markets. Robin Clarke, Global CEO of M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, stated, “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.”

By integrating Dune 23 into its operations, M&C Saatchi aims to enhance its ability to deliver culturally relevant and impactful campaigns in the Middle East. Scott Feasey, CEO of 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.”

The Middle East's sports and entertainment sector is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing investments in events, infrastructure, and talent development. The acquisition of Dune 23 positions M&C Saatchi to play a significant role in this evolving landscape, offering brands the expertise and local insight needed to connect with audiences through the power of sport and entertainment.

As the region continues to emerge as a global hub for sports and entertainment, the integration of Dune 23 into M&C Saatchi's global network underscores the importance of local expertise in delivering successful brand activations. This move not only expands M&C Saatchi's footprint but also enhances its capabilities to serve clients seeking to engage with the dynamic and diverse audiences of the Middle East.