The International Advertising Association (IAA) has established a new chapter in Qatar, expanding its presence in the Middle East and creating a platform aimed at connecting the country’s advertising, media, marketing and communications industries with global expertise.
The Qatar Chapter was announced at IAA UNITE in London and becomes the association’s fifth chapter in the Middle East. Mohammed Jassim Mohamed Ibrahim Jaidah, Group Executive Director of Jaidah Group, will serve as its president.
Founded in New York in 1938, the IAA has more than 55 chapters worldwide and brings together professionals across advertising, marketing, media and technology. Its Qatar operation is expected to focus on knowledge sharing, professional development, ethical practices and greater collaboration between local and international industry stakeholders.
IAA Global President and Chairman Frederik Borestrom said Qatar’s growing ambitions in innovation and creativity made the country a natural fit for the association’s regional expansion.
The launch comes as Qatar continues to develop its media and communications ecosystem, supported by digital infrastructure, international events and investment in creative and technology-driven industries. The country is also home to major media organisations including Al Jazeera and beIN Media Group.
The new chapter is intended to serve as a bridge between Qatar’s local industry and the wider international advertising and communications community. Its activities will include professional workshops, training and certification programmes, industry discussions and networking events involving agencies, brands, media organisations, government bodies and technology companies.
Jaidah said the chapter would provide a platform for industry leaders to collaborate while helping develop local talent and bring international standards and expertise to Qatar’s growing creative economy.
The initiative also supports the broader objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly its focus on building a knowledge-based economy and developing the country’s creative industries.
The Qatar Chapter’s board includes Hanan El Tabch as Secretary General; Emin Bawab as Treasurer and Senior Vice President; Antoine Geadah as Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing; Wassim AlDayah as Vice President of Public Service; Ziad Smayra as Vice President of Marketing and Membership Recruitment; Mazen Abd Rabbo as Vice President of Events and Programmes; Moustapha Mikaty as Vice President of Communications and Website; and board members John Bassil and Alain David.
Through its planned programmes, the chapter aims to create opportunities for established professionals as well as young talent in advertising, media and communications. It will also seek to encourage cross-border partnerships and strengthen Qatar’s role as a regional centre for creativity, communications and marketing.
