Dentsu Aegis Network digital performance agency, iProspect has expanded its operation in Saudi Arabia. Based out from Jeddah, it has launched with a team of five, with IKEA and Al Rajhi Bank as its founding clients. Its team members will be based in Dentsu Aegis’ second Saudi office in Riyadh, and supported by the iProspect Hub office in Dubai.
The local operation will be headed by Ruark Williams, Digital Performance Director, who has transferred from the UAE office where he has been for the past four years. Prior to iProspect, Mr Williams worked at iCrossing London.
The agency believes that the launch will bolster the digital capabilities already offered by sister agency Carat, which will continue to focus on media communications strategy, planning and buying supported by world class consumer insights.
“As the second largest Middle Eastern market, Saudi Arabia presents a huge opportunity. Digital spends have increased by more than 200% from 2015 to 2016 with continued exponential growth predicted moving into 2017 and beyond. This momentum highlighted the need for an on-ground presence of digital specialists who are able to proactively educate the market and ensure our clients are getting real ROI across all digital platforms,” said Mr Williams.
“iProspect MENA was launched in Dubai in 2012 and has seen great success servicing both international and regional brands since then. Now established as one of the region’s leading performance marketing agencies, we are very excited to launch in Saudi Arabia and ensure both new and existing clients are benefitting from our proprietary tools, processes and best practice. This is the first step for the regional expansion of iProspect which aims to bring their experience and expertise to all of MENA’s major markets,” added Ahmad Haidar, Managing Director, KSA & Egypt.