Marking a landmark 25 years, MEPRA, the region’s leading PR and communications industry body, announces the return of its highly anticipated 18th edition of the awards. The event will set a new benchmark for industry excellence through a rigorous judging process.
A total of 45 categories are up for grabs, with more than 670 entries from 67 participating organisations being assessed by a distinguished panel of over 100 independent judges representing the government, corporate and agency sectors. The ceremony will also celebrate MEPRA’s 25th anniversary with a special trophy reveal, adding a memorable highlight to the awards ceremony taking place on 26 November 2026 in Dubai.
This year’s awards saw Riyadh Airports, Qatar National Library, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Saudi Aviation Club, Sohar International, TOD, Huda Beauty and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development join the list of participating organisations.
Following a detailed review of all submissions, Weber Shandwick, Ogilvy, and Gambit secured the highest number of shortlisted entries among this year’s finalists. The shortlist was determined through a thorough judging process, with expanded award categories and clearer evaluation criteria providing a consistent framework for both entrants and judges.
The judging process also includes an in-person evaluation for finalists of the Dave Robinson Award for Young Communicator of the Year, who will meet with a panel of judges in October as the final stage of the assessment.
Sharing his views in honour of exceptional client servicing, strategic vision and brilliance in campaigning, MEPRA Chairman, Justin Kerr-Stevens said, “MEPRA’s 25th anniversary is a chance to recognise how far the region’s communications industry has come, and the people helping to shape what comes next. This year, more than 670 entries from 67 organisations have given our judges an impressive range of work to consider. The shortlist reflects the ambition, creativity and strategic thinking across our industry. I’m looking forward to celebrating the teams behind that work at the Awards in November.”
The MEPRA Awards 2026 shortlist reflects the breadth and ambition of the region’s communications industry, with finalists recognised for work spanning technology integration, localised storytelling and data-led strategies that deliver measurable impact. This year’s selection highlights campaigns that combine creative thinking, strong research and a clear understanding of brands and audiences, setting a high standard for communications work across the region.
Tickets are available now, with limited seats, so those wishing to attend are encouraged to secure their tickets early at mepra.org.
The MEPRA Awards 2026 brings together leading names from across the region, with Memac Ogilvy as Diamond Partner, alongside Weber Shandwick MENAT, Mubadala, CARMA, Bayer Middle East, Telum Media, Burson, Almaqam Jewellery, Matrix Public Relations and Place Communications, as supporting partners.
About MEPRA
MEPRA is the leading professional body for public relations and communications practitioners in the Middle East.
Founded in 2001, MEPRA represents agency, in-house and public-sector professionals across the GCC and wider Middle East. Its work focuses on professional standards, capability building, industry recognition and convening senior practitioners to address the evolving role of communications in the region.
MEPRA delivers a year-round programme of professional development, research and industry dialogue, alongside its flagship annual awards. In 2026, the association marks its 25th anniversary.
About the Middle East Public Relations and Communications Industry
The public relations and communications industry in the Middle East is estimated to be worth between USD 1.5 and 2.0 billion annually, encompassing consultancy fees, retained advisory services, project-based work and integrated communications activity.
The market is characterised by strong growth across the GCC, a mix of global network agencies and regional independents, and increasing demand for strategic communications, crisis and reputation management, public affairs and stakeholder engagement. Rapid adoption of AI-enabled tools is being matched by heightened focus on ethics, trust and professional standards.
