Emirati Mariam Al Afridi Wins ‘Most Influential Global Marketing Leader’ Award

Mariam Al Afridi, Director of Government Communications at Dubai’s Department of Economic Development, has been recognised as one of the ‘Most Influential Global Marketing Leaders of the Year’ by the World Marketing Congress. Mariam was the only Arab to appear on the list, which is published annually and honours members of the marketing community who have delivered extraordinary work and demonstrated exceptional strategic prowess, as well as a commitment toward the advancement of the industry. 

Mariam was selected for being a leading marketer and for applying new techniques, approaches and ways of thinking in the industry and for reflecting the main award criteria: Marketing Competencies, Strategic Perspective & Future Orientation, Track Record, Integrity and Ethics and Commitment to Sustainability (Business, Social & Environmental). Her in-depth knowledge of the marketing world was captured in her PhD thesis about Dubai’s ‘experience economy’, which describes the global brand that the city has built and correlating it with its economy bringing it to new economic dimensions. The thesis also focused on elevating the brand experience to a city level where Dubai as a brand appears to be the epicentre of the experience economy in the world. The Most Influential Global Marketing Leader is a result of an intensely researched process undertaken by the research cell which consists of Post Graduates in History & Management with a combined 100+ years research experience post their studies. The shortlist is then reviewed by a jury comprising of senior professionals from across the globe.

Mariam Al Afridi commented: “As an Emirati, it is an honour to appear on this international list alongside some of the brightest minds in the marketing world and to have been recognised by the prestigious World Marketing Congress. Securing a sustainable future for our industry in an increasingly competitive and complex marketing environment is of utmost importance, and I am proud to be contributing to this mission academically and pragmatically. I am also proud to be representing the Arab world on the list and highlighting Dubai’s dynamic marketing industry.”

Mariam has 15 years of senior leadership experience across major industry sectors such as media, trade and economy, and tourism and hospitality. In her current role, she manages brand reputation, corporate identity, and international and local relations for Dubai’s economy. She is responsible for overseeing, devising and implementing the marketing and communications strategies for all the business units and agencies that fall under Dubai Economy.

Mariam was previously the Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications for Dubai Media Incorporated, the official media agency of the Government of Dubai. She is a board member of UAE Youth Hostels and the Leadership Qualifications Center - Youth & Sports Authority, and participates in programmes that include leadership development for youth, where she delivers lectures and presentations to motivate young adults and assists them with their career planning. She is also actively involved in multiple humanitarian activities and is dedicated to giving back to the community.