7 A-list Celebrities as Brand Ambassadors in the Middle East

The Middle East is a region renowned for its opulence, cultural richness, and rapidly growing economy, making it a prime destination for global brands seeking to expand their reach and influence. As a result, more and more celebrities in the area are serving as brand ambassadors for large corporations, adding star power to product launches, advertising campaigns, and other initiatives. 

By partnering with celebrities in the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East, marketers can take advantage of the allure of regional icons and interact with consumers in authentic ways. This collaboration also strengthens Dubai’s position as a global business and tourism hub, where companies offering services such as Dubai visa services make it easier for international visitors to engage with the city’s thriving economy and cultural scene.

In this blog, we’ll explore the role of A-list celebrities as brand ambassadors in the Middle East. These stars are not only shaping industries but are also driving brand loyalty across various sectors. For businesses looking to start a company in Dubai or expand in the region, working with these high-profile figures can be a game-changer.

List of 7 Global Icons Leading Brand Endorsements in the Middle East

1. Penelope Cruz – Emirates Airlines

Among the most well-known airlines in the world, Emirates Airlines is represented by the renowned Spanish actress Penelope Cruz. Cruz, an accomplished actress, adds sophistication and authenticity to the Emirates brand. Her role as “brand ambassador of Dubai” reflects the airline’s dedication to providing luxury travel experiences.

Cruz’s role is to promote Emirates’ high-quality service and make the airline even more attractive to travelers from both the West and the Middle East.

As a famous people in the UAE, Cruz’s involvement with Emirates helps boost Dubai’s image as a destination for high-end travel, adding to the city’s already impressive global reputation.

Full Name: Penélope Cruz Sánchez

Nationality: Spanish

Born: April 28, 1974, in Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain

Profession: Actress, Model

Famous For: She is the only Spanish actress to have won an Academy Award and to have received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al Nassr FC

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest football players ever, joined Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr FC, and his move has been a game-changer for the Middle Eastern football scene.

Ronaldo’s presence has brought global attention to Saudi Arabia’s football league, helping the country grow its sports sector. His work as an ambassador has not only increased the visibility of Al Nassr FC but has also established Saudi Arabia as a major player in world sports.

Ronaldo’s presence in Saudi Arabia aligns with the country’s broader vision to build a global presence, with sports serving as a catalyst for this ambition.

Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro

Nationality: Portuguese

Born: February 5, 1985

Profession: Professional Footballer

Famous For: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese football sensation and global icon who has mesmerized fans worldwide with his extraordinary skills.

3. Shah Rukh Khan – Burjeel Holdings

Shah Rukh Khan, also known as the “King of Bollywood,” is a beloved figure not just in India but also in the UAE. Khan serves as the brand ambassador for Burjeel Holdings, a top medical center in the UAE. Khan represents Burjeel’s outstanding medical services in keeping with the company’s global goal of providing top-notch healthcare and attracting attention from all over the world, especially from Bollywood fans.

Being one of the Middle Eastern celebrities, Khan’s influence not only promotes health tourism but also attracts international entrepreneurs looking for opportunities to business setup in Dubai where the city’s advanced infrastructure supports a thriving healthcare sector.

Full Name: Shah Rukh Khan​

Nationality: Indian​

Born: November 2, 1965, in New Delhi, India​

Profession: Actor, Film Producer, Television Personality, Businessman​

Famous For: Shah Rukh Khan is an Indian actor, producer, and television personality who works in Hindi films.

4. Kendall Jenner – The UAE Fashion Scene

American supermodel Kendall Jenner is a huge name in the fashion world, working with various luxury brands, some based in Dubai. Jenner’s role as a brand ambassador of the UAE fashion industry has significantly influenced the perception of the region, which indicates that Dubai is a hub for high fashion as well as luxury shopping. 

By collaborating with both local and international brands, Jenner bridges the gap between Eastern and Western fashion, and her influence has attracted business ventures, particularly from the fashion sector. Many brands are turning to Dubai for new opportunities, seeking help from a business setup company in Dubai to establish a presence in the region.

Full Name: Kendall Nicole Jenner​

Nationality: American

​Born: November 3, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, USA

Profession: Model, Media Personality, Socialite

Famous For: She is an American model, socialite and media personality. She rose to fame in the reality television show Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

5. Jason Momoa – Yas Island

Jason Momoa, who is well-known for playing Aquaman in the DC Universe, is a popular figure for promoting tourism in the Middle East. He is the brand ambassador for Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, a top leisure destination known for its thrilling theme parks, including Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. Momoa’s rugged and adventurous image perfectly matches the fun, action-packed activities available at Yas Island.

His role helps introduce his global fanbase to the excitement of Abu Dhabi, making the emirate an attractive option for tourists seeking both luxury and adventure. Tourists visiting the UAE can explore Yas Island while also seeking Dubai visa services to experience the rich blend of entertainment and business opportunities available in the region.

Full Name: Joseph Jason Namakaeha Momoa​

Nationality: American​

Born: August 1, 1979, in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Profession: Actor, Filmmaker​

Famous For: He is an American actor. He made his acting debut as Jason Ioane on the syndicated action drama series Baywatch: Hawaii (1999–2001)

6. Lionel Messi – Saudi Tourism Authority

Lionel Messi, one of football’s all-time greats, has teamed up with the Saudi Tourism Authority to promote tourism in Saudi Arabia. With his massive international following, Messi’s endorsement has given Saudi Arabia a major boost in terms of tourism. As a famous people in the Middle East, Messi plays a key role in encouraging travelers to visit Saudi Arabia, showcasing its rich history and modern attractions.

Messi’s role with the Saudi Tourism Authority reflects the country’s efforts to attract millions of tourists in the coming years and transform itself into a top destination for international travelers.

Full Name: Lionel Andrés Messi​

Nationality: Argentine

​Born: June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina​

Profession: Professional Footballer​

Famous For: Lionel Messi is an Argentine-born football (soccer) player who has been named the world’s best men’s player of the year seven times (2009–12, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023.

7. Sofia Vergara – VIA Riyadh

Sofia Vergara, the Colombian-American actress best known for her role in Modern Family, serves as a brand ambassador for VIA Riyadh, a luxury shopping and entertainment center in Saudi Arabia. Vergara’s global fame and stylish image help make VIA Riyadh stand out as a top destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Her partnership with VIA Riyadh is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to attract more tourists and showcase the country as a hub for luxury and modern experiences. Vergara’s role as a brand ambassador highlights the exciting and upscale experiences available at VIA Riyadh, helping to position Riyadh as a key player in the Middle East’s growing luxury scene.

Full Name: Sofía Margarita Vergara Vergara

Nationality: Colombian-American​

Born: July 10, 1972, in Barranquilla, Colombia

Profession: Actress, Model, Television Producer​

Famous For: Sofia Vergara a Colombian and American actress and television personality. She is known for her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett in the ABC sitcom Modern Family (2009–2020)

The Impact of Brand Ambassadors In The Middle East

The strategic use of celebrity endorsements can have a profound impact on a brand’s success in the Middle East. By partnering with notable personalities who resonate with the local culture and values, brands can –

• Enhance Brand Image – Celebrities can help elevate a brand’s image and associate it with luxury, prestige, and innovation.

• Increase Brand Awareness – A well-executed celebrity endorsement campaign can significantly boost brand visibility and reach a wider audience.

• Drive Sales – The endorsement of a popular celebrity can directly impact consumer purchasing decisions, leading to increased sales and revenue.

• Build Brand Loyalty – By aligning with a beloved celebrity, brands can foster stronger emotional connections with consumers, leading to long-term loyalty.

As the Middle East continues to evolve as a global hub for luxury and lifestyle brands, the role of celebrity endorsements is likely to become even more significant. By carefully selecting the right celebrity partners, brands can unlock the full potential of this powerful marketing tool.

Conclusion

As Dubai continues to rise as a global hub for business and tourism, celebrity brand ambassadors play a crucial role in boosting brand visibility and promoting the city as a prime destination for business opportunities. These A-list celebrities are more than just faces—they shape perceptions of luxury living and travel in the Middle East.

With their growing influence, we can expect more dynamic marketing strategies that effectively engage consumers, positioning Dubai as a top choice for both business setup and tourism. Whether through Dubai visa services or business expansion, the city’s appeal is amplified by their star power.