Emirates has launched its first bespoke campaign with a series of short videos specifically targeted to Saudi Arabia, cleverly interlacing comedy to address the pain points of travel and showcase Emirates’ award-winning economy class experience.
The campaign stars Badr Saleh, and draws on experiences that almost every Saudi traveler can relate to — dated inflight movies and programs, keeping children entertained onboard, and missing their favorite programs while traveling.
Saleh, one of the funniest comedians in the GCC, used a refreshing blend of observational humor, improvization and in situ skits to differentiate the Emirates economy class experience. Saleh was chosen for this campaign for his influence as one of the most well-known comedians in Saudi Arabia and the region, with millions of followers across YouTube, Twitter and Instagram as well as a strong TV presence, regularly reaching millions with his prime time evening show on MBC.
The first video shows the endless inflight entertainment onboard a typical Emirates flight, so much so that Badr and his friend are still glued to their screens long after other passengers have disembarked.
Khalid Al-Haddad, vice president Saudi Arabia, said: “Emirates’ economy class is truly a no-compromise experience that offers more choice for Saudi travelers, and our onboard product provides exceptional comfort with world-class service and inflight entertainment for the whole family. It’s fantastic that Badr lent his comedic touch for this campaign and we hope that it brings some laughs to those watching while also showcasing the Emirates difference.”
Saleh said: “Emirates’ sense of humor struck a chord with me, and I am incredibly proud to have worked alongside the airline’s team to develop great content that truly shows the outstanding onboard experience they offer.”
The videos will be released over the course of the next few weeks, with the second spot illustrating the daunting experience of flying with children. Badr explains how many times he needs to apologize to other passengers and how flying with Emirates has alleviated his worries through the endless variety of kids entertainment provided onboard.
In the third video, Badr relives an experience about missing a critical football match, which takes the viewers directly onboard where he is watching live TV from his in-seat screen, a feature available on almost every Emirates flight. The comedian was able to enjoy his long-awaited football match, without missing a sporting highlight.
Emirates taps on comedian Badr Saleh for new campaign
Emirates taps on comedian Badr Saleh for new campaign
PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc’s CISO500 program advances cyber leadership
The fifth edition of the CISO500 program ran from Feb. 8-12. Delivered in partnership between PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc, the program featured five intensive days of rich discussions and hands-on practical experiences, aimed at strengthening leadership capabilities in cybersecurity and keeping pace with rapid technological transformation.
The program is designed to develop the capabilities of executive cybersecurity leaders and enhance their strategic role in supporting organizations’ digital transformation. It equips participants to address contemporary challenges in the cyber landscape and expand their influence within decision-making ecosystems.
Yasser Al-Swailem, CEO of Sirar by stc, said that the program represents an important step toward strengthening the readiness of cyber leaders in the region. He noted that the CISO500 program is a fundamental pillar in the journey toward building a secure and trusted Saudi cyberspace aligned with national ambitions. He added that investing in national cybersecurity leadership is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for ensuring sustainable digital development. The program reflects a commitment to empowering national talent to lead the digital security landscape according to the highest global standards.
He further emphasized that such initiatives contribute to strengthening digital security ecosystems and enabling organizations to confidently and sustainably address future challenges.
Samer Omar, cybersecurity and digital trust leader at PwC Middle East, added: “CISO500 is a long-term investment in Saudi leadership. Over the past year, we’ve seen how bringing together senior Saudi cybersecurity professionals in a structured executive environment accelerates capability, builds confidence and deepens collaboration. As the program enters its second year, our focus remains on equipping Saudi CISOs with the strategic perspective and technical depth required to secure the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.”
The program addressed a range of advanced topics, including common cyber transformation pitfalls, mechanisms for securing enterprise digital transformation, and cybersecurity budgeting and financial governance. These topics enhanced leaders’ ability to translate cyber risks and security investments into financial indicators that support executive decision-making.
It also covered the latest technological developments, particularly artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, quantum computing, and the protection of critical and operational infrastructure. Emphasis was placed on the importance of security governance for AI technologies and strengthening enterprise-wide risk management perspectives associated with them.
The program adopted an interactive learning methodology combining strategic discussions, collaborative work, and creative practical exercises, contributing to a deeper understanding of concepts and enabling their translation into applicable organizational practices.
Abdullah Al-Asmari, global cybersecurity director at the Saudi Research and Media Group and one of the program participants, said that the experience added significant strategic and practical value: “The program provided a rich experience that strengthened the leadership perspective of cybersecurity, particularly in linking technical practices with strategic and financial dimensions within the organization. It also offered valuable space for exchanging expertise on emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing, and the challenges of securing critical infrastructure. This experience enhances cyber leaders’ ability to adopt a more influential role in supporting digital transformation and enabling decision-making based on a comprehensive understanding of risk and value.”
He added that the program facilitated the exchange of insights on emerging challenges and strengthened the ability to align cybersecurity with institutional objectives and executive decision requirements.
Participants said that the program constituted a valuable professional and knowledge-driven experience that enhanced the readiness of cyber leaders to keep pace with rapid digital transformation, reinforcing cybersecurity’s role as a strategic enabler that supports innovation while preserving business trust, reliability, and sustainability.
