Sony appoints Ruder Finn Atteline to lead regional PR

Sophie Simpson, managing director of Ruder Finn Atteline
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Updated 28 June 2025
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Sony appoints Ruder Finn Atteline to lead regional PR

Sony Middle East and Africa has appointed Ruder Finn Atteline, a global integrated marketing and communications consultancy and the MENA arm of the Ruder Finn group, to manage its regional PR communications mandate across the Middle East. The agency will lead strategic PR communications for Sony’s consumer electronics division, covering Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Egypt.

Ruder Finn Atteline’s appointment includes handling Sony’s BRAVIA televisions, home audio systems, advanced digital imaging products, audio solutions such as the newly expanded ULT Power Sound series, and the INZONE range.

The partnership follows Ruder Finn Atteline’s recent brand refresh and strategic senior appointments, strengthening the agency’s expertise in consumer and corporate communications.

Sophie Simpson, managing director of Ruder Finn Atteline — MENA, said: “Sony is a brand that resonates globally, but also connects deeply with audiences here in the region. This partnership reflects the kind of work we want to do more of — bold, meaningful, and built on shared ambition, while also fulfilling Sony’s purpose to fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology. As we continue to expand our presence in the Middle East and North Africa, our focus remains on creating real impact for all our clients. Collaborating with iconic brands like Sony propels us closer to our goal of shaping the future of communications through culture and creativity.”

Jobin Joejoe, managing director, Sony Middle East and Africa, added: “At Sony, our ambition is fueled by a relentless drive to inspire and fulfill the curiosity of our audiences across the MENA region. We believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond technology. Experiences that connect with people on a deeper, more personal level. Our partnership with Ruder Finn Atteline is a natural extension of this vision.”

Last month, Ruder Finn announced the opening of its fully combined office and regional headquarters in Riyadh, following the successful acquisition of Atteline.


Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

Updated 31 December 2025
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Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action. 

From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season. 

Key sporting events taking place during DSF: 

Dubai Racing Carnival 

  • Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13. 
  • Location: Meydan Racecourse 

The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys. 

More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday 

Silver Cup 

  • Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24 
  • Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club 

Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup 

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4 

  • Date: Jan. 4 
  • Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track 

The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4 

Hood to Coast Dubai 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve 

Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast 

Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k) 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Meydan 

Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run 

Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 11 
  • Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon 

A citywide sporting season 

With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.