Driving digital growth in MENAT: A reflection on the Stanford GSB case study, ‘Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage’

Mohamed Megahed, managing director of Aleph, MENAT.
Mohamed Megahed, managing director of Aleph, MENAT.
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Updated 16 June 2025

Driving digital growth in MENAT: A reflection on the Stanford GSB case study, ‘Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage’

Driving digital growth in MENAT: A reflection on the Stanford GSB case study, ‘Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage’

Stanford Graduate School of Business selects companies that redefine industries, scale sustainably, and set new benchmarks for success. Aleph was the subject of a recent study titled “Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage,” which provided an in-depth exploration of how trust, innovation, and strategic execution built a company that is bridging the global digital divide.

Digital advertising has often been defined by volume and scale, where the focus is on platform size and audience reach, however the Stanford GSB case study, “Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage,” invites us to reconsider this approach, especially in emerging markets like the MENAT by considering the value of prioritizing the opportunities we unlock for businesses, creators, and communities across the world, which is at the core of Aleph’s mission, and particularly relevant to the MENAT’s dynamic landscape.

This region, with its unique blend of tradition and rapid modernization, stands at the forefront of not only digital transformation but digital revolution. Aleph’s approach, as detailed in the Stanford study, is not just about providing access; it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem that fosters growth and innovation. In MENAT, we see firsthand the transformative power of digital inclusion, where businesses are not just adopting new technologies, but are reshaping their identities and creating new opportunities.

Aleph has been present in the MENAT for more than 20 years (previously Connect Ads), pioneering the digital advertising industry in the region with a geofootprint covering 15 markets through eight strategically located offices spanning the region, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Gulf, and being part of this as Aleph’s MD in MENAT, and I can speak on behalf of our entire MENAT teams of more than 180+ digital advertising experts, makes us proud — proud to be part of this great legacy, proud to play a role in empowering, advancing and developing our region and its great people. We see Stanford GSB case study, “Aleph: A Collaborative Advantage” as a testament to the value we bring. To put it simply, it is a confirmation that we are definitely doing something meaningful here.

Our journey continues and is defined by several key principles: decisive decision-making, unwavering persistence, a strong belief in our mission, and a clear vision for the future of digital growth in emerging markets. These principles are not just abstract concepts; they are the driving force behind our expansion, our partnerships, and our commitment to our clients across the MENAT. As the Stanford case study illustrates, our focus on education, financial solutions, and localized support is crucial for navigating the complexities of this diverse region.

Here are some key takeaways and highlights from the Stanford GSB case study, which are particularly relevant to our region:

  • Building sustainable ecosystems: Aleph’s approach is about creating ecosystems that foster growth and innovation. This is particularly important in MENAT, where building a robust and sustainable digital infrastructure with an eye on human capability building and upskilling is crucial for long-term economic development.
  • Empowering entrepreneurs: The case study emphasizes Aleph’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, a vision that strongly resonates in MENAT, where there’s a growing drive to support local businesses and innovation.
  • Transformative power of digital inclusion: The study highlights the transformative power of digital inclusion. In the MENAT, this is evident in how businesses and people are adopting new technologies and reshaping their identities, leading to new opportunities and growth.
  • Strategic focus: The case study also underlines the importance of education, financial solutions, and localized support, which are key to navigating the diversity and challenges of the MENAT region.

The MENAT region holds immense potential, and we are committed to unlocking it by providing businesses with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive in the global digital landscape. This case study is proof that our approach is not only effective, but also transformative. It inspires us to continue pushing boundaries, to keep innovating, and to work tirelessly to ensure that the digital future is accessible to all.

  • The writer, Mohamed Megahed, is managing director of Aleph, MENAT.


W Communications sets up regional HQs in Abu Dhabi

W Communications sets up regional HQs in Abu Dhabi
Updated 1 min 1 sec ago

W Communications sets up regional HQs in Abu Dhabi

W Communications sets up regional HQs in Abu Dhabi

W Communications has expanded its global footprint with the launch of a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, signaling a significant, long-term investment in the Middle East — one of the world’s most dynamic growth regions.

W first entered the GCC in 2020 as agency of record for Diriyah Gate Development Authority in . Today, the regional office brings together three complementary brands: W GCC, delivering world-class creative services from Abu Dhabi; Riyadh-based destination marketing arm Lotus Arabia, representing clients including Saudia and AROYA Cruises; and Hello Franses!, W’s celebrity and influencer division, which has worked with global sport and entertainment properties including Formula 1, Formula E and the Red Sea International Film Festival. Together, these brands form a powerful, integrated platform designed to serve the region’s fast-evolving communications landscape.

Founded in London in 2009, W is one of the world’s most awarded independent agencies, with offices in London, New York, Singapore, Riyadh and now Abu Dhabi. The GCC hub consolidates W’s presence in the region and reflects its strategy of embedding in culture-led growth markets.

The new office will be led by Joanna Della-Ragione, managing partner, W Communications GCC, who previously served as chief marketing and communications officer at Oxagon, NEOM’s first subsidiary, and held a senior role with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority. A former journalist, with more than 15 years’ experience spanning London and the Gulf, Della-Ragione brings deep regional expertise and international credibility to W’s Middle East expansion. 

“The Middle East represents one of the most ambitious, dynamic and creative regions in the world,” said Warren Johnson, founder and CEO of W Communications. “With flagship clients already in Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi now established as our GCC HQs, we’re embedding in the region for the long term. This is a serious investment in talent, creativity, and partnerships in markets that are shaping the global agenda.”

Della-Ragione added: “Across the GCC — from Abu Dhabi and Riyadh to Doha — cities are reshaping culture, tourism and lifestyle on a global scale. Having both Riyadh and Abu Dhabi in our network means we can partner with organizations across the region, combining global creative credibility with deep local cultural fluency.”


Money 20/20: barq leads digital payments landscape with three Visa awards

Money 20/20: barq leads digital payments landscape with three Visa awards
Updated 17 September 2025

Money 20/20: barq leads digital payments landscape with three Visa awards

Money 20/20: barq leads digital payments landscape with three Visa awards

In an unprecedented achievement that reflects the Kingdom’s leadership in the fintech sector, Saudi fintech barq won three awards from Visa during the Money 20/20 Middle East conference, hosted in Riyadh. The event includes the participation of pioneers in digital payments, banking, and technology from around the world.

barq was recognized by Visa as the fastest growing fintech company in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, in view of the company’s journey that saw it issue more than 6.5 million cards, enable over 500 million payment transactions, and serve users from more than 150 nationalities in a short period of time.

Another award recognized barq’s rapid expansion in building a wide user base and its strong presence in local and international markets.

barq also won the Highest International Transaction Volumes award among fintech companies in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, in recognition of its success in leading the region in international transaction volumes, reflecting the trust of millions of customers in its solutions and its ability to build an efficient and secure cross-market payments ecosystem.

In a statement, Visa said that barq represents a leading model of innovation in the fintech sector, as it was able in a short time to build a solid user base and achieve exceptional performance in transaction volumes, thereby enhancing the Kingdom’s position as one of the most prominent emerging fintech markets globally.

The awards represent an important milestone in barq’s journey toward regional and global expansion. They reflect its commitment to continuing innovation and providing advanced payment services that keep pace with market requirements, contribute to supporting financial inclusion, and enhance the digital economy in the Kingdom and the region, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.


barq signs three strategic agreements on Day 1 of Money 20/20 Middle East

barq signs three strategic agreements on Day 1 of Money 20/20 Middle East
Updated 17 September 2025

barq signs three strategic agreements on Day 1 of Money 20/20 Middle East

barq signs three strategic agreements on Day 1 of Money 20/20 Middle East

On the first day of Money 20/20 Middle East, hosted in Riyadh, barq, a digital payments application, signed three strategic agreements aimed at developing digital payments in the Kingdom and the region.

barq signed a strategic partnership with Thunes, where it was represented by Thamer Alharbi, director of international partnerships, while Thunes was represented by Ahmed Yaqoub, vice president of business development.

barq also signed an MoU with Moysar, with Muath Alsadhan, general manager of partnerships, representing barq, and Mishari Al-Faryan, chief operating officer, representing Moysar.

On the sidelines of the conference, barq signed a strategic partnership with OneCard, represented by Basel Alhussan, director of product factory, while OneCard was represented by Omar Al-Refaie, senior sales director.

These agreements reflect barq’s commitment to expanding its strategic partnerships and enhancing its position as a leading digital wallet, in line with supporting the digital transformation in the financial sector in harmony with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Abdulaziz Al-Rudaini, general manager of marketing, communications and engagement at barq, said: “The Money 20/20 Middle East conference proves that is the leader in the fintech sector in the region.” He added: “barq’s participation aims to showcase the development and support received by the fintech sector from the leadership and the Saudi Central Bank. barq seeks to provide exceptional products and innovative solutions, enabling it to reach a strong position in the Saudi market, while continuing to empower individuals and offer services that meet their aspirations, always staying a step ahead.” 

This success comes at a time when barq is celebrating its milestone first year, where it reached more than 8 million users, processed over 150 million transactions, issued more than 6.5 million digital cards, and recorded over 500 million payment transactions. These achievements confirm the rapid transformation of the Saudi financial sector toward a cashless digital economy and reinforce barq’s position as a leading provider of innovative digital payment solutions.


Lulu festival celebrates South African flavors and culture

Lulu festival celebrates South African flavors and culture
Updated 15 September 2025

Lulu festival celebrates South African flavors and culture

Lulu festival celebrates South African flavors and culture

LuLu Hypermarkets’ “Proudly South African” festival was officially inaugurated on Sept. 10 at its Atyaf Mall branch in Riyadh, showcasing a vibrant blend of flavors, culture, and commerce. The event was attended by South African Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Mpho Parks Tau, along with government officials and LuLu management.

The festival highlights the strong bonds of friendship and trade between and South Africa. This year’s celebration presents an impressive lineup of 328 varieties of products from 40 renowned South African brands, offering Saudi shoppers access to premium items ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to essential groceries and specialty products. Customers will also discover popular South African brands such as Lancewood, Willow Creek, Westfalia, Robertsons, Nando’s, Cape Herb and Spice, and many more.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mohamed Haris Puthiyaveettil, director of LuLu Hypermarkets , expressed his delight at hosting the festival: “This event is not just a celebration of flavors and products; it is a celebration of friendship, trade, and cultural connection between two strong nations — the Kingdom of and the Republic of South Africa.”

Reflecting on LuLu’s history of hosting South African events, Haris recalled the “Proudly South African” food festival held in Jeddah in 2022, which was inaugurated by President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa and attended by ’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, among other dignitaries. “That remarkable day was a recognition of LuLu’s role in promoting South African goods globally and strengthening commercial ties between our nations,” he said.

Since then, LuLu has worked consistently to expand the presence of South African products across its stores. Notably, South African meat, which was introduced after the president’s visit, has now become one of the most trusted and sought-after items among LuLu shoppers.

The South African festival is a continuation of this commitment, showcasing not only a greater variety of products but also the quality, authenticity, and excellence that South African brands represent.

The festival offers shoppers a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy the richness of South African offerings, showcasing authentic products and cultural experiences in a vibrant setting.


Tasama to empower Badael achieve its public health goals

Tasama to empower Badael achieve its public health goals
Updated 15 September 2025

Tasama to empower Badael achieve its public health goals

Tasama to empower Badael achieve its public health goals

Tasama, a Public Investment Fund company specializing in integrated business services, and Badael, a PIF company dedicated to reducing smoking rates in the Kingdom, have signed an MoU to foster a robust strategic partnership. The signing ceremony at Badael’s headquarters marks a significant milestone in leveraging the PIF ecosystem to drive innovation and operational excellence in line with Vision 2030.

The MoU establishes a framework for Tasama to provide Badael with its end-to-end integrated services, designed to elevate Badael’s growth through innovation, operational efficiency, and local market expertise.

This collaboration exemplifies PIF’s integrated strategy to empower its portfolio companies by fostering partnerships that enhance capabilities and contribute to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Mohammed Aljasser, CEO of Tasama, said: “Our mission at Tasama is to empower businesses and government institutions by delivering reliable, agile, and digitally native business services, enabling them to focus on their core and remain future-ready. We are proud to partner with Badael, a company whose purpose is deeply aligned with the Kingdom’s vision for a healthier society. By providing Badael with our operational expertise, we are not just improving efficiency, we are helping to build a national champion that can achieve a vital mission for the country. This is the PIF ecosystem in action, creating integrated value and contributing to a thriving economy.”

Tolga Sezer, CEO of Badael, added: “At Badael, our mission to help 1 million people switch from smoking requires rapid growth and flawless execution. This partnership with Tasama is a strategic accelerator for us. By integrating their best-in-class business services, we can focus our resources on our core competencies — innovation, research, and connecting with our consumers — confident that our operational foundation is not only stable but also a competitive advantage. This will be critical in achieving our public health goals.”

The collaboration between Tasama and Badael is a powerful example of two PIF companies working in concert to achieve distinct yet complementary national objectives. Tasama aims to redefine industry standards as the national champion in business services and the preferred partner for organizations contributing to the Kingdom’s growth. Badael is a national leader in health and well-being, enhancing lives by providing innovative solutions that help smokers switch to a better, smoke-free life.