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ShortList to launch in the UAE

Arab Publishing Partners (APP), part of the ITP Publishing Group, has announced that a UAE version of ShortList – the UK’s largest circulation lifestyle and entertainment title – will launch in March 2015. ShortList UAE is the region’s second ‘freemium’ publication to launch in the UAE, and targeting both residents and tourists, it will be an authority on the best in shopping, fashion, entertainment, lifestyle, technology, dining and sport.

ShortList UAE will be published every Wednesday, reaching men and women aged 20-50 in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Complimentary copies of the magazine will be widely available, with the website and app to follow in 2015 including searchable and bookable entertainment listings.

“We live in a fast-paced country with endless entertainment choices – from the world’s largest malls and top restaurants to world-class music and theatrical events,” says Ali Akawi, Managing Director, APP. “ShortList readers are busy people so the magazine will be their definitive guide to what they should be doing to make the best of their valuable leisure time.”

Tim Ewington, International Development Director of ShortList Media adds, “We’re delighted to be launching ShortList’s first international edition in such fast growing, vibrant cities as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. ShortList has the proven ability to connect powerfully with millions of affluent urban consumers both in print and digital forms. I am sure that the brand will be a potent and popular edition to the region’s media mix.”

Yas Marina Circuit launches YasHUB app

Yas Marina Circuit has launched the YasHUB smartphone and tablet app. In partnership with SMG Mobility – the mobile division of Starcom MediaVest Group – and Flip Media, the app was developed to provide the latest news and information during the build up to the 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as well as provide a seamless end-user experience for visitors to the circuit on race weekend. Yas Marina Circuit commissioned the app as part of its wider strategy on providing digital solutions to improve customer engagement experiences, as well as reinforcing its position in driving online motorsports content creation in the region. The app is available for free download at the Apple and Google Play Android stores and offers a range of features to users.

“This app really does enhance visitors’ experiences massively in the build up to and during the race weekend,” says Nick McElwee, Director of Sales and Marketing, Yas Marina Circuit. “But more importantly, its development signifies Yas Marina Circuit’s evolution away from our previous incarnation as a traditional advertiser for our first Grand Prix in 2009, and towards our new reality as a content publisher and media brand.”

Dimitri Papadimitriou, Director of Mobile at Starcom MediaVest Group adds, “This is a testament to SMG Mobility’s support for our clients’ leap into the mobile arena. Mobile is integral for our clients’ businesses, and we have created a suite of in-house digital capabilities to build mobile creative and develop apps.”

Clive Primrose, Client Services Director at Flip Media concludes, “This is a pioneering moment for apps in the Middle East. The focus on digital customer experience and bringing the pillars of the event to life through creativity and technology are what place it at the forefront.”

Nick Cooper joins Seven Media

Nick Cooper has joined Seven Media as Director, working across the Abu Dhabi and Dubai offices. Prior to this, Nick held the position of Head of Corporate Communications at Middle East Communication Network (MCN) looking after its 13 agency brands. Having joined Seven Media as the third Director alongside founders Matt Slater and Gregg Fray, Nick will be responsible for key clients, content and campaign direction, as well as business development and project management.

“I have watched Seven Media grow over the past five years, and am delighted to be joining as the agency continues on its next phase of expansion,” says Nick. “Seven has a proven track record of success for its wide range of lifestyle, business and government clients and I look forward to working with such a professional team.”

Abu Dhabi Media Summit 2014 theme announced

Abu Dhabi Media Summit 2014 has announced the theme for this year’s event as ‘Driving and Sustaining Future Media in MENA and Beyond’. Powered by twofour54, this year’s theme highlights the recent developments in the media industry in the MENA region and further afield.

The fifth annual summit will focus on the future of media and technology, and discuss the impact it has on different interactions between corporations, communities and government entities with their target groups. Centred on Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global media hub, the summit will feature a combination of high-profile sessions, closed-door discussions and peer networking, bringing together top-tier global media and entertainment players in fast-growing markets.

“Abu Dhabi’s evolving role as a dynamic regional commercial hub for the media and entertainment sectors continues,” says H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Media Summit, and Chairman, Abu Dhabi Media Zone Authority. “We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world to the summit to engage in conversations at the forefront of the media business.”

This year’s summit will take place from November 18-20, at the Rosewood Hotel, Al Marya Island, Abu Dhabi.

Olivia Cuthbert leaves Concierge Abu Dhabi

Olivia Cuthbert is stepping down from her role as Editor of Concierge Abu Dhabi. For the past two years, Olivia has overseen all content for NPI’s Concierge Abu Dhabi magazine. She now moves on to focus on freelance writing and editing projects in the UAE.

“After two years with the fantastic team at NPI, it’s time for a fresh challenge,” says Olivia. “I look forward to developing my abilities as a writer and editor across a range of titles and subjects.”