MEPRA enters its 25th year in a position of real strength.
The association is larger, more visible and more regionally representative than at any point in its history. Our partnerships are strong, our events continue to bring together senior voices from across the industry, and our footprint now reflects the full breadth of communications practice across the Middle East.
Like many organisations, MEPRA had to work hard to emerge from the disruption of the pandemic years. That period tested not just our operations, but our relevance. What is clear now is that the profession has reasserted itself, and so has the role of a professional body that can convene, challenge and support it.
This matters because the communications industry itself is both sizeable and growing. Independent industry estimates suggest the public relations and communications market across the Middle East could reach around USD 2 billion by the end of this decade, driven by increased demand for reputation management, public affairs, digital communications and strategic counsel. The UAE alone is home to more than 100 active public relations agencies, while Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other GCC markets continue to see rapid expansion linked to national transformation agendas, major events and international investment.
At the same time, the nature of communications work is evolving quickly. Technology, including AI, is reshaping how work is delivered. Expectations around trust, ethics, measurement and judgement are rising. Clients are asking more of their advisors, not less. The need for creativity, sound counsel and human insight has never been greater, particularly in complex operating environments. This is true for global networks and independents alike, and for practitioners at every stage of their career.
As MEPRA reaches this milestone, it is also right that we look carefully at how the organisation itself is governed. Systems and procedures that served us well at our founding, or during earlier phases of growth, cannot automatically be assumed to be fit for purpose today. Ensuring that MEPRA remains credible, resilient and effective over the next 25 years will require thoughtful review, real work and sustained commitment from the Board and the membership alike.
Industry bodies have played an important role throughout my own professional journey, from my earliest roles through to senior leadership. They provide continuity in a fast-moving profession, and a shared sense of standards and purpose. As Chairman, my priority is to ensure MEPRA continues to serve that role – remaining relevant to senior practitioners navigating complexity, while being meaningful and accessible to those just beginning their careers.
Looking ahead, MEPRA’s focus will be on connection rather than prescription: bringing people together across markets, disciplines and career stages; supporting professional development; and ensuring the association continues to reflect the realities of communications practice in the Middle East today.
MEPRA’s strength has always come from its members. I encourage you to engage, contribute and help shape what comes next. This is a collective effort, and the opportunity ahead is significant.
Justin Kerr-Stevens
Chairman, Middle East Public Relations Association