Top Emerging Trends Driving Gulf Airport Advertising Growth in 2025

Airport advertising in the Gulf continues to expand as passenger numbers grow and new technologies reshape engagement. In 2025, the region’s airports remain vital platforms for brands that want to reach global and regional audiences. From digital transformation to sustainable campaigns, here are the key trends shaping airport advertising this year.

Digital Out of Home Expansion

Digital Out of Home (DOOH) formats are leading the way across major Gulf airports such as Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport. Brands are investing in dynamic content that adapts to time of day, passenger demographics, and flight schedules.

• Programmatic buying makes campaigns more flexible
• Real time data creates sharper audience targeting
• Large digital screens boost visibility in terminals

For more insights on how programmatic advertising is transforming the sector, see our coverage of programmatic DOOH in Gulf airports.

Immersive Passenger Experiences

Airports are investing in experiential zones that blend culture, retail, and branded spaces. Campaigns go beyond billboards and include lounges, pop up activations, and interactive displays. For example, Dubai’s new Emirati District offers brands an opportunity to connect with travellers in a memorable way.

• Pop up retail experiences
• Augmented and virtual reality activations
• Exclusive lounge branding

Sustainability at the Forefront

With sustainability a top priority, airports such as Hamad International Airport and Sharjah International airport are introducing eco friendly initiatives. Advertisers are expected to align with these values to appeal to conscious travellers.

• Use of energy efficient LED screens
• Campaigns tied to airport green initiatives
• Eco friendly production of branded materials

Growth of Data-Driven Campaigns

Brands want measurable outcomes from airport advertising. Data from Wi-Fi logins, mobile interactions, and passenger flow is now being used to optimise campaigns. Bahrain has taken a lead with JCDecaux’s Audience Metrix, giving advertisers better tools to track engagement and ROI.

Integration with Travel and Lifestyle

Airport advertising is increasingly connected with broader campaigns across travel, retail, and events. Airlines and tourism boards see airports as prime gateways for storytelling, as shown in our analysis of tourism boards advertising in airports.

• Partnerships with airlines for inflight content
• Campaign tie-ins with major events and festivals
• Synergy between retail promotions and airport advertising

Why This Matters for Brands

Airports across the Gulf including Riyadh King Khalid International and Muscat International continue to see record traffic. With these trends, advertisers have an opportunity to build campaigns that capture attention and create lasting impact.

Ready to Plan Your 2025 Campaign

At Gulf Airport Advertising, we simplify regional planning across multiple airports. Explore our what we offer page and contact us today to discuss your next campaign.