M&C Saatchi PLC (AIM:SAA) said it has struck a deal to buy a UAE-based sports agency that it will "bolt on" to its existing business in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Dune 23 Sport & Entertainment currently has a client roster including Emirates Dubai 7s rugby festival, Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open women's tennis tournament, the Chicago Bulls, LIWA Festival, Zayed Sports City, All Things Live, Dubai Watch Week, Longines Global Champions Tour, Nada Dairy, BRED by Hypebeast and SailGP.
"Dune 23 brings specialist expertise, a proven track record, and a team uniquely attuned to creating lasting impact through passion and fandom," the UK ad agency said, adding that the acquisition will be funded by available cash on the balance sheet.
Further expansion into the Middle East is being "driven by increasing demand from clients and growth opportunities".
Chief executive Zaid Al-Qassab said Dune 23 would be integrated into the group's 'passions & PR' area, "where it will enhance our proposition of helping brands to grow through the leveraging cultural power of sport to connect with consumers."