While the UAE led the Middle East region in signing up Hollywood stars as ambassadors for its flagship brands, other countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia have recently followed suit. In recent months, Aquaman star Jason Momoa, Modern Family’s Sofia Vergara, Pathaan actress Deepika Padukone, global football icons Lionel Messi and David Beckham have featured in slick ads endorsing brands and destinations.

The logic goes that a popular, loved face brings in a range of advantages. Endorsements provide visibility, lend mass appeal as well as leverage the celebrity’s social media followings to generate an engaged and devoted audience.

The UAE has been recruiting Hollywood star power since 2015. Jennifer Aniston and Chris Hemsworth had previously teamed up with Emirates Airline, while Nicole Kidman was brand ambassador for Etihad Airways. Dubai has also produced mini tourism movies starring Zac Efron, Jessica Alba and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Brands and their ambassadors

Here’s a look at the celebrity line-up that business houses in the Middle East have brought in recently and the star’s social media follower count.