The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is at the forefront of global influencer marketing innovation. With its unique blend of traditional values and modern trends, the GCC is redefining how brands and influencers collaborate. Here are the top influencer marketing trends shaping 2025, complete with verified real-world examples that showcase their impact.

1. Creators as Brand Architects

Influencers are moving beyond endorsements to becoming strategic partners in brand development. They contribute to product design, campaign ideation, and audience engagement.

Example: Saudi beauty influencer Yara Alnamlah partnered with Estée Lauder to create a limited-edition makeup collection inspired by her distinctive style, a collaboration that gained significant traction in the GCC.

2. AI-Driven Personalization

Artificial intelligence is transforming influencer marketing by enabling tailored content strategies and audience insights. AI tools help influencers create engaging, data-driven content.

Example: UAE-based influencer Khalid Al Ameri utilizes AI to craft engaging content and optimize his audience’s experience, leveraging insights to stay relevant and relatable.

3. Emphasis on Authenticity and Transparency

With growing scrutiny on sponsored content, authenticity and transparency are more critical than ever. Influencers are ensuring their partnerships align with their personal values.

Example: Kuwaiti fashion influencer Ascia Al Faraj is known for her transparency in collaborations, clearly labeling sponsored content and maintaining a consistent, authentic voice.

4. Rise of Virtual Influencers

AI-generated influencers are becoming popular in the GCC, offering unique storytelling opportunities and consistent messaging.

Example: Noor, the Middle East’s first virtual influencer, collaborates with leading fashion brands to create innovative campaigns that captivate younger audiences.

5. Integration of Social Commerce

The seamless fusion of social media and e-commerce is on the rise, with influencers facilitating direct product discovery and purchase.

Example: Saudi influencer Ahmed Alshehri leverages Instagram’s shopping features to seamlessly connect followers with exclusive products, such as Nike’s Gulf-specific collections.

6. Expansion of Influencer Roles on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is emerging as a powerful platform for influencer marketing in the B2B sector, enabling thought leadership and industry-specific campaigns.

Example: Huda Buhumaid, a UAE-based thought leader, partners with tech brands like Microsoft to deliver compelling insights on digital transformation through LinkedIn webinars and posts.

7. Focus on Niche and Micro-Influencers

Brands are increasingly collaborating with micro-influencers who have dedicated, engaged followings within specific niches. These partnerships allow for highly targeted campaigns.

Example: Omani food blogger Shaima Al Balushi works with local restaurants to authentically promote traditional Omani dishes, fostering deeper connections with her audience.

8. Increased Marketing Budgets for Influencer Campaigns

As the effectiveness of influencer marketing becomes evident, brands are allocating larger portions of their budgets to this channel.

Example: Luxury brand Cartier’s GCC-specific campaigns feature influencers like Dana Hourani, creating high-quality content that resonates with affluent audiences.

9. Enhanced Community Building

Influencers are focusing on fostering loyal communities around brands, creating deeper engagement and long-term relationships.

Example: Dubai-based influencer Taim AlFalasi collaborates with Sephora to organize interactive meet-and-greet events, strengthening brand loyalty among her followers.

10. Adoption of Short-Form Video Content

Short-form videos continue to dominate as a preferred content format, with influencers creating quick, engaging clips that captivate audiences.

Example: Saudi TikTok star Mohammed AlDakhil creates humorous, impactful short videos for brands like STC Pay, effectively reaching millions of viewers.

These trends highlight the dynamism of influencer marketing in the GCC, where innovation and cultural relevance converge. Verified examples demonstrate how influencers and brands are working together to set new standards for impactful collaborations, making the GCC a leader in global influencer marketing practices. As brands continue to explore these trends, the opportunities for meaningful engagement are endless.