How to choose a retail marketing agency in the UAE: 12 questions to ask
Before you sign, ask these twelve questions. The answers tell you more than any portfolio.
- Ask for work in your category and market, with real results.
- Know who will actually do the work.
- Agree how success is measured before starting.
- Check notice periods and who owns the accounts and content.
Agencies all promise growth. The difference shows in how they answer specific questions. Use these twelve in your first meeting.
Experience
- What have you done for brands in my category, in the UAE or Saudi Arabia?
- Can you show the results, and what you would do differently?
- Do you understand retail as well as online: shelves, buyers and promotions?
Team
- Who will work on my account day to day?
- Who writes Arabic content?
- What do you do in-house and what do you outsource?
Plan and measurement
- What would you do in the first 30 days?
- Which numbers will you report, and how often?
- How will you know if something is not working, and what happens then?
Contract
- What is the notice period?
- Who owns the ad accounts, content and data?
- What is included in the fee, and what costs extra?
| Good sign | Warning sign |
|---|---|
| Specific plan for your business | Same deck for every client |
| Clear reporting on sales | Reports only on likes and reach |
| You own your accounts | Agency keeps your ad accounts |
| Honest about what might not work | Guaranteed results |
Retail brands may also find our guides to getting into UAE supermarkets and listing terms useful before briefing an agency.
How Husbar can help
Husbar is a psychology-led marketing agency working with retail, fashion and e-commerce brands in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. We are happy to answer all twelve. Contact Husbar.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a retail marketing agency cost in the UAE?
It varies widely with scope, from project fees to monthly retainers. Compare what is included, not only the headline fee.
Should I own my ad accounts?
Yes. The brand should own its ad accounts, data and content, with the agency given access.
Is a guarantee of results a good sign?
Usually not. Good agencies explain their plan and how they measure it, not guaranteed outcomes.