Places to Watch: Africa & the Middle East
Across Africa and the Middle East, cities and countries are redefining what progress feels like — balancing growth with liveability, purpose with pride.
Places to Watch: Africa & the Middle East brings together stories of transformation — from the people-centred evolution of Al Madinah and the emerging identity of North Khobar, to South Africa’s drive for citizen confidence and Namibia’s pursuit of sustainable prosperity.
Together, these stories reveal how leadership, culture, and vision can shape a place’s future.
Highlights
The four features below sit within a much broader edition shaped by three powerful forewords:
Thebe Ikalafeng on Africa’s renewed sense of identity,
Savio D’Souza on the region’s economic and reputational shifts, and
H.E. Eng. Fahad Albuliheshi on Al Madinah’s human-centred transformation.
The publication also includes People to Watch, leadership interviews, and artwork that reflects the momentum that is palpable across both regions.
Together, they provide the context for these standout stories.
This special edition offers a glimpse into the evolution of Al Madinah and into the journeys of other cities across our region. Enjoy reading their stories, their ambitions, and their bold reimagining of place.
H.E. Eng. Fahad Albuliheshi
MAYOR AL MADINAH REGIONThis special Places to Watch: Africa & Middle East edition arrives at a critical moment. Both regions stand at the crossroads of transformation — demographically youthful, digitally connected, and economically ambitious.
Thebe Ikalafeng
FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, BRAND AFRICAIt is encouraging to see a publication dedicated to showcasing the champions of place brand growth across the Middle East and Africa. As these regions continue to strengthen their international reputations and measure their progress, they offer valuable lessons on how to manage brands for long-term success.
Savio D'Souza
BRAND FINANCE - MIDDLE EAST & AFRICABehind the Edition
Places to Watch: Africa & the Middle East was curated in collaboration with local leaders and TPBO’s international expert community. Each story was chosen for its clarity of vision and measurable progress — showing how strategy and authenticity can work hand in hand to build stronger places.
Curious about future editions?
Write to editor@placebrandobserver.com