In the dynamic world of technology and media, few individuals have made as significant an impact as Fares Akkad. Currently at the helm of Meta’s business and operations across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), Akkad’s journey is a testament to his visionary leadership, strategic expertise, and unwavering commitment to innovation. With a track record spanning corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and advisory roles, he has successfully navigated the fast-evolving landscape of digital media, content distribution, and regulatory challenges.
Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Fares Akkad’s story begins with a strong foundation in education. Born with a natural curiosity for technology and business, he pursued his studies in the United States, earning an undergraduate degree in Bio-Technology, followed by a Master’s in Information Systems, and an MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship and finance. His academic achievements, graduating with distinction in all three degrees, reflect his dedication to learning and excellence. This diverse educational background equipped him with a unique blend of scientific knowledge and business acumen, setting the stage for his multifaceted career.
A Decade in Management Consulting
Before venturing into the media and tech industries, Akkad dedicated over ten years to management consulting. Collaborating with esteemed firms such as Booz & Co. and KPMG, he worked across the United States and the Middle East, engaging with a wide array of industries. This period honed his analytical skills and provided him with a panoramic view of global business operations. He played an instrumental role in advising multinational corporations on strategic growth, digital transformation, and market expansion, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors in leadership and entrepreneurship.
Transforming MBC Group’s Digital Landscape
A pivotal chapter in Akkad’s career was his tenure at MBC Group, the Middle East and North Africa’s largest media conglomerate. As the head of digital business development and distribution, he spearheaded initiatives that quadrupled the company’s digital footprint over five years. His leadership was critical in the expansion of “Shahid,” the world’s largest Arabic Video on Demand (VOD) platform. Under his guidance, Shahid experienced unprecedented growth, cementing MBC Group’s dominance in the regional digital entertainment sector. He was instrumental in securing strategic partnerships, enhancing monetization strategies, and leveraging emerging technologies to improve content delivery.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Advisory Roles
Beyond corporate roles, Akkad’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish, fund, and successfully exit several startups in both the U.S. and the Middle East. His hands-on experience as an entrepreneur provided him with invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of startup ecosystems. Committed to fostering innovation, he remains an active advisor and investor in the startup scene, guiding emerging ventures and collaborating with venture capitalists. His mentorship has been pivotal in shaping some of the most promising startups in the region, driving innovation in industries ranging from fintech and e-commerce to artificial intelligence and digital media.
Joining Meta: A New Chapter
In 2017, Akkad embarked on a new journey with Meta (formerly Facebook). He initially took on the role of Head of Media Partnerships for Facebook and Instagram in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with media entities across various verticals, including entertainment, news, sports, and social causes. His efforts were directed towards enhancing the user experience on Meta’s platforms by fostering robust partnerships and integrating innovative content strategies. His ability to align Meta’s vision with the needs of regional content creators and publishers helped drive significant growth in digital engagement.
Navigating Global Challenges
Akkad’s expertise soon led him to a global role as Director for Media Partnerships at Meta, overseeing the News team across Growth Markets, including Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and MEA. In this position, he tackled some of the most sensitive issues facing the company, such as Australian intellectual property regulations, unrest in Afghanistan and the Middle East, and Brazilian elections and regulations. His strategic acumen not only addressed these challenges but also fostered cohesion in newly established regions. Under his leadership, news-related revenues from growth markets surpassed those of other global regions, showcasing his ability to drive both compliance and profitability while maintaining Meta’s core mission of fostering information accessibility and engagement.
Leading Meta’s MEA Operations
In March 2022, Akkad was appointed as the Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Meta. In this role, he is responsible for designing and leading the commercial growth of the company’s portfolio of apps, services, and businesses across the region. His deep understanding of the regional landscape, combined with his global experience, positions him uniquely to drive Meta’s mission of fostering connectivity and community in MEA. His ability to bridge policy discussions with digital transformation strategies has solidified Meta’s presence in the region as a leader in digital engagement and advertising solutions.
Board Memberships and Philanthropy
Akkad’s influence extends beyond his professional roles. He serves on the boards of several prominent organizations, including the Young Presidents’ Organization, Binghatti, CAFU, Enhance Fitness, Aliph Capital, Ard Dyar, the TAKREEM Foundation, and EMIR. Through these positions, he contributes to shaping strategies and guiding initiatives that impact various sectors, from technology and media to philanthropy and education. His dedication to social impact and innovation reflects his broader vision of creating a sustainable and digitally connected future.
A Multilingual Global Citizen
Fluent in English, Arabic, Spanish, and Portuguese, Akkad embodies the essence of a global citizen. His linguistic proficiency reflects his ability to navigate and connect with diverse cultures, a skill that has undoubtedly contributed to his success in leading international teams and initiatives. His ability to engage with stakeholders across different regions, regulatory environments, and business cultures makes him an invaluable asset in an increasingly interconnected world.
Life in Dubai
For the past 17 years, Akkad has called Dubai home, residing there with his wife and two children. The city’s vibrant blend of tradition and innovation mirrors Akkad’s own journey—a fusion of rich cultural heritage and forward-thinking ambition. Dubai’s role as a global tech and business hub has provided him with the ideal platform to drive digital transformation and regional economic growth.
Looking Ahead
As Meta continues to evolve and expand its footprint in the MEA region, Fares Akkad’s leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the company’s trajectory. His unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit, strategic insight, and deep regional understanding positions him as a key figure in the ongoing narrative of technology and media in the Middle East and Africa.
In a world where digital transformation is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, leaders like Fares Akkad exemplify the vision and dedication required to navigate the complexities of the modern landscape. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, illustrating the profound impact of combining passion with purpose. His continued efforts in fostering digital innovation, policy engagement, and commercial growth will likely cement his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the global digital ecosyste
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