Global OOH Advertising Spend Smashes Records with Bright Future Ahead

OOH advertising has hit an all-time high worldwide. The latest World Out of Home Organisation Global Expenditure Report shows global spending reached AED 169.4 billion (46.2 billion US dollars). This is 4.8 per cent of total global advertising spend. Forecasts point to further growth in 2025, with projected expenditure of AED 182.8 billion (49.8 billion US dollars).

The report covers 85 territories, representing 95 per cent of global GDP and 79 per cent of the world’s population. The figures confirm that brands are investing heavily in real-world formats to connect with audiences.

Regional Leaders in OOH

Asia Pacific leads with AED 83.7 billion (22.8 billion US dollars), almost half of global spend. North America follows with AED 35.6 billion (9.7 billion US dollars). Europe records AED 34.9 billion (9.5 billion US dollars), Latin America AED 99.9 billion (2.7 billion) and Africa AED 5.1 billion (1.4 billion US dollars).

In the UAE, the trend is just as strong. Brands are increasingly choosing outdoor advertising in UAE to reach audiences on the move. From highways to shopping destinations, the visibility and impact of OOH are becoming central to marketing plans.

Why OOH Works

OOH advertising reaches people in busy environments where they are active and engaged. It delivers brand messages on roads, in shopping areas, and in public spaces. This presence builds recognition and trust through repeated visibility.

• 98% of people see OOH ads weekly
• Nearly half search for a brand after seeing an ad
• One in four visits the brand’s website

These results show the value of visibility in the real world.

Digital Screens Driving Impact

Digital formats are expanding the possibilities for creative campaigns. With instant updates and location targeting, brands can tailor messages to events or specific times of day. This keeps content relevant and engaging.

• DOOH allows flexible scheduling and quick creative changes
• Messaging can adapt to traffic, weather, or events
• High recall rates keep brands top of mind

Transit and High Traffic Opportunities

Transit spaces keep brands visible across daily journeys. Bus advertising reaches commuters and residents in busy streets. Taxi advertising moves brand messages through high-traffic areas.

Other prime locations include mall advertising in high-footfall shopping destinations, airport ads reaching travellers and lamp post ads that line key urban routes.

The Right Time to Invest

With global spend at record levels and forecasts predicting more growth, OOH is gaining importance in marketing strategies. The UAE market is ready for ambitious campaigns that take advantage of high visibility and creative flexibility.

• Target audiences in public spaces
• Deliver messages in premium locations
• Build awareness with repeated exposure

OOH connects with people where they live, work, and travel. From highways to malls and airports to neighbourhood streets, the reach is unmatched.

Partner with OOH AE

If you want your brand to stand out across the UAE, OOH AE can help. We plan and deliver impactful campaigns that get attention and drive results.

Contact us today to start your OOH strategy.