Bulldog Reporter

Cities
How local businesses shape the PR landscape of major cities: A global perspective
By Sofiko Saltkhutsishvili | May 20, 2025

In the globalized world of public relations, local businesses often serve as the unsung architects of a city’s image. While multinational corporations and government initiatives frequently dominate headlines, it’s the local enterprises that infuse authenticity, cultural relevance, and grassroots engagement into a city’s narrative. Dubai, with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, offers a compelling case study of how local businesses shape the PR landscape of a global city.

The Power of Local Expertise in Global PR

Dubai’s rapid ascent on the global stage is not solely due to its towering skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls but also because of the strategic PR efforts of its local businesses. These enterprises possess an intimate understanding of the city’s culture, values, and nuances, enabling them to craft messages that resonate deeply with both local and international audiences.

Take, for instance, NeedAFixer, a Dubai-based video production company. With years of experience in the UAE, their team is adept at navigating the intricacies of filming in the region. From securing permits for iconic locations like the Burj Khalifa to managing logistics in the vast desert landscapes, NeedAFixer exemplifies how local knowledge can enhance the production process.

Their comprehensive services, ranging from pre-production planning and location scouting to in-house post-production, ensure that projects are executed seamlessly. By leveraging state-of-the-art studios and equipment, they deliver high-quality content that showcases Dubai’s unique charm. This commitment to excellence not only elevates the city’s PR image but also sets a benchmark for video production in Dubai.

Local Brands with Global Impact

Beyond service providers, local brands in Dubai have made significant strides in shaping the city’s PR narrative. Huda Beauty, founded by Huda Kattan, is a prime example. What began as a beauty blog has transformed into a billion-dollar cosmetics empire. Huda’s ability to blend cultural authenticity with global appeal has garnered her a massive following, making Huda Beauty a household name worldwide.

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The brand’s success lies in its deep connection with its audience. Huda’s personal journey, her commitment to inclusivity, and her engagement with followers have humanized the brand, 

making it more relatable and trustworthy. This approach has not only propelled Huda Beauty to international acclaim but has also positioned Dubai as a hub for beauty innovation and entrepreneurship.

Similarly, Property Finder, a leading real estate platform in the UAE, has revolutionized the way people search for properties. By offering verified listings, detailed neighborhood insights, and user-friendly interfaces, Property Finder has become an indispensable tool for those seeking an apartment for rent in Dubai.

Their localized approach, understanding the diverse needs of Dubai’s residents, has allowed them to cater to a broad audience, from expatriates to locals. This adaptability and responsiveness to market demands have solidified Property Finder’s reputation and, by extension, enhanced Dubai’s image as a dynamic and accommodating city.

The Intersection of Local and Global PR Strategies

The success stories of NeedAFixer, Huda Beauty, and Property Finder underscore the importance of integrating local insights into global PR strategies. While international brands bring global recognition, it’s the local businesses that provide the cultural context and authenticity that make a city’s narrative compelling.

In Dubai, the synergy between local enterprises and global PR efforts creates a multifaceted image of the city. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where local flavors blend with international tastes, and where grassroots initiatives contribute to a global reputation.

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Implications for the PR Industry

For PR professionals, the Dubai model offers valuable lessons:

  • Embrace Local Insights: Understanding the cultural, social, and economic nuances of a region can enhance the authenticity and effectiveness of PR campaigns.
  • Foster Community Engagement: Building genuine relationships with local audiences can strengthen brand loyalty and trust.
  • Adapt Global Strategies Locally: While global strategies provide a broad framework, tailoring them to local contexts ensures relevance and resonance.
  • Leverage ocal Success Stories: Highlighting the achievements of local businesses can humanize a city’s narrative and make it more relatable to international audiences.

In conclusion, local businesses are not mere participants in a city’s PR landscape; they are its architects. By blending local expertise with global aspirations, they craft narratives that are authentic, engaging, and impactful. As cities like Dubai continue to evolve, the role of local enterprises in shaping their PR destinies will only grow more significant.

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Sofiko Saltkhutsishvili

Sofiko Saltkhutsishvili

Sofiko Saltkhutsishvili is a content writer and a senior outreach specialist at SEO Sherpa – Global Best Large SEO Agency Winner, focusing on SEO, PPC, Digital PR, and Search Everywhere Optimization. She enjoys conducting in-depth research on topics she writes about and shares her authentic experiences with readers. On the side, Sofiko is a career mentor for people in marketing. Originally from beautiful Georgia, she currently resides in its capital, Tbilisi.

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