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Crafting Your Brand Story in Saudi Arabia: Examples and Implementation Tips.

Building a compelling brand story is essential for creating a strong connection with your audience. Here are key points for crafting an effective brand story in Saudi Arabia, along with examples and steps on how to implement each point.

Ameer Albahouth

Jul 25, 2024 • 3 min read

1. Identify Your Core Message

How:

Define your brand's mission and vision.
Identify the primary value or benefit your brand offers.
Ensure your core message aligns with local cultural values and aspirations.
Craft a concise and memorable slogan or tagline.

Example:

Nike's core message is about empowerment through sport. Their slogan "Just Do It" captures the essence of pushing boundaries and achieving greatness. In Saudi Arabia, a brand like Qiddiya could emphasize its core message of transforming the entertainment and sports landscape in the Kingdom, aligning with Vision 2030's goals.

2. Connect Emotionally

How:

Understand the emotions you want to evoke in your audience.
Use relatable and culturally resonant scenarios.
Create content that reflects real-life experiences of your target audience.
Utilize visuals and narratives that evoke strong emotional responses.

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Example:
Coca-Cola connects emotionally through their ads that highlight moments of happiness and togetherness. For a Saudi brand, Almarai often uses emotional storytelling in its advertisements, showing family moments and the importance of quality in everyday life.

3. Be Authentic

How:

Share real stories of your brand’s journey, challenges, and successes.
Be transparent about your values, processes, and products.
Engage with your audience honestly and respond to feedback.
Highlight your commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

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Example:
Patagonia is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, which is reflected authentically in its brand story. A Saudi brand like Nadec can highlight its dedication to sustainable farming and high-quality dairy products, building trust with consumers through genuine practices.

4. Highlight Your Uniqueness

How:

Identify what makes your brand different from competitors.
Showcase your unique features, innovations, or values.
Use customer testimonials and success stories to highlight uniqueness.
Ensure your branding consistently reflects your unique selling points.

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Example:
Apple differentiates itself through innovative technology and sleek design. For a Saudi brand, STC (Saudi Telecom Company) can highlight its cutting-edge technology and leadership in providing comprehensive communication solutions in the Kingdom.

5. Incorporate Visuals

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Example:
Airbnb uses stunning visuals of unique travel experiences to tell its brand story. Similarly, Saudi Tourism Authority can use breathtaking images of Saudi Arabia's diverse landscapes to attract tourists and showcase the Kingdom’s rich heritage and modern attractions.

How:

Invest in high-quality photography and videography.
Use visuals that are relevant and appealing to your target audience.
Incorporate visual storytelling across all marketing channels.
Ensure visuals are consistent with your brand identity and message.

6. Consistency Across Channels

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Example:
Lush maintains a consistent brand message of ethical cosmetics across its website, social media, and stores. In Saudi Arabia, Jarir Bookstore ensures that its brand message of providing a wide range of books and electronics is consistent across all platforms, from online stores to physical outlets.

How:

Develop a brand style guide to ensure consistency in messaging and visuals.
Use the same logo, colors, and tone of voice across all platforms.
Regularly update all channels to reflect current campaigns and messages.
Train your team to understand and implement brand guidelines consistently.

7. Leverage Local Insights

How:

Conduct market research to understand local consumer behavior and preferences.
Engage with local communities and gather feedback.
Incorporate cultural elements and local success stories into your brand narrative.
Adapt global brand strategies to fit local market nuances.

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Example:
Ben & Jerry's incorporates social justice themes that resonate with its audience. A Saudi brand like Tamimi Markets can leverage local insights by featuring stories of local farmers and producers, emphasizing its commitment to supporting the Saudi economy.

8. Focus on the Future

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Example:
Tesla focuses on the future of sustainable energy and innovation. For a Saudi brand, NEOM can highlight its vision for a futuristic, sustainable city that aligns with Vision 2030, showcasing innovative projects and future goals.

How:

Articulate a clear and inspiring vision for the future.
Highlight ongoing and upcoming projects that reflect this vision.
Use forward-thinking language and visuals in your marketing materials.
Engage with stakeholders and partners who share your future vision.

Conclusion

Building a brand story that resonates in Saudi Arabia involves blending authenticity with cultural sensitivity and forward-thinking. By following these steps and focusing on emotional connections, authenticity, and local insights, you can craft a compelling narrative that not only tells your brand's journey but also engages and inspires your Saudi audience.

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