M+C Saatchi has agreed to acquire the UAE-based sports agency, Dune 23.

The UK-headquartered creative network said the deal would allow it to grow its UAE business and further enhance its sport and entertainment offering.

Dune 23 is an agency based in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and has a client roster that includes Emirates Dubai 7s, Chicago Bulls, SailGP and Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open.

M+C Saatchi said that its expansion into the Middle East is driven by increasing demand from client and growth opportunities to complement its "bolstered presence in a region that is fast becoming one of the world's leading hubs for sport and entertainment".

The firm said that the acquisition is expected to close in the coming weeks, subject to satisfaction of customary conditions.

Chief executive officer at M+C Saatchi, Zaid Al-Qassab, said: "I am pleased to announce the agreement to acquire Dune 23 which is a perfect fit for our growth ambitions in the UAE, and for M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment. I look forward to integrating Dune 23 into our Passions & PR specialism, where it will enhance our proposition of helping brands to grow through the leveraging cultural power of sport to connect with consumers.

"This acquisition represents a further step in our growth ambitions, developing and expanding our regional presence in a fast-growing market. By integrating the Dune 23 capabilities and client relationships into our regional-first operating model, we are scaling our ability to lead in one of the world's most dynamic markets for sport and entertainment."

---