Dubai, UAE – April 14th 2026: Gambit Communications has announced the appointment of Bassel Barakat as Senior Director, in a strategic role overseeing flagship clients in the independent agency’s burgeoning portfolio. 

Bassel brings 12 years of experience to his new role, covering senior positions on both agency and brand side, and in-depth knowledge of the wider GCC region. He has built and led communications strategies spanning brand reputation across B2G, B2B and B2C, with a specific focus on Saudi Arabia.

In his most recent role, he led external comms at Deloitte Middle East, working closely with an extensive network of external and internal stakeholders, handling integrated campaigns, thought leadership, crisis management and more. Prior to that, he held several senior roles at global and regional communications agencies, where he served clients such as Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Ferrari, Saudi Esports Federation, Saudi Football Federation, Saudi Ministry of Sports, Coca-Cola, Marriott International and Honeywell. 

Jamal Almawed, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Gambit Communications, said: “Bassel’s career trajectory speaks for itself. His work has been recognized by industry bodies and titles like MEPRA, SABRE Awards and Campaign Middle East, making him the right person to take on this strategic role. We’re excited to have his expertise in our team, as we continue to grow in our ‘Gambit 3.0’ phase of expansion.”

The appointment adds to a period of continued momentum for Gambit Communications, following the launch of its four branded divisions: Gambit Pulse, Gambit Sage, Gambit Atelier, and Gambit FWD, and a growing roster of regional and multinational clients.

The independent agency picked up 40 major awards during 2025, being named Global Consultancy of the Year at the ICCO Global Awards, Very Large Consultancy of the Year & Very Large Independent Consultancy of the Year at the PRCA MENA Awards 2025, and Independent PR Agency of the Year & Best Agency in UAE at the Campaign Middle East Agency of the Year Awards 2025.