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Five iconic ad campaigns that evoke nostalgia

November 3, 2025

1.This Is Egypt

Egypt Tourism Promotion Authority I J. Walter Thompson (JWT)

Welcome to Egypt — not just a place, but a feeling. In 80 vivid seconds, J. Walter Thompson and Egypt’s Tourism Promotion Authority take you from ancient pyramids to coral-rich Red Sea dives. With the warmth of Arabic narration and the power of shared moments, the #ThisIsEgypt campaign revived a nation’s story — not just through landscapes, but through connection. History breathes, culture dances, and the world is invited.

2.Riyadh – Welcome to Arabia

Director’s Cut – Saudi Tourism Authority | Media Monks, Dubai Films

It begins with friendship — Fatima and Enza discovering Riyadh, hand in hand. In this cinematic campaign directed by Caspar Diederik, and crafted by Media Monks and Dubai Films, the Saudi capital opens up with soulful ease. From souks to skyscrapers, from ancient fortresses to coffee shared in parks — this is more than tourism. It’s Riyadh, reimagined. It’s Arabia, with a welcome that lingers.

3.Dubai Presents: A Romance to Remember

Dubai Tourism | Craig Gillespie

When suitcases switch, stories begin. In a city where luxury meets love, Dubai Tourism’s rom-com-style campaign stars Zac Efron and Jessica Alba — but the real lead is Dubai itself. Directed by Craig Gillespie, this global rollout delivers sweeping visuals, quirky charm, and destinations that sparkle with possibility. It’s not just a trip. It’s a trailer to a city you’ll want to fall for.

4.Face

British Airways | Saatchi & Saatchi

Thousands of people. One smile. In 1989, Saatchi & Saatchi redefined airline ads for British Airways with ‘Face’ — a visual symphony filmed across Utah. Directed by Hugh Hudson and et to the ethereal Aria, it showed travel not through aircraft, but through humanity. As a Concorde cuts the sky, the message lands: British Airways brings the world together — beautifully.”

5.Kya Swaad Hai Zindagi Mein

Cadbury India | Ogilvy & Mather

A cricket field. A winning run. And pure, unfiltered joy. In 1994, Ogilvy & Mather’s Cadbury ad gave India a chocolate moment to remember. As Shimona Rashi danced across the pitch, biting into Dairy Milk, the jingle said it all: ‘Kya swaad hai zindagi mein (life is quite delectable).’ Cadbury wasn’t just for kids anymore — it was for every celebration, every smile, every sweet little moment.

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