Khaled Alshehhi, Executive Director Marketing and Communication at UAE Government Media Office, needs no introduction. He is the most renowned Emirati in the advertising sector of the Middle East, reputed for his passion and dedication for great advertising and his staunch advocacy for purpose driven campaigns. His dedication to making great award-winning ads happen for the Emirates’ nation brand has earned him a prestigious honor at Dubai Lynx 2022, as he was handed the marketing leadership and innovation award. We invite you to meet Khaled AlShehhi up, close and personal and join him in his abstract rambles as he exposes his true self through ArabAd’s lighthearted questionnaire. AlShehhi is all about extreme sports— guilty pleasures not so much… Just send him trekking with gorillas in Uganda or on an adventure in the wilds of Alaska, and he’d be a happy man. He likes everything that challenges his limits. This is a man who aims to be a transformative leader and fears nothing but stagnation.
What gets you up in the morning?
Each morning, my passion for what I do sparks my inner drive, fueling me to explore new heights and embrace fresh achievements.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The WoW effect: I relish the power of transforming insightful observations into creative ideas that spark significant change.
Who do you ultimately want to become?
I aim to be a transformative leader, inspiring youth and communities with innovation and making a lasting impact.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My greatest extravagance is investing in boundary-pushing experiences, from international travel and extreme sports to innovative projects.
What’s your motto in life?
Remember, you may dislike something that is good for you and like something that is bad for you. Allah knows, while you do not. This teaches the wisdom of divine decree, reminding me that our understanding of situations is often limited. What may initially seem undesirable could bring benefit, while what appears desirable could lead to harm. It underscores the limitations of human knowledge and the comprehensive wisdom of God. Trust divine wisdom above all.
What keeps you in the game?
My positive stubbornness; it fuels my drive to aim high, carve out a niche, and be different.
What keeps you up at night?
The night before a trip, I'm up late packing twice as much as I need, still not mastering the art of packing light, despite countless trips.
What would be your worst nightmare?
Being trapped in a cycle of overthinking.
What music have you been listening to lately?
I tend to thrive in quiet environments, so I don't usually listen to music. In fact, I don't turn the radio on in the car, I don't own headphones, and I even prefer silence at the gym. This silence is where I find my focus.
What is the gadget you cannot live without?
My fitness watch is indispensable. It keeps me on track with my health goals and ensures I'm always ready for the next challenge, whether it's a meeting or a mountain.
What quality do you most look up to in a woman?
I deeply value a woman who embraces her unique strengths and the essence of her femininity. A woman who understands and supports her partner's journey, bringing balance and harmony that only her inherent qualities can offer. This blend of understanding and strength is what I admire most.
Who would you like to sit next to on a seven-hour flight?
My mother, to share her first flight abroad. Her presence would be a true blessing, enriching the journey with her warmth, despite her usual preference to stay home.
If you could live for one day the life of another person, who would it be?
It would be Khalid ibn al-Walid, a revered figure in Islamic history known for his strategic genius and leadership. Experiencing his decisiveness and skill in overcoming challenges would be incredibly insightful and inspiring.
If you could have dinner with someone, living or dead, who would it be; and what question would you ask him/her?
If I could have dinner with someone special to me, whom I deeply respect but prefer to keep confidential, I would ask, 'Have you truly forgiven me?'
If you were to change profession, what would you choose to do?
A lawyer, but not just any lawyer; think of me as the advocate of the underdog, the voice for those without one. In court, I'd weave arguments as compellingly as campaign slogans, turning legal battles into narratives of justice and change.
“If I could choose one superhero power, it would be Invisibility, not just for insight but also for freedom.”
What do you consider to be the greatest headline of all time?
On a Historic Day: The 18th Arab State Proclaimed as an Independent, Sovereign Nation Committed to Protecting the Rights and Freedoms of Its People. The Birth of the United Arab Emirates.
What business tip would you give the newbies?
Persist and adapt.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Perfect happiness is enjoying moments, fulfilling my role, trusting in divine plans, and always grateful; Alhamdulillah.
Where can we find you on a Friday night?
On a Friday night, you'll find me at my family home, enjoying lively conversations and dinner with my mother and loved ones; a beacon of warmth and joy in my week.
If you could choose one superhero power, what would it be and why?
Invisibility, not just for insight but also for freedom. It allows me to observe and learn without influencing the scene, and to pursue my passions in peace, free from judgment.
What is the one word you catch yourself saying too often?
What if we try this instead?
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
In five years, I’d love to be the chief cheerleader at Rashed’s first-grade kickoff, celebrating his big school debut with high fives and the proudest dad snaps!
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?
I'd be trekking with gorillas in Uganda or embarking on an adventure in the wilds of Alaska.
I AM...
I am a passionate dreamer, fiercely independent and driven.
I like conquering obstacle course races, where every leap and sprint challenge my limits.
I want to see my villa project through to a breathtaking finish.
I have two close friends who truly understand me.
I wish to retain the wonder and curiosity of a child.
I hate the twin scourges of injustice and hypocrisy.
I fear none but stagnation.
I Google exotic travel destinations and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
I wonder about the mysteries of the future and eagerly anticipate my next big move.
I regret letting perfectionism dictate my pace and life.
I love Aishah, my heart’s compass.
I need moments to pause, reflect, and strategize.
If I ruled the world, I'd dissolve borders to unite humanity.
I dream of departing this world deeply connected with my creator and cherished by people.
My Favourite…
Dream Destination: A day on the moon
Restaurant: A cliffside restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
Hotel: A Glass Igloo in Lapland
Meal: Seafood
Quote: If it doesn't scare you, it's not an adventure
Book: The Quran
Movie: Gladiator
Flower: Red Rose
Animal: The Wolf
Heroes: My hero? Definitely Rashed; he’s my little superhero in training!
