Out-of-home (OOH) advertising is vital in global and Egyptian marketing strategies. However, misconceptions persist in Egypt. These myths often stop businesses from fully using OOH's potential. In this article, we'll debunk these misunderstandings and highlight OOH's power in Egypt's marketing landscape.

Myth 1: OOH Advertising is Expensive

Many Egyptian businesses avoid OOH, thinking it's too costly. But this belief isn't accurate. OOH in Egypt is cost-effective. The cost per thousand impressions (CPM) is often lower than other methods. This is especially true in Cairo and Alexandria.

A well-placed billboard on the Ring Road or in Tahrir Square can reach hundreds of thousands daily. It costs far less than a TV or digital campaign. Businesses can also choose locations outside the city center. These spots are cheaper but still highly visible. This flexibility lets companies of all sizes use OOH effectively.

Myth 2: OOH Advertising is Not Effective

Another common misconception is that OOH advertising isn’t as effective as digital or broadcast media. In reality, OOH in Egypt has a unique advantage—visibility. Egyptian cities are bustling with activity, and well-placed ads can capture the attention of diverse audiences, from daily commuters to tourists.

Studies have shown that people in Egypt are more likely to remember ads they see outdoors, especially when they’re bold and creative. For example, during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, several brands used OOH to great effect, reaching a massive audience of locals and international visitors alike. The key is to create visually striking ads that resonate with the local culture.

Myth 3: OOH Advertising Only Targets Commuters

While it’s true that many OOH ads are placed along busy roads, the reach of OOH advertising in Egypt extends far beyond commuters. OOH can effectively target pedestrians in crowded markets like Khan El Khalili, shoppers in malls, and even residents in residential neighborhoods.

Moreover, digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising is on the rise in Egypt, offering opportunities to engage with audiences in places like airports, metro stations, and cinemas. These locations attract a diverse audience, making it possible to target specific demographics based on location.

Myth 4: OOH Advertising is Only for Big Brands

There’s a belief that only large corporations can afford OOH advertising in Egypt. While it’s true that companies like Vodafone and PepsiCo dominate the billboard space, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly turning to OOH as well.

Localized OOH campaigns, such as promoting a new café in Maadi or a boutique in Zamalek, can be highly effective. These campaigns can focus on specific neighborhoods, ensuring that the ad budget is spent efficiently while reaching the desired audience.

Myth 5: OOH Advertising is Outdated

The notion that OOH advertising is outdated couldn’t be further from the truth, especially in Egypt. The industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing adoption of digital screens.

DOOH is particularly exciting, offering real-time updates, dynamic content, and interactive elements that engage viewers. For example, digital billboards in Cairo can display real-time weather updates or countdowns to events, making the advertising experience more engaging and relevant.

Myth 6: OOH Advertising Can’t be Measured

Measuring out-of-home (OOH) advertising effectiveness has traditionally been challenging, especially in Egypt. However, this is changing quickly. AdMazad's AdMetrics is leading this change.

AdMetrics uses an exclusive AdSpace Scoring Algorithm to evaluate OOH campaigns. It assesses over 5,000 billboards across Egypt. The platform combines geomapping, real-time monitoring, and Google traffic data.

AdMetrics provides detailed data on peak and average impressions per hour. It also measures dwell time at specific locations. This data helps businesses see how many people view their ads and for how long.

By using AdMetrics, Egyptian businesses gain a competitive edge. They can turn detailed metrics into actionable insights. This improves return on investment (ROI). AdMetrics shows that OOH advertising can be measured precisely. It proves OOH can be as data-driven as digital advertising.

Myth 7: OOH Advertising Can’t be Targeted

Finally, there’s a common misconception that OOH advertising lacks the targeting capabilities of digital ads. While globally, OOH can be highly targeted based on factors like location, time of day, and even weather conditions, in Egypt, the primary targeting method is location-based.



For instance, brands can strategically place billboards in specific areas like Heliopolis or Sheikh Zayed to reach their desired audience. Although targeting options in Egypt are currently more limited, the industry is evolving. In the future, we can expect to see more advanced targeting capabilities that align with global standards.

Conclusion

Out-of-home advertising in Egypt is a vibrant and evolving industry, offering unique opportunities to reach diverse audiences. Despite the misconceptions, OOH remains one of the most effective ways to build brand awareness and drive engagement in the Egyptian market.

Whether you’re a large corporation or a small business, OOH advertising can be a valuable addition to your marketing mix. With the right strategy, it can deliver impressive results, helping you achieve your business goals in a cost-effective and measurable way.

If you’re looking to tap into the power of OOH advertising in Egypt, consider working with an experienced agency that understands the local market dynamics. With the right partner, you can create impactful campaigns that resonate with your audience and deliver tangible results. AdMazad. With our deep understanding of the local market dynamics and a proven track record of success, we can help you create impactful campaigns that resonate with your audience and deliver tangible results.

Ready to get started? Contact us today and let’s bring your OOH advertising vision to life.