Short Pencils

Short Pencils is a strategic marcom consultancy with global thinking and regional insight, built for brands that want to grow into or within the MENA region. We help international companies make sense of the region, and regional brands raise their game to global standards. We do this by partnering directly with CMOs, founders, and CEOs to guide market entry, shape communication, build brand equity, and drive business growth. Whether it's a new market launch, a major pitch, a rebranding exercise, or a marketing restructuring, Short Pencils brings strategic clarity, creative governance, and calm leadership to the table. We specialize in: – Brand strategy & market positioning – Marcom readiness for IPOs, mergers & acquisitions, or leadership changes – Board-level advisory & brand comms representation – Fractional CMO leadership – RFP & agency management, relationship audits – Campaign oversight & communication advisory – Internal messaging & brand narrative adoption – C-level media readiness Our experience spans global blue-chip brands and leading regional names across banking, real estate, telecom, mobility, tourism, FMCG, and government. That cross industry perspective helps us connect business goals with brand ambition. No matter the sector. Founded by Habib Rihana, a former MD of global agencies like BBDO and Ogilvy with nearly three decades of experience across the GCC and the Levant, Short Pencils is a sharp partner for brands who care about doing things properly. We operate independently and confidentially, with a low-ego, high-value approach.