Podcast platform Podeo signs exclusive advertising partnership with SMC Group

In a significant move aimed at transforming the podcast advertising sector across the Middle East and North Africa, Podeo and SMC Group announce a strategic exclusive partnership. Under the agreement, SMC Group will serve as Podeo’s exclusive advertising sales partner in the UAE and KSA.

SMC Group, a leading company in digital advertising and integrated marketing solutions, and Podeo, the largest podcast platform in the Middle East and North Africa, aim through this partnership to reshape the digital audio advertising landscape across the region.

The partnership was formally signed at a ceremony in Dubai, attended by Stefano Fallaha, CEO & Founder of Podeo, Michel Bayeh, Media Executive Director at SMC Group, and senior representatives from both parties.

The collaboration marks a significant step forward in the evolution of the region’s podcast landscape. It aims to establish a robust ecosystem that connects podcast creators with premium advertising opportunities, enabling brands to reach engaged audiences through high-value content in a more impactful and emotionally resonant media environment.

Podeo has distinguished itself as the only platform in the region built to empower podcast creators to grow, get discovered, and earn, turning podcasts into income with no extra effort. Through its powerful proprietary technology, Podeo enables creators to reach mass audiences and build sustainable revenue streams, some earning over AED 100,000 in monthly income through effective, targeted audio advertising.

SMC is strategically positioned to amplify the impact of Podeo’s ad inventory and introduce innovative engagement models for advertisers. Backed by extensive commercial expertise and partnerships with major media institutions, including the Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA), beIN Sports, Saudi Airline, Webook, Mawdoo3, and Webedia — SMC brings valuable reach and capabilities to this collaboration.

Commenting on the partnership, Stefano Fallaha, Founder and CEO of Podeo, said: “At Podeo, we’ve built the infrastructure to make podcast advertising effortless and powerful. This partnership is about unlocking podcasting’s true potential for brands and agencies, delivering undivided attention, authentic engagement, and measurable, long-lasting impact at scale.”

Michel Bayeh, Media Executive Director at SMC Group, added: “This partnership underscores SMC’s ongoing commitment to advancing the media landscape through smart, high-performance platforms. By aligning with Podeo, we’re not only enhancing our digital offering but also supporting the expansion of podcast monetization across MENA with more efficient, data-driven solutions.”

Together, Podeo and SMC Group continue to supercharge the future of media monetization in the region. This partnership also sets the stage for developing an advanced data infrastructure to enhance audience insights and campaign performance, supporting the rise of targeted audio advertising, one of the fastest-growing ad channels globally.

About SMC Group
SMC Group is a leading media and advertising company based in Riyadh, specializing in the commercialization of premium media assets across Saudi Arabia. Since 2018, SMC Group has served as the advertising representative for major platforms, including the Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA), beIN Sports, Saudi Airlines, Webook, Mawdoo3,and Webedia, offering strategic access to high-impact audiences across various media channels. SMC Group delivers integrated solutions across Multiple Advertising Solutions— enabling brands to engage effectively in a fast-evolving market.

About Podeo
Podeo is the largest podcast platform in the MENA region that provides end-to-end AI-driven products for creators, listeners, and brands, with exclusive distribution integrations across airlines, automotive, radio stations, ride-hailing, and popular chat, gaming, and streaming apps. Podeo has firmly solidified its position as the unrivaled MENA leader in the podcast value chain, powering over 50 million listeners worldwide and over 100,000 creators. Founded in 2020 by Stefano Fallaha, Anthony Essaye, and Mario Hayek, the trio is on a mission to democratize the power of stories and amplify voices to billions worldwide.