The influencer market has come a long way, evolving into a full-time profession that demands creativity, dedication, and a lot of hard work. Gone are the days when influencers were just hobbyists; today, they are content creators who put in immense effort to produce engaging and high-quality content–something we consume the most of on a day-to-day basis.
The International Middle East Filmfare Social Media Influencer Awards at the Palazzo Versace on July 23, 2024, celebrated this evolution in style, bringing together the UAE’s brightest social media stars for an evening filled with excitement and glamour.
Social Night honored the diverse talents and backgrounds of influencers who captivate audiences with their unique content. From fashion and food to tech geeks and travel enthusiasts, the event awarded a mix of passions and stories. Filmfare Middle East gathered these digital stars to recognize their remarkable contributions and the impact they have on their followers.
The night showcased the power of social media in connecting people from all walks of life, emphasizing the rich variety of content that keeps us all engaged and inspired. Here are the winners and everything you need to know about them:
Saman Hayat Soomro, Lifestyle Influencer of the Year
Saman Hayat Soomro, crowned Lifestyle Influencer of the Year, is a Dubai-based Pakistani influencer celebrated for her diverse content in fashion, travel, and lifestyle. She also empowers women with her brand, Naisa, offering stylish and modest outfits with matching hijabs.
Adnan Zafar, Fashion Influencer of the Year
Adnan Zafar, known as “Ken Doll Dubai,” won Fashion Influencer of the Year. The Dubai-based Pakistani model is celebrated for his fashion looks and collaborations with brands like Pandora and Mischief, captivating a global audience with his unique style and personality.
Faizan Patel, Runner-Up Photography Influencer of the Year
Faizan Patel, the Runner-Up Photography Influencer of the Year, is renowned for his exceptional storytelling through the lens. Based in Dubai, Faizan’s work spans fashion, products, and events, capturing moments with a cool artistic vibe. His dedication to the craft and ability to bring out the emotions in each shot have made him one of the most sought-after photographers in the region
Ali Sufian Wasif, Comedy Influencer of the Year
Ali Sufian Wasif, awarded the title of Comedy Influencer of the Year, has taken the internet by storm with his hilarious and relatable content. Originally an accountant in Dubai, Ali made the bold leap to follow his passion for comedy and content creation in 2015. His journey from crunching numbers to creating laugh-out-loud videos showcases his determination and creative talent. Ali’s comedic sketches often highlight the quirks of desi life, both at home and abroad, resonating deeply with his audience.
Harnidh Kaur Sodhi, Dancing Influencer Of The Year
Dancing Influencer of the Year, Harnidh has captivated audiences with her energetic and flawless dance moves. Born in 2010, she started her journey in Ludhiana, India, and later moved to Dubai. She began posting her dance videos on Instagram in 2021, quickly gaining a massive following due to her incredible talent and engaging content. Known for her performances to tracks like “Naatu Naatu” and “Oh Ho Ho Ho,” Harnidh’s videos not only showcase her dance skills but also her joyous and authentic personality. Her Instagram account, @beatswithharnidh, has over 2.6 million followers, and she continues to inspire with each post.
Mahmoud Hassan and Mayar Said, Runner-Up Couple Content Creator of the Year
Mahmoud Hassan and Mayar Said, the #couplegoals duo, earned the Runner-Up Couple Content Creator of the Year title. Their heartwarming and engaging videos showcase their chemistry and creativity, resonating deeply with their audience and cementing their place in the influencer community.
Safia Mansoor, Travel Influencer of the Year
Safia Mansoor, the Travel Influencer of the Year, is a Dubai-based content creator renowned for her travel stories and guides on Instagram (@cuptaleswithsafia). Her engaging posts and stunning visuals capture unique destinations and cultural experiences, earning her a dedicated following and making her a standout in the travel community.
Rania Ali, Favourite MC of the Year
Rania Ali, awarded Favourite MC of the Year, is a prominent bilingual presenter and live events MC in the UAE. Known for her engaging presence, Rania has hosted numerous high-profile events, including government ceremonies and corporate functions. She is also a TV presenter on Al Aan TV and has worked extensively with top brands and government officials, including H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Rania holds an MBA from the University of Wollongong, Australia, and is a certified TV presenter from the London Academy of Media Film TV. Her expertise and charisma make her the top choice for major events across the Middle East.
Saim Ali, Most Wanted Fashion Influencer of the Year
Saim Ali, awarded the Most Wanted Fashion Influencer of the Year, is a UAE-based model and luxury fashion influencer. His journey from overcoming early rejections to becoming a fashion powerhouse is nothing short of inspiring. Known for his elegant yet bold fashion sense, Saim has made a significant mark in the industry, collaborating with top brands and gracing major fashion shows.
Tharesh Kumar, Runner-Up Automobile Influencer of the Year
Tharesh Kumar, recognized as the Runner-Up Automobile Influencer of the Year, has made a significant impact in the automotive community with his engaging content and passion for vehicles. Based in the UAE, Tharesh’s expertise and enthusiasm for cars are evident in his detailed reviews and captivating posts, which have earned him a dedicated following. His ability to connect with audiences and share the thrill of the automotive world has solidified his position as a leading influencer in the industry.
