OpenAI has expanded local access to ChatGPT Ads through an exclusive reseller partnership with Aleph across 44 markets, including the UAE, enabling advertisers to benefit from local billing, onboarding and campaign support.
DUBAI: ChatGPT Ads are becoming easier for brands and agencies in the UAE to purchase following a new partnership between OpenAI and Aleph. Announced on November 12, 2026, the agreement appoints Aleph as OpenAI’s exclusive advertising reseller across 44 markets, allowing customers to work with local teams rather than relying solely on international arrangements.
The deal covers 10 markets across the Middle East and Africa, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Egypt. It also reaches businesses in Latin America, Europe, Central Asia and Asia-Pacific.
What does the OpenAI and Aleph partnership mean for UAE advertisers?
For UAE-based marketing teams, the biggest change is practical: Aleph can provide local contracts, invoices in local currencies, payment terms, onboarding and first-line campaign support.
The company will also help advertisers understand the platform and navigate the setup process. This could make it easier for businesses that prefer local billing and regional account support to explore advertising opportunities on ChatGPT.
However, the arrangement is an additional purchasing route, not a replacement for existing options. OpenAI says brands can still buy ChatGPT Ads directly through its self-service Ads Manager or through global technology partners.
Which countries are covered by the new deal?
The partnership includes 14 Latin American markets, 16 in Europe and Central Asia, 10 in the Middle East and Africa, and four in Asia-Pacific.
Alongside the UAE, the Middle East and Africa list includes Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa and Turkey.
In Asia-Pacific, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong are covered, although OpenAI clarifies that Hong Kong businesses can use authorised partners for outbound advertising in eligible markets; ads are not available within Hong Kong itself.
Why is OpenAI expanding local advertising support?
Gastón Taratuta, Founder and CEO of Aleph, said: “AI is giving businesses a new way to connect with people.”
He said the arrangement lets advertisers work with teams that understand their languages and local payment needs.
The partnership reflects growing interest in reaching audiences as they research products, consider options and make decisions through AI tools. OpenAI says more than 100,000 marketers have already advertised on ChatGPT.
Impact to expect
For UAE businesses and advertising agencies, ChatGPT Ads could become more accessible through local purchasing, clearer payment arrangements and hands-on support. The change may help more regional brands test AI-based advertising, although campaign reach and results will still depend on eligibility, targeting and performance.
Advertisers can learn more about Aleph’s local services through its official website and contact its UAE team for details.
