Social Media Manager

About the Role Our client, a leading live experiences agency in the region, is looking for a Social Media Manager to lead digital storytelling and audience engagement for a large-scale cultural festival in the Al Dhafra region, Abu Dhabi. The role starts immediately and runs until the first week of January 2027. You will work from the client s office in Dubai until early December, then be on site at the festival from 8 December 2026. You will: • Own the social media strategy and content plan across Instagram, TikTok and other key platforms • Lead content creation and publishing before, during and after the festival • Deliver live, real-time coverage from the event • Manage influencer collaborations to extend reach This is a hands-on, fast-paced role. You will work closely with designers, videographers, influencers and internal teams to produce high-quality content that is on brand and connects with audiences. This is a senior role, but it is hands-on. You will plan the strategy and also be on the ground capturing, editing and posting content in real time. Key Responsibilities Strategy and Planning • Develop and manage a social media strategy and content plan across platforms. • Ensure all content follows brand guidelines, tone of voice and campaign objectives. • Identify and act on trends and opportunities to keep content fresh and relevant. Content Creation and Live Coverage • Lead the creation and publishing of reels, stories and behind-the-scenes content. • Capture and post content in real time during activations and the live event. • Collaborate with designers, videographers and internal teams to produce content. Community, Influencers and Reporting • Engage with the online community, responding to comments and driving interaction. • Manage influencer collaborations and partnerships to amplify reach. • Track performance and provide insights, reports and recommendations. • Support content approvals, scheduling and publishing workflows. • Based in the UAE or open to relocation Ideal Background • Experience on large-scale campaigns, events or brand activations is a strong advantage • Strong understanding of regional digital trends and audience behaviour is a strong advantage • Experience managing influencers and content creators • Ability to shoot and edit content on mobile or in quick-turn formats Languages • English: fluent, spoken and written, required • Arabic: fluent, spoken and written, required Working Conditions • Full-time project contract: immediate start until the first week of January 2027 • Office-based: client office in Dubai until early December • On site in the Al Dhafra region, Abu Dhabi: 8 December 2026 to the first week of January 2027 • Location: based in the UAE or open to relocation • Event schedule: flexible to work evenings, weekends and live event hours • 6+ years of experience in social media management for brands, agencies or live experiences • Proven experience across Instagram, TikTok and other key platforms • Strong understanding of content creation, video formats and platform trends • Experience managing real-time content and live campaign coverage • Strong writing and captioning skills