Entrepreneur Middle East - 50 Visionary Women (Special Edition)

VISIONARY

WOMEN

Nestled by the coast of Lusail sits the splendor of Raf es and Fairmont Doha, where luxury is rooted in even the smallest details. Open the doors to mesmerizing hospitality and make memories in a world of sophistication.

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Sarah Saddouk sarah@bncpublishing.net

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HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS

Samir Glor Samir@bncpublishing.net

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Anna Chipala anna@bncpublishing.net

COLUMNIST Tamara Clarke

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International Women’s Day: the new powerhouse?

There is no shortage of remarkable Saudi women in our special Women’s Day issue. From incredible work done by royals to Saudi women holding top positions in both government and the private sector, there is a lot to be proud of.

It’s easy to be critical. The number of females in active work across the region is 24.6% - a considerable rise over the last few years, but still way below the global average of 47.8%.

But on the plus side, in the UAE, the literacy rate of women is 95.8%, with Emirati women making up 77% of university enrolments and 64% of all graduates in the UAE - proving that they are more than capable and qualified to receive the same professional recognition as their male counterparts. This pattern is increasingly being repeated across the region.

A celebration of Changemakers

Welcome to our special issue celebrating female visionaries. Choosing just 50 has been no easy task. Maybe a decade ago it would have been. But right now, there are literally thousands of incredible women making a huge impact across so many sectors.

When it comes to success at ministerial level, the UAE continues to lead the way, the UAE Minster of State for Entrepreneurship H.E Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei a shining example of this.

In business, yet again it is the female achievers grabbing all the headlines. Pure Health founder Shaista Asif and Joelle Mardinian have been great torchbearers for

entrepreneurial success. But in 2025, we also celebrate seeing women at the top of major corporations. Standard Chartered, ROSHN Group, Multiply, Abu Dhabi Airports and NEOM are just a few of many companies with females at the very top, or in very senior leadership positions.

But the list also shows the full spectrum of success. The UAE astronaut Nora Al Matrooshi, the young superstar Aldhabi AlMheiri and the brilliant student Mahra Al Hosani are just some of the standout names.

In truth, we could have published 1,000 names. We hope you enjoy reading about the 50 we chose just as much as we did writing them.

BY

In recognition of the MENA region digital business landscape, the E-Business Awards by Entrepreneur Middle East will take place at Habtoor Palace Dubai, on April 24th 2025, at 8PM April 24th, 2025 I Habtoor Palace Dubai

H.E. ALIA BINT ABDULLA

AL MAZROUEI Minister of State for Entrepreneurship

Beyond her professional achievements, H.E. Al Mazrouei is deeply respected for her business acumen, creativity, and dedication to mentoring Emirati talent.

HER EXCELLENCY ALIA BINT ABDULLA AL MAZROUEI was appointed as the UAE’s Minister of State for Entrepreneurship during the cabinet reshuffle in July 2024. A distinguished entrepreneur, she brings a wealth of experience from both the private and public sectors to her role, reflecting her unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic development in the UAE.

H.E. Al Mazrouei has held several high-profile positions in leading government institutions. As the CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, she spearheaded initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and support SMEs across the UAE. She also served as an Advisor to the Chairman at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Director General of the Human Resources Authority (HRA), and Director General of the Abu Dhabi School of Government (ADSG). Before joining government service, she was the Group Chief Operating Officer at Mazrui International LLC, a family-founded Abu Dhabi-based conglomerate with a diversified business portfolio.

Her accomplishments have garnered widespread recognition. In 2013, she was honored with the Arab Women’s Award for Entrepreneurship. She was ranked 26th on Forbes Middle East’s 2014 list of the world’s 200 most powerful Arab women and was named among Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Arab Businesswomen in 2017.

Beyond her professional achievements, H.E. Al Mazrouei is deeply respected for her business acumen, creativity, and dedication to mentoring Emirati talent.

She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management Information Systems (2001) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Global Leadership (2005) from the United Arab Emirates University. Her academic and professional journey reflects her passion for leadership and her drive to inspire innovation and economic growth in the UAE.

H.E. OHOOD KHALFAN AL ROUMI Minister of State for Government Development and the Future

H.E. AL ROUMI KHALFAN AL ROUMI is the Minister of State for Government Development and the Future in the United Arab Emirates.

This ministerial portfolio was created in the UAE government for advancing government deve lopment and prepararing for the future planning of the government of the United Arab Emirates.

H.E. Al Roumi is also the Chairwoman of the Federal Authority for Government Human Recourses (FAHR), the federal entity responsible for the growth and development of UAE federal government human resources. H.E. Al Roumi is Vice Chair of World Governments Summit Organization. She is also member of the Emirates Competitiveness Council, a board member of the ‘Frontline Heroes Office’, and member of the board of trustees of the Museum of the Future.

H.E. Al Roumi also oversees the Prime Minister’s Office of UAE and multiple strategic programs and initiatives that comes beneath it, such as the development of the UAE Centennial 2071, the coordination and follow up on executing UAE Vision 2021. He excellency also overlooks UAE government strategy and innovation, government development programs as well as Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Program, Government Performance Management System “Ada’a”, Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre For Government Innovation and the UAE Government Leaders Program.

In 2016, H.E. Al Roumi held the position of Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, the first ministerial position of its kind in the world introduced by the UAE government. The United Nations Foundation appointed H.E. Al Roumi as member of the UN’s Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) in 2015, making her the first Arab member to hold that position. She also made the Young Global Leaders (YGL) list with World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2012. H.E. was also listed among the World’s Greatest Leaders in 2017 by Fortune magazine in recognition of her accomplishments, making her the only Arab figure in the list.

Prior to her role at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, H.E. Al Roumi held several leadership positions within the UAE federal government and the Government of Dubai. She was the Director of Economic Policy at the Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President Prime Minister of UAE Ruler of Dubai, where she led several teams to develop multiple government-driven strategies, such as the Economic Sector Task Force for the Dubai Government’s as well as the Federal Government strategy. She was also the Director of Business Research at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

H.E. Al Roumi holds an Executive Master’s Degree in Business Administration (EMBA) from the University of Sharjah and a Bachelor’s in Economics from the College of Business and Economics, United Arab Emirates University. She is also a graduate from Mohammed Bin Rashid Program for Leadership Development.

SHAISTA ASIF

Co-Founder and Group CEO, PureHealth

WITH MORE THAN 22 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, 16 of which she has spent in the healthcare industry, Shaista Asif co-founded the PureHealth Group in 2006 and assumed her current role in 2010.

During her time at PureHealth, Asif has overseen multiple successful acquisitions including Abu Dhabi Health Services Co (SEHA), The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC), The National Health Insurance Co. (Daman), acquiring a stake in Ardent Healthcare and led the landmark acquisition of Circle Health Group, the first-of-its-kind healthcare acquisition by a UAEbased group in the UK, a deal worth more than AED4.4 billion (US$ 1.2 billion).

In her role as Group Chief Operating Officer, Asif’s direction was been critical in leading PureHealth’s commitment to a sustainable future, becoming part of the United Nations-backed Race to Zero initiative for Climate Change, and pledging Net Zero emissions by 2040.

She also spearheaded several AI-driven initiatives, in line with PureHealth’s vision, including the launch of Pura, the region’s first

AI-backed healthcare companion app, which is helping people live healthier, longer lives; as well as the launch of PureNet, a dedicated healthcare cloud providing digital health as a service platform.

As a steadfast supporter of women, Asif organised and hosted over 500 attendees, female leaders, and senior government officials at the Remarkable Emirati Women summit, under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, and played a key role in the launch of the Emirati Women Chapter, a mentorship initiative dedicated to empowering and inspiring Emirati women.

In her role as Group Chief Operating Officer, Asif’s direction was been critical in leading PureHealth’s commitment to a sustainable future.

DR. MANAR ALMONEEF

Chief Investment Officer, NEOM

DR. MANAR ALMONEEF brings a record of transformational leadership to her role as Chief Investment Officer for NEOM, where she is responsible for developing and implementing its investment strategy. As part of her role, AlMoneef works on creating and executing growth initiatives, including identifying and developing new business opportunities as well as building partnerships.

AlMoneef is a proactive and performance-driven professional with 20 years of operational expertise. Over the course of her career, she has built a track record of delivering growth as well as operational and financial improvements in complex situations and organizations.

Prior to joining NEOM, AlMoneef held various commercial and operational leadership roles globally and regionally. At GE, she served in various roles over the course of 10 years, most recently as President and Chief Executive Officer at GE Renewable Energy in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey (MENAT) region. There she led the company’s onshore wind business and renewables portfolio and was responsible for driving growth and operations as well as bringing together technology, services and digital solutions across the entire spectrum of renewable energy development.

Before her time at GE, AlMoneef was the Director General for Health Care and Life Science at the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA). In her last role there, she was leading knowledgebased investments in Saudi Arabia and positioning the Kingdom globally as a premier investment destination.

AlMoneef, who has an executive Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School, also holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Oncology and Genetics from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.

AlMoneef is a proactive and performancedriven professional with 20 years of operational expertise.

HER EXCELLENCY SARAH BINT YOUSIF AL AMIRI

Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology, Chairperson of Emirates Scientists Council, Chairperson for Emirates School Establishment, Chairperson of UAE Space Agency

HER EXCELLENCY SARAH BINT YOUSEF AL AMIRI is the UAE Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology and Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency and the Emirates School Establishment.

In her role as Minister of State for Advanced Technology, H.E. Al Amiri spearheads the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s efforts to empower the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and promote research and development in the advanced science and technology sector, in order to create new industries that drive the shift towards

a knowledge economy. This, in turn, contributes to the overall mandate of the Ministry to strengthen the UAE’s industrial base, ensure in-country value, and raise the competitiveness of local industries.

As Chairwoman of the Space Agency, H.E. Al Amiri is responsible to oversee the Agency’s mandate of guiding the space sector, ensuring its contribution to the national economy and to the UAE’s sustainable development. H.E. Al Amiri is also the Chairwoman of the Emirates Scientists Council, Chairwoman of the Emirates School Establishment, Chairwoman of the Fourth Industrial Revolution Council, Chairwoman of the Dubai Future Academy Board of Trustees, and Deputy Project Manager and Science Lead of the Emirates Mars Mission (Hope) at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC).

Previously, H.E. Al Amiri was the Head of R&D at MBRSC, where she established the Centre’s knowledge management, strategic research and product assurance functionalities. She was also involved in DubaiSat-1 and DubaiSat-2, and in the establishment of the KhalifaSat program.

In 2014, H.E. Al Amiri was tasked with and led the establishment of the Advanced Aerial Systems Program, where she championed development efforts on a prototype High Altitude PseudoSatellite. The project resulted in a successful 24-hour flight of the unmanned vehicle, which recorded the highest altitude of any aircraft over UAE airspace.

In 2015, the World Economic Forum honoured H.E. Al Amiri as one of its 50 Young Scientists for her contributions to science, technology and engineering.H.E. Sarah Al Amiri holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from the American University of Sharjah.

NAJLA AL-MIDFA

Vice Chairperson, Sheraa

NAJLA AL-MIDFA is the Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), a government-supported entity launched in 2016, with a mandate to build the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sharjah and support entrepreneurs as they build and grow innovative startups that will contribute positively to the region’s economy.

To date, Sheraa has built a portfolio of over 150 startups, raising around $161MM in investment, creating over 1600 jobs, and generating over US$247 million in cumulative revenue. Sheraa also hosts the annual Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), which has drawn participation from 300 high-level speakers and over 13,000 attendees worldwide.

Al-Midfa is a board member of the United Arab Bank and Emirates Development Bank. She is also a member of the Dana Gas Board of Directors and the Emirates Schools Establishment and the Co-Chair of the 4th Industrial Revolution Working Group in the UK-UAE Business Council. She is also the Vice Chairperson of Young Arab Leaders and a board member of Endeavor UAE.

She is a fellow of the Aspen Institute’s Middle East Leadership Initiative and an Eisenhower Global Fellow. Al-Midfa holds an MBA from Stanford University.

Al-Midfa is a board member of the United Arab Bank and Emirates Development Bank.

DR. MARYAM MATAR

Founder, UAE Genetics Diseases Association

DR. MARYAM MATAR is celebrated as the most influential scientist in the UAE. Her exceptional contributions to preventive healthcare and the advancement of genetic sciences in the Arab world have placed her among the top 20 Arab scientists, as recognized by the British scientific community.

Dr. Matar has received over 35 prestigious awards for her achievements in science and leadership. She holds numerous recognitions and board memberships

Dr. Maryam has received over 35 prestigious awards for her achievements in science and leadership.

across the MENA region, acknowledging her contributions to preventive healthcare, epigenetics, regenerative therapies, and women’s leadership.

She was honored with the Pioneering Arab Woman in Healthcare Innovation award at the 21st Pioneer Leadership Award in Healthcare ceremony in Kuwait, as well as the Arab Excellence Award for Scientific Research by the General Secretariat of the Arab League.

RANDA SADIK CEO, Arab Bank

RANDA SADIK assumed her role as the CEO of Arab Bank in February 2022, prior to which she was the Deputy CEO since 2010.

Sadik previously held various leadership roles during the course of her 24 years at National Bank of Kuwait, the last of which was the General Manager of the International Banking Group in London and Kuwait.

Sadik holds several positions within Arab Bank Group, among which are Board Member

Randa Sadik assumed her role as the CEO of Arab Bank in February 2022, prior to which she was the Deputy CEO since 2010.

of Oman Arab Bank in Oman, Board Member of Arab National Bank in Saudi Arabia and Chairman of Al Arabia for Finance SAL (Holding Company) in Lebanon.

Sadik is also the Chairman of Jordan Capital and Investment Fund Company, Board Member of Jordan Capital and investment Fund Management Company, Board Member of Jordan Payments and Clearing Company, Board Member of the Association of Banks in Jordan and Board Member of Al Hussein Fund for Excellence.

Sadik holds an MBA degree from the American University of Beirut.

SAEEDA JAFFAR

Senior Vice President, Group Country Manager Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Visa

DR. SAEEDA JAFFAR currently serves as Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. In this role Dr. Jaffar and her team are focused on driving Visa’s business growth in the region with key clients and partners from financial institutions, partners, and government in support of Visa’s mission to help individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive. With digitization high on the regional agenda, Dr. Jaffar and her team are committed to making Visa a partner of choice, while unlocking growth opportunities for new and existing clients and partners across the GCC.

Dr. Jaffar’s leadership and expertise of 20 years have enabled her to expertly deliver pragmatic and practical solutions to strategic issues, drive bottom-line impact, and achieve

Dr. Jaffar’s leadership and expertise of 20 years have enabled her to expertly deliver pragmatic and practical solutions to strategic issues, drive bottom-line impact, and achieve rapid results.

rapid results. Dr. Jaffar also currently serves as a Member of the Board of Trustees at Kuwait University. She has previously served as a non-executive board member at United Arab Bank and Ishraq, a hospitality company. She has also served as an Advisory Board Member at the Bahrain Fintech Bay.

Over her professional career, Dr. Jaffar has worked in the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S. on a wide range of strategic, M&A and performancerelated issues with clients across a range of industries, while specializing in financial services including universal banks, private banks, investment banks, private equity firms, sovereign wealth funds, government institutions and family-owned businesses.

Prior to joining Visa Inc, Dr. Jaffar was the Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal ME, the world’s leading turnaround and restructuring firm and held leadership positions at McKinsey & Company as well as Bain & Company, serving clients across the U.S., Europe and the GCC.

Dr. Jaffar is an Emirati national and earned a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Boston University, where she was the valedictorian. She earned a master’s degree and a doctorate in chemical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

ELENA SORLINI

Chief Executive Officer, Abu

Dhabi Airports

ELENA SORLINI HAS OVER 20 YEARS of aviation industry experience and currently holds the position of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports.

She is also a member of the board at Abu Dhabi Airports, Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi Aviation and ADQ Aviation and Aerospace Services.

Sorlini has held executive positions globally in the wider aviation ecosystem, including Vice President of Strategic Planning at Oman Aviation Group and Director of Strategy at Copenhagen Airports. Prior to that, she was Vice President at Macquarie Airports, one of the largest private airport owners and operators, where she was responsible for the asset management activities of Rome Airports and Copenhagen Airports.

Sorlini holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, majoring in Planning and Control from Bocconi University, and a Master’s degree in Corporate Finance. She also holds an Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) from Copenhagen Business School.

Sorlini has held executive positions globally in the wider aviation ecosystem, including Vice President of Strategic Planning at Oman Aviation Group and Director of Strategy at Copenhagen Airports.

HANA AL ROSTAMANI

Group Chief Executive Officer, First Abu Dhabi Bank

HANA AL ROSTAMANI is the Group Chief Executive Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).

A seasoned C-suite executive with more than 20 years of experience in banking and financial services, Al Rostamani previously served as Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer and Head of Personal Banking at FAB, responsible for leading the transformation of FAB’s consumer bank, instilling a customer and digital-first mindset.

A graduate of George Washington University in the US, Al Rostamani has served as an independent director in Emirates Integrated Telecommunication Company (Du) and was vice-chairperson of the Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Services. She is currently a member of MasterCard Advisory.

As the only female Group Chief Executive Officer of a major U.A.E.headquartered bank and publicly listed corporation within the U.A.E., Al Rostamani is recognized for her leadership skills and forward-thinking vision.

As the only female Group Chief Executive Officer of a major U.A.E.-headquartered bank and publicly listed corporation within the U.A.E., Al Rostamani is recognized for her leadership skills and forward-thinking vision. Her most recent accolade includes her nomination in Forbes Middle East, being ranked third as featured in ‘Middle East’s Power Business Women 2021’ list.

Al Rostamani is married and has three children. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

GHADA OTHMAN ALRUMAYAN

Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, ROSHN Group

ALRUMAYAN is Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for ROSHN Group, which is owned by Saudi’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and is the leading real estate developer in the nation. It is known for creating integrated living environments that feature accessible green spaces, sports amenities, and cycling infrastructure.

Through the use of advanced technology and sustainable practices, ROSHN is spearheading large-scale construction projects across KSA. Their ambitious plans include the development of over 400,000 homes, 1,000 educational facilities, and 700 places of worship by 2030, covering a land

Another key component of her strategy involves utilising ROSHN’s prominent sponsorship activities to elevate brand recognition and achieve the company’s communication objectives.

area exceeding 200 million sq m. ROSHN has set a precedent with the successful early delivery of the SEDRA community in Riyadh, spanning 35 million sq m., followed by the completion of the ALAROUS community in Jeddah, covering 4 million sq m.

Currently, they are working on various projects, including the innovative MARAFY canal project, which will connect residential areas in Jeddah to the Red Sea via an 11km canal.

Since she joined in 2021, Alrumayan’s media strategy has expertly navigated the complexities of a large-scale company, utilising a diversified approach that leverages both established and emerging media channels to promote ROSHN’s new sustainable, quality-focused communities. Alrumayan’s biggest contributions to the group have included utilising varied marketing tools and techniques to increase ROSHN brand awareness, positioning the group as a leading developer in the region.

Another key component of her strategy involves utilising ROSHN’s prominent sponsorship activities to elevate brand recognition and achieve the company’s communication objectives. Notable partnerships include KSA’s inaugural Formula 1 events in Jeddah and the Saudi Pro League.

HER EXCELLENCY HALA BADRI

Director general of Dubai culture and arts authority (Dubai culture)

IN APRIL 2019, HER EXCELLENCY HALA BADRI was appointed as the Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority by a royal decree from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, following more than 20 years upon an impressive path across dynamic business sectors critical to the UAE’s economic development: telecommunications, oil and gas, media and real estate.

A passionate marketer, a technology enthusiast, transforming businesses through innovation and her exemplary managerial

qualities, she is able to capably spearhead the achievement of the Authority’s strategic objectives.

Prior to joining Dubai Culture, Badri was a senior advisor on strategic communications for ADNOC, the 12th largest oil and gas company in the world. She oversaw the management of strategic communications, while managing several projects that reflected positively on the company’s brand image, value and equity. During her tenure with ADNOC she was also seconded to the National Media Council as a senior consultant to oversee the content strategy and visitor experience for the UAE National Pavilion at Expo2020.

Before ADNOC, she spent 11 years at UAE’s second telecommunications company, du, as the Executive Vice President of brand and communications.

While at du, Badri passionately championed the creation of an enhanced, end-to-end brand and communications experience – one that tapped into all key touchpoints. Her firm belief that customers’ unique lifestyle demands would drive du’s operations and endeavours resulted in a cohesive brand strategy for the telecom operator that is now worth over AED 2 billion, making it the fourth most valuable telecommunications brand in the region in 2016. Recognition for the brand’s creative ingenuity has been validated through a number of international accolades.

A staunch advocate of social responsibility and the driving force behind the execution of longterm sustainability goals, Badri headed the first implementation of Social Return on Investment (SROI) for any telecom in the region in 2014. Her passion extends to female empowerment and she has championed women in ICT throughout her career, breaking stereotypes along the way. She is the Vice Chairperson for the Dubai Women Establishment, a role which gives her unique insights and allows her to be a role model for the active participation of women in creating value for the economy and society in the region. In 2021, she was appointed as a member of Dubai Media Council and of Dubai Future Council on Media. She is also a member of Dubai Future Council on Media, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA), and Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.

HRH PRINCESS LAMIA BINT MAJED SAUD ALSAUD

Secretary General, Alwaleed Philanthropies

HER ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCESS

LAMIA BINT MAJED SAUD ALSAUD is the Secretary General and member of the Board of Trustees at Alwaleed Philanthropies. She is the daughter of Prince Majed bin Saud, the son of King Saud bin Abdulaziz AlSaud.

For over 38 years, Alwaleed Philanthropies has supported and initiated projects in over 164 countries regardless of gender, race, or religion. The foundation collaborates with a range of philanthropic, government, and educational organizations to combat poverty, empower women and youth, develop communities, provide disaster relief and create cultural understanding through education. Working with its partners, Alwaleed Philanthropies seeks to build bridges for a more compassionate, tolerant, and accepting world.

Princess Lamia was appointed Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies in April 2016, having previously served as Executive Manager of Media & Communication at the foundation.

Princess Lamia earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2001 from Misr International University, Cairo, majoring in Public Relations & Marketing Advertising with a minor in Journalism. In 2003, she started the publishing company, Sada Al Arab. The company produced three magazines and was operated from Cairo, Beirut and Dubai. She also became a partner in a number of marketing companies based in Egypt, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia in 2006.

In 2010, Princess Lamia published her first novel, Children & Blood, through Dar Al Saqi, one of the most respected independent publishing companies in the Middle East. The book tackles the complex issue of honour killings, and reflects on the harsh realities with which

women in the Middle East are faced with.

In 2017, Her Royal Highness received an honorary medal from the Vice President of Laos, Dr. Phankham Viphavanh in recognition of her philanthropic efforts in the country. That same year, Princess Lamia was announced winner of the Achievement in Philanthropies Award at the Arab Women of the Year 2017, held in London.

Princess Lamia received the first of its kind “Change Maker Award” at the Aid & Trade Conference in London in recognition of her humanitarian and philanthropic efforts worldwide.

Her Royal Highness was also presented with National Council’s first-ever

Philanthropic Leadership Award to HRH in Washington, DC, “in recognition of HRH’s efforts to contribute to a more compassionate, tolerant, and accepting world.”

In 2018, she was awarded the “Woman Leader in Community Development Excellence Award” which was given by the Middle East Excellence Awards Institute honoring women leaders and executives in Dubai, UAE.

In March 2018, Princess Lamia was honored with the Baden Powell Fellowship pin by the World Scout Foundation in recognition of AP’s contributions to the WSF’s support of youth around the world.

NORA ALMATROOSHI

Astronaut

NORA ALMATROOSHI made history in 2021 as the first Emirati and Arab woman to be selected as an astronaut. A mechanical engineer by training and a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment, AlMatrooshi embodies the UAE’s forward-looking vision. In 2024, she graduated from NASA’s Astronaut Candidate Class, becoming a fully qualified astronaut ready for future space missions.

AlMatrooshi holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the United Arab Emirates University. Her education included a semester at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences in Finland, where she honed her technical expertise and broadened her global perspective.

Before embarking on her astronaut career, AlMatrooshi worked as a piping engineer at the National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC), contributing to high-profile projects for ADNOC and Saudi Aramco.

Before embarking on her astronaut career, AlMatrooshi worked as a piping engineer at the National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC), contributing to high-profile projects for ADNOC and Saudi Aramco. Her leadership abilities were evident in her three consecutive terms as Vice President of the Youth Council at NPCC, where she implemented initiatives to foster talent and innovation among young professionals. She later served as a Technical Specialist at ADNOC, focusing on engineering and project management.

AlMatrooshi’s selection in 2021 as part of the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s space exploration history, becoming the first female Arab and Emirati astronaut chosen from over 4,000 applicants.

Her rigorous training began at MBRSC and continued at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where she joined the 2021 Astronaut Candidate Class. Over the course of her training, AlMatrooshi mastered critical skills, including spacewalking at the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, robotics, ISS systems, and piloting the T-38 jet. She also completed survival training at Fort Novosel, Alabama, and received Earth geology training, preparing her for future planetary exploration missions.

In 2024, AlMatrooshi graduated from NASA’s Astronaut Candidate Class, earning her astronaut pin and qualifying for future space missions. Her achievements underscore her role as a pioneer in the space sector and a beacon of inspiration for women across the Arab world.

SHEIKHA BODOUR BINT SULTAN AL QASIMI

President and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of American University of Sharjah, UAE

Sheikha Bodour is taking action on the world’s most pressing challenges through her involvement in international organizations.

IN JANUARY 2023, SHEIKHA BODOUR BINT SULTAN AL QASIMI was appointed Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and President of American University of Sharjah to align the institution with Sharjah’s socio-economic, workforce and innovation priorities. She is working to achieve excellence in teaching, research and public service to develop global citizen graduates who become future leaders in their communities, the United Arab Emirates and the world.

Sheikha Bodour is forging deeper university-industry R&D and commercialization collaboration as Chairperson of the Board and President of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). She oversees SRTIP’s $150 million push to position Sharjah as a global leader in emerging technology fields.

As Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, Sheikha Bodour has mobilized more than $4 billion in foreign direct investment, created more than 20,000 jobs, and contributed to a 78 percent growth in Sharjah’s gross

domestic product. Her work as Chairperson of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) is accelerating the development of Sharjah’s entrepreneurship ecosystem and has supported 150 startups that have raised $128 million in investment and created 1,400 jobs.

Sheikha Bodour was appointed Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority in May 2023 to solidify Sharjah’s status as an emerging global publishing hub. Sharjah Book Authority manages the Sharjah International Book Fair, the world’s largest book fair, and operates Sharjah Publishing City, the world’s first free trade zone for publishing.

Sheikha Bodour established the Emirates Publishers Association, UAE Board on Books for Young People and Knowledge Without Borders to boost the growth of the UAE’s $300+ million publishing sector. She founded Kalimat Publishing Group, a global, multi- imprint publishing and edtech company with licensing and distribution in more than 15 countries. She also chaired the Sharjah World Book Capital 2019 Committee and led efforts to establish the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association.

Sheikha Bodour served as the International Publishers Association’s second-ever female and first-ever Arab president since the influential global association’s founding in 1896. She also founded PublisHer, a 1,000+ member global community of female publishing leaders addressing publishing’s diversity and inclusion challenges.

Sheikha Bodour is taking action on the world’s most pressing challenges through her involvement in international organizations. She has leveraged these global platforms to catalyze action on youth education and employment, female entrepreneurship, small and medium-size enterprise development, expanding funding for the cultural industries, and climate change.

H.E. SHEIKHA INTISAR ALSABAH

Philanthropist

A PRINCESS from the Kuwaiti ruling family, H.E. Sheikha Intisar AlSabah is committed to nurturing the next generation of authentic leaders -in Kuwait and beyond- by unlocking the transformative power of theater for their personal and professional growth.

H.E. AlSabah is the founder of several initiatives. Her Intisar Foundation offers hope to women enduring the trauma of war through an innovative support program designed to help them recover psychologically. Her non-profit organizations, Alnowair and Bareec, leverage positive psychology and theatre techniques to supplement formal education systems and drive meaningful organizational change. Her social enterprises, Intisars and Ebbarra, engaging in jewelry and poetry respectively, guide women on a journey of self-love and empowerment.

H.E. AlSabah received the insignia of the Knight in the Order of the Crown from His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium. She was also honoured with the insignia of the Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour from H.E. Former French President François Holland that was given by H.E. Former French Minister and Current Mayor of Nice M. Christian Estrosi.

H.E. AlSabah is the founder of several initiatives. Alnowair and Bareec, leverage positive psychology and theatre techniques to supplement formal education systems and drive meaningful organizational change.

SAMIA BOUAZZA

Group CEO and Managing Director, Multiply Group

SAMIA BOUAZZA is a business leader with a solid track record for driving growth.

As the Group CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, she leads the strategic development of the company, its growing investment portfolio of high-return businesses and maintaining the overall sustainable growth of

the Group’s subsidiaries. Bouazza also serves as a Board Member to several companies and associations like TAQA, Arena Events Group, and Emirates Driving Company.

Bouazza is the founder of the original entity established in 2003, that transformed into Multiply Group in 2021, and the first woman to take a company public on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange.

She holds a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from the American University of Beirut and has completed executive education certificates in Strategic Intelligence and Digital Disruption from Harvard Business School and the University of Cambridge respectively.

Bouazza is also part of the YPO community and a keystone member of Friends of Abu Dhabi Art.

Samia is the founder of the original entity established in 2003, that transformed into Multiply Group in 2021, and the first woman to take a company public on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange.

MILA SMART SEMESHKINA

CEO and Founder, Lectera.com

MILA SMART SEMESHKINA is the CEO and Founder of the international educational platform Lectera.com and the Women’s Empowerment Council. She is a thought leader in the fields of EdTech, women’s empowerment, and personal growth. Additionally, she is a venture investor, a producer of educational courses, and a popular blogger. With a deep entrepreneurial spirit, Semeshkina is also recognized as an international expert in creating and promoting high-tech brands from the ground up.

Born on September 13, 1991, in Krasnodar, Russia, Semeshkina pursued her undergraduate degree at Kuban State University (KSU). She continued her educational journey with graduate studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Erickson International Academy. Semeshkina’s academic excellence was acknowledged with a gold medal during her high school years and honorary degrees from both KSU and MSU. She is the author of publications and studies in the field of media economics, with experience as a researcher and a lecturer at the leading Russian educational institution, Lomonosov Moscow State University.

At the age of 18, Semeshkina embarked on her professional journey, delving into the realms of marketing and public relations, where she has amassed more than a decade of experience. Over the course of her career, she has adeptly steered the promotion of numerous prominent international brands within the CIS markets.

Semeshkina’s adeptness extends to crafting impactful marketing communications for significant projects spanning Switzerland, Germany, the UAE, and CIS countries. This extensive exposure has forged her expertise in launching and nurturing large-scale international startups, affecting their transformation into thriving and lucrative ventures.

Transitioning her focus in 2017, Semeshkina has directed her energies towards entrepreneurial endeavors and bespoke consulting services, catering to major global enterprises specifically in the realms of marketing and the strategic development of corporate and personal brands.

Currently, in her role as an entrepreneur, Semeshkina is deeply engrossed in the establishment and expansion of Lectera.com, an international educational platform.

Currently, in her role as an entrepreneur, Semeshkina is deeply engrossed in the establishment and expansion of Lectera.com — an international educational platform. Under her purview, a globally distributed team of experts representing 25 countries has converged to drive this initiative. Semeshkina is intricately involved in steering all facets of product development, brand enhancement, educational content curation, and the holistic operations of the Lectera group, headquartered in the United States and the UAE. With a global reach, Lectera.com imparts knowledge to a diverse student body of over 4 million from 70 countries. The platform’s comprehensive curriculum, available in 15 languages, underscores its status as a preeminent global educational entity.

Semeshkina is also recognized for her philanthropic endeavors, having established the Women’s Empowerment Council in 2021. This organization is dedicated to amplifying women role models and fostering women’s empowerment. Anchored in Dubai, this community encompasses over 30,000 women, garnering acclaim for its annual Women’s Empowerment Convention (WE Convention). The convention stands as a cornerstone of the world’s major women’s conferences, embodying Semeshkina’s vision. Beyond the WE Convention, the council’s initiatives encompass free access to women-centric empowerment courses, workshops and webinars, exemplifying the organization’s

commitment to tangible progress.

Semeshkina’s impact extends to her role as a distinguished keynote speaker, taking the stage at prestigious events such as the Women in Tech World Conference and Mastercard Women Leaders Awards. Her speeches resonate globally, as exemplified by her opening addresses at the WE Convention in 2023 and 2024, and insightful interviews with Maye Musk, Carla Bruni, and Maria Sharapova. Semeshkina is also a frequent contributor to the media landscape. Her insightful columns find their place in notable EdTech industry publications, as well as esteemed international media including Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fast Company, and Business Insider.

Currently residing in Dubai, Semeshkina continues to shape and inspire transformative change in both EdTech and Women’s Empowerment on an international scale.

WHERE THE CITY MEETS THE SEA, WHERE STYLE MEETS LUXURY

Rixos Premium Dubai offers a seamless blend of cosmopolitan vibrance and seaside serenity. With spacious rooms, direct beach access, and proximity to premier shopping destinations, it’s the perfect hub for a stylish Dubai experience. Enjoy exquisite dining, unwind in the luxurious spa, and immerse yourself in stunning views. With impeccable service and an array of amenities, Rixos Premium Dubai sets the stage for a truly memorable stay in the heart of Jumeirah Beach Residence.

AMIRA SAJWANI Co-Founder and CEO of PRYPCO

AMIRA SAJWANI is the co-founder and CEO of PRYPCO, a dynamic proptech startup pioneering the way forward in the UAE’s real estate landscape. It is transforming the sector by simplifying the entire real estate journey and connecting all key stakeholders—buyers, sellers, investors, brokers, agents, banks, and more—on a single ecosystem.

The company offers a comprehensive suite of services to meet a diverse range of needs. With PRYPCO Mortgage, the company guides clients through the journey of owning their dream home, offering quick approvals and seamless processes. PRYPCO Golden Visa provides a smooth pathway to long-term residency in the UAE, and PRYPCO Blocks enables investors to invest in Dubai’s real estate with as little as AED 500. With PRYPCO One, its partners can access exclusive secondary properties and refer clients for mortgage and Golden Visa services.

One of PRYPCO’s key competitive advantages in the proptech industry is the unparalleled expertise of Sajwani, whose extensive knowledge and experience in real estate set the platform apart. As the Managing Director of Sales and Development at DAMAC, Sajwani has also been instrumental in driving success for one of the region’s leading real estate developers.

Additionally, Sajwani holds one of the largest networks of real estate agents and brokers in the region, comprising over 3,000 professionals. This vast network and her strategic vision position PRYPCO as a market leader, delivering innovative and impactful solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the real estate industry. What truly sets PRYPCO apart is its ability to provide a comprehensive suite of real estate services, covering every aspect of a client’s real estate journey. Unlike competitors who offer standalone services, PRYPCO delivers a seamless, all-in-one solution, making it the preferred choice for anyone navigating the real estate landscape.

ROLA ABU MANNEH

CEO UAE, Middle East & Pakistan, Standard Chartered

ROLA ABU MANNEH is the Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank UAE. She is a highly experienced banking professional with over 20 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry. She has held various senior positions in the banking industry in the Middle East, Europe and the United States.

Abu Manneh has a strong track record of driving business growth and delivering results. She has a deep understanding of the banking industry and a passion for developing innovative

solutions to meet customer needs. She is committed to delivering the highest standards of customer service and creating a culture of excellence.

Abu Manneh holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the American University of Beirut and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. She is a member of the Institute of International Bankers and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

She has a deep understanding of the banking industry and a passion for developing innovative solutions to meet customer needs.

MARIA MORRIS

Founder and CEO of Maria Morris Global

MARIA MORRIS’ journey in real estate began in the UK working for best-in-class Developers, such as the Berkeley Group. Following a 15-year career in London and the home counties, Morris made the move to Dubai in 2014 working as Head of MENA Residential and a Global Residential Board member for a leading international real estate firm and led the residential consultancy for the Residences at the iconic Atlantis The Royal project on the Palm Jumeirah from its conception back in 2014. Morris advised on the full spectrum from the conceptual design and spatial planning, through to branding, marketing and sales.

In 2021, Morris founded her own company, Morris Morris Global, specializing in prime and super-prime property in Dubai, and working with clients in key global wealth centres internationally. As the owner of Dubai’s first female wholly-owned business, Morris ensures herself and the team lead with class and character, guiding clients through the complex world of luxury real estate, advising on sales, leasing, lifestyle, and investments with the same dedication to excellence across the entire real estate spectrum.

Maria Morris Global has quickly become a force in the luxury property market across Dubai, due to Morris’ own personal vision to utilize cutting-edge creative and innovative approaches to property marketing. Maria Morris Global isn’t just another real estate agency; they’re bringing a bold, dynamic approach to the market, with Morris’ ambition to not only lead locally in Dubai and the UAE, but to make waves globally, combining her exceptional

levels of expertise, passion, and own client personal touch. Morris and her close-knit MMG brokerage team, deliver exceptional service with a level of agility and finesse that sets them apart, building trust and long-term relationships with clients around the globe. It’s this blend of business and personality that has created a word-of-mouth reputation that expands far beyond Dubai for both Morris and her Maria Morris Global company brand.

With over 25 years of experience, Morris’ knowledge and expertise is hard-earned, built on a trusted portfolio of high-value clients and an authoritative voice in the prime, super-prime and ultra-prime residential sector globally. Morris has firmly established herself as a global powerhouse in the luxury real estate sector, making a significant impact from Dubai to key markets across Europe, the UK, and the USA. Her international experience and refined expertise have elevated her presence in Dubai’s high-end property market, offering clients a truly worldclass perspective.

Her industry knowledge and leadership have been recognized by some of the most prestigious media outlets, with features in The Financial Times, The Telegraph, Khaleej Times, Mansion Global, Gulf News, The Sunday Times, and Forbes. These publications have highlighted her market insights, record-breaking transactions, and her role in shaping Dubai’s luxury real estate landscape.

Beyond print media, Morris has become a recognized face on major global television networks. She has made guest appearances on Bravo TV’s ‘Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles’ and starred in her own Discovery+/HGTV show, ‘Selling Dubai’, which followed her and her team as they documented the rise of her new real estate business in Dubai, further solidifying her status as one of the most influential figures in the luxury property sector.

Morris’ influence also extends beyond sales and media, as she is an active participant in high-profile international real estate panels and speaking engagements. Her thought leadership and deep understanding of the global luxury market have made her a sought-after speaker at industry events, where she shares insights on emerging trends, investment opportunities, and market shifts.

Her extensive experience, entrepreneurial success, and authoritative presence in both media and international real estate circles position her as a leading figure in the industry. Morris’ ability to blend global market knowledge with Dubai’s ultra-luxury real estate landscape has made her an invaluable resource for high-net-worth clients, investors, and developers worldwide.

HER EXCELLENCY DR. HANAN MOHAMED AL KUWARI

Managing Director, Hamad Medical Corporation

HER EXCELLENCY DR. HANAN MOHAMED AL KUWARI has been a pivotal figure at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), where she has held the position of Managing Director since 2007. Dr. Al Kuwari began her career at HMC’s Women’s Hospital in 1996 and steadily advanced through the ranks to become Managing Director. Her extensive experience also includes roles at the World Health Organisation (WHO), Reuters, and work as a freelance health reporter and writer.

Dr. Al Kuwari’s educational achievements are notable, with a PhD in Healthcare Management from Brunel University in the UK. Her academic background has significantly contributed to her leadership and strategic vision at HMC.

As Managing Director, Dr. Al Kuwari is responsible for overseeing the operational and strategic management of HMC, ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. She has played a crucial role in the preparation and development of Qatar’s National Health and Public Health Strategies, monitoring their progress and implementation. Her dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the healthcare landscape in Qatar.

As Managing Director, Dr. Al Kuwari is responsible for overseeing the operational and strategic management of HMC, ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare services.

PRARTHANA NANDWANI

Entrepreneur

PRARTHANA NANDWANI is one of the first female digital entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates. A graduate of the American School of Dubai, Nandwani received her B.S. in Marketing from Bentley University in Boston which has consistently been ranked one of the top Business universities in the globe. Nandwani has spoken on international stages at forums across Europe, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East.

Passionate about developing the talents for People of Determination, Nandwani conducted a year-long project raising funds for Fatima Mubarak - a young girl diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. She and a schoolmate succeeded in gifting Mubarak with a #DynaVox, a sophisticated machine which helps People of Determination to speak. Nandwani is a long-standing member of the esteemed Dubai Business Women’s Council: an arm of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. Recently, she was a Miss Influencer UAE Top 5 Finalist.

Nandwani serves as Partner for Nandwani Ventures - an independent, privately-owned boutique family office, which has built and operated its diversified manufacturing arm for the last 40 years. Nandwani Venture’s portfolio spans direct investments in real estate, listed securities, private equities, and venture. The conglomerate has a distribution of watches, electronics, & food products and other verticals. Having been in the United Arab Emirates since 1989, Nandwani Ventures is considered a value add investor because of its unparalleled access to the Middle Eastern and Indian markets.

Nandwani has lived in Boston, Hong Kong, and Dubai, where she was born. She has a background in marketing, franchise management, and real estate investment. In early 2015, less than four years out of college, Nandwani started her own digital advisory firm, Evogue, which she currently operates.

With offices in Dubai and Hong Kong, Evogue has worked with world renowned local and international individuals and entities spearheading Thought Leadership transformative projects across several industries.

Nandwani is multilingual, and has a keen interest in supporting causes. She recently launched a sustainable fashion brand, Maison Bedouina, that uses only ethically sourced fabrics. Additionally, proceeds from Evogue are allocated to causes towards aiding afflicted women and children globally.

Passionate about developing the talents for People of Determination,

Nandwani conducted a year-long project raising funds for Fatima Mubaraka young girl diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.

ALDHABI ALMHEIRI

Founder,

Rainbow Chimney Educational Aids

RAINBOW CHIMNEY EDUCATIONAL AIDS is a brand inspired by the extraordinary journey of AlDhabi AlMheiri, the youngest Emirati entrepreneur. From the age of three, AlMheiri’s deep love for books sparked a vision within her family to create something meaningful. Today, Rainbow Chimney stands as a beacon of joy, learning, and inclusivity for children around the world.

The name Rainbow Chimney reflects AlMheiri’s fascination with rainbows and the timeless song Chim Chim Cher-ee from Mary Poppins. Before founding Rainbow Chimney, AlMheiri delighted in gifting her friends and cousins’ toys paired with books,

By the age of six, AlMheiri had read over 1,200 books, showcasing her immense passion for knowledge.

driven by her desire to share the magic of reading. Now, through Rainbow Chimney, she inspires children everywhere, including individuals of determination— those with Down syndrome, autism, or visual impairments.

Rainbow Chimney is the first bookshop in the Middle East to offer inclusive books and educational boxes tailored for children of all abilities. Its mission is to foster a love for reading and empower children to explore the world through stories that celebrate diversity and inclusion.

AlMheiri is not just a young entrepreneur but also the recipient of several prestigious awards. She has been honored with the Women of Worth award by L’Oréal Paris, the Emirati Women Achiever award, and a fellowship from the Atlantic Council in collaboration with the U.S. Mission to the UAE. In 2024, she was also recognized with the Diana Award for her dedication to fostering equality, sustainability, and humanitarian work through her initiatives.

By the age of six, AlMheiri had read over 1,200 books, showcasing her immense passion for knowledge. Alongside her Guinness World Records as the youngest bilingual book publisher and columnist, she continues to lead with creativity and purpose, driving initiatives like inclusive books for children with special needs and storytelling projects in healthcare to aid in emotional healing.

ALINA VALCARCE

Founder, Valcarce Architects

ALINA VALCARCE is a trailblazing architect redefining the built environment with bold innovation, sustainability, and an unparalleled creative vision. As the Founder and Design Director of Valcarce Architects, she has established herself as a leading force in global architecture, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for excellence.

With a career spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Valcarce has led transformative, award-winning projects that seamlessly merge architecture with nature, creating fluid, organic spaces that inspire and elevate human experiences. Her firm, founded in 2022 in the UAE, has gained international

With a career spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Valcarce has led transformative, award-winning projects that seamlessly merge architecture with nature, creating fluid, organic spaces that inspire and elevate human experiences.

acclaim, earning prestigious recognitions such as Emerging Architecture Firm of the Year 2024 by Design Middle East and Best Luxury Architecture Company of the Year by the Luxury Lifestyle Award.

Her exceptional talent was recognized early in her career when she was named one of Asia’s 40 Best Designers Under 40 in 2018. She was also honoured as one of the Top 50 Design Powerlist 2024, solidifying her reputation as a visionary shaping the future of architecture. Over the years, her projects have received multiple international awards, celebrated for their distinctive, naturedriven designs and pioneering sustainability strategies. Notable works like Gaia – Luxury Habitat exemplify her commitment to environmentally responsible design, utilizing prefabricated structures to minimize waste and achieve net-zero carbon goals.

Beyond architecture, Valcarce is a powerful advocate for gender equality in the construction industry, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. She is dedicated to empowering women in leadership, fostering innovation, and reshaping industry standards through sustainable solutions and cutting-edge construction technologies.

JOELLE MARDINIAN

Founder and CEO, Clinca Joelle

JOELLE MARDINIAN is a Lebanese-British beauty icon, entrepreneur, and television presenter, widely known in the Middle East for her expertise in beauty and fashion. Mardinian

gained immense popularity as the host of the successful makeover TV show “Joelle”, which aired on MBC (Middle East Broadcasting Center). On the show, she helped transform people’s appearances, offering beauty tips and showcasing cutting-edge cosmetic treatments.

She has built a strong personal brand over the years, becoming a significant influencer in the beauty industry, especially in the Arab world. Known for her dynamic and engaging personality, Mardinian is passionate about helping others feel confident through beauty transformations.

Mardinian’s ability to balance her role as a beauty expert, entrepreneur, and mother has inspired many women in the region. She frequently shares her life, beauty routines, and insights into cosmetic trends with her millions of followers on social media.

Joelle Mardinian is a LebaneseBritish beauty icon, entrepreneur, and television presenter, widely known in the Middle East for her expertise in beauty and fashion.

DR. AMINA AL ROSTAMANI

Executive Board Member, Shareholder and Director at AW Rostamani Group

DR. AMINA AL ROSTAMANI is the Chief Operating Officer of the Group, overseeing The Group corporate services and function. She also oversees the Group Properties division, being the Chief Executive Officer of AWR Properties.

In addition, Dr. Al Rostamani is a Non-Executive Board member at HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, Non-Executive Board Member at Al Jalila Foundation, Non-Executive Board Member at Sandooq Al Watan, Non-Executive Board Member of Dubai Chambers, Non-Executive Board Member of Ajman University’s Board of Trustees, Committee Member of the UAE National Election Committee and Advisory Board Member at Tharawat Family Business Forum.

Dr. Al Rostamani holds degrees at both the Bachelor and Master levels, as well as a Doctorate in Engineering from George Washington University, Washington D.C. She is an acknowledged authority on wireless technologies, and her contributions have been published in several leading publications and journals.

She is an acknowledged authority on wireless technologies, and her contributions have been published in several leading publications and journals.

@muarjewels www.muarjewels.com

info@muarjewels.com

ANNABELLE MANDER

Senior Vice President, Tahaluf

Her primary focus is on the development and expansion of the business, ensuring alignment with the Kingdom’s vision.

ANNABELLE MADER has been the Senior Vice President at Tahaluf since January 2023. Previously, Annabelle worked as a Group Director at Informa Markets and as a Sales Manager at Dubai World Trade Centre. Annabelle has extensive experience in sales and technology, having contributed to various B2B events in Saudi Arabia. Mander holds a degree in Business Management & Sport Science from Nottingham Trent University.

Her primary focus is on the development and expansion of the business, ensuring alignment with the Kingdom’s vision. Additionally, she is the custodian of the Food and Tech Portfolio, which has been making tremendous strides with historic events such as LEAP, Black Hat MEA, DeepFest, InFlavour, and a new launch, 24 Fintech.

Tahaluf sets itself apart through strategic partnerships, a national focus, and its ability to generate economic impact. The unique shareholder structure – involving Informa PLC and Saudi Government entities – grants us unparalleled resources and expertise. By aligning its events with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Tahaluf plays a crucial role in national development.

The large-scale events, designed to attract foreign investment and foster collaboration, significantly contribute to economic growth, while the combination of Informa’s global reach and local Saudi knowledge enables the company to offer events appealing to both international and domestic audiences. Tahaluf’s emphasis on economic impact, strategic partnerships, and national development, which encompasses hiring exceptional talent and building an industry leading team, distinguishes it within the event organising sector.

FARAH ZAFAR

Co-founder

and CEO, Lyvely

LYVELY IS THE UAE’S first homegrown Social monetization platform revolutionising the landscape of social media by creating a platform for creators, professionals and businesses to monetise their digital content through a Fiat and a tokenised ecosystem. With the launch and listing of “LVLY”, Lyvely is the first creator platform with a listed token across three centralised exchanges, with many more in the pipeline.

Lyvely is also backed by the first multi-billion-dollar institution, Phoenix Group PLC, listed on ADX. They are one of the world’s largest bitcoin miners and the first tech, web3 and blockchain company to be listed in the region, on ADX. Since Lyvely’s soft launch in August, it has experienced rapid user adoption and has earned significant brand recognition and a stellar reputation, having already garnered over 165,000 active users and more than 270,000 followers on social media with a highly engaged community.

Zafar is very much a corporate powerhouse in the Middle East, known as the “Rockstar Lawyer” – Zafar has been the right hand to rulers and visionaries across the Middle East, has built and listed billion dollar corporations, this is what leads Lyvely to success.

She says: “We are the first social monetization platform which has launched and listed its own crypto token and listed it across centralised exchanges and created its own tokenised ecosystem. Our five-year goal is to be recognised Globally as UAE’s homegrown tech social monetization platform, rivalling big tech and transforming the lives of 100M people, by enabling them to fully monetise from their digital content.”

“We are the first social monetization platform which has launched and listed its own crypto token and listed it across centralised exchanges and created its own tokenised ecosystem.

RACHA ELHASSAN

Head of Marketing and Strategy - Emerging Markets, GE HealthCare

RACHA ELHASSAN is the Head of Marketing & Strategy for GE HealthCare in the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, South-Central Asia, Russia and CIS countries, she holds the responsibility of driving growth and expanding market share across the region.

Her strategy and approach for the healthcare sector is focused on developing, executing, and sustaining strategic initiatives that are crucial for the success of the region. This involves identifying and prioritizing growth programs across various segments, crafting long-term strategies, and spearheading the activation of initiatives in collaboration

Over the years, she has taken on increasingly challenging roles within the organization, including regional sales and marketing positions for Services in EAGM.

with all marketing team members, clinical and commercial partners.

Her journey with GE Healthcare began in 2009 when she joined as a Sales leader for the Healthcare Digital team. Over the years, she has taken on increasingly challenging roles within the organization, including regional sales and marketing positions for Services in EAGM.

In 2016, she made the move to Wisconsin to serve as the Global Marketing Manager, where she successfully led the global launch of Asset Performance Management and RTLS-based tracking system like Encompass. Subsequently, she transitioned into the role of Market Development Manager for EAGM with a focus on interventional modality.

Prior to her tenure at GE Healthcare, ElHassan held various roles in IT and Operations at Clemenceau Medical Center in Lebanon. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s in business administration from the American University of Beirut.

ElHassan enjoys outdoor activities, traveling, and spending time with her husband and children.

RAJA EASA AL GURG

Managing Director, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group

RAJA EASA AL GURG is a distinguished Emirati businesswoman and one of the most influential figures in the UAE’s corporate landscape. As the Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, one of the UAE’s largest and most respected conglomerates, and President of the Dubai Business Women Council, Al Gurg has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s business environment, particularly in retail, real estate, construction, and manufacturing.

Born and raised in Dubai, Al Gurg has been a trailblazer for women in business in the UAE. She holds a degree in Business Administration from Lewis & Clark College in the United States. Her career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, championing women’s empowerment, and driving business growth.

Under her leadership, the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group has significantly expanded its operations, establishing a strong

presence across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. The group is renowned for representing several prominent international brands and managing a diverse portfolio of businesses, particularly in the retail and construction sectors.

Beyond her corporate achievements, Al Gurg is a passionate advocate for women in business and leadership. Through her work with the Dubai Business Women Council, she has championed gender equality and worked tirelessly to advance women’s roles in the UAE’s business and economic sectors. She also serves on numerous boards and committees, furthering her impact on the region’s development.

Al Gurg’s legacy is one of visionary leadership, determination, and dedication to social progress. She continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders in the UAE and beyond, serving as a role model for those aiming to leave a meaningful impact on society.

HUDA KATTAN Founder,

Huda Beauty

HUDA KATTAN is a globally acclaimed beauty mogul, entrepreneur, and makeup artist, best known as the founder of Huda Beauty, one of the world’s most influential and successful beauty brands. Her journey from a makeup enthusiast to the helm of a multi-million-dollar empire has made her one of the most recognized figures in the beauty industry, with millions of followers on social media and a loyal global customer base.

Born in the USA to Iraqi parents, Kattan initially pursued a career in finance but soon realized her passion lay in makeup. She studied at the Makeup Designory in Los Angeles and began her professional career as a makeup artist. Her breakthrough came when she started sharing beauty tips, tutorials, and makeup looks on her blog and Instagram, quickly amassing a massive following. Known for her authenticity and relatable personality, Kattan’s expertise in makeup artistry helped her stand out in the competitive beauty space.

In 2013, Kattan launched Huda Beauty, beginning with highquality false eyelashes that quickly gained popularity, partly due to her savvy use of social media to connect with her audience. Her ability to identify and meet the diverse beauty needs of her followers propelled the brand’s rapid growth. Over the years, Huda Beauty expanded its offerings to include foundations, eyeshadow palettes, lip products, and skincare, all celebrated for their quality, innovation, and inclusivity.

Kattan has built a beauty empire that not only resonates with a global audience but has also earned her a place on Forbes’ list of the richest self-made women. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry, ensuring her brand represents and celebrates a wide range of skin tones and beauty standards.

Huda Kattan’s story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and authenticity, making her a trailblazer and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs around the world.

Born in the USA to Iraqi parents, Kattan initially pursued a career in finance but soon realized her passion lay in makeup.

SIMA VED

Founder and Chairperson, Apparel Group

SIMA VED is the founder and chairperson of Apparel Group, a leading retail and fashion conglomerate in the Middle East. With a vision to create a globally recognized retail business, Ved has transformed Apparel Group into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise that boasts over 75 brands and operates more than 1,000 stores across the region.

Founded in 1999, Apparel Group began as a small business in Dubai. Under Ved’s visionary leadership, the company quickly expanded into a major player in the retail sector. The group’s diverse portfolio includes international fashion, footwear, and lifestyle brands such as Guess, Steve Madden, Tommy Hilfiger,

Under Ved’s visionary leadership, the company quickly expanded into a major player in the retail sector.

Aldo, Rituals, and Adidas. Apparel Group has become synonymous with style and quality, serving a broad consumer base and contributing significantly to the retail landscape in the UAE and the wider GCC region.

Ved’s entrepreneurial journey is characterized by her sharp business acumen, a focus on customer satisfaction, and an ability to scale operations in a highly competitive market. She has successfully guided the group to adapt to the evolving retail environment by embracing omnichannel strategies, integrating online shopping platforms, and leveraging digital marketing. These innovations have been pivotal in sustaining the company’s growth and resilience, particularly in an era marked by rapid digital transformation.

Beyond her business achievements, Ved is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. She actively supports initiatives promoting education, women’s empowerment, and social welfare, particularly within the Middle East. Her efforts reflect a dedication to giving back to the community while fostering sustainable development.

Ved’s journey from a small business owner to the leader of one of the region’s most successful retail conglomerates serves as an inspiration, particularly to women entrepreneurs. Her story of vision, perseverance, and innovation highlights her role as a trailblazer in the Middle East’s business world.

MONA KATTAN

Founder, KAYALI

MONA KATTAN is a renowned beauty mogul, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Huda Beauty, one of the most influential beauty brands in the world. Alongside her sister, Huda Kattan, Kattan has helped build an empire that has redefined the beauty industry with high-quality, innovative products catering to a global audience.

Kattan’s journey into the beauty industry began after a career in finance and human resources. Her passion for beauty and cosmetics led her to co-found Huda Beauty in 2013. The brand quickly gained immense popularity for its inclusive range of products and groundbreaking makeup collections. Beyond her contributions to product development and branding,

Mona Kattan’s entrepreneurial vision and innovative approach have solidified her as one of the most influential figures in the global beauty industry.

Kattan has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s global expansion, focusing on marketing, strategy, and business development.

In addition to her work with Huda Beauty, Kattan launched her own perfume line, KAYALI, a luxury fragrance brand. Her lifelong passion for perfume and fragrance inspired her to create a line that emphasizes craftsmanship and quality. Since its launch, KAYALI has become a staple in the luxury beauty market, earning Kattan recognition among fragrance enthusiasts and industry leaders.

As a major social media influencer with millions of followers, Kattan shares beauty tips, personal insights, and her entrepreneurial journey across platforms like Instagram. She is widely admired for her advocacy of self-love, empowerment, and body positivity, inspiring women around the world to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.

Kattan’s entrepreneurial vision and innovative approach have solidified her as one of the most influential figures in the global beauty industry, leaving a lasting impact on both the cosmetics and fragrance sectors.

KATYA KOVTUNOVICH

Fashion

Designer

BORN IN A SMALL TOWN IN RUSSIA, Katya Kovtunovich moved to London with just US$200 in her pocket, to pursue career in fashion. After non stop work for five years, she became a Vogue journalist.

She started making her own clothes at the age of nine, as her parents could not afford it. She developed a talent to re-design any used clothes into a masterpiece and continued creating even in older years.

Following compliments and multiple requests from people in 2011 she started her own brand, which coincided with her move to Dubai to work with Chalhoub Group.

Her fashion brand Sadu Tunics was founded in Dubai in 2011. Working with traditional UAE textiles, Sadu became one of the brands most iconic projects.

Kovtunovich turned the heritage of Sadu -previously used for Arabic tents and camel covers- into immediately recognizable modern designs that became popular with clients in over 70 countries, are loved by celebrities, got recognised by the UAE government, was sold at the Expo2020 and has also been worn by UAE Ministers.

Reviving UAE culture and introducing it to the world has become the brand’s identity, earning Kovtunovich the status of UAE Cultural Ambassador.

Her mission is to connect Dubai’ past and present, and introduce Dubai heritage to the visitors in a modern, attractive and interactive way, inspiring them to share peace.

Reviving UAE culture and introducing it to the world has become the brand’s identity, earning Kovtunovich the status of UAE Cultural Ambassador.

NOOR SWEID

Founder and Managing Partner, Global Ventures

NOOR SWEID is is the founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, a UAE based venture capital firm investing across the Middle East and Africa.

Previously, she served as Chief Investment Officer at The Dubai Future Foundation, and scaled two companies: Depa, which she listed in a billion-dollar IPO in 2008, and ZenYoga, the region’s largest yoga chain, which she exited in 2014.

Noor Sweid is is the founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, a UAE based venture capital firm investing across the Middle East and Africa.

Recognized as a leading voice in venture capital by Bloomberg, CNN, and Forbes, Sweid has been listed among the ‘World’s Top 50 Women in Tech’ and ‘The Middle East’s Top Venture Capitalists’ by Forbes, and ‘Top 100 Most Influential Arab Women’ by Arabian Business, and is a judge on Shark Tank Dubai. She is an Aspen Finance Leaders Fellow, a Kauffman Fellow and a WEF Young Global Leader

LEILA HOTEIT

Managing Director and Senior Partner, Boston Consulting Group (Dubai)

DR. LEILA HOTEIT is a Partner and Managing Director with the Boston Consulting Group in the Middle East and a member of the public sector practice where she leads the education and human capital development business. She has 17 years of strategy and operation experience acquired through various projects in the Middle East and Europe. Dr. Hoteit specializes in human capital development including education, workforce skilling, and women’s economic empowerment. She works with policymakers, regulatory authorities, and key public-sector entities on policy development, strategic planning,

Dr. Hoteit specializes in human capital development including education, workforce skilling, and women’s economic empowerment.

organizational development, and governance. She has led multiple assignments covering policy and strategy development, operating model development, and strategy-based transformation for leading government entities in the MENA region.

Recent engagements she has led include: the development of a national education and training strategy for a GCC country covering Pre-K, K12, Higher Education and TVET; a transformation for the TVET sector for a GCC country; the development of a human capital framework for a GCC country, looking at necessary policies and programs to increase nationals’ participation and employment in strategic sectors of the economy; the development of a program to create jobs and increase national employment (in particular female employment) in the creative and digital industries of a GCC country.

Dr. Hoteit has an MBA with distinction from INSEAD, as well as a Ph.D. in signal processing and a B.Eng. in electrical engineering from the Imperial College of London. She has authored multiple patents in the field of signal processing. A citizen of both the U.K. and Lebanon, Dr. Hoteit is fluent in English, French, and Arabic. In 2014, she was selected by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader for her work on human capital development.

MONA ATAYA

Founder and CEO, Mumzworld.com

MONA ATAYA, the CEO and founder of Mumzworld.com, is one of the Middle East’s most prominent women entrepreneurs. Beyond leading a successful and growing SME, Ataya is on a mission to empower mothers across the region. Over the past nine years, she has transformed Mumzworld from a business plan into a leading e-commerce platform that serves over 2 million mothers across the Middle East.

Founded in 2011, Mumzworld has revolutionized the e-commerce experience for mothers, babies, and children in the region. Today, the platform offers over 250,000 products, a vibrant and engaged community, exclusive offerings, and delivery to more than 20 countries. Known for its fast, convenient, and cost-effective service, Mumzworld has

Under Ataya’s visionary leadership, Mumzworld has experienced remarkable growth, firmly establishing itself as the regional leader in its niche.

become the go-to destination for parents seeking quality products at everyday low prices.

Under Ataya’s visionary leadership, Mumzworld has experienced remarkable growth, firmly establishing itself as the regional leader in its niche. Her contributions extend beyond the company, as she also serves on the Advisory Board for RetailME and the Middle East Retail Forum (MRF), helping shape the future of retail in the region.

Through her dedication and innovative approach, Ataya continues to inspire employees, communities, and countless mothers while redefining the standard for e-commerce in the Middle East.

AMNAH AJMAL

Executive Vice President, Market Development, Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Mastercard

AMNAH AJMAL serves as the Executive Vice President of Market Development for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EEMEA) at Mastercard. In this role, she oversees acceptance, acquiring, merchant relations, digital partnerships, fintech strategies, and M&A activities across the region.

Prior to her current position, Ajmal led Mastercard’s North America product organization, where she managed consumer and small business payment solutions, including credit, debit, prepaid, and acceptance solutions. Her focus was on creating sustainable competitive advantages for Mastercard and its partners. She initially joined Mastercard

Before joining Mastercard, Ajmal was the Head of Consumer Banking for Standard Chartered Malaysia, responsible for the full end-to-end P&L.

in 2015 as Head of Products for the Middle East and Africa, where she spearheaded innovation in consumer and commercial payments, leveraging technology, partnerships, and integrated digital experiences.

Before joining Mastercard, Ajmal was the Head of Consumer Banking for Standard Chartered Malaysia, responsible for the full end-to-end P&L. She also held a global role overseeing retail banking strategy for Indonesia, Malaysia, and Taiwan, based in Singapore. Earlier in her career, she worked at Citigroup across the UAE, Egypt, the UK, and Poland, where she held leadership roles, including Asset Business Head for Poland, managing credit cards, co-brands, personal loans, and mortgages.

Ajmal’s achievements have earned her global recognition. She was listed among the Top 100 Women in Fintech globally by Lattice80 in 2019 and by IBM & Fintech Magazine in 2021. She was also recognized as one of the Top 25 Women Leaders in Financial Technology by the Financial Technology Report (2019 and 2020) and as one of America’s Top 10 Women in Fintech by Fintech Magazine in 2020.

Ajmal holds a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), further reinforcing her expertise in financial and strategic leadership. Through her career, she has been a driving force for innovation, partnerships, and growth in the financial technology space.

JAMIE SIMPSON

General Manager, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam

JAMIE SIMPSON, originally from Australia, completed her Master’s Degree [in International Business and Hospitality Management] at Oxford Brooks [United Kingdom] before entering the industry. She is a highly experienced hospitality professional, with over 20 years in the luxury hotel space, working in multiple hotel groups including Hyatt and Intercontinental Hotels in India, Japan, China, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Oman and the UAE.

She is currently the General Manager of Jumeirah Mina Al Salam. Prior to joining Jumeirah, she was a General Manager with the IHG Hotel Group in Oman. Simpson is a dynamic

An expert on setting up frameworks for quality, standards, and procedures to ensure consistent delivery.

international hotelier specializing in operations, protocols, and logistics. Her aim is to always inspire and lead successful teams that are focused on delivering service excellence on time and on budget. An expert on setting up frameworks for quality, standards, and procedures to ensure consistent delivery.

She was featured in Hotelier Middle East’s “Top 25 Power Women in Hospitality 2020” and in Hotel and Catering News Middle East’s “Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights 2023” which is a true testament to her pioneering role in the hospitality industry.

She was awarded by Hotelier Middle East as the General Manager of the Year 2022 – High End Category and listed on the Hotelier GM Power List 2022. She also led the team at Mina Al Salam to be chosen by Hotelier Middle East as the Hotel Team of the Year – High End Category 2023. Most recently she won the GM of the Year, UAE at the Hotelier Middle East Awards last May 2024.

Simpson is a mother, a wife, a colleague, and a true hotelier at heart.

MAHRA AL HOSANI Student, Dubai Medical College

MAHRA AL HOSANI is currently in her second year at Dubai Medical College, where she is pursuing a degree in medicine. In addition to her academic pursuits, she serves as the copresident of the DMC Scientific Research Club.

Her involvement in leadership roles also include; a curriculum community alumni, Inter-professional Education council member, and a basketball vice captain at DMC. Al Hosani has gained valuable experience through participation in various clinical seminars, conferences, research courses, health

Mahra has gained valuable experience through participation in various clinical seminars, conferences, research courses, health science camps, pre-med courses, psychology camps, and ongoing scientific research projects.

science camps, pre-med courses, psychology camps, and ongoing scientific research projects.

This diverse background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the medical field, including medical practices, procedures, inter professional communication, ethical standards, and legal regulations. As a result, she is well-prepared to volunteer and shadow at medical care centers, local clinics and during bi-annual international trips.

SARAH AL SUHAIMI

Chairperson, Tadawul

SARAH AL SUHAIMI is the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Tadawul, the largest stock market in the Middle East.

She was previously the Chief Investment Officer at Jadwa Investment, a leading independent Saudi asset management boutique, which she joined in 2007 as Head of Portfolio Management.

In 2019, Al Suhaimi was appointed as a Trustee of the IFRS Foundation. In 2018, she was chosen to join the ranks of the World Economic Forum’s 100 Young Global Leaders. Al Suhaimi was also selected as one of the “50 people to watch” by Bloomberg BusinessWeek in December 2017.

Al Suhaimi graduated with the highest honors from the Accounting program at King Saud University, and completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.

Al Suhaimi graduated with the highest honors from the Accounting program at King Saud University, and completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.

RANIA NASHAR

Head of Compliance, PIF

Rania Nashar, a former chief executive of Samba Financial Group, was recently appointed head of compliance and governance at the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Saudi Arabia’s $430 billion PIF is one of the world’s largest and most prominent sovereign wealth funds, and the primary driver of the Kingdom’s economic change in line with its Vision 2030 goals, and it has increased its employees from 40 in 2016 to more than 1,100 employees today.

Nashar joined the fund in January as a senior adviser to its

Nashar joined the fund in January as a senior adviser to its governor, Yasir AlRumayyan. She has more than two decades of experience in the banking sector.

governor, Yasir Al-Rumayyan. She has more than two decades of experience in the banking sector.

She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and information technology from King Saud University in 1997.

Nashar also attended the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business for several finance and risk management programs.

She began her career with Samba Financial Group after obtaining her bachelor’s degree, working as a private bank technology and quality assurance coordinator for nearly four years, before moving to e-consumerism for another four years.

In 2006, Nashar was promoted to anti-money laundering compliance officer, before she became the head of compliance less than three years after that. In October 2014, she became the chief audit executive, until she rose to CEO in 2017.

She was also the chair of the Women in Business Action Council at B20 Saudi Arabia, the voice of the private sector to the G20.

Nashar is also a board member of the National Center for Performance Measurement (Adaa).

ELDA CHOUCAIR

CEO, Omnicom Media Group

ELDA CHOUCAIR is CEO of Omnicom Media Group MENA, spearheading the group’s growth and transformation since 2021. With a 19-year tenure at Omnicom, she has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, and driving the group’s digital and technological advancements. The agency brands under her leadership have consistently been recognised as top-performing companies in the region, earning accolades at Effies MENA, Dubai Lynx, and MENA Digital Awards and being recognised by COMvergence.

A champion of positive change, Choucair is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable industry. She actively contributes to industry organisations and is widely acknowledged as a leading figure in the region. Her exceptional leadership has been recognised by Forbes (100 Most Powerful Arab Businesswomen/Global Meets Local), Arabian Business (Dubai 100) and Campaign Middle East (Power List). She was also announced as a Cannes Lions Awarding Jury member in 2024.

A champion of positive change, Elda is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable industry.

KATRINA MANKANI

Managing Director and Director of Positive Education, Fortes Education

KATRINA MANKANI is an accomplished leader in the UAE’s educational sector, serving as the Managing Director and Director of Positive Education at Fortes Education, a Dubaibased operator of K-12 schools and preschools.

She is also the Managing Director of Jumeirah International Nurseries (JINS), Fortes Education’s preschool chain, and a driving force behind the Positive Education initiative implemented at its flagship schools, Sunmarke School and Regent International School. These roles highlight her commitment to integrating innovative teaching practices

“Education is often described as the great equaliser, but at Fortes Education, we believe it’s also the great differentiator.

with positive psychology principles, fostering environments where students excel both academically and emotionally.

With a legacy spanning over four decades, Fortes Education is a distinguished institution in the UAE’s educational landscape, operating two premier K-12 schools and ten preschools in Dubai. Its flagship schools, Sunmarke School and Regent International School, are highly acclaimed, both earning the prestigious “Outstanding” rating from the British Schools Overseas (BSO) Inspection Bureau. Notably, Sunmarke School ranks 69th globally and 3rd in Dubai for International Baccalaureate (IB) results, with an impressive average score of 36.2 points—5.88 points above the world average. Fortes Education is a pioneer in Positive Education, an innovative approach that combines academic learning with character development and emotional well-being. This philosophy is woven into the curriculum, creating an environment where students thrive holistically. Additionally, Jumeirah International Nurseries (JINS) offer nurturing and stimulating settings for early learners, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

With over 40 years of experience, Fortes Education is steadfast in its mission to deliver world-class education that enlightens young minds, empowers students to reach their potential, and enriches the communities it serves.

“Education is often described as the great equaliser, but at Fortes Education, we believe it’s also the great differentiator,” Mankani says. “What sets us apart? We teach students to think critically, act compassionately, and live purposefully. Our schools and nurseries champion Positive Education, a revolutionary approach that blends academic excellence with character building and emotional well-being. Imagine children not just solving complex equations but also showing genuine kindness to their peers—a rare but vital combination in today’s world.”

DONNA SULTAN CEO, KEO

DONNA SULTAN has been CEO of KEO since 1991 and became President and CEO in 2016. Educated in the US and raised in Europe and the US, her background includes strategic planning and management consulting. She has over 40 years’ professional experience in the Middle East and is ranked as one

She has been awarded many accolades for her efforts and was named ‘Construction Executive of the Year’, ‘Business Woman of the Year’ and recently named MEED’s ‘Female Leader of the Year”.

Sultan has skilfully positioned the firm as a globally recognized multidiscipline practice working on some of the region’s largest and most prestigious construction projects and serving a wide array of public and private sector clients spanning the Middle East, North Africa, Asia and Europe. She has fostered and developed KEO’s renowned blend of highly skilled project and construction management competencies, design innovation, engineering knowhow, sustainability principles, local knowledge and global insights, which has in turn, earned the company the highest level of client confidence and industry respect. She personally oversaw the development of the allied practices, as subsidiaries bringing in new revenue streams from brands such as InSite, C-Quest, F&M+.

Sultan has devoted her career to lead KEO into becoming one of the leading multi-disciplinary and awardwinning consultancies in the GCC and Sultan has devoted her career to lead KEO into becoming one of the leading multi-disciplinary and award-winning consultancies in the GCC and worldwide.

MAYADA BADR

CEO, Culinary Arts Commission of the Ministry of Culture, KSA

MAYADA BADR is the CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission of the Ministry of Culture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. She was appointed by a decision of the Minister of Culture in 2020. She is a graduate of the International School of Le Cordon Bleu Paris and the former Creative Executive Chef of Black Cardamom. She represented the Kingdom on several international occasions and was supervised by a group of renowned chefs around the world.

Badr pursued studies in the culinary arts and joined the renowned Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts and Hospitality

Mayada Badr pursued studies in the culinary arts and joined the renowned Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute in the capital city of France, Paris.

Management Institute in the capital city of France, Paris. She obtained a higher diploma in baking and culinary arts after intensive training under the supervision of world-class chefs. Before her studies in France, she earned a Bachelor’s degree from Parsons School of Design in New York, USA.

She worked at Black Cardamom as a Creative Executive Chef. In 2020, a decision was issued to appoint her as the head of the culinary sector, and to appoint her as CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, one of the eleven authorities concerned with developing the cultural sector in the Kingdom.

SAHAR

COOPER Chief Executive Officer, Aldar Schools

SAHAR COOPER brings 25 years of extensive experience in global education management, with the last 19 years spent in the UAE in senior leadership roles. She has served as the Chief Schools Operations Officer at GEMS Education and the Associate Director of Operations at the American University of Sharjah, where she gained extensive management experience.

Throughout her career, Cooper has excelled in handling large, complex, and multi-site educational projects, and is known for her ability to improve business performance in education through various means.

These include operational delivery, supply chain management, risk and governance, health and safety, strategy development and execution, project management, M&A integration, facilities and asset management, talent development, succession planning, and change leadership.

Throughout her career, Cooper has excelled in handling large, complex, and multisite educational projects.

ALISHA MOOPEN Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare

ALISHA MOOPEN joined Aster DM Healthcare in 2013, initially serving as a Director for GCC operations before being promoted to Managing Director for the region. In 2023, she played a pivotal role in a $1 billion transaction, which ultimately led to her appointment as the Group CEO. In this capacity, Moopen is responsible for steering the company’s strategic direction and driving its expansion into new markets.

Aster DM Healthcare is one of the region’s largest integrated healthcare providers, operating a vast network of 15 hospitals, 117 clinics, and 285 pharmacies across the GCC. With a

workforce of over 13,000 employees, including 1,673 doctors and 3,692 nurses, the company serves millions of patients annually, reinforcing its position as a leader in the healthcare sector.

Moopen is a chartered accountant and began her career at Ernst & Young. She holds degrees in finance and accounting from the University of Michigan and a certificate in Global Leadership from Harvard University. She is also the first female Chapter Chair of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Dubai Chapter. As a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, Moopen launched Aster’s Women in Leadership program, aimed at fostering leadership development among female employees.

In November 2023, Aster DM Healthcare underwent a significant corporate restructuring, with a consortium led by Fajr Capital acquiring a 65% stake in the company’s GCC operations. This move, coupled with an increased Moopen family stake in Aster’s India operations, was designed to propel growth in key markets such as Saudi Arabia and Oman. The restructuring is expected to create 2,000 new jobs and strengthen Aster’s competitive position, including plans to open 250 new pharmacies in Saudi Arabia and launch the Medcare Royal Hospital in Dubai.

With a combined market capitalization of US$2 billion, Aster DM Healthcare is well-positioned for sustained growth across its diverse markets. Moopen, the daughter of Aster DM Healthcare founder Dr. Azad Moopen, continues to build on her father’s legacy while driving the company into a new era of innovation and expansion.

Moopen is a chartered accountant and began her career at Ernst & Young.

BASMAH ALBUHAIRAN

Managing Director, Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

FOR OVER 25 YEARS, Dr. Basma Albuhairan has created, led, and advised innovative and ambitious initiatives in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, across domains including clinical operations, health technology adoption, business transformation, education, investment, and innovation. She is an accomplished leader with a distinguished track record spanning strategy, development, and transformation across diverse industries, especially in establishing, leading, and managing public private partnerships.

She is currently the Managing Director of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Affiliate Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Centre in Saudi Arabia, which supports the Kingdom’s “Vision 2030” by being a platform for public-private, multi-stakeholder collaboration to maximize technological benefits to society and minimize the risks associated with Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in the Kingdom.

A healthcare professional and academic by background, Dr. AlBuhairan has deep expertise in setting up greenfield

healthcare facilities and operations, healthcare transformation, education, investment development, and innovation. Also, she was a key advisor and part of the Founding Team of the Research Development Innovation Authority (RDI Authority).

She has helped King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh (Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs) to commission, set up, and manage clinical departments and lead cross-collaborative initiatives in areas such as patient safety with diverse stakeholders across the organization. She then became Healthcare and University Relations Leader at IBM, where she led key strategic relationships under the portfolio of healthcare and education.

Subsequently, Dr. AlBuhairan co-led the commissioning and setup of the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, and served as its Deputy CEO. In conjunction to this role, she also led the establishment of the Princess Nourah University Health Sciences and Research Center.

A healthcare professional and academic by background, Dr. AlBuhairan has deep expertise in setting up greenfield healthcare facilities and operations, healthcare transformation, education, investment development, and innovation.

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