Entrepreneur Middle East (Special Edition) | Power 100

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A Definitive Guide to Success The 100

Welcome to the inaugural Entrepreneur Middle East Power 100! A full year in the making, this special issue celebrates some of the region’s most inspiring success stories.

Over the past year, our editorial team has meticulously analyzed not only every individual featured in the publication but also many who haven’t been. From an initial pool of 628 names, this issue is dedicated to the final 100 who, in our view, deserve extra recognition.

How did we choose the final 100?

It wasn’t an easy task, given the relentless pace of growth across so many sectors in the region. In its simplest form, power can be defined as the “ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way.”

This concept can be interpreted in many ways. For the purpose of this list, our editors focused on several key criteria:

1. ECONOMIC IMPACT

What has an individual done to significantly impact the region’s economy? It could be mass job creation, such as the efforts of Mohamed Alabbar, who employs thousands across his many companies. Or it could be wealth creation for others, exemplified by Kingsley Advani, the remarkable investment talent behind Allo.

2. CULTURAL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

How many people have been positively affected by the individual’s work? Abdulmajeed Alsukhan, Co-founder and CEO of Tamara, stands out here, with over 10 million users of his platform. Similar stories can be found at Careem or in Talal Al Gaddah’s work, which has helped countless individuals buy or invest in their dream homes.

3. FINANCIAL SUCCESS

While not all companies disclose financials, where available, we’ve looked at revenue and profit growth, as well as market valuations. For example, VURSE’s impressive market valuation highlights the rapid empire-building happening in the region, with many businesses quickly reaching hundreds of millions of dollars in value.

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.

HIS EXCELLENCY OMAR SULTAN AL OLAMA Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence

HIS EXCELLENCY OMAR SULTAN AL OLAMA has served as the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence since October 2017. In July 2020, his portfolio expanded to include the roles of Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. His mandate focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance government performance and drive innovation across various sectors.

H.E. Al Olama is at the forefront of the UAE’s digital transformation, leading initiatives to establish the nation as a global leader in the digital economy. His efforts are geared toward increasing the contribution of the digital economy to the UAE’s GDP while positioning the UAE as a global benchmark for remote work applications.

Currently, H.E. Al Olama holds several prominent positions. He is the Vice-Chair of the World Government Summit, a member of the Board of Trustees and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation, and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. In November 2017, he was appointed to the Future of Digital Economy and Society Council at the World Economic Forum.

During his tenure in the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future, H.E. Al Olama contributed to shaping the UAE Centennial 2071 strategy, which aims to position the UAE as the best country in the world. He also played a key role in crafting the UAE 4th Industrial Revolution Strategy, designed to establish the UAE as a global hub for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and foster a knowledge-driven, innovation-based economy. He was instrumental in developing the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy, making the UAE the first nation globally to adopt such an initiative.

Before his ministerial appointment, H.E. Al Olama gained extensive experience across various sectors, including banking, telecommunications, private enterprises, and government. His expertise spans strategy development, risk analysis, change management, and scenario planning.

H.E. Al Olama holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the American University of Dubai and a Diploma in Project Management and Excellence from the American University of Sharjah. His diverse experience and forward-thinking approach continue to shape the UAE’s vision for a digitally empowered future.

MOHAMED ALABBAR

Founder, Emaar Properties

IF YOU’VE EVER VISITED DUBAI, you’re likely to have stayed in, bought, or seen one of Mohamed Alabbar’s hospitality, real estate, or entertainment creations. From The Dubai Mall to the Dubai Fountains to the Burj Khalifa and beyond, Mohamed Alabbar has established himself as one of the world’s most innovative and impactful businessmen. As the founder and chairman of Emaar Properties, one of the largest real estate development companies in the Middle East, he has played a pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s skyline.

Under Alabbar’s visionary leadership, Emaar has become a global name in the real estate sector, known for landmark projects such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping and entertainment destinations in the world.

Born in 1956, Mohamed Alabbar graduated with a degree in Economics from Seattle University in the United States. After completing his studies, he returned to Dubai and began his career in business and investment, eventually founding Emaar Properties in 1997. His ability to execute large-scale, high-impact developments has been a key factor in the company’s success. Under his guidance, Emaar has expanded beyond the UAE, with projects across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe.

In addition to his work at Emaar, Alabbar has diversified his business interests. He serves as the chairman of Noon.com, a leading e-commerce platform in the region, which he states is close to becoming the UAE’s largest delivery service. He is also involved in ventures across sectors such as hospitality, retail, and finance. Alabbar is a key figure in the UAE’s push for innovation and digital transformation, embracing technologies like artificial intelligence and smart cities in his business initiatives.

Alabbar also leads his private property giant, Eagle Hills, and Americana.

Beyond business, Alabbar is an advocate for sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on advancing Dubai’s vision as a global hub for business and tourism. His contributions to the UAE’s development and economy have cemented his status as a key figure in the country’s ongoing transformation.

Mohamed Alabbar has established himself as one of the world’s most innovative and impactful businessmen.

HRH PRINCE KHALED BIN ALWALEED BIN TALAL AL SAUD

Founder and CEO, KBW Ventures

AS A FIGURE OF BUSINESS, technology enthusiast, and investor, HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud is a firm proponent of clean energy, healthy living, and a motivated voice for entrepreneurship.

A member of the Saudi Arabian royal family, Prince Khaled was born in California and spent his youth in Riyadh under the mentorship of his father, philanthropist HRH Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, Chairman and founder of Kingdom Holding Company.

Today, with holdings on three continents, Prince Khaled stands at the gateway between the Middle East’s evolving economies and the Western world. As a venture capitalist who views nascent and emerging

Prince Khaled stands at the gateway between the Middle East’s evolving economies and the Western world.

technologies as the path to alleviating many of today’s pressing global issues, Prince Khaled’s sector agnostic investments in technology span several different disciplines including fintech, agtech, food tech, B2B SaaS, aviation and transportation technologies, energy technology, biotechnology, entertainment and broadcast technologies, and more.

The founder and Chief Executive Officer of KBW Ventures, Prince Khaled works across several tiers and levels of the business.

In the real estate and property markets, Prince Khaled serves as Vice Chairman and co-founder of Arada, a UAEbased development company.

HATEM DOWIDAR

Group CEO, e&

HATEM DOWIDAR is the Group CEO of e&. He joined the company in September 2015 as Group Chief Operating Officer, becoming CEO, International in March 2016 and Group CEO in May 2020.

Under his leadership, Dowidar has transformed e& from a regional telecommunications company into a global technology and investment conglomerate. This shift, completed in February 2022, has been marked by the successful implementation of strategic approach that have driven significant growth across the 38 markets where e& operates. His strong brand stewardship has enhanced e&’s brand equity, employee experience, and stakeholder value, even amidst a rapidly evolving business landscape.

His strong brand stewardship has enhanced e&’s brand equity, employee experience, and stakeholder value.

Today, e& is recognized as the Fastest Growing Technology Brand and the most valuable brand portfolio in the Middle East and Africa. It is highly ranked globally, with Dowidar named the top telecom leader worldwide on the Brand Guardianship Index 2024 by Brand Finance. Additionally, e& achieved the highest position in Brand Finance’s inaugural Employer Brand Report 2024, with its UAE entity ranked as the Top Global Telecoms Employer.

Before joining e&, Dowidar held the role of Group Chief of Staff at Vodafone Group, based in London. He brings over 32 years of experience in multinational companies, with more than 25 years in telecommunications. His career at Vodafone began in 1999 at Vodafone Egypt, where he served as Marketing Director (CMO) and later as CEO from 2009 to 2014. During his tenure, he successfully navigated the company through challenging environments, achieving strong growth and profitability.

Dowidar has held various key roles within Vodafone Group, including Group Core Services Director, Chairman and CEO of Vodafone Malta, CEO of Partner Markets, and Regional Director of Emerging Markets. His corporate governance experience is extensive, having served as Chairman and Board Member of several companies within and beyond the telecom sector.

He began his career at AEG/Deutsche Aerospace (Daimler Benz Group) in Egypt, later transitioning to Procter & Gamble, where he held several managerial marketing roles. Currently, he serves on the boards of Vodafone Group, Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily), Maroc Telecom, and Etisalat Misr.

On a global scale, Dowidar is a member of the GSMA and the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Leadership Panel. GSMA represents the interests of global mobile operators and the broader mobile ecosystem, while the IGF Leadership Panel fosters knowledge exchange and policy dialogue on maximizing Internet opportunities and addressing its challenges.

NASER TAHER

Founder and Chairman, MultiBank Group

NASER TAHER’S career is a testament to resilience, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. With over 36 years of experience in global financial and commercial sectors, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead and adapt in a dynamic industry.

As the founder and chairman of MultiBank Group, established in California in 2005, Taher has propelled the company into one of the world’s largest financial derivatives organizations. The group boasts a paid-up capital exceeding $322 million and holds regulatory licenses from over 16 financial authorities across five continents, making it one of the most regulated financial institutions globally. Today, MultiBank serves more than one million institutional and retail clients in over 100 countries, with a daily trading turnover exceeding $18.1 billion.

MultiBank Group provides a comprehensive suite of brokerage services and asset management solutions. Its award-winning trading platforms offer a diverse portfolio of products, including Forex, Metals, Shares,

Commodities, Indices, and Digital Assets, cementing its position as a leader in the financial services sector.

Taher’s illustrious career includes leadership roles at renowned institutions such as BNP Paribas, Barclays, UBS, Merrill Lynch, and Credit Suisse. His expertise spans Forex, electronic banking systems, e-commerce, and corporate finance, earning him widespread respect and recognition in the financial industry.

Beyond founding MultiBank Group, Taher has undertaken remarkable ventures, such as constructing a 180-kilometer, six-lane highway between Jordan and Iraq, establishing the first private airline in Eastern Europe, and securing Ireland’s largest banking syndicate of its time. He also managed a fleet of 23 ships, including three of the world’s largest vessels in the foodstuffs industry, and provided expert submissions to the UK House of Lords on UCP 600 practices in Commercial Law.

Taher’s accolades include appointments such as Head of the Irish Stock Exchange Development Projects (2005), Vice President of the Chinese Banking and Entrepreneur Association (2008), and Honorary Chief Financial Advisor to the Chinese Government of Tianjin (2013). In 2016, he was appointed Senior Advisor to the Chinese Central Financial Government. His industry achievements have been recognized with multiple awards, including the prestigious Le Fonti Award for CEO of the Year in Financial Services (Asia & Europe, 2019) and Chairman of the Year (Dubai, UAE, 2023).

Taher’s vision extends to introducing cutting-edge trading technologies and establishing the first interbank and prime brokerage in the Eastern Hemisphere, aiming to position MultiBank Group as the largest financial organization globally.

An accomplished speaker and seasoned traveler, Taher has shared his expertise on Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP), Foreign Exchange Law, and Exchange Technologies at numerous international financial summits, cementing his legacy as a thought leader and innovator in the global financial landscape.

SEYED MOHAMMAD ALIZADEHFARD

Board Member, Co-founder, and Group CEO of Phoenix Group

SEYED MOHAMMAD ALIZADEHFARD, widely known as Bijan, is the Co-founder, Board Member, and Group CEO of Phoenix Group, a pioneering tech conglomerate headquartered in the UAE and listed on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange. Founded in 2017 alongside Munaf Ali, Phoenix Group has emerged as a multi-billion-dollar leader in blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Web3 technologies, reshaping the digital landscape both regionally and globally.

Phoenix Group has made history as the first crypto and blockchain company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. It stands as one of the largest Bitcoin miners in the world, with operations spanning the US, Canada, and CIS, and hosts the largest mining facility in the MENA region, located in Abu Dhabi. Expanding its footprint beyond mining, Phoenix Group has strategically invested in innovative companies like Lyvely, M2, and Rekt Studios, underscoring its mission to revolutionize the future digital economy.

Industry experts recognize Phoenix Group as a trailblazer with a unique blend of deep local expertise in the UAE and global reach. Bijan likens its prominence in the crypto industry to the stature of ADNOC in energy or Emirates Airlines in travel—a world-class, homegrown brand synonymous with leadership and innovation.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Bijan says:

“Since Munaf Ali and I began building mining sites in 2017, we’ve gained unparalleled knowledge in optimizing efficiency within our operations. This expertise culminated in our Abu Dhabi site, the largest mining facility in the region. Access to clean, reliable energy has been a cornerstone of our success, ensuring maximum productivity and minimal mining costs.”

Phoenix Group’s diversification beyond Bitcoin mining has solidified its position as a comprehensive leader in the blockchain ecosystem. Its investments in adjacent sectors have transformed it into a one-stop shop for blockchain and Web3 solutions.

Bijan elaborates:

“I’m particularly proud of our investments in M2, Lyvely, and Rekt Studios. M2, a UAE-based cryptocurrency exchange, provides secure and efficient trading solutions,

expanding access to a wide range of assets. Lyvely empowers content creators on a social media platform that fosters a user-centric experience. Meanwhile, Rekt Studios is revolutionizing immersive gaming with blockchain technology, creating captivating and unique gameplay. These investments reflect our commitment to building a comprehensive ecosystem supporting blockchain’s growth across diverse sectors.”

Looking to the future, Bijan envisions significant transformations in blockchain and cryptocurrency adoption over the next five years:

“We’ve reached a tipping point—cryptocurrency is now recognized as a legitimate investment, with Bitcoin consistently outperforming other asset classes over the past five years. Its scarcity will only drive its value higher. Beyond Bitcoin, the uptake of blockchain, altcoins, and Web3 solutions has also reached critical mass. In the next five years, these technologies will transform business and personal transactions, making them faster, cheaper, and more efficient. What takes hours or days today will be completed in seconds at a fraction of the cost.”

Through his visionary leadership, Bijan continues to drive Phoenix Group’s growth, reinforcing its position as a global innovator in blockchain and digital technologies.

“I’m particularly proud of our investments in M2, Lyvely, and Rekt Studios. M2, a UAEbased cryptocurrency exchange, provides secure and efficient trading solutions, expanding access to a wide range of assets.

KATRINA MANKANI

Managing Director & 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 Dubai-based 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 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. 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,” says Mankani.

For Mankani, the sense of “community” is at the heart of everything Fortes Education does. “Parents aren’t just spectators; they’re collaborators in shaping their children’s futures. This partnership has helped us create an ecosystem of trust and loyalty. And while many organisations struggle to balance growth with quality,

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

we’ve made it our signature. Whether expanding or enhancing our Dubai campuses, we maintain our promise: every child deserves the best. It’s not just education; it’s transformation. And yes, it’s delivered with a touch of warmth, humour, and humanity—because that’s how true learning happens.”

Fortes Education is at the forefront of educational innovation. Its Positive Education model is complemented by the adoption of AI tools to personalise learning journeys, while green initiatives drive its sustainability efforts.

Looking ahead, Mankani is optimistic: “I see Fortes Education as more than a regional leader; I see it as a global thought pioneer. Our goal is to export Positive Education to the world, influencing how schools approach teaching and learning. It’s about redefining success—not just in grades but in how students navigate challenges, build relationships, and contribute to society. Fortes Education is more than an organisation—it’s a movement. And if you’re wondering whether that movement is worth joining, I invite you to visit our schools. See the smiles, hear the conversations, and feel the energy. You’ll leave knowing: there’s something extraordinary happening here.”

Fortes Education remains a beacon of innovation, compassion, and excellence in the UAE, committed to shaping the future of education regionally and globally.

MUNAF ALI Board Member, Co-Founder and Group Managing Director, Phoenix Group

MUNAF ALI is a visionary entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in Capital Markets, previously holding executive roles at Citigroup in London and the UAE. His career has been dedicated to building billion-dollar enterprises across diverse sectors, including Hospitality, Leisure, and, most recently, Blockchain.

As the co-founder of Phoenix Group, Ali, alongside Bijan Alizadehfard, built the company from the ground up. Their early hands-on experience, constructing mining farms in the UAE and North America, gave them a unique perspective on the transformative power and potential of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. This foundation enabled Ali to become a leading figure in the blockchain space, driving Phoenix Group’s evolution into a global powerhouse.

Phoenix Group is now one of the largest Bitcoin mining operations worldwide, boasting a competitive advantage rooted in its deep knowledge of the UAE ecosystem— recognized as a global hub for blockchain innovation—and its expansive international footprint. As the first blockchain company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Phoenix Group has cemented its status as a trusted industry leader. Its recent partnership with Tether, the world’s largest producer of stablecoins, to create a dirham-pegged stablecoin exemplifies its commitment to innovation and practical solutions benefiting businesses and individuals across the Middle East.

Ali highlights the importance of diversification in Phoenix Group’s strategy:

“We made an early decision to diversify beyond mining, enabling us to achieve strong financial results even when other miningfocused companies were struggling. Our investments in M2, the UAE’s homegrown crypto exchange, Rekt Studios, Lyvely, and partnerships with companies like Tether position us perfectly for continued innovation and growth without dependency on a single revenue stream.”

Looking ahead, Ali sees immense opportunities for Phoenix Group and blockchain technology:

“The future is just beginning. With only 8.5% of Bitcoin left to mine, its scarcity value will increase alongside growing demand and utility. We plan to expand our mining operations globally while focusing on the broader potential of blockchain. Over the next five years, we aim to firmly establish Phoenix Group as a leader in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, both in the UAE and internationally. Blockchain adoption will increase dramatically as its realworld benefits become evident, improving transparency, security, and operational efficiency.”

Ali adds:

“Crypto can seem complicated due to its rapid evolution, but that’s where we come in. At Phoenix Group, we aim to be your trusted partner and guide, helping you navigate this rapidly changing world with confidence and expertise.”

Through his leadership and forward-thinking approach, Munaf Ali continues to drive Phoenix Group’s growth and innovation, shaping the future of blockchain and cryptocurrency on a global scale.

“We plan to expand our mining operations globally while focusing on the broader potential of blockchain.

HISHAM MANSOUR

Co-Founder and Managing Director of

CFI

“ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS A MINDSET more than anything.”

As he explained in a recent interview with Entrepreneur Middle East, “It comes with risk, ambition, dedication, and the drive to succeed.” His vision and determination have propelled CFI into becoming a significant force in the online trading sector, serving traders in over 12 countries across five continents. With more than 25 years of industry expertise, CFI has built a strong reputation for innovation, transparency, and its unwavering commitment to client success.

CFI provides access to thousands of financial instruments across diverse asset classes, empowering traders with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of global markets. With clients’ quarterly trading volumes exceeding $1 trillion and a place among the top five global providers, CFI offers unmatched opportunities for traders of all levels. Its competitive edge lies in its use of cutting-edge technology, a dedication to financial literacy, and partnerships with globally renowned icons, positioning it as a leader in the competitive trading industry.

The company’s advanced trading platforms, including the CFI Trading App, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView, enable seamless access to global and regional markets. These tools are designed for traders of all levels, providing a user-friendly experience with sophisticated features that support informed, data-driven decision-making. CFI also offers a proprietary AI trading assistant, delivering real-time insights and predictive analytics to help traders refine their strategies and optimize performance. These innovations are complemented by ultra-low spreads, zero commissions, and high-speed execution, ensuring an unparalleled trading experience. Mansour emphasizes that financial literacy is a cornerstone of CFI’s mission. “Through a robust offering of webinars, seminars, and other tools, we empower traders to build knowledge, make informed decisions, and navigate financial markets with clarity and confidence,” he says. This commitment to education underpins CFI’s broader mission to foster informed and empowered traders.

CFI’s strategic partnerships with global and regional icons such as AC Milan, seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, FIBA WASL, and the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi reflect its dedication to excellence and performance. These alliances reinforce CFI’s reputation as a trusted, forward-thinking brand

that connects with diverse audiences on both local and international levels.

Looking to the future, Mansour is clear about CFI’s ambitions. “Our vision at CFI is to be the leading global brand for all things trading and investing. We aim to be the trusted provider that helps individuals unlock their financial potential, regardless of their level of experience or expertise. Through innovation, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional support, we will set new industry standards, constantly striving to deliver more and better in everything we do,” he says.

He is equally passionate about making financial markets accessible to all. “As we move forward, we will continue to prioritize financial inclusion, ensuring that everyone, from beginners to seasoned professionals, has the tools and resources they need to make informed, confident trading and investment decisions. Our goal is to break down the barriers to entry that have traditionally made financial markets inaccessible to many, enabling people from all backgrounds to achieve their financial goals. Over the next five years, we see CFI advancing its mission to make trading and investing simpler, more accessible, and empowering for all.”

Hisham Mansour’s leadership has positioned CFI as a transformative force in the financial industry, shaping a future where inclusivity, transparency, and innovation redefine what’s possible in trading and investing.

The

company’s advanced trading platforms, including the CFI Trading App, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView, enable seamless access to global and regional markets.

ALI SAJWANI

Executive Director of DAMAC Properties and Co-Founder and CEO of Amali Properties

ALI SAJWANI is a dynamic Emirati businessman and entrepreneur shaping the future of luxury real estate in the UAE and beyond. At DAMAC Properties, a global multi-billiondollar real estate development company, Sajwani has played a pivotal role in driving innovation, operational efficiency, and technological advancement. As Managing Director of Operations and Technology, he has been instrumental in streamlining processes across departments and fostering a culture of innovation, positioning DAMAC as a leader in the international property market. One of his notable achievements is leading the development of the Mandarin Oriental Resort in the Maldives, showcasing DAMAC’s ability to expand its hotel business into global markets.

In 2023, Ali co-founded Amali Properties with his sister, Amira Sajwani, as a boutique ultra-luxury property development firm.

The venture reflects their combined expertise in real estate and their shared vision of delivering high-quality, beachfront, and island living experiences. Amali Properties distinguishes itself by creating developments that epitomize exclusivity, elegance, and premium living. The company’s flagship project, Amali Island, launched in 2024, features 24 ultra-luxury beachfront mansions located on The World Islands in Dubai.

Amali Island offers residents unparalleled luxury with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Dubai skyline, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah. Just six minutes away by boat from Dubai’s mainland, this “sail-in, sail-out” development spans two interconnected islands—Sao Paulo and Uruguay—covering 1.2 million square feet. Each villa boasts up to 50 meters of private beachfront, complemented by world-class resort-style amenities, including private berths, an exclusive clubhouse, gourmet restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a cutting-edge spa, a helipad, saltwater pools, and more. The villas are offered in four unique typologies—Aria, Aurora, Amorino, and the crown jewel, Avatea—each available in distinct architectural and interior styles.

With a project value of $544.5 million USD (approximately AED 28 billion), Amali Island achieved unprecedented success, selling out within one month of its launch. This milestone underscores Sajwani’s ability to capture the aspirations of discerning homeowners and investors while setting new benchmarks in the ultra-luxury real estate industry.

Sajwani’s vision for Amali Properties is encapsulated in its name, derived from the Arabic word “Amal,” meaning “my hopes and dreams.” He explains, “Amali is about fulfilling the hopes and dreams of our clients by creating ultra-luxury beachfront and island living villas with exquisite taste, making every day feel like a holiday.” The short-term goal for Amali Properties is to deliver its first master community, Amali Island, by Q1 2027, while the long-term objective is to redefine luxury living on a global scale.

Ali Sajwani’s leadership and innovative approach continue to elevate the real estate industry, blending tradition with modernity and setting a new standard for ultra-luxury living. With a strong foundation and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the global real estate landscape.

MOHAMAD BALLOUT

Co-Founder & CEO of Kitopi

MOHAMAD BALLOUT is the Co-Founder and CEO of Kitopi, the world’s leading tech-powered, multi-brand restaurant. Established in Dubai in January 2018, Kitopi quickly made a name for itself through its innovative approach to the food and beverage industry. One of its most notable achievements was the acquisition of AWJ, a prominent F&B group behind some of the Middle East’s most popular dine-in brands, including Operation Falafel, Catch 22, Awani, and SushiDo. This acquisition, one of the largest in the region’s F&B sector, is part

of a series of 18 acquisitions that Kitopi has executed in recent years.

Since its inception as a cloud kitchen in Dubai, Kitopi has experienced exponential growth. The company now operates over 100 brands with a workforce of more than 5,000 employees across 200 locations in five markets: KSA, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain. Additionally, Kitopi boasts an engineering hub in Krakow, Poland, a global customer experience center in Dubai, and a robotics hub in Odense,

Denmark. In 2021, Kitopi became the first UAE-headquartered company to receive funding from SoftBank’s Vision Fund 2, securing unicorn status.

Ballout emphasizes the importance of strategic integration during acquisitions. “With smaller acquisitions, you can integrate teams much faster,” he explains. “However, for a business the size of AWJ, which is rapidly growing, maintaining its independence allows it to continue moving fast.”

Reflecting on Kitopi’s journey, Ballout highlights a key leadership lesson: “Change can be a catalyst for growth if managed with empathy, clear communication, and inclusivity. Merging two cultures doesn’t mean erasing one to fit the other; it’s about combining the strengths of both to create a stronger, more vibrant, and inclusive organizational culture that everyone is proud of.”

Through his vision and leadership, Ballout has positioned Kitopi as a trailblazer in the F&B industry, redefining how technology and culinary innovation intersect.

“With smaller acquisitions, you can integrate teams much faster

AMIRA SAJWANI

Co-Founder and CEO of PRYPCO

SAJWANI is the co-founder and CEO of PRYPCO, is a dynamic proptech startup, pioneering the way forward in the UAE’s real estate landscape. It is transforming the landscape 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 guide 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 us the preferred choice for anyone navigating the real estate landscape.

The key value propositions are rooted in accessibility, transparency, efficiency, and innovation.

“When it comes to accessibility, we’ve removed barriers to real estate engagement by offering solutions that cater to a wide range of individuals, regardless of their investment capacity. This approach makes it easier for more people to engage in the real estate market, whether they wish

to own an entire property or just a fraction of it. And on transparency, our platform ensures that all stakeholders have clear access to updates and insights, fostering trust and informed decision-making,” she says.

PRYPCO is also committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in real estate through a range of innovative solutions. One of the most impressive is a unified digital ecosystem. “We’ve developed an ecosystem where all real estate stakeholders—from agents to clients—can interact seamlessly. For instance, an agent can submit a mortgage lead, and then we collect the required client details and documents digitally. Clients can complete the entire process from the comfort of their homes, including exploring residency options like the Golden Visa, which covers the full spectrum of the real estate journey,” Sajwani says.

The company also has integrated communication tools and end-to-end automation.

As for the next five years, the future looks very bright. Sajwani explains: At PRYPCO, our vision is “to enable real estate freedom for all”, making real estate ownership, investment, and long-term residency accessible to everyone. We want to break down traditional barriers in the real estate industry and empower individuals with the tools and resources they need to build wealth and secure their future.”

She adds: “Our mission is to become the region’s leading real estate ecosystem, driving innovation across every part of the real estate journey. By expanding our services and enhancing our platform, we aim to connect all stakeholders—from buyers and sellers to brokers, banks, and government bodies—creating a seamless, transparent, and efficient experience.Ultimately, we want PRYPCO to be the go-to partner for anyone looking to navigate the world of real estate, providing freedom and confidence in.”

“Our mission is to become the region’s leading real estate ecosystem, driving innovation across every part of the real estate journey.

SASHA MARASHLIAN

CEO, Imagine

SASHA MARASHLIAN is the visionary CEO of Imagine, a trailblazing company in the FMCG sector. With an innovative approach to brand development, product distribution, and consumer engagement, Marashlian has established Imagine as a leading player in the dynamic FMCG landscape.

Marashlian has been instrumental in reshaping how FMCG businesses operate in the Middle East and beyond. Under his leadership, Imagine has rapidly expanded its portfolio of high-quality consumer products, leveraging a combination of strategic partnerships, advanced supply chain solutions, and a customer-centric approach. His focus on innovation and efficiency has enabled the company to adapt to market demands while maintaining a strong commitment to quality.

Marashlian is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technologies and data-driven strategies to deliver value across the FMCG ecosystem. From product conceptualization to market launch, he ensures that Imagine stays ahead of trends by integrating sustainability, personalization, and innovation into every aspect of its operations.

The company’s ability to anticipate consumer needs and exceed expectations has positioned it as a preferred partner for global and regional FMCG brands, fostering strong relationships with retailers and customers alike.

Marashlian is a champion of sustainable practices within the FMCG sector. Under his guidance, Imagine has implemented eco-friendly packaging solutions, reduced its environmental footprint, and prioritized sourcing from sustainable suppliers. These efforts align with his vision of creating a positive impact not just on consumers but also on the planet.

His commitment to community engagement is evident through initiatives that support local businesses and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

As the FMCG industry continues to evolve, Marashlian envisions Imagine FZ LLC as a global leader in delivering innovative, sustainable, and impactful consumer solutions. With a strategic focus on expansion into emerging markets, adopting digital transformation, and enhancing customer experiences, he aims to set new benchmarks for success in the FMCG sector.

Marashlian’s dedication to excellence, sustainability, and innovation has not only elevated Imagine but also solidified his reputation as a transformational leader in the FMCG industry.

‘At Imagine, we set out to stand apart, not just in how we communicate but also in how we operate. To achieve this, we developed a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem by building a network of interconnected businesses and partners. This ecosystem is designed to complement each other’s strengths, enabling us to meet the demands of brands despite their limitations and the needs of the diversified consumers of the region,’ he says, adding: ‘We leveraged the strength and know-how of international brands to create local brands from the region and export them to the world. Our approach splits the focus between importing international brands and creating regional brands with equal commercial and quality propositions, growing their presence both locally and internationally.’

As for what the next five years holds, he says: “We want to be the leading company that enabled local brands to be stacked on retail shelves in America and stretching to Australia allowing the entire value chain to benefit from the process from local manufactures, to freight forwarders, to local agencies… everyone benefits when we sell to a wider audience. We are also launching a revolutionizing brand / concept in January 2025 where we digitize a fully recyclable / sustainable finished product via a “Code” that will allow us to subsidize its cost price to match plastic or non-sustainable packaged goods. This will be the future of retail brands and its starting at Imagine from the UAE. This is inspired by the vision of the UAE leadership to create a better world for us and our children.”

Under

his guidance, Imagine has implemented eco-friendly packaging solutions, reduced its environmental footprint, and prioritized sourcing from sustainable suppliers.

ABBAS SAJWANI

Co-Founder and CEO of AHS Properties

ABBAS SAJWANI is a visionary Emirati entrepreneur whose name has become synonymous with excellence in the ultra-luxury real estate sector. As the Founder and CEO of AHS Properties, Sajwani has established a formidable presence in the market, specialising in bespoke mansions and villas designed exclusively for UHNWIs. With a keen understanding of industry dynamics and a forward-thinking approach, Sajwani has successfully navigated the complexities of the real estate landscape, positioning AHS Properties as a leader in ultra luxury living.

Sajwani embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at the young age of 18 by founding AHS Group, laying the groundwork for a diverse portfolio of businesses. His early start not only reflects his ambition, but also his innate ability to identify and seize business opportunities that others might overlook. This foundational experience has provided him with invaluable insights into various market segments, enhancing his strategic decision-making skills.

In November 2021, Sajwani launched AHS Properties as a subsidiary of AHS Group, marking a significant milestone in his career. The company quickly garnered attention for its focus on creating bespoke living spaces that embody sophistication and elegance. Under Abbas’ leadership, AHS Properties has developed a reputation for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, delivering homes that are not just properties, but tailored experiences that resonate with the lifestyle aspirations of its affluent clientele.

Abbas Sajwani is a transformative figure in the luxury real estate industry, whose entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen have driven AHS Properties to remarkable heights. His unwavering commitment to quality, coupled with a deep understanding of market dynamics,

positions him as a leader who is not only shaping the future of luxury living but also setting new standards of excellence in the real estate sector.

As he continues to innovate and expand his vision, Sajwani remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and established professionals alike.

AHS Group today boasts an impressive asset value of close to $3 billion and employs over 2,000 individuals, with ambitious plans to become one of the most vibrant business groups in the region. In 2020, AHS Investments was launched, building a $150 million diversified portfolio across private and public equity. In 2021, Sajwani launched AHS Properties, entering the luxury real estate market with projects in Palm Jumeirah and Emirates Hills, quickly earning recognition for innovation and quality.

The company has achieved remarkable milestones, including the sale of highvalue properties and the introduction of Casa Canal with Fendi Casa interiors, contributing to a GDV of $2.7 billion as of 2024. With a robust pipeline, AHS Properties targets $5 billion in GDV within the next year, continuing to set benchmarks in the luxury real estate market.

New projects are on the horizon, promising to elevate luxury living. Each development is thoughtfully curated to offer unique experiences and expand the AHS portfolio, continuing our journey to set new benchmarks in the real estate landscape.

AHS Properties has rapidly emerged as a leader in Dubai’s ultra-luxury real estate sector by emphasising exclusivity, attention to detail, and strategic collaborations. Key aspects of its competitive edge include targeted Appeal to Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), architectural prowess with collaborations that include projects

designed by renowned architects such as Shaun Killa, prime locations such as Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Water Canal, collaborations with industry leaders such as the partnerships with brands like Fendi Casa and interiors firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) as well as a clientcentric approach ensuring tailor-made living experiences.

AHS Properties stands out in Dubai’s competitive luxury real estate market by leveraging innovative strategies such as state-of-the-art smart home technology for personalised control, eco-friendly developments with heat-resistant materials and energy-efficient systems, and high-end lifestyle amenities like private chefs, chauffeurs, and exclusive wellness facilities.

With iconic projects like One Crescent and Casa Canal, showcasing architectural designs inspired by natural elements such as water’s fluidity, AHS continues to set new benchmarks by aligning with evolving client demands while prioritising quality and exclusivity.

As for what the next five years hold, Sajwani says: “AHS Properties envisions a future of continued growth and innovation within Dubai’s ultra-luxury real estate sector over.

ALI AL GEBELY

Founder & Chairman, ONE Development

ALI AL GEBELY is a visionary leader with over 20 years of experience overseeing a conglomerate that operates across diversified industries, recognized for his strategic acumen and innovative approach to business. As he continues to grow the legacy of his family business of 40 years, which has been pivotal in the energy sector, Al Gebely has driven growth and transformation across key areas such as energy, real estate, technology, communication, and more.

Being the driving force behind Al Fanar Gas Group, Abu Dhabi’s largest LPG distributor, the company secured ADNOC’s first city gas infrastructure EPC contract as part of the Abu Dhabi 2030 plan. Over the course of his tenure, Al Fanar has successfully completed over 1,500 projects, including developments on

Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and other iconic landmarks.

In addition to his role at Al Fanar, Al Gebely served as Managing Director of a diverse conglomerate spanning eight sectors, including investments, real estate, technology, energy, hospitality, healthcare, financial services, tourism, and alternative investments. Currently, he channels his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise as the Founder & Chairman of Al Gebely Holding and ONE Development.

ONE Development’s flagship project, Laguna Residence, estimated with a value of over AED 2.3B exemplifies Al Gebely’s forward-thinking vision in redefining modern living. Located in Dubai’s City of Arabia, Laguna Residence is a landmark twin-tower development. Designed to be the region’s first fully AI-integrated residential community. The project integrates smart home automation and AI-driven services for enhanced convenience and sustainability. Featuring 1,492 apartments with panoramic views of the UAE’s largest podium-level lagoon and the Dubai’sskyline.

By leading such an ambitious project, Ali Al Gebely demonstrates his dedication to pushing the boundaries of modern living, integrating cutting-edge technology to create unparalleled residential experiences.

Al Gebely holds a Bachelor’s degree in economics from Middlesex University, London, and dual bachelor’s degrees in international business administration and mechanical engineering from Ashwood University.

His philosophy revolves around turning vision into actionable goals and cultivating a high-performance culture. He emphasizes accountability, empowerment, and fostering an environment that encourages continuous learning and innovation. His belief in collective purpose and team ownership fuels creativity, resulting in empowerment and consistently pushing boundaries to deliver real estate projects that set new industry benchmarks.

Al Gebely leads with transparency, integrity, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, ensuring his ventures stay true to their values while exceeding stakeholder expectations.

ALEX REINHARDT Venture Capitalist and Businessman

ALEX REINHARDT is a distinguished venture capitalist, economist, blockchain expert, and business coach. Widely recognized as one of the ten most influential figures in the global crypto industry, Reinhardt has built a career defined by innovation, entrepreneurial success, and mentorship.

Born in Siberia, Reinhardt emigrated with his family to Germany, where they faced financial challenges and relied on social benefits. These early experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. Reinhardt graduated from Humboldt University in Berlin with a degree in economics and began working with startups during his university years. Over a decade, he helped launch hundreds of startups, raising over half a billion euros in funding for innovative projects.

Since 2011, Reinhardt has been deeply immersed in blockchain technology, drawn by its transparency and transformative potential. By 2015, he was developing cutting-edge blockchain-based solutions, including wallets, marketplaces, and games. In March 2023, Reinhardt launched the Smart Blockchain Network, which now has over 1.2 million accounts. He also introduced Splitting Technology, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional mining designed to stabilize decentralized networks, enhance scalability, and positively impact the crypto market.

In addition to his technological ventures, Reinhardt founded the Alex Reinhardt Academy to share his expertise and help others achieve success. The Academy has reached over 500,000 participants through courses and training programs, focusing on finance, business, and soft skills. His book, You’re Number One: How to Become a Leader in 30 Days and Remain One, has become a global bestseller, inspiring countless individuals to transform their lives.

As a business coach, Reinhardt has conducted more than 100 seminars attended by nearly half a million people, further solidifying his reputation as a mentor and thought leader.

Now based in Dubai, Alex Reinhardt continues to innovate, inspire, and shape the future of blockchain technology and entrepreneurship on a global scale. His vision and dedication make him a key figure in driving the evolution of the crypto and startup ecosystems.

“Introduced Splitting Technology, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional mining designed to stabilize decentralized networks.

AZHAR TASADDUQ

Founder and CEO, Fauree

IN TODAY’S EVER-EVOLVING FINANCIAL LANDSCAPE, where innovation often caters to the giants, one name stands tall for championing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) — Fauree. Founded just two years ago, this UAEborn fintech platform is reshaping the very essence of SME financing, spearheaded by its visionary leader, Azhar Tasadduq, Founder & CEO.

With over 25 years of global banking and finance experience, Tasadduq brought forth Fauree with a single, powerful mission: to empower SMEs through technology, transparency, and sustainability. It’s not just a platform; it’s a movement — a bold commitment to economic progress, local development, and a sustainable future.

Fauree is more than a fintech success story; it is a homegrown beacon of innovation, aligned seamlessly with the UAE’s national goals of economic diversification, local supplier growth, and sustainable development. SMEs are the backbone of economies worldwide, yet they face systemic barriers: limited access to finance, outdated workflows, and opaque processes.

“SMEs are the driving force of any economy, yet they often lack the tools to reach their full potential,” says Azhar Tasadduq. “At Fauree, we’re addressing these challenges through cutting-edge solutions, ensuring businesses thrive without compromise.”

By leveraging advanced cloud-based technology, Fauree streamlines supply chain finance (SCF) with real-time funding solutions, enhanced cash flow, and seamless workflows. What truly sets Fauree apart is its integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, creating solutions that are both innovative and responsible.

The impact of Fauree transcends borders. In just two short years, Fauree has expanded beyond the UAE, reaching Oman, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Canada. This rapid growth speaks volumes about the platform’s unmatched value proposition and Azhar’s steadfast leadership.

Fauree isn’t merely solving financial challenges; it’s fostering stronger supply chains and empowering SMEs to lead economic resilience. Its focus on In-Country Value (ICV) ensures tangible benefits to local businesses, enhancing national growth, job creation, and social wellbeing.

Fauree is driving a sustainable revolution in SME financing. By embedding ESG standards into its processes, the platform ensures financial growth does not come at the cost of our planet or society. From enhancing transparency to optimizing working capital, Fauree’s solutions enable SMEs to focus on scaling their businesses responsibly.

This commitment to sustainability is not a trend for Fauree; it is a core principle, redefining how financial services create long-term impact.

Empowering SMEs, Inspiring Growth

“At Fauree, our mission is to create a future where every SME has access to the tools and resources they need to flourish,” Tasadduq explains. “This isn’t just about financing; it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive economy, where businesses drive progress for everyone.”

Fauree’s efforts have already begun shaping communities, economies, and industries. Its approach of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability ensures that every SME — regardless of size or challenge — can contribute meaningfully to national and global prosperity.

Fauree is more than just a fintech company; it’s a catalyst for change. With its groundbreaking technology, visionary leadership, and unwavering focus on sustainability, Fauree is setting new benchmarks in the financial world.

In a time when SMEs need it most, Fauree is the partner they can trust — empowering businesses, unlocking potential, and building a brighter tomorrow.

“SMEs are the driving force of any economy, yet they often lack the tools to reach their full potential

SALAH ADIB

General Manager, Al Masaood Tyres, Batteries & Accessories

SALAH ADIB is an award-winning General Manager of Al Masaood – Tyres, Batteries and Accessories Division (TBA). Since becoming GM, the youngest ever to hold that position in the Group, Adib revived and turned around the 30-year-old business to become one of the most progressive arms of the Al Masaood Group. Year after year Al Masaood TBA has made record - breaking sales and consistently hit stretch targets under Adib’s leadership.

In 2024, Al Masaood TBA celebrated the golden jubilee of its partnership with Bridgestone – one of the division’s main principal brands. It also received multiple global awards from its longstanding partner, TotalEnergies, on performance excellence and business growth. Throughout the years of partnership, Adib has been instrumental in crafting strategies with both global brands. He also forged strong ties with leading government entities, growing a partnership with ADNOC and its retail network in the Capital and the Western Region.

Adib believes the secret to a company’s success is to “keep it simple”. His philosophy is: hire the younger generations and invest in them as they are the ones that hold fresh ideas and think outside the box. Motivate your team by going beyond formalities with ‘personal leadership’; show them that you really care by understanding what’s important to them. We are all working to generate income for our families and to achieve our life’s dreams.

Originally from Lebanon, Adib holds a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Management and Marketing. Adib is also the CEO of Juventus Football Academy in Abu Dhabi, as he holds a deep love for football. A passionate advocate of the sport, Adib aims through the academy to inspire and encourage the young generation in the Abu Dhabi to embrace football, along with the values of teamwork, discipline, and dedication that the sport embodies. In his role, he draws on the spirit and legacy of Italian football while aligning with the UAE’s vision of nurturing healthy, athletic, and fit generations.

Adib credits the success of the division to his straightforward yet effective leadership philosophy: “Keep it simple.

RONALDO MOUCHAWAR

Vice President, Amazon MENA

RONALDO MOUCHAWAR is widely recognized as a key figure in transforming online retail across the Middle East. As the cofounder of Souq.com, he turned the platform into the largest e-commerce retailer in the Arab world, which was acquired by Amazon for $580 million in 2017.

Mouchawar’s leadership journey began in 2005, overseeing the platform’s expansion into key markets like Saudi Arabia and Egypt. In 2014, he introduced the groundbreaking White Friday sale, a regional adaptation of Black Friday. He also spearheaded the launch of PayFort, a leading online payment service, and Q-Express, a logistics arm designed to enhance delivery efficiency.

Under Mouchawar’s guidance, Amazon MENA continues to reshape e-commerce in the region. In April 2023, the company inaugurated a state-of-the-art fulfillment center in Dubai South’s Logistics District. The facility, equipped with advanced technology, increased storage capacity by 70% and provided seamless access to major transportation hubs. It aligns with the UAE’s digital economy agenda by aiming to host products from

100,000 SMEs on Amazon.ae by 2026. The center also supports employee development through training and upskilling programs.

Amazon.ae has further expanded its International Shopping experience to Qatar, allowing customers to browse and purchase a wide range of products shipped from the UAE. This service is available in both Arabic and English, offering a localized experience tailored to user preferences.

Beyond Souq.com and Amazon, Mouchawar is a board director for Instashop, a UAE-based grocery delivery app. His career began as a Technical and Systems Consultant with EDS in the United States before he contributed to pioneering projects like Maktoob.com, which was acquired by Yahoo! in 2009.

A passionate advocate for innovation and technology, Mouchawar actively shapes the region’s tech future through his roles on advisory boards and councils, including the Dubai Future Council on Artificial Intelligence, the Dubai Future Academy board of trustees, and the International Advisory Council at the Executive Council.

Under Mouchawar’s guidance, Amazon MENA continues to reshape e-commerce in the region.

SHADMAN SAKIB

Founder, VURSE

SHADMAN SAKIB is a visionary entrepreneur whose ambition has been clear from the start. With his company, VURSE, he set out to redefine how content is created, owned, and shared, integrating never-before-seen features and advanced in-built video capabilities.

Shadman’s entrepreneurial journey began at an early age, displaying remarkable business acumen while still pursuing his education in the US and UK. His passion for cuttingedge technology, coupled with sharp business intuition, has positioned him as a prolific investor across various sectors, achieving significant financial success at a young age.

With teams spanning five continents, Shadman envisions becoming one of this generation’s most innovative tech entrepreneurs. VURSE, a hyper-visual platform focusing on one-minute-long videos, is at the forefront of this mission. The platform boasts state-of-the-art filters, editing tools, and a 3rd Generation camera module that lets users see a new reality through their camera. Shadman believes VURSE will unleash unprecedented creativity among content creators.

The platform is designed to empower influencers and creators, addressing the challenges of content monetization and transparency in social media. “For influencers and content creators, it is very challenging to commercialize the content they share, and there is no transparency with respect to monetization,” Shadman explains. VURSE aims to establish influencing as a respected profession while helping creators grow their personal brands quickly and effectively.

The results have been impressive. By May this year, VURSE experienced over 100% growth in installs. With a vision to create a billion-dollar company, Shadman appears well on track to achieving that goal.

Shadman’s business operations are headquartered between the USA, UK, UAE, and across Asia. He cites Dubai as a pivotal location in his journey. “In Dubai, it’s as if we are living inside a metaverse,” he says. “I came for only 12 days on my first trip, but I quickly realized that Dubai is destined to become the next Silicon Valley. I knew this should become my life, so I set up my company here in December 2021.”

Balancing his entrepreneurial endeavors, Shadman is preparing to launch the Shadman Sakib Philanthropic Foundation later this year. The foundation will focus on impact investing, supporting young IT entrepreneurs from impoverished backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to build their own legacies.

Guided by a passion for the intersection of aesthetics and technology, Shadman Sakib continues to push boundaries and inspire others, cementing his place as a leader and disruptor in the tech industry.

MAEN SAMARA Entrepreneur

BORN AND RAISED IN PALESTINE, but having made Dubai his home since 2011, Maen Samara is a self-made entrepreneur, a visionary who sees solutions where others see problems. With deep-seated determination and a leadership style defined by precision, humanity, and an unrelenting work ethic, Samara has built a career and reputation as a luminary in the business world. At the helm of groundbreaking ventures, including Virtua and Trans Skills, Samara has consistently demonstrated his ability to reshape industries and solve critical challenges facing businesses worldwide—with a mindset that considers the present but always looks to the future.

At the core of Maen Samara’s success is his extraordinary ability to see the big picture while meticulously addressing the details. His vision is a bold one—to tackle challenges so complex that their solutions will lay foundations for generations. This ambitious outlook drives his approach to every venture he leads. He is deeply committed to solving problems that empower others, often stating that “there’s nothing more rewarding than enabling success for others.” These principles have shaped Trans Skills into an industry leader providing scalable, client-centric payroll, HR, and manpower outsourcing services across more than 40 countries.

His entrepreneurial story began in 2013, when he founded Virtua in the UAE. Spotting a significant market gap for scalable HR and payroll solutions among small business owners, he created a cutting-edge offering tailored to their needs. Virtua quickly gained traction, elevating its name in the industry and attracting interest from prominent investors. By 2018, the company was acquired by the esteemed Emirati Al Serkal family business group.

Rebranded as Trans Skills under the Al Serkal group and with Samara at the helm, the company reached new heights.

Through his relentless efforts, Trans Skills expanded its services to 34 countries, establishing itself as a powerhouse in payroll compliance, HR solutions, and cross-border workforce management. Samara’s forwardthinking approach culminated in October 2023, when the business was acquired by Ebury Mass Payment UK, a subsidiary of Banco Santander.

Samara’s leadership philosophy centers around timeless principles he encapsulates in five actionable pillars— Build, Brandish, Bolster, Nurture, and Accountability. His message to clients is clear and heartfelt: “At Trans Skills, we care about your people as much, if not more, than we

care about your business.” This client-first mentality has helped Trans Skills become a trusted partner to businesses seeking reliable, compliant, and innovative solutions in payroll, hiring, and workforce management.

His story is one of resilience, boundless vision, and a unique ability to get things done. A problem-solver by nature, he takes on challenges that others shy away from, laying the groundwork for solutions that will continue to serve businesses and communities long after his tenure. With a track record of empowering others through his work, Samara proves that true leadership isn’t just about building successful ventures—it’s about creating opportunities for as many people as possible to succeed along the way.

His entrepreneurial legacy, from Virtua to Trans Skills and beyond, illustrates a principle that has guided him from the start—innovation with purpose. As he looks forward to the next chapter, Samara remains steadfast in his mission to tackle meaningful challenges, inspire change, and leave a lasting impact.

ROBIN UBAGHS Co-Founder, Propchain and the Welfare Group

ROBIN UBAGHS, the 28-year-old Co-founder of Propchain and the Welfare Group, is redefining the real estate industry with innovation and vision. His ventures are not merely businesses; they symbolize a paradigm shift in how real estate is accessed, managed, and invested in.

Ubaghs’ entrepreneurial journey began early. At just 17, he held shares in a London-based asset management company, showcasing a precocious talent for business and finance. His ventures took him across the globe, but it was his move to Dubai seven years ago that became the turning point. Inspired by Dubai’s vibrant culture and entrepreneurial ecosystem, Ubaghs set the foundation for Propchain, a proptech company at the forefront of real estate tokenization.

Propchain’s mission under Ubaghs’ leadership is to democratize real estate access through cutting-edge proptech solutions. Despite the challenges of entering a competitive market, Propchain has introduced groundbreaking innovations such as fractionalized real estate investment, securities tokenization, and advanced real estate data management solutions. By leveraging blockchain technology, Propchain tokenizes real estate assets, addressing core industry challenges such as liquidity constraints and high entry barriers. The company’s ecosystem seamlessly integrates investors, property owners, lenders, government entities, and administrative companies, creating a holistic approach to real estate management.

In addition to Propchain, Ubaghs co-founded the Welfare Group, the incubating entity behind Propchain. The Welfare Group spans the entire real estate supply chain and has achieved remarkable growth, with development projects extending globally. Together, these ventures represent Ubaghs’ comprehensive vision for transforming real estate through innovation, technology, and global collaboration.

Looking to the future, Ubaghs is focused on scaling Propchain’s impact on a global scale. He envisions expanding the company’s tokenization and data management solutions and scaling its fractionalized investment platform. His aim is to redefine real estate investment by unlocking trapped equity in properties, giving them secondary market liquidity, and enabling cross-border investment opportunities. Currently managing $200 million in assets under management (AUM), Propchain aims to surpass $1 billion in tokenized assets by the end of 2025.

Ubaghs’ advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is straightforward yet profound: stay focused, identify genuine market opportunities, and cultivate strong partnerships.

As Ubaghs explains, “Propchain envisions becoming the global leader in tokenized real estate. We aim to unlock a new era of decentralized and efficient finance, where properties gain secondary market lives and investments transcend geographical boundaries. The future of real estate lies in democratization, innovation, and seamless global accessibility.”

Robin Ubaghs is not just building businesses; he is shaping the future of real estate, leaving an indelible mark on an industry ripe for transformation. His journey is only beginning, but his contributions are already setting new standards for what is possible in real estate innovation.

“The future of real estate lies in democratization, innovation, and seamless global accessibility.

PAUL LALOVICH

Organisational Effectiveness and Strategy Execution Practice, Agile Dynamics

PAUL LALOVICH is a trailblazing industrial economist, tech entrepreneur, and organizational strategist whose career bridges academic rigor and entrepreneurial innovation. With an MSc in industrial economics, Lalovich has spent years mastering the intricacies of business architecture and organizational effectiveness, aligning processes, people, and technology to drive transformative success for companies across Europe and the Middle East. His portfolio includes impactful work with leading organizations such as Aramco, Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Mercer, and Oliver Wyman, showcasing his ability to deliver strategic transformations that turn theoretical frameworks into practical, results-driven solutions.

Lalovich’s influence extends beyond consulting into thought leadership. He is the co-author of From Cubicle to Tribe, a forward-thinking exploration of the future of work and organizational trends. His intellectual curiosity and commitment to innovation are evident in his pursuit of a PhD, where he focuses on advancing business transformation and blockchain technology.

As a Partner and Global Lead at Agile Dynamics, Lalovich goes beyond advising—he builds. His role in initiatives such as NextGen Chain, a pioneering Layer 1 blockchain platform designed to unlock Foreign Direct Investment in emerging markets, demonstrates his commitment to action. Further exemplifying this ethos, Lalovich co-founded platforms like SyntheticEquity.io, which leverages blockchain for performance incentives, and AstroArmadillos.io, a gamified educational platform.

Under his leadership, Agile Dynamics has made bold moves in the Web3 space, including the launch of $ASTROS, the first token issued by a management consultancy. This initiative underscores Agile Dynamics’ focus on integrating Web3 education with practical applications. By actively participating in blockchain innovation, Lalovich ensures that his firm remains a leader in delivering cutting-edge solutions, gaining hands-on experience that sets Agile Dynamics apart from traditional consultancies.

Lalovich’s unique ability to combine technical expertise with business acumen positions Agile Dynamics at the forefront of the Web3 transformation. His leadership empowers organizations to navigate and thrive in the digital age, making him not just a leader in business transformation but a visionary shaping the future of industries globally.

Lalovich has spent years mastering the intricacies of business architecture and organizational effectiveness, aligning processes, people, and technology to drive transformative success for companies across Europe and the Middle East.

FOODICS is at the forefront of transforming the food and beverage industry in the MENA region with cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. Founded in 2014, Foodics is a leading restaurant operations and financial management technology company that has redefined how F&B businesses operate. Its all-in-one cloud-based Restaurant Management System (RMS), Point of Sale (POS) solutions, and payment systems are designed to help restaurant owners streamline their operations and drive growth.

Foodics serves over 30,000 restaurants, offering a robust ecosystem of hardware and software solutions tailored to meet the demands of the modern F&B landscape. The platform encompasses various features, including Foodics Online, a commission-free online ordering system; Foodics Pay, a payment processing solution; Foodics Kiosk, a self-ordering and self-checkout system; and Foodics Accounting, an integrated financial management tool. These solutions are seamlessly integrated with the company’s POS system, catering to businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises.

The company also offers advanced tools like Foodics Business Intelligence (BI), powered by AI, which provides real-time data and strategic insights to optimize restaurant operations. This focus on innovation has enabled Foodics to enhance operational efficiency, reduce human error, improve accuracy, and elevate customer experiences, solidifying its position as a leader in the F&B tech space.

Al Zaini emphasizes that the company’s success stems from its commitment to addressing the evolving needs of restaurant owners and its curiosity for innovation. “Our mission has always been to empower F&B businesses

AHMAD AL ZAINI

CEO and Co-Founder,

Foodics

by delivering end-to-end solutions that are not only user-friendly but also transformative in their impact. This localized insight and industry expertise give us a competitive advantage,” he says.

Foodics has distinguished itself by reshaping the F&B industry with its fully integrated, cloud-based product ecosystem. This approach has enabled restaurant owners to optimize costs, streamline operations, and make data-driven decisions with confidence. Al Zaini credits the company’s forward-thinking mindset for its ability to anticipate industry trends and adapt to market shifts, allowing Foodics to actively redefine the F&B tech landscape.

“Technology is truly revolutionizing the F&B sector, and its impact goes far beyond individual businesses—it is contributing to the economic growth of national and regional markets,” Al Zaini explains. By automating processes like inventory management and financial reporting, Foodics helps restaurants operate more efficiently, reduce waste, and increase profitability. Real-time data analytics and AIdriven insights further enable restaurants to stay ahead of trends, understand consumer behavior, and optimize their operations.

Foodics is also committed to inclusivity, ensuring that businesses of all types, from food trucks and cloud kitchens to fine dining establishments, can leverage its technology to thrive in a competitive market. By integrating features such as digital payments, delivery app integrations, and customer loyalty programs, Foodics empowers restaurants to meet the evolving demands of modern consumers while contributing to the digital economy.

Looking to the future, Al Zaini envisions a seamless integration of technology and tradition in the F&B industry. “While customers value the convenience of digital innovations such as QR codes, mobile payments, and AI-powered menu recommendations, the essence of hospitality and a personalized human touch will remain irreplaceable,” he explains. Foodics is actively developing advanced solutions like predictive analytics and AI-driven tools to empower restaurants in optimizing every aspect of their business.

Over the next five years, Foodics aims to expand into emerging markets and continue its mission to redefine the F&B ecosystem. Al Zaini is particularly focused on fintech innovations, such as micro-lending tools, to ensure that even small businesses have the resources to compete and succeed.

Al Zaini and his team are shaping a future where technology and tradition coexist harmoniously, setting new standards for the F&B industry in the region and beyond. “The goal with Foodics is to strike a perfect balance between leveraging technology and preserving the heart and soul of dining,” he says. “By doing so, we can create a future where innovation and tradition complement each other, transforming the F&B industry for generations to come.”

DYUTI PARRUCK

Co-Founder and CEO,

Decisive Zone

DYUTI PARRUCK, Co-founder and CEO of Decisive Zone, has earned the moniker “Mr. Golden Visa” for his unparalleled expertise in business expansion and facilitating UAE Golden Visas. Recognized by leading media outlets such as Arabian Business, India Today, and CEO Middle East, Parruck’s influence has solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in regional development. His inclusion in the UAE’s Top 50 Power List further highlights his contributions to the country’s economic growth and talent attraction.

Through Decisive Zone, Parruck has played a pivotal role in helping top-tier professionals and companies leverage the UAE’s Golden Visa program. By simplifying the complexities of local regulations, he has positioned himself as a trusted advisor and champion of the UAE’s Dubai 2040 Vision, aimed at attracting global talent and fostering sustainable development.

Beyond visa facilitation, Parruck provides strategic guidance to influential entrepreneurs, empowering them to build profitable networks and make informed decisions in Dubai’s competitive market. Decisive Zone acts as a bridge between Dubai and the international business community, offering a wide array of tailored services, including Business Setup, Visa Processing, PRO Services, Finance and Banking, VIP Business Setup, Citizenship, Marketing, and Concierge Services.

Parruck’s celebrity status has also enabled him to form highimpact partnerships, such as his collaboration with Safa Siddiqui of Dubai Bling. Together, they drive the success of Decisive Living, a luxury real estate venture catering to the growing demand for Dubai’s high-end lifestyle, particularly in the American market. The partnership simplifies relocation and investment in Dubai, offering a seamless, end-to-end experience for clients.

Through innovative strategies and a forward-thinking approach, Dyuti Parruck has positioned Decisive Zone as a vital player in Dubai’s economy. From supporting startups to collaborating with key stakeholders and expanding the firm’s global footprint, Parruck continues to ensure Dubai remains a premier destination for business and luxury living.

Beyond visa facilitation, Parruck provides strategic guidance to influential entrepreneurs, empowering them to build profitable networks and make informed decisions in Dubai’s competitive market.

FARAH ZAFAR

CEO and Co-Founder Lyvely

LYVELY IS THE UAE’S first homegrown Social Monetisation 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 the “LVLY” , Lyvely is the first creator platform with a listed token across 3 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, Lyvely has experienced rapid user adoption and has earned significant brand recognition and a stellar reputation, with over 165,000 active users and over 270,000 followers on Social media with a highly engaged community.

Farah 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 monetisation 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 monetisation 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 monetisation platform which has launched and listed its own crypto token and listed it across centralised exchanges and created its own tokenised ecosystem.

REBIHA HELIMI

Founder and CEO, RH Luxury Properties

REBIHA HELIMI, founder and CEO of RH Luxury Properties, bridges the dynamic economic landscapes of Africa and Dubai, offering a unique blend of cultural insight and market expertise. Specializing in high-end real estate, she transforms regional distinctions into exceptional investment opportunities, ensuring her clients gain exclusive access to lucrative, cross-border ventures.

Helimi’s deep understanding of African economies and her expansive network in Dubai empower her to identify hidden potential in thriving markets. By integrating cultural insights with fiscal trends, she seamlessly connects stakeholders across continents, fostering innovative collaborations and maximizing profitability for her clients.

Always ahead of the curve, Helimi leverages blockchain technology and digital currencies to revolutionize real estate transactions. These innovations enhance transparency and simplify processes, making property acquisitions more secure and efficient— especially for international investors. Her forward-thinking strategies redefine luxury property dealings, aligning them with the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

RH Luxury Properties has become synonymous with reliability and exclusivity under Helimi’s leadership. By offering access to premier properties and facilitating seamless cross-border negotiations, the company continues to encourage long-term growth while cementing its reputation as a trusted partner for ambitious, high-profile ventures.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Helimi is committed to philanthropy, partnering with organizations like La Chrysalide and Graine de Vie to support environmental conservation and humanitarian initiatives. These efforts reflect her broader vision of leveraging success to promote meaningful change and enrich communities worldwide.

As RH Luxury Properties expands its global footprint, Rebiha Helimi’s leadership inspires others to adopt an international, community-

focused approach. Whether orchestrating top-tier business transactions or nurturing partnerships, she continues to play a pivotal role in connecting continents and shaping a more interconnected and prosperous future for Africa, Dubai, and the global investment sphere.

TANJA SUBOTIC Co-founder, Go Greek Yogurt

TANJA SUBOTIC, co-founder of Go Greek Yogurt, has been a driving force behind the brand’s philosophy, rooted in the Mediterranean lifestyle and the benefits of mindful eating. Inspired by her time living in Greece, Subotic infused the community-focused, health-conscious culture she experienced into a brand that champions well-being, tradition, and connection. Over the past 12 years, Go Greek Yogurt has flourished, serving more than 2 million portions annually. What began as a boutique concept in Beverly Hills has grown into a global movement promoting intentional living and healthy eating.

Go Greek Yogurt has garnered a loyal following that spans far beyond its origins, including Hollywood’s elite.

Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, Gigi Hadid, Chris Hemsworth, and David Beckham are among its fans, drawn to the brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Yet, its appeal is universal, resonating with anyone seeking a mindful approach to eating.

Subotic’s vision for Go Greek Yogurt stems from her transformative experiences in Greece. “In Greece, food is more than sustenance—it’s a way of life,” she explains. Inspired by the mindfulness she witnessed in food preparation and consumption, Subotic sought to replicate the care, connection, and seasonality of Mediterranean eating in North America. “They eat not just for fuel but for life, and that passion is what I wanted to bring back.”

This ethos is at the heart of Go Greek Yogurt’s offerings, which artfully blend tradition with innovation. Each dish reflects the Mediterranean approach to eating, combining authentic flavors with high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Europe. “Our quality is non-negotiable,” Subotic emphasizes. “It’s the foundation of everything we do.”

Building on its success in Beverly Hills, Go Greek Yogurt has expanded globally, thriving in the Middle East with three locations in Saudi Arabia and plans for 15 locations in the UAE, five in Doha, and additional outlets in Kuwait. In the United States, the brand is expanding within California and launching new locations in Florida, with eight across Miami, and in New York. Subotic and her founding partners have cultivated exponential growth by fostering strong relationships with franchise partners, ensuring the brand’s ethos is preserved across markets.

Go Greek Yogurt has become synonymous with a way of life that celebrates balance, authenticity, and health. Through its global expansion, the brand remains steadfast in its mission to inspire others to live with intention and embrace the wisdom of the Mediterranean. “It’s about more than what you eat—it’s about how you live,” Subotic concludes.

Go Greek Yogurt has become synonymous with a way of life that celebrates balance, authenticity, and health.

KINGSLEY ADVANI Businessman | Investor

KINGSLEY ADVANI has an extraordinary talent for identifying winners. Based in Dubai, the businessman and private equity investor oversees assets exceeding $2.2 billion and has invested in over 200 companies, including high-profile names like SpaceX, Coinbase, Robinhood, and eToro.

Advani is the founder of Allo.xyz, a pioneering realworld asset (RWA) platform that has revolutionized the investment landscape. Allo oversees over $2.2 billion in assets, working with more than 1,600 private funds and serving a community of 24,000+ investors. The platform enables asset managers to tokenize real-world assets and launch funds on the blockchain in under a minute. With Allo’s technology, clients can tokenize ownership of assets like real estate, enhancing liquidity for traditionally illiquid assets through blockchain innovation.

Allo also facilitates collateralized loan opportunities backed by real-world assets. The company boasts a robust founding team with experience in regulated

fund administration, broker-dealer management, and crowdfunding platforms. This deep regulatory expertise ensures that Allo delivers fully compliant solutions that integrate cutting-edge technology with comprehensive back-end fund administration services.

The platform’s features include embedded KYC/AML, investor onboarding, tax management, and regulatory filings, making it one of the most comprehensive offerings in the space. Allo’s strategic partnership with one of the world’s leading fund administration firms strengthens its position as a trusted and innovative leader in the RWA sector.

With a team experienced in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, including managing entities regulated by the U.S. SEC and FINRA, Allo is uniquely positioned to advance the tokenization of real-world assets. Advani believes blockchain technology will democratize access to previously exclusive investment opportunities, fundamentally reshaping the market.

Looking ahead, Advani is optimistic about the transformative potential of blockchain in the RWA market. He notes, “The value of all real-world assets is $900 trillion, and we anticipate more of it will move on-chain. By 2030, we expect $16 trillion in real-world assets will be tokenized.”

These ambitious projections align with Advani’s proven track record of delivering results on a grand scale. His leadership at Allo. xyz underscores his ability to drive innovation and growth in the rapidly evolving intersection of finance and technology.

Advani is the founder of Allo. xyz, a pioneering real-world asset (RWA) platform that has revolutionized the investment landscape.

MILA SMART SEMESHKINA

Founder and CEO, Lectera.com

MILA SMART SEMESHKINA is the visionary CEO and Founder of Lectera.com, an international educational platform, and the Women’s Empowerment Council. A prominent thought leader in EdTech, women’s empowerment, and personal growth, Semeshkina is also a venture investor, educational course producer, and popular blogger. Recognized as an expert in creating and scaling high-tech brands from scratch, she embodies entrepreneurial excellence.

Born in Krasnodar, Russia, Semeshkina pursued her undergraduate studies at Kuban State University (KSU) and completed graduate studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Erickson International Academy. Her academic achievements include a gold medal during high school and honorary degrees from KSU and MSU. She has authored numerous scientific publications in media economics and served as a researcher and lecturer at MSU.

Semeshkina began her professional journey at 18, building over a decade of experience in marketing and public relations. She has successfully promoted numerous international brands in Russia and crafted impactful marketing strategies for projects spanning Switzerland, Germany, the UAE, and the CIS. This experience has made her a specialist in launching and growing large-scale international startups, transforming them into thriving ventures.

In 2017, Semeshkina shifted her focus to entrepreneurship and bespoke consulting for global enterprises in marketing and brand strategy. Her entrepreneurial passion is most evident in her work with Lectera.com, which she founded and oversees as CEO. The platform, supported by a global team across 25 countries, provides innovative educational solutions to over 4 million students in 70 countries, offering courses in 15 languages. Under her leadership, Lectera.com has become a leading global EdTech platform.

In 2021, Semeshkina expanded her impact by founding the Women’s Empowerment Council, a Dubai-based organization dedicated to promoting women role models and fostering empowerment. The council has grown to a community of over 30,000 women and is renowned for its annual Women’s Empowerment Convention (WE Convention), one of the world’s most significant women-focused conferences. The council also provides free access to empowerment courses, workshops, and webinars, embodying Semeshkina’s vision of tangible progress for women globally.

Semeshkina is a sought-after keynote speaker, having addressed prestigious events such as the Women in Tech World Conference and the Mastercard Women Leaders Awards. Her notable appearances include opening the 2023 and 2024 WE Conventions and engaging in insightful interviews with global icons like Maye Musk, Carla Bruni, and Maria Sharapova.

Now based in Dubai, Semeshkina continues to drive transformative change in EdTech and women’s empowerment, inspiring global audiences and shaping a future defined by innovation and inclusivity.

Recognized as an expert in creating and scaling high-tech brands from scratch, she embodies entrepreneurial excellence.

BALLY SINGH Chairman, AIOKA

BALBINDER “BALLY” SINGH is a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator with over 15 years of experience in marketing, entertainment, and technology. He is the Founder and Chairman of AIOKA, a UAE-born company that specializes in premium Formula 1 corporate and hospitality experiences for world-renowned clients such as LVMH, ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Markets), OKX, and Emirates NBD.

Singh has an impressive track record, having completed projects and served as a consultant for global blue-chip

companies, including Microsoft, Marriott Group, Hilton Group, Alfa Romeo F1 Team, Mercedes, and OKX. His expertise and vision have made AIOKA a leading name in the Formula 1 hospitality and corporate services sector.

For over 15 years, AIOKA has been at the forefront of crafting luxury experiences in the world of Formula 1. The company operates globally, delivering bespoke activations at some of the most iconic races, from Monaco to Las Vegas, Singapore to Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi to Australia. Prestigious clients such as LVMH (Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon), OKX (McLaren’s official partner), and Jiushi Group have trusted AIOKA to craft exceptional experiences that go beyond the track.

Renowned for its ability to host the ultra-wealthy, AIOKA curates luxurious trackside events featuring high-end cuisine, exclusive gatherings, and personal encounters with Formula 1 stars. However, the company is not limited to hospitality alone. AIOKA is now leveraging the allure of Formula 1 to expand into the corporate B2B space, catering to the increasing demand for bespoke experiences that merge the excitement of race weekends with tailored corporate environments. By tapping into its extensive network across Formula 1, hospitality, and entertainment, AIOKA creates unique, strategic experiences that align with each client’s goals.

Looking ahead, AIOKA is poised for continued growth and innovation. Over the next five years, the company plans to expand its footprint both within Formula 1 and into other domains, redefining corporate hospitality with its dedication to excellence, creativity, and personalized services. With a solid foundation and a bold vision, AIOKA is set to shape the future of high-end corporate and hospitality experiences on a global scale.

For over 15 years, AIOKA has been at the forefront of crafting luxury experiences in the world of Formula 1.

KRIS FADE Entertainer | Entrepreneur

KRIS FADE (BORN KRISTAN FAHD) is the Australian/ Lebanese radio phenomenon that has taken the region by storm. He hosts the biggest breakfast show in The Middle East, The Kris Fade Show, on Virgin Radio, speaking to more than one million listeners daily, the show is also broadcast across Australia. In addition he has now been catapulted to global stardom due to the Netflix hit; Dubai Bling.

Fade who is one of the most recognized voices and faces in the country, has written and produced two #1 songs with Sony, hosted the biggest events in the region such as the Pope’s first visit, performed with Hugh Jackman on stage, gone viral with a video of his surprise proposal to his now wife Brianna Fade, with Will Smith and has been immortalized with his own wax doll in Madame Tussauds Dubai.

Kris Fade hosts the official Middle East Chart, regularly interviews the biggest celebrities both on and off air and is the official Middle East TV host at the red carpet Oscars every year for OSN. His larger than life persona and unparalleled live entertainment skills has made him one of the most coveted people in the industry and his authentic content creation on social media in combination with that hasresulted in multiple brand ambassadorships. An entrepreneur at heart, Fade is the founder of a successful multi million dollar healthy snack company (Fade Fit), partner in a fitness company (Enhance), co founder of the Baby Expo Dubai and the founder of Fade Fit Tennis Academy.

Kris Fade hosts the official Middle East Chart, regularly interviews the biggest celebrities both on and off air and is the official Middle East TV host at the red carpet Oscars every year for OSN.

WILLIAM E. HEINECKE

Founder & Chairman, Minor International

WILLIAM E. HEINECKE, Founder and Chairman of Minor International, has spent nearly six decades transforming the company he started at the age of 17 into one of the world’s largest hospitality and lifestyle groups. Known as one of Asia’s most accomplished entrepreneurs, Heinecke’s journey began in high school when he launched his first company using $1,200 in borrowed funds. Unable to register the business under his name due to his age, the company was named “Minor.” Over the years, he has combined a passion for experiential hospitality with innovative thinking and business acumen, growing Minor Hotels into a global powerhouse with brands like Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Elewana, and Tivoli. In 2018, the company tripled its hotel portfolio with the acquisition of Spain’s NH Hotel Group, celebrating its 50th anniversary by expanding to over 530 hotels across 56 countries.

As Chairman of Minor International, Heinecke oversees a diversified portfolio

that includes one of Asia’s largest restaurant companies, Minor Food, which operates over 2,500 outlets globally under brands such as The Pizza Company, The Coffee Club, and Benihana. Minor Lifestyle, another division of the group, manages nearly 400 retail stores. His leadership has cemented Minor International’s reputation for excellence in hospitality, dining, and retail.

Heinecke’s contributions to the industry have earned him numerous accolades, including Entrepreneur of the Year at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards in 2022, HOTELS Magazine’s Corporate Hotelier of the World in 2017, and the HICAP Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He also authored The Entrepreneur: 25 Golden Rules for the Global Business Manager in 2003.

Born in the United States in 1949, Heinecke moved to Bangkok in 1963 after spending time in Japan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. He became a Thai citizen in 1991. Married to his high school sweetheart Kathy since 1968, he is the father of two sons, John and David. Outside of work, Heinecke is an adventurer with a passion for aviation, automobiles, and diving.

Reflecting on Minor International’s achievements, Heinecke highlights the 2018 acquisition of NH Hotel Group as a transformative moment. This acquisition doubled the company’s portfolio and solidified its position as a global leader in hospitality. “Although the pandemic tested our resilience, I never doubted we would recover,” he says. “NH Hotels has become a key driver of our success, with many of its properties rebranded under our luxury Anantara and Avani names, creating a bridge between our European and global audiences.”

He credits partnerships as essential to Minor International’s success, citing

collaborations with the Aujan Group on Anantara Downtown Dubai and properties in Mozambique, as well as support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, which has enabled strategic expansion without heavy capital investments. “Our ability to ‘grow with our owners’—delivering results for one property and earning their trust for future collaborations—is a critical competitive advantage,” he explains.

Innovation, according to Heinecke, has been a cornerstone of Minor International’s growth. “Innovation is in our DNA,” he asserts. “It starts with identifying gaps in the market and addressing them with passion.” His ventures have included introducing American fast food to Thailand, which evolved into Minor Food, and adopting an “asset right” model that balances property ownership with management partnerships. This strategy allows Minor International to maintain operational control while expanding strategically with speed and agility.

Looking to the future, Heinecke envisions continued growth and diversification. “Over the next five years, we aim to expand our global portfolio to 750 properties with 120,000 rooms,” he says. The Middle East will play a pivotal role, with projects like Anantara Diriyah Gate in Saudi Arabia highlighting the region’s heritage and culture. Heinecke also plans to deepen Minor’s presence in emerging markets like Egypt while expanding in established hubs like the UAE and Oman.

“My goal is to ensure Minor International remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry, delivering unparalleled experiences and long-term value for our stakeholders,” he says. “The world is changing rapidly, but our focus on passion, excellence, and thoughtful diversification will ensure we not only keep pace but lead the way.”

SIR TIM CLARK

President, Emirates Airline

SIR TIM CLARK has been the President of Emirates Airline since 2003 and is a key architect behind its transformation into a global aviation leader. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Sir Tim is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in aviation, celebrated for his strategic vision, leadership, and innovative approach to airline management.

Clark began his aviation journey at British Caledonian Airways, focusing on network planning and route development. In 1985, he joined Emirates during its inception, taking on the role of Senior Vice President for Planning and Operations. From the outset, he played a pivotal role in shaping the airline’s strategy,

which prioritized operational efficiency, global connectivity, and superior passenger service.

Under Sir Tim’s stewardship, Emirates has grown from a regional airline into one of the world’s largest and most successful carriers, renowned for its luxury services, innovative technology, and extensive global network spanning over 150 destinations. He was instrumental in pioneering Emirates’ acquisition of wide-body aircraft, particularly the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777, which have become the backbone of its long-haul operations. His vision for offering unmatched passenger experiences has set industry benchmarks, including spacious cabins, in-flight entertainment, and personalized service.

Clark’s leadership also extends to Emirates’ ancillary businesses, including Emirates SkyCargo, a global leader in air freight, and the Emirates Skywards loyalty program, which has revolutionized customer engagement. These initiatives have solidified Emirates’ reputation as a fully integrated aviation and logistics powerhouse.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to global aviation, Sir Tim Clark was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014, an honor that reflects his transformative impact on the industry.

As Emirates continues to navigate the challenges of a dynamic industry, Sir Tim’s visionary leadership ensures that the airline remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence, shaping the future of aviation on a global scale.

Clark began his aviation journey at British Caledonian Airways, focusing on network planning and route development.

MUDASSIR SHEIKHA

CEO, Careem

MUDASSIR SHEIKHA holds a degree in Economics and Computer Science from the University of Southern California and a Master’s in Computer Science from Stanford University. His professional journey began at Trilogy Software, followed by a role at Brience, a mobile experience startup in San Francisco, in March 2000.

He later took on a leadership role at DeviceAnywhere, managing its offshore development center in Pakistan. After DeviceAnywhere was acquired by Keynote Systems, Sheikha joined McKinsey & Company in their Dubai office. Four years later, alongside his former

McKinsey colleague Magnus Olsson, he co-founded a new venture to simplify life for people in the Middle East.

This vision became Careem, launched in 2012. Over the years, Careem grew into one of the region’s leading technology platforms, offering a wide range of services. In 2020, Uber acquired Careem for $3 billion. In Dubai, Careem provides services such as ride-hailing, food and grocery delivery, payments, micro-mobility, and more.

In April 2023, e& invested $400 million to become the majority shareholder in Careem’s super app, while Uber retained full ownership of Careem’s ride-hailing business. The super app now offers a variety of services, including food and grocery delivery, micro-mobility, home cleaning, car rental, and more. Its fintech arm, Careem Pay, provides services like peer-to-peer transfers, bill payments, digital wallets, and international remittances.

Through his leadership, Sheikha has helped Careem evolve into a pivotal technology platform, driving innovation and improving everyday life in the Middle East.

Through his leadership, Sheikha has helped Careem evolve into a pivotal technology platform, driving innovation and improving everyday life in the Middle East.

KHALDOON AL MUBARAK

CEO and Managing Director, Mubadala Investment Company

KHALDOON AL MUBARAK is a distinguished businessman and the CEO and Managing Director of Mubadala Investment Company, one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds. A key architect of the UAE’s diversified economic strategy, Al Mubarak has been instrumental in driving growth across critical sectors including energy, technology, healthcare, aerospace, and real estate.

Born in 1976, Al Mubarak earned a degree in Economics from Tufts University in the United States. He began his career in the private sector before joining Mubadala in 2004. Under his leadership, the company has evolved into a global

investment powerhouse, managing a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies and strategic investments aligned with the UAE’s Vision 2021 and Vision 2030. His forward-thinking leadership has expanded Mubadala’s global reach while fostering innovation and sustainable development across the MENA region.

In addition to his role at Mubadala, Al Mubarak holds prominent positions in several high-profile organizations. He serves as the Chairman of Manchester City Football Club and its parent entity, City Football Group, where he has overseen the club’s transformation into a globally recognized brand and a sporting

powerhouse. He also plays an active role in government advisory boards, nonprofit organizations, and initiatives that shape the UAE’s economic and social policies.

Recognized for his strategic vision, commitment to sustainability, and ability to balance long-term investment strategies with rapid technological advancements, Al Mubarak continues to position the UAE as a key player in global markets. His leadership at Mubadala exemplifies a seamless integration of economic development, innovation, and international collaboration, driving the UAE’s prominence on the world stage.

FADI GHANDOUR Entrepreneur

FADI GHANDOUR is an influential entrepreneur and investor, and business leader best known as the founder of Aramex, the Middle East’s first and most successful international logistics and transportation company. A pioneer in the region’s logistics, e-commerce, and investment sectors, Ghandour has played a critical role in shaping the Middle East’s business landscape.

In 1982, Ghandour founded Aramex as a small courier business operating in the Middle East. Under his visionary leadership, the company rapidly expanded into a global player in the logistics and express transportation industry. His innovative, customercentric approach and foresight in recognizing the potential of e-commerce led Aramex to establish a strong presence in key markets worldwide. In 1997, Ghandour made history by taking Aramex public on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange,

Ghandour made history by taking Aramex public on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange, becoming the first Arab-based international company to list its shares in New York.

becoming the first Arab-based international company to list its shares in New York. This milestone underscored the region’s potential for innovation and positioned Aramex as a symbol of Middle Eastern entrepreneurship.

Over the years, Ghandour grew Aramex’s operations to span more than 50 countries, revolutionizing the logistics industry and building a brand synonymous with reliability and excellence.

After stepping away from Aramex, Ghandour turned his focus to venture capital, founding Wamda Capital, a leading VC firm investing in technology-driven businesses across the MENA region. Wamda Capital’s portfolio includes notable companies such as Tabby (FinTech), BitOasis (cryptocurrency exchange), and Eyewa (the GCC’s fastest-growing omni-channel eyewear and lenses company). Through Wamda, Ghandour continues to support the growth of innovative startups across various industries.

Often referred to as the “Father of entrepreneurship” in the region, Ghandour’s impact extends beyond business. He founded Ruwwad, a non-profit community development organization dedicated to empowering marginalized communities. Ruwwad supports nearly 500 scholars annually in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Egypt, providing education in exchange for community service hours.

Fadi Ghandour’s legacy is one of innovation, empowerment, and transformation. Through his entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic initiatives, he continues to inspire and shape the future of business and community development in the Middle East.

TALAL MOAFAQ AL GADDAH

Senior Executive Vice Chairman, MAG Lifestyle Development

TALAL MOAFAQ AL GADDAH serves as the Senior Executive Vice Chairman of MAG Lifestyle Development, a subsidiary of MAG Group, one of the UAE’s most prominent diversified conglomerates. With operations spanning real estate, construction, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing, MAG Group has solidified its position as a key contributor to the region’s economic and social development.

Al Gaddah has played a pivotal role in driving the growth and diversification of MAG Lifestyle Development, establishing it as a leader in luxury real estate and sustainable living. Under his visionary leadership, the company has launched landmark projects that have significantly shaped Dubai’s skyline and contributed to its status as a global hub for tourism, business, and residential excellence. Notable developments include MAG City and MAG Eye, which emphasize innovative design, premium quality, and community-centric living.

Al Gaddah has played a pivotal role in driving the growth and diversification of MAG Lifestyle Development, establishing it as a leader in luxury real estate and sustainable living.

A forward-thinking leader, Al Gaddah is known for his strategic acumen and ability to identify emerging trends, particularly in the real estate sector. He has championed the integration of sustainability and technological innovation into MAG’s projects, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of modern urban development. His efforts have positioned MAG as a brand synonymous with luxury, sustainability, and exceptional value.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Al Gaddah is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR), spearheading initiatives that support local communities and foster economic growth. MAG Group regularly engages in philanthropic efforts, contributing to education, healthcare, and social welfare programs across the UAE.

Through his leadership and vision, Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah continues to drive MAG Lifestyle Development’s success, building on its legacy of excellence and innovation while shaping the future of the real estate industry in the Middle East.

SUNIL JOHN Senior Advisor (MENA), Stagwell

SUNIL JOHN, a pioneer of the Middle East’s public relations industry, serves as the Senior Advisor for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) at Stagwell, the challenger network redefining marketing through its suite of digital-first and transformation-focused services.

In his role, John leads Stagwell’s MENA operations with a focus on driving regional growth, executing strategic acquisitions, and fostering collaboration among local agencies and partners.

With nearly 30 years of experience at the forefront of the region’s PR industry, John is best known as the founder of ASDA’A, which he established in 2000. Under his leadership, ASDA’A grew into the benchmark public relations consultancy in the Arab world. In 2008, WPP Group acquired a majority stake in ASDA’A, with John retaining a significant share. In May 2023, WPP

completed its acquisition of his remaining stake, and John left the firm in December 2023.

Since taking on his advisory role at Stagwell, John has demonstrated his characteristic energy and strategic insight.

Additionally, he introduced Forsman & Bodenfors, a globally renowned creative advertising agency, into the MENA markets, securing key clients in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Under his guidance, Assembly Global, Stagwell’s omni-channel media agency, has achieved exceptional growth, with revenues increasing by nearly 50% in both 2023 and 2024.

John’s contributions to the PR industry have been widely acknowledged including, Outstanding Individual Achievement SABRE Award (EMEA) from Provoke (2014), Best PR Professional in the Middle East, PRWeek Global Awards (2020, 2023), MEPRA Fellowship Award (2018) and Chairman’s Award, Middle East PR Awards (2016).

John has also been instrumental in driving thought leadership through the Arab Youth Survey, an initiative he launched in 2008. Today, this research remains one of the most widely cited sources of public opinion on the region, shaping discussions among policymakers and media globally.

Sunil John’s unparalleled expertise and forwardthinking approach continue to influence the marketing and communications landscape in the MENA region. His new role at Stagwell reaffirms his commitment to innovation and excellence in shaping the future of the industry.

In his role, John leads Stagwell’s MENA operations with a focus on driving regional growth.

MONA ATAYA

CEO & Founder, 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 in 2015 as Head of Products for the Middle East

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

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.

NADER ALBASTAKI Managing Director, Dubai Future District Fund

NADER ALBASTAKI is the Managing Director of the Dubai Future District Fund, an evergreen venture fund established to drive economic development in Dubai, the UAE, and the broader region. Anchored by the Dubai Future Foundation and the Dubai International Financial Centre, the fund focuses on investments in the Future of Finance and Future Economies.

Albastaki’s first exposure to the startup ecosystem came in 2012 when he co-founded a healthcare technology startup that expanded to four countries in the Middle East before his departure in 2015. In 2017, he became a founding member of Keiretsu Forum’s Dubai Chapter, an angel investment platform specializing in bridge rounds, where he was actively involved in deal screening and investments. He has also served as a mentor for various startup-focused initiatives, including the Intelak Incubator, NYU Abu Dhabi, and Unilever’s Young Entrepreneur Awards.

In 2020, Albastaki co-founded a travel technology startup, which merged with a global player in 2023. Parallel to his entrepreneurial ventures, he spent seven years at HSBC Middle East, where he managed the non-bank financial institutions portfolio and SME accounts, significantly growing the bank’s business in key areas.

Following his banking career, Albastaki joined Dubai Tourism, where he developed a Strategic Partnerships department and created an Advanced Analytics team. His contributions resulted in over 40 strategic partnerships and more than 30 cost-saving initiatives.

At the Dubai Future Foundation, Albastaki played a key role in over 20 initiatives and strategies, generating an estimated $5 billion in social, technological, economic, and environmental impact for Dubai. Albastaki’s early career also included roles at Standard Chartered Bank and the UAE Armed Forces. He holds a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD, a Master of Science in Business Analytics from New York University’s Stern School of Business, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Waterloo in Canada.

Through his diverse experience spanning startups, banking, and strategic government initiatives, Albastaki continues to drive innovation and growth in Dubai’s evolving economic landscape.

In 2020, Albastaki co-founded a travel technology startup, which merged with a global player in 2023.

OWEIS ZAHRAN

Managing Director, OWS Capital

OWEIS ZAHRAN is a distinguished global business leader known for his ability to identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and drive sustainable growth. After earning his degree from the University of Maryland, he entered the dynamic UAE automotive industry, where his strategic insight and entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of OWS Automotive, a multi-million-dollar enterprise.

Under his leadership, OWS Automotive has expanded its presence to seven countries, developed proprietary automotive solutions, and established key partnerships with government entities across the Middle East. Zahran’s exceptional leadership and talent for assembling high-performing teams have been pivotal to the company’s success and ongoing growth trajectory.

In 2020, Zahran diversified his portfolio with the launch of OWS Capital, focusing on creating transformative ventures in the fitness and entertainment sectors. Through this platform, he partnered with Hollywood icon Steve Harvey to establish MELT

ME and introduced Platform Health Club, a state-of-the-art health and wellness brand.

Despite his numerous achievements, Zahran remains actively engaged in his ventures, playing a hands-on role in strategic decision-making, fostering partnerships, and inspiring his teams to realize his visionary goals. His commitment to excellence and innovation continues to define his career and business legacy.

Under his leadership, OWS Automotive has expanded its presence to seven countries, developed proprietary automotive solutions, and established key partnerships with government entities across the Middle East.

HUSEIN SALEM

CEO, Ohana Development

HUSEIN SALEM, the CEO of Ohana Development, represents a remarkable blend of academic distinction and a passion for redefining luxury living across the MENA region and beyond. Born in 1989, Salem’s journey began with his graduation with honors in Civil Engineering from Beirut Arab University. His early exposure to entrepreneurship, rooted in his family’s esteemed real estate dynasty established in 1980, laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Driven by a passion for architectural excellence and innovation, and leveraging extensive experience in consultation, engineering, and real estate market analysis, Salem took the helm of his family’s real estate business. He restructured its operations and transformed it into a thriving corporate entity. Under his leadership, Ohana Development transitioned from a real estate consultancy to a renowned developer of technologically advanced, luxurious, and unique real estate projects. This transformation marked the birth of the Ohana brand and fueled its meteoric rise, evolving from a local powerhouse to a regional icon in record time.

“The greatest innovators see gaps not as problems but as the starting points for solutions

Salem’s vision goes beyond design and construction—he envisions bespoke communities within state-of-the-art luxury apartments and villas. Strategically located across key destinations in the UAE, Greece, and the USA, Ohana’s properties are tailored for those seeking comfort, sophistication, and exclusivity. For over a decade, Salem has championed a commitment to quality, ensuring the use of the finest materials and techniques for timeless elegance and enduring value. This ethos extends to premium after-sales services that prioritize residents’ needs, fostering a true sense of community where residents are treated like family.

“The greatest innovators see gaps not as problems but as the starting points for solutions,” says Salem, underscoring his philosophy of turning challenges into opportunities. His vision extends to creating a global Ohana community—a network where members seamlessly experience diverse cultures and locales worldwide. Under his leadership, Ohana Development’s valuation has quadrupled in a remarkably short time, establishing it as a leading luxury real estate provider. Salem’s ultimate goal is to position Ohana among the top five luxury real estate developers in the Middle East and on the global stage.

A recent testament to his visionary leadership is the ELIE SAAB Waterfront by Ohana on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. This marquee residential tower exemplifies Ohana’s commitment to redefining luxury real estate, setting a new standard for design, quality, and community living. The project highlights Ohana’s ability to identify market gaps and develop innovative, highly successful ventures, solidifying its leadership in the luxury real estate market.

Husein Salem’s meticulous planning and visionary outlook continue to guide Ohana Development’s unprecedented expansion and acclaim, turning the company into a beacon of innovation and excellence in the global luxury real estate industry.

QASIM MANSOOR

CEO

of Regal Development UAE

MANSOOR IS A VISIONARY and accomplished real estate design and development executive with a remarkable ability to seamlessly integrate art and commerce. His projects are deeply ingrained in the fabric and rhythm of urban life, maintaining their relevance and timeless appeal from conception to completion.

Mansoor is renowned for conceptualizing design-led, customercentric, and exquisite lifestyle developments tailored for discerning homeowners with sophisticated tastes. He has collaborated with some of the most prominent real estate brands in the region, including Emaar, Aldar, and Ellington, within Dubai’s thriving real estate market. Recently, he introduced the REGAL London brand from the UK to Dubai, creating developments that transcend art, fashion, and trends while exuding sophistication, character, immersive experiences,

Mansoor is renowned for conceptualizing design-led, customer-centric, and exquisite lifestyle developments.

and a focus on human well-being, fostering deeper connections with their surroundings.

Currently, Mansoor is curating some of the most refined lifestyle developments, redefining luxury residential projects that evoke emotions and establish a profound connection with well-being. His dedication to creating spaces that inspire and engage sets a new benchmark for real estate development.

Previously, Mansoor served as Director of Development at Emaar Properties, where he was instrumental in the inception and development of Dubai Creek Harbour, the largest integrated waterfront mixed-use development within Emaar’s portfolio. This $75 billion USD project is home to Dubai Creek Tower, one of the world’s tallest structures, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Dubai Creek Harbour also boasts the world’s largest lifestyle retail destination, 60,000 residential units, and over 20 hotels.

After his tenure at Emaar, Mansoor held senior leadership roles at Aldar Properties and Ellington Properties, further solidifying his impact on the real estate sector. He also established ground operations in Dubai for the Latvian developer R.Evolution and currently leads REGAL, a UK developer, as its CEO for UAE operations.

Mansoor is also a globally accomplished architect, having worked with prestigious firms such as Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum (HOK). SOM is renowned for iconic projects such as the Burj Khalifa, Address Skyview, Address Boulevard, Rolex Tower in Dubai, and the Freedom Tower in New York City.

In addition to his leadership at REGAL, Mansoor serves as an External Senior Advisor to McKinsey & Company for their Real Estate practice, offering strategic insights for projects in the region and globally. His ability to combine innovative design, strategic development, and a visionary approach has positioned him as a key figure in the real estate and architectural sectors.

FAHIM AL QASIMI

Co-Founder and Chairperson, Seafood Souq

FAHIM AL QASIMI is the co-founder of Seafood Souq, a Dubai-based digital B2B marketplace connecting fish buyers and sellers across the globe. His journey into the seafood industry began with a childhood passion, famously playing “FisherCat” in his school’s adaptation of the musical Cats. Today, Al Qasimi is spearheading a revolution in the global seafood industry with innovative solutions like SFS Trace, a digital tool that ensures product traceability.

Seafood Souq’s mission is to foster a sustainable seafood industry by enhancing supply chain transparency and ensuring access to high-quality, traceable seafood. Founded in 2018 alongside Sean Dennis (currently the company’s

His journey into the seafood industry began with a childhood passion, famously playing “FisherCat” in his school’s adaptation of the musical Cats.

CEO), Seafood Souq capitalized on the opportunity to modernize seafood trade through technology. Just months after its launch, the startup secured a landmark partnership with Emirates SkyCargo, the freight division of the world’s largest international airline, enabling the transport of seafood from countries like Norway, Cyprus, Chile, Scotland, and the USA to customers in the UAE and the broader Middle East.

Under Al Qasimi’s visionary leadership, Seafood Souq has become a key player in driving sustainability and innovation in the seafood industry, cementing his reputation as one of the UAE’s leading entrepreneurs.

ALFONSO SANTITORO

CEO & Founder, ALSAAN Properties

ALSAAN PROPERTIES is a UAE-based real estate agency founded in 2024 by Alfonso Santitoro, a serial entrepreneur and investor. The company was established with the vision of becoming the first Italian developer in the UAE. Its foundation is built on years of expertise in the real estate sector, with Santitoro, serving as CEO, and his primary partners bringing over 20 years of experience in Dubai’s real estate market. ALSAAN Properties aims to guide investors toward intelligent and well-researched investments, leading to excellent returns through strategies such as real estate flipping and more.

The company’s rapid growth is attributed to the innovative services it offers to its clients. ALSAAN Properties leverages proprietary artificial intelligence and complex analysis software, giving it a competitive edge over other real estate agencies. These tools enable the company to provide in-depth analyses of investment potential, helping clients make informed decisions about projects. The AI-driven software allows ALSAAN Properties to conduct precise forecasting and predict the growth potential of any project, in any location. By creating tailored investment strategies for each investor, ALSAAN Properties empowers clients across different categories to invest wisely in the UAE real estate market.

At the core of ALSAAN Properties’ success is its customer-centric approach, prioritizing long-term relationships with investors and focusing on delivering future results for clients. The company prides itself on its ethical principles, ensuring that customer satisfaction and success take precedence over short-term gains.

Looking ahead, ALSAAN Properties is committed to developing additional software and AI-driven services to further enhance its clients’ investment experience. Within the next five years, the company aspires to rank among the top 10 developers in the UAE, a goal supported by its dedication to high-quality design, exceptional project offerings, and innovative investment solutions. Central to its vision is the emphasis on “Made in Italy” excellence, reflected in the meticulous details and finishes of every project it undertakes.

ALSAAN Properties leverages proprietary artificial intelligence and complex analysis software, giving it a competitive edge over other real estate agencies.

OMAR HARFOUCH

Composer

WORLD-RENOWNED PIANIST AND COMPOSER OMAR HARFOUCH is not only a celebrated musician but also a visionary entrepreneur who built a remarkable career in media and television. Today, he leverages his global fame to advocate for universal peace, performing his self-composed “Concerto for Peace” in some of the world’s most iconic venues.

Born in Lebanon, Harfouch left his homeland at the age of 17 amid the civil war. By 25, he had achieved millionaire status, only to lose and rebuild his fortune multiple times by seizing diverse opportunities. Despite a childhood marked by hardship, Harfouch’s resilience and optimism have propelled him to dedicate his life to his true passion: music and composition.

In 2023, Harfouch embarked on a European tour, followed by a global journey to deliver his message of peace through

“Concerto for Peace.” On September 18, he performed at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris before an audience of over 1,700 influential figures, including artists and representatives from French religious and political communities.

On November 14, Harfouch performed “Concerto for Peace” in the Vatican’s Holy Library and was received in a private audience by Pope Francis. In recognition of his contributions to peace, Pope Francis awarded him a special distinction created for the Catholic Church’s Jubilee 2025, naming him “Pelerin of Peace.”

On December 7, Harfouch performed at the Dubai Opera House alongside the renowned group Chico & The Gypsies. The event was attended by Hollywood actor Orlando Bloom, who lent his support to the cause. For this performance, Harfouch composed a special piece titled “Dubaï me amor.”

Harfouch’s commitment to global peace has earned him numerous international accolades. In December 2023, he was appointed Honorary President of the European NGO Dialogue and Diversity, based in Brussels. On February 24, 2024, he was honored with the Creation Prize at the 11th edition of the CAEL Awards in Dubai for his composition “Concerto for Peace,” a masterful piece for piano and orchestra.

Omar Harfouch’s inspiring journey, marked by resilience, creativity, and a profound dedication to peace, continues to resonate on the global stage. His music serves as a powerful call for unity and harmony across cultures and nations.

World-renowned pianist and composer Omar Harfouch is not only a celebrated musician but also a visionary entrepreneur who built a remarkable career in media and television.

HAISAM ODEIMEH

Group CEO, Financial Services, Al Ramz

HAISAM ODEIMEH, Group CEO of Financial Services at Al Ramz, leads one of the UAE’s most prominent financial institutions, renowned for over 25 years of excellence in providing comprehensive financial services. Established in 1998, Al Ramz operates across diverse domains, including asset management, corporate finance, brokerage, market-making, liquidity provision, public offering management, and financial research. Its commitment to innovation and client-centered solutions has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of the UAE’s financial industry. By integrating advanced fintech solutions, Al Ramz continues to democratize access to trading and investment opportunities, championing financial inclusion for all types of investors.

Odeimeh’s vision for Al Ramz is rooted in empowering every investor, regardless of experience or resources. The company has dismantled traditional barriers to entry, ensuring that tools and opportunities once reserved for institutions are now accessible to all. “We’ve built a platform that prioritizes transparency, safety, and long-term value, rejecting risky, opaque structures like CFDs. Our approach focuses on creating

a community where knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and investor support thrive. Al Ramz isn’t just a company; it’s a trusted partner in every investor’s journey,” he says.

Innovation is at the core of Al Ramz’s ethos, with groundbreaking tools designed to empower investors. Odeimeh highlights their AI-powered robotic advisory tool, which democratizes access to personalized investment guidance previously available only to high-net-worth individuals. “This tool is not just about technology; it’s about creating possibilities. It enables individuals to craft portfolios aligned with their dreams, using insights that were once out of reach,” he explains. The company has also embraced generative AI to deliver real-time market insights and foster smarter decision-making, alongside features like social trading and a unique copy trading system that enhance collaboration and learning among investors.

Al Ramz’s ambitious vision includes creating a “digital financial mall,” a comprehensive ecosystem where investors can access all the tools, insights, and resources they need to succeed. “Innovation at Al Ramz isn’t about staying ahead of the curve; it’s about rewriting the rules to build a future where everyone wins,” Odeimeh asserts.

Looking ahead, Odeimeh envisions Al Ramz leading a financial revolution on a global scale. “Our mission is to anticipate and meet the evolving needs of investors. Over the next five years, we will expand into new asset classes and markets, empowering people to dream bigger. Our trading platform will evolve with next-generation features like the ‘active mode’ in our robotic advisory tool, which will proactively guide and execute decisions for investors,” he says.

Odeimeh’s vision goes beyond technology. He aims to redefine the essence of investing by addressing significant loss ratios seen on many platforms and prioritizing financial inclusion. “Our goal is to become the highest-performing platform, ensuring that every investor, whether starting small or managing substantial portfolios, has the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive. By leading with integrity and integrating sustainability, we aim to set a new standard in the industry,” he explains.

With a focus on fostering collective growth and empowering individuals, Odeimeh is shaping a future where investing is accessible, empowering, and inclusive. “This mission is about more than building a successful company; it’s about creating a lasting legacy that inspires people to believe in their financial potential. Together, we’re shaping a future where investing leaves no one behind,” he concludes.

YUSUFF ALI MA

Chairman and Managing Director, Lulu Group International

YUSUFF ALI MA is the Chairman and Managing Director of Lulu Group International, one of the largest and most successful retail conglomerates in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Renowned for his visionary leadership, Yusuff Ali has transformed Lulu Group from a small grocery store in Abu Dhabi into a global retail powerhouse, with interests spanning retail, wholesale, hospitality, and real estate. Today, Lulu Group operates over 250 hypermarkets and supermarkets across countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, India, Egypt, and beyond.

Born in Kerala, India, Yusuff Ali moved to the UAE in 1973 and began his career in retail by joining a small grocery business

that later evolved into Lulu Group. His entrepreneurial acumen and keen understanding of consumer behavior and market trends have been pivotal to the group’s rapid expansion. Under his leadership, Lulu Group has become synonymous with quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction, earning the trust of millions of customers worldwide.

A key factor behind Lulu’s success is Yusuff Ali’s focus on innovation and diversification. Beyond its retail operations, the group has expanded into sectors such as hospitality and real estate, developing luxury hotels and large-scale residential and commercial projects. The group’s adaptability and commitment to excellence have garnered numerous awards and accolades,

solidifying its reputation as a leader in the global retail industry.

In addition to his business achievements, Yusuff Ali is a committed philanthropist, contributing significantly to causes in education, healthcare, and social welfare. His philanthropic efforts have made a positive impact in both his home state of Kerala and across the countries where Lulu operates.

Yusuff Ali’s journey from a modest background to leading one of the world’s largest retail conglomerates serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs worldwide, exemplifying the power of vision, determination, and a commitment to giving back to society.

DANY FARHA

Co-founder and CEO, BECO Capital

DANY FARHA is the Co-founder and CEO at BECO Capital, a venture capital firm that provides early stage growth capital and hands-on operational support for technology companies in the MENA region with a focus on the GCC. Farha has a 20-year track record in the region as a successful serial entrepreneur and investor. Prior to founding BECO Capital, Farha cofounded and exited Bayt.com, Butlers, the UAE’s largest commercial laundry company, and Intercat, one of the largest catering companies in the UAE. He was also a seed investor in Gonabit, a Middle East-focused daily deal website that was acquired by Living Social in 2011. A graduate from UCL in London in Management Sciences and Finance, he currently sits on the board

“Our

mission is to drive true innovation and progress in the region whilst being the most impactful investor, partner, and friend to the most talented founders the Gulf has to offer.

of the Property Finder and several other portfolio companies. As the first venture capital firm in the GCC, BECO Capital has the longest track record in Gulf with two unicorn exits and a portfolio of the region’s most iconic success stories. With $495M in AUM across four funds, BECO Capital is the largest non-government early-stage venture firm in the Gulf. BECO Capital gets its name from the rocket launch event Booster Engine Cut Off, which occurs when the vessel has achieved sufficient altitude to exit the earth’s atmosphere. “Our mission is to drive true innovation and progress in the region whilst being the most impactful investor, partner, and friend to the most talented founders the Gulf has to offer.”

NEIL PETCH

Chairman, VirtuGroup

NEIL PETCH actively assists over 300 entrepreneurs and startups to conceive, plan, and build their businesses on a monthly basis. After launching Virtuzone as the first private company formation business in the region over 10 years ago, Petch has led the company to set up more than 16,000 businesses, making it the largest, fastest-growing and bestknown setup operator in the Middle East. As the chairman of the holding company, Virtugroup, Petch also leads VirtuVest, an in-house angel investment vehicle; Virtuzone Mainland, a provider of directorship services, corporate sponsorship and facilitator of local Dubai and Abu Dhabi company setups; and Next Generation Equity, a citizenship-by-investment firm. Virtugroup has invested in and supported the growth of multiple companies and delivered passports in over 10 different jurisdictions. Virtugroup also enjoys partnerships with Dubai FDI, the Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Holdings (ARN), VFS, Regus, Etisalat, KPMG, Aramex and Beehive,

and has received awards from Arabian Business and Entrepreneur Magazine, among others.

In addition to starting up businesses, Petch has held leadership roles in several companies. He helped establish ITP, the largest media publishing house in the Gulf, which he oversaw growing from two to 600 employees. At ITP, he spearheaded the launch of over 60 digital and print titles, including Time Out, Harper’s Bazaar, Arabian Business, Ahlan and Grazia. As Managing Director of ENG Media, Petch launched the Coast FM radio station and numerous magazines, including MediaWeek. For the last seven years, Petch has also served as Chairman of GMG, the world’s first interbank financial brokerage based out of Dubai, with offices in DIFC and London. Due to his extensive knowledge and expertise, Petch has been appointed a member of the ‘Ease of Banking’ panel organised by the Chamber of Commerce.

Having lived in over a dozen countries and with a career spanning over 25 years in the UAE, Petch has the ability to merge astute cultural insight with fresh thinking, leveraging his seasoned business acumen, intuition and black book to repeatedly bring ideas to living, breathing success stories. Petch also lends his in-depth market insight to fellow entrepreneurs and helps cultivate Public Private Partnerships as a Task Force Member of the Advisory Council, a coalition of key decision-makers and prominent movers of the UAE business landscape, led by EMIR and the Ministry of Economy. He is also a regular speaker, panelist, and economic commentator, specialising in the SME sector.

Having lived in over a dozen countries and with a career spanning over 25 years in the UAE, Petch has the ability to merge astute cultural insight with fresh thinking.

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.

Mona 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.

H.E. SHEIKHA INTISAR ALSABAH

Philanthropist

A PRINCESS from the Kuwaiti ruling family, HE 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.

HE Sheikha Intisar 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.

HE Sheikha Intisar 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.

HE Sheikha Intisar 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.

ELIE HABIB

Co-Founder and CTO, Anghami

ELIE HABIB is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Anghami, the leading music streaming platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Since its founding in 2012, Anghami has become a trailblazer in the region’s digital entertainment landscape, offering millions of users access to an extensive library of Arabic and international music, podcasts, and exclusive content. Habib’s technological expertise and entrepreneurial vision have been instrumental in driving the platform’s success and prominence.

With a background in computer science and engineering, Habib co-founded Anghami with the goal of creating a music streaming platform tailored to the preferences of Arabicspeaking audiences, while also providing a rich selection of international content. His technical acumen enabled the development of a seamless, user-friendly platform that

balances local relevance with global appeal. Anghami’s personalized recommendations and high-quality streaming services have made it a favorite among users across the region.

As CTO, Habib has overseen Anghami’s technological infrastructure, ensuring the platform’s scalability across diverse markets while maintaining an engaging and efficient user experience. He has spearheaded the development of innovative features, including advanced music algorithms, machine learning-based recommendations, and integrations with emerging technologies. These advancements have given Anghami a competitive edge in the global music streaming market.

Under Habib’s leadership, Anghami achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first MENA-based music streaming platform to be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange in 2022. This achievement marked a new chapter in Anghami’s growth and underscored its global ambitions.

Through his dedication and forward-thinking approach, Elie Habib continues to shape Anghami’s journey as a leader in digital entertainment, bridging the gap between local and international audiences while setting new standards for innovation in music streaming.

As CTO, Habib has overseen Anghami’s technological infrastructure, ensuring the platform’s scalability across diverse markets while maintaining an engaging and efficient user experience.

SHEERAZ HASAN

Founder, FAME

SHEERAZ HASAN, known as the “FAME King,” is a renowned leader in Web3, entertainment, and technology, celebrated for his unmatched ability to build billion-dollar brands. With a career spanning decades, Hasan has established himself as the ultimate fame strategist, trusted by celebrities, influencers, and entrepreneurs worldwide to transform their status into global stardom.

Simply put, Hasan knows how to make anyone famous. Armed with an arsenal of tools and strategies, he has the unique power to elevate individuals and brands into worldwide sensations. His mantra, “Money Follows FAME,” underpins his work, and his clients—Hollywood A-listers, influencers, CEOs, and even Fortune 100 companies—turn to him for his unparalleled expertise.

Hasan’s impressive clientele includes Hollywood icons such as Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton, Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, Priyanka Chopra, Jennifer Lopez, Logan Paul, and Jake Paul. He is also the go-to media strategist for leading global brands and two of the world’s top crypto exchanges, Binance and ByBit.

In addition to managing celebrity stardom, Hasan is the visionary behind Dubai.News, a groundbreaking platform

bringing real-time updates on Dubai’s events and developments to the American market.

Headquartered on the iconic Sunset Strip in Hollywood, Dubai. News is the first and only platform exclusively dedicated to connecting trending Dubai news with U.S. audiences.

Hasan’s innovation extends into artificial intelligence with his creation of Hollywood.AI and Bollywood.AI, two of the most disruptive and cutting-edge AI brands in the world. These ventures position him as a global trailblazer in a trillion-dollar industry, further cementing his influence and visionary status.

In 2024, Hasan’s expertise took center stage at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards in Abu Dhabi, where he orchestrated amplification campaigns for Bollywood’s biggest superstars, showcasing his ability to amplify global events and celebrities to new heights.

With over 20 years of experience, Sheeraz Hasan has built an extensive network of industry titans, commanding a combined asset value exceeding a trillion dollars. His influence is unparalleled, and his heavyweight connections enable him to transform individuals and brands into universal powerhouses.

Sheeraz Hasan’s unmatched ability to combine innovation, strategy, and influence continues to set him apart as a global leader in fame and media strategy.

Armed with an arsenal of tools and strategies, he has the unique power to elevate individuals and

brands into worldwide sensations.

ABDUL AZIZ AL GHURAIR

Chairman, Mashreq Bank

ABDUL AZIZ AL GHURAIR, with a net worth exceeding $3 billion, is a prominent figure in the UAE’s business landscape and a key member of one of the country’s most influential families. Known for their diverse ventures spanning banking, construction, and trade, the Al Ghurair family has left an indelible mark on the region’s economy. As the chairman of Mashreq Bank, one of the UAE’s largest financial institutions, Abdul Aziz has been instrumental in transforming the bank into a global powerhouse in the banking sector.

Known for their diverse ventures spanning banking, construction, and trade, the Al Ghurair family has left an indelible mark on the region’s economy.

Beyond his leadership in banking, Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair is deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, and sustainable development. Through the Al Ghurair Foundation, he has significantly advanced educational opportunities for Arab youth by providing grants, scholarships, and mentorship programs. The foundation focuses on equipping young people with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in a rapidly evolving business environment, fostering employment opportunities and career readiness.

Al Ghurair is also a vital contributor to the UAE’s business community, having served in influential roles such as Chairman of the UAE Banks Federation and as a member of the Dubai Economic Council. His efforts have been pivotal in shaping the UAE’s financial and economic policies, earning him recognition both locally and globally.

His visionary leadership, paired with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, has cemented Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair’s reputation as one of the region’s most powerful and impactful business leaders. Whether advancing financial innovation or driving philanthropic initiatives, he continues to influence the UAE’s growth and development on multiple fronts.

ANDRES MENESES

Founder, Crypto OGs

ANDRES MENESES, a Colombian-born blockchain expert, has turned a life of adversity into a story of global influence and success. From overcoming significant challenges to becoming a recognized authority in blockchain and cryptocurrency, his journey reflects the power of persistence and vision.

Andres began his career in information technology, gaining recognition for his technical expertise and problem-solving skills. However, his true calling emerged in 2016 when he discovered cryptocurrency—a pivotal moment that reshaped his path and propelled him into the blockchain industry.

By 2017, Andres was leading a financial organization that processed $1 billion in daily transactions, establishing him as a key figure in blockchain and token development. His deep understanding of emerging trends cemented his reputation as a distinguished personality in the crypto industry.

Andres’ influence extends beyond media. His involvement in OKX’s “Trade Like a Pro” campaign showcased his expertise in educating traders on advanced strategies and market analysis.

In 2022, Andres launched Crypto OGs, a podcast on Binance Live that quickly became one of the platform’s most recognized series. Featuring conversations with veterans of the cryptocurrency world, the show serves as a valuable resource for enthusiasts and investors alike. Through Crypto OGs, Andres not only shares his insights but also celebrates the contributions of other key figures, creating a network committed to positively transforming perceptions of DeFi.

Andres’ influence extends beyond media. His involvement in OKX’s “Trade Like a Pro” campaign showcased his expertise in educating traders on advanced strategies and market analysis. He has also participated in high-profile events like the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony, where he shared the stage with industry leaders, including the CEOs of Bitget, Solana, and Aptos, further solidifying his stature.

One of the highlights of Andres’ career was hosting Spain’s largest crypto event, which drew over 10,000 participants. The event exemplified his ability to attract diverse audiences and foster an environment of collaboration and innovation.

Now based in Dubai, Andres continues to inspire and empower the next generation of blockchain professionals. His work demonstrates that true success transcends personal gains—it is about enabling others to push boundaries, break barriers, and redefine possibilities in the blockchain industry.

From his early challenges to his current status as a respected leader, Andres Meneses embodies the resilience and adaptability needed to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

YOGESH MEHTA

Founder

and

CEO,

Petrochem Middle East

YOGESH MEHTA is a distinguished business leader and the visionary Founder and CEO of Petrochem Middle East, a leading distributor of petrochemical products and industrial chemicals across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With over 30 years of expertise in the petrochemical industry, Mehta has been instrumental in transforming Petrochem Middle East into one of the region’s most successful and diversified supply chain enterprises.

Established in 1995, Petrochem Middle East specializes in the distribution, supply, and storage of a wide range of petrochemical products, including solvents, chemicals, and lubricants. Under Mehta’s leadership, the company has expanded its reach to over 50 countries, serving regional and international markets with a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. Petrochem caters to a broad

spectrum of industries, including automotive, construction, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, establishing itself as a trusted partner in the global supply chain.

Mehta’s entrepreneurial acumen and deep industry knowledge have enabled Petrochem to thrive in a highly competitive and regulated market. His forward-thinking approach emphasizes the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable business practices, positioning Petrochem as a leader in the chemical distribution sector. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities and robust logistics network underscore its reputation for efficiency and reliability.

Beyond his business achievements, Yogesh Mehta is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. He actively promotes ethical business practices, environmental stewardship, and community development through various philanthropic initiatives. His leadership extends beyond the boardroom, inspiring industry peers and the next generation of entrepreneurs with his dedication to excellence and integrity.

Mehta’s contributions to the petrochemical industry and his unwavering commitment to sustainability have earned him recognition as a pioneer in his field, making Petrochem Middle East a benchmark for success in the global market.

Mehta has been instrumental in transforming Petrochem Middle East into one of the region’s most successful and diversified supply chain enterprises.

ALEX GUSEFF Founder And CEO, CrispMind

THERE ARE FEW NAMES in the blockchain and cybersecurity landscape as impactful as Alex Guseff. With groundbreaking innovations, he has revolutionized the industry. Under his leadership, CrispMind developed Tectum, the world’s fastest Layer-1 blockchain, and transformative products like SyntezNote and SoftNote, driving global change in digital finance for businesses, governments, and individuals.

Guseff’s work in Dubai marks a remarkable milestone. In this dynamic hub of innovation and commerce, he is spearheading a groundbreaking pilot project to introduce SyntezNote technology to the UAE. This visionary initiative, in collaboration with local partners, aims to create a hybrid digital asset that combats inflation and serves as a reliable source of residual income.

SyntezNote integrates equal values of three crypto assets, including a stablecoin, forming a resilient, inflationproof digital currency for everyday use. More than an innovation, it is a transformative leap, empowering economies to achieve financial sovereignty and unlock their full potential in the digital era.

With decades of expertise, CrispMind has established itself as a leader in addressing critical economic and payment challenges. Harnessing the power of blockchain technology, the company has developed groundbreaking platforms in secure messaging, user authentication, and cryptocurrency. By consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation, CrispMind is shaping the future of digital finance and revolutionizing blockchain technology.

While Guseff’s efforts are making a profound impact on a global scale, his work in Dubai stands out as a remarkable milestone.

BADR JAFAR

CEO, Crescent Petroleum

BADR JAFAR is an Emirati businessman and philanthropist widely recognized for his leadership in the energy, investment, and sustainability sectors. As CEO of Crescent Petroleum, one of the Middle East’s leading independent oil and gas companies, Jafar has spearheaded the company’s growth and diversification. Under his leadership, Crescent Petroleum has expanded its portfolio to include significant projects in energy, infrastructure, and technology, driving innovation and sustainable practices in the sector.

In addition to his role at Crescent Petroleum, Jafar serves as the Managing Director of Crescent Group, a global private investment firm with interests

Jafar serves as the Managing Director of Crescent Group, a global private investment firm with interests spanning energy, real estate, and technology.

spanning energy, real estate, and technology. His ability to lead transformative projects has positioned Crescent Group as a key player both regionally and internationally, enhancing its influence across global markets.

A passionate advocate for sustainability, Jafar has been at the forefront of initiatives promoting responsible investment and corporate social responsibility. He has demonstrated a particular commitment to addressing climate change and advancing clean energy solutions. His leadership in sustainable development is exemplified through his role as a founding member of the MENA Infrastructure Fund, which focuses on projects aligned with environmental and social goals.

Beyond his business ventures, Jafar is deeply involved in philanthropy, serving on numerous boards championing education, social development, and youth empowerment. His work with the UAE’s Foundation for Future Generations reflects his dedication to creating opportunities for young people and fostering long-term societal growth.

A graduate of the University of Cambridge, Jafar combines academic rigor with practical experience, solidifying his reputation as one of the UAE’s most influential business leaders. His contributions continue to shape the energy sector and drive progress in sustainability and social impact, cementing his legacy as a visionary leader.

ADEL ALI CEO, Air Arabia

ADEL ALI is a name synonymous with the aviation industry in the Middle East and North Africa. As the CEO of Air Arabia, the region’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), Ali has been instrumental in revolutionizing air travel by making it more accessible, efficient, and customer-focused. Under his leadership, Air Arabia has grown into a regional powerhouse, recognized for its affordability and operational excellence.

Ali’s career in aviation spans over two decades, marked by his pivotal role in Air Arabia’s development since its founding in 2003. Before becoming CEO, he held key management

A champion of sustainability in aviation, Ali has been a vocal advocate for eco-friendly practices.

positions that helped shape the airline’s strategic direction. His vision of affordable air travel disrupted the traditional aviation market in the region, offering passengers a low-cost alternative to full-service carriers.

During his tenure, Air Arabia has expanded its operations to over 170 destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe, solidifying its position as a global leader in the low-cost carrier segment. Ali’s emphasis on cost control, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction has enabled the airline to maintain profitability while delivering competitive pricing and excellent service. These efforts have earned Air Arabia numerous awards for innovation and customer experience.

A champion of sustainability in aviation, Ali has been a vocal advocate for eco-friendly practices.

He has implemented initiatives to reduce Air Arabia’s carbon footprint, aligning the airline with global efforts to make aviation more sustainable. His vision for the future includes expanding Air Arabia’s route network, enhancing services, and investing in technology to drive further growth and environmental stewardship.

Through his visionary leadership, Adel Ali has not only transformed Air Arabia into a household name but also redefined air travel in the region, making it more affordable and sustainable for millions of passengers.

ALEX ZAGREBELNY

Founder, R.Evolution Group

ALEX ZAGREBELNY, the founder and sole proprietor of R Evolution Group, is the driving force behind one of the most innovative companies in the luxury real estate market. So far operating in the UAE, Latvia, Spain and Germany, the group owes its success to Alex’s ingenuity, leadership, and strategic vision and he was recently acknowledged by Arabian Business as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the UAE.

With extensive expertise in real estate development since 1999, including significant experience in the UAE, Alex brings a pioneering perspective to R Evolution Group. His meticulous attention to detail is paired with a visionary approach that

For over 25 years, Alex has been studying ancient sciences and philosophies, exploring their impact on individual well-being and development.

incorporates the latest advancements in architecture, construction, sales, marketing, and company philosophy.

For over 25 years, Alex has been studying ancient sciences and philosophies, exploring their impact on individual well-being and development. Implementing this knowledge with the utmost sustainability and a responsible attitude towards the planet, he incorporates the latest advancements of modern civilisation into all his projects.

Relocating to Dubai in 2020 with his wife, Kate and two children, Alex considers his family his muses, inspiring him to create and develop new concepts and buildings.

R.Evolution’s portfolio now boasts over 20 completed luxurious properties that have received prestigious local and international awards.

Alex’s vision for Intellectual Real Estate Development encompasses biophilic design, neuroarchitecture, decoding, storytelling and scenography. Rooted in ancient knowledge of human nature and utilising the latest technologies and IT solutions, he develops residential, office and hotel facilities that tell stories of great people, achievements, nature, cultural traditions, and history.

His vision aims to create a legacy for the future, inspiring the next generation of developers to contribute to a better world.

His overarching vision includes well-being and health, energy efficiency and sustainability, and unity with nature and community.

PATRICK CHALHOUB

Group President, Chalhoub Group

PATRICK CHALHOUB is a prominent entrepreneur and the Group President of the Chalhoub Group, a leading luxury retail and distribution company in the Middle East. With a career spanning over three decades, Chalhoub has been instrumental in transforming the region’s luxury goods market, establishing the familyowned business as a dominant force in the retail sector.

Born into a family with deep entrepreneurial roots, Chalhoub was introduced to the world of business at an early age. He holds a degree in Business Administration from EADA Business School in Barcelona. After completing his studies, he returned to Lebanon to join the family business. Under

Chalhoub’s strategic vision has been central to the group’s success.

his leadership, the Chalhoub Group significantly expanded its portfolio, partnering with prestigious international luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Fendi, and Chanel, bringing them to the Middle Eastern market.

Chalhoub’s strategic vision has been central to the group’s success. He has focused on creating a seamless blend of luxury retail with local culture, championing initiatives that align with the evolving preferences of Middle Eastern consumers while preserving the heritage and exclusivity of luxury brands. His emphasis on exceptional customer service, exclusive brand experiences, and innovative retail technology has cemented the Chalhoub Group’s reputation as a leading partner for global luxury brands in the region.

In addition to his work at the Chalhoub Group, Chalhoub is deeply involved in philanthropic initiatives. Through the Chalhoub Foundation, he actively supports causes related to entrepreneurship, education, and social development across the region, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact beyond business.

Patrick Chalhoub’s leadership continues to drive the Chalhoub Group’s growth and innovation, ensuring its position as a key player in the luxury retail landscape of the Middle East.

ADEEB AHAMED Managing Director, Lulu Financial Group

ADEEB AHAMED is a prominent entrepreneur, investor, and Managing Director of Lulu Financial Group, a leading financial services provider with a strong presence across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Under his visionary leadership, the company has grown into a globally recognized name in money transfer, foreign exchange, and remittance services, with a network of over 230 branches worldwide.

Ahamed has been instrumental in driving the company’s expansion and leveraging technology and innovation to meet the financial needs of diverse markets. Through his efforts, Lulu Financial Group has embraced digital transformation, introducing cutting-edge solutions such as mobile apps, online remittance platforms, and blockchain-based services to ensure

greater financial inclusion and accessibility, particularly for underserved communities.

In addition to his work with Lulu Financial Group, Ahamed is a passionate advocate for startups, especially in the fintech sector. His active investments in technology-driven enterprises reflect his commitment to fostering innovation and creating financial solutions for the modern world. Lulu Financial Group operates as part of the Lulu Group, a retail giant with over 150 hypermarkets, supermarkets, malls, and department stores across the region.

Ahamed’s business acumen extends to the hospitality sector. He is the founder of Twenty14 Holdings, an Abu Dhabi-based hospitality investment firm with a portfolio of luxury properties, including the Great Scotland Yard Hotel in London, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian in Scotland, the Sheraton Oman in Muscat, the Pullman Downtown Dubai, and Port Muziris in Kochi, India.

Beyond his corporate success, Ahamed is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, supporting philanthropic initiatives in education, healthcare, and disaster relief. His efforts to combine business growth with positive social impact have made him a respected figure in both the financial and philanthropic communities.

Through his leadership, Adeeb Ahamed continues to shape Lulu Financial Group into a dynamic global enterprise while expanding his influence across diverse sectors, making a lasting impact on both industry and society.

Ahamed has been instrumental in driving the company’s expansion and leveraging technology and innovation to meet the financial needs of diverse markets.

SHAYNE NELSON Group CEO, Emirates NBD

With over 30 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry, Nelson’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of both retail and corporate banking.

SHAYNE NELSON is the Group CEO of Emirates NBD, one of the Middle East’s largest and most innovative banking groups. Since joining the organization in 2013, Nelson has led Emirates NBD’s transformation into a globally recognized financial powerhouse, significantly contributing to the UAE’s economic growth and the advancement of its financial services sector.

With over 30 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry, Nelson’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of both retail and corporate banking. Prior to his role at Emirates NBD, he held senior leadership positions at several international banks, including Standard Chartered and Westpac Banking Corporation, bringing a wealth of expertise to the UAE’s banking landscape.

As CEO, Nelson has been a driving force behind Emirates NBD’s digital transformation, positioning the bank as a leader in the digital banking space. Under his leadership, Emirates NBD has pioneered the use of artificial intelligence,

blockchain, and mobile banking to enhance the customer experience. These innovations have solidified the bank’s reputation for delivering cutting-edge financial solutions, making it a benchmark for digital banking excellence in the region.

Beyond innovation, Nelson is a strong advocate for sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Emirates NBD has made substantial investments in sustainability initiatives, focusing on education, environmental conservation, and community development, aligning with the UAE’s broader goals for sustainable growth.

Shayne Nelson’s leadership has garnered numerous accolades, and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential business leaders in the UAE. His forward-thinking vision, dedication to innovation, and unwavering commitment to the growth and success of Emirates NBD continue to shape the future of banking in the Middle East and beyond.

HOSAM ARAB

Co-founder and CEO, Tabby

HOSAM ARAB is a dynamic entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Tabby, a fast-growing financial technology company transforming payments in the Middle East. Since its founding in 2019, Tabby has become a leader in the region’s buy-now-paylater (BNPL) sector, offering consumers flexible, interest-free installment options that empower millions with accessible and responsible financial services.

Before launching Tabby, Arab built extensive experience in the tech and financial sectors. He held key roles at Careem, the regional ride-hailing giant, and Souq.com, the Middle East’s largest e-commerce platform (acquired by Amazon). His deep understanding of technology, finance, and consumer behavior in the Middle East provided a strong foundation for Tabby’s rapid growth and success.

Tabby’s innovative platform allows shoppers to split purchases into manageable payments without requiring credit cards

or traditional financing methods. With its intuitive app and streamlined sign-up process, Tabby has resonated with techsavvy, young consumers across the GCC, who increasingly value flexible payment options. By partnering with leading regional retailers, Tabby has expanded its services across various industries, including fashion, electronics, groceries, and beauty products.

Arab is a firm believer in the transformative potential of technology to enhance financial inclusion and improve the customer experience. Under his leadership, Tabby has attracted significant investment from global venture capital firms, fueling its accelerated growth and solidifying its position as a key player in the fintech space.

Through his vision and commitment, Hosam Arab continues to drive innovation in the financial sector, making Tabby a cornerstone of the Middle East’s evolving digital economy.

Having lived in over a dozen countries and with a career spanning over 25 years in the UAE, Petch has the ability to merge astute cultural insight with fresh thinking.

ELIE KHOURI CEO, Vivium Holding

ELIE KHOURI is the CEO of Vivium Holding, a single-family office specializing in alternative investments. He is also the Chairman of Omnicom Media Group (OMD) MENA, a leading global media agency in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With over 25 years of experience in advertising and communications, Khouri is renowned as a trailblazer in media strategy, digital transformation, and business growth.

Khouri joined OMD MENA in 2011 and has since played a pivotal role in expanding the agency’s influence across the region. His focus on integrating data, technology, and creativity has helped OMD maintain its position at the forefront of media and digital marketing. His ability to navigate the evolving media landscape and commitment to excellence has made OMD MENA a trusted

partner for major brands looking to engage consumers in an everchanging digital environment.

Before joining OMD, Khouri held leadership positions at several global advertising firms, gaining extensive expertise in strategic planning, brand management, and digital marketing. His profound understanding of consumer behavior and the complexities of the MENA market has enabled him to craft impactful campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences, solidifying OMD MENA’s reputation as a leader in integrated marketing and communications.

Under Khouri’s leadership, OMD MENA has received numerous industry accolades for its excellence in media planning, data-driven strategies, and innovative campaigns. Beyond his professional achievements, Khouri is a strong advocate for diversity and leadership development, frequently mentoring young professionals and speaking at industry events to inspire the next generation of marketers.

An avid art collector, Khouri takes pride in curating a collection of bluechip pieces while supporting emerging regional artists. His passion for art complements his creative approach to business and marketing.

Khouri also appears as a judge on Dubai’s Shark Tank, where he evaluates business pitches from aspiring entrepreneurs seeking investment and mentorship. This role highlights his commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Elie Khouri’s diverse expertise and visionary leadership have not only shaped the success of OMD MENA and Vivium Holding but also positioned him as a key figure in the media, marketing, and investment industries across the region.

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, Sima 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.

Sima 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.

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.

MICHAEL LAHYANI

Founder and CEO, Property Finder

MICHAEL LAHYANI is a trailblazing entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Property Finder, one of the leading online real estate platforms in the Middle East. Since its launch in 2007, Lahyani has transformed the real estate industry in the MENA region, offering a digitalfirst approach to streamline the property search process for buyers, sellers, and renters.

Relocating to Dubai in 2007, Lahyani identified a gap in the real estate market—a lack of a comprehensive, user-friendly platform to simplify property transactions. With a background in business and technology, he envisioned a solution that would provide detailed property listings, advanced search tools, and a seamless user experience. This vision materialized as Property Finder, a platform that has since become synonymous with real estate innovation in the region.

Under Lahyani’s leadership, Property Finder has experienced exponential growth, attracting millions of users each month and securing significant investments from global investors. The platform features cutting-edge tools, including virtual tours, property price analytics, and customized search options, setting new standards for real estate technology in the MENA region. With operations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, and other key markets, Property Finder has solidified its position as a leader in the region’s proptech sector.

Beyond his business achievements, Lahyani is a strong advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. His leadership continues to inspire advancements in the digital real estate space, fostering growth and modernization in the Middle Eastern property market.

Beyond his business achievements, Lahyani is a strong advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

MAAZ SHEIKH

Co-founder and CEO, StarzPlay

In 2015, Sheikh launched StarzPlay with the vision of creating a premium, localized entertainment experience tailored to the diverse tastes of viewers in the Middle East.

MAAZ SHEIKH is the co-founder and CEO of StarzPlay, a leading video-on-demand (VOD) streaming service in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Sheikh is the driving force behind one of the fastest-growing streaming platforms in the region, offering a wide variety of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and exclusive content to millions of subscribers.

In 2015, Sheikh launched StarzPlay with the vision of creating a premium, localized entertainment experience tailored to the diverse tastes of viewers in the Middle East. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, strategic partnerships, and regional content, he positioned the platform as a strong competitor to global giants like

Netflix and Amazon Prime. StarzPlay quickly gained a loyal following, offering a robust catalogue of Arabic, Hollywood, and international content, alongside exclusive shows and movies. Its flexible subscription models and user-centric approach have been instrumental in its success.

In 2022, StarzPlay further solidified its position in the market by signing a landmark deal with E-vision and e& (formerly Etisalat), allowing them to acquire a majority stake of 57%, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.

Prior to founding StarzPlay, Sheikh held senior roles in various global and regional

companies, including du, a leading UAE telecommunications provider. His extensive experience in telecom, technology, and digital services equipped him with a deep understanding of the entertainment and media industry, which he skillfully leveraged to steer StarzPlay’s rapid growth.

Sheikh is a passionate advocate for innovation and digital transformation in the MENA region’s tech and media sectors. Under his leadership, StarzPlay has become a key player in the region’s evolving digital entertainment landscape, contributing significantly to the growth of online streaming in the Middle East. His vision and dedication continue to shape the future of entertainment in the region.

ELIE SAAB Founder, Elie Saab Group

ELIE SAAB is a globally renowned Lebanese fashion designer celebrated for his luxurious haute couture creations that embody elegance, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. Known for his intricate embroidery, delicate fabrics, and glamorous silhouettes, Saab has become an icon of Middle Eastern luxury fashion on the international stage.

Born in 1964 in Beirut, Lebanon, Saab discovered his passion for fashion at an early age. He honed his skills at a local design school, gaining recognition for his exceptional tailoring and

meticulous attention to detail. In 1982, at just 18 years old, he opened his first boutique in Beirut, marking the start of a remarkable career. His global breakthrough came in 1997 when he became the first Lebanese designer to present his collection at Paris Haute Couture Week, earning international acclaim and solidifying his place among the world’s leading designers.

Saab’s designs are celebrated for their feminine and glamorous aesthetic, featuring intricate beadwork, luxurious fabrics like silk and tulle, and exquisite drapery. His creations have graced some of the world’s most prominent figures, including royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries. From the Oscars to the Met Gala, Saab’s gowns are synonymous with red-carpet elegance and high fashion.

Beyond haute couture, Saab has expanded his brand into ready-to-wear collections, fragrances, accessories, and bridal wear, all characterized by the same sophistication and craftsmanship that define his couture line. With boutiques in major fashion capitals such as Paris, New York, London, and Dubai, Saab has built a global empire, solidifying his status as one of the most influential designers of his generation.

Elie Saab’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to merge traditional Middle Eastern aesthetics with contemporary global trends, making him a symbol of luxury and innovation in the world of fashion.

In 1982, at just 18 years old, he opened his first boutique in Beirut, marking the start of a remarkable career.

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.

SAMIH TOUKAN

Chairman & CEO, Jabbar Internet Group

IN 2000, SAMIH TOUKAN CO-FOUNDED and served as CEO of Maktoob.com, the world’s first Arabic email platform and the largest online Arab community, boasting over 16 million users. In 2009, Maktoob was acquired by Yahoo! in the region’s largest technology acquisition deal at the time.

Following this milestone, Samih became Chairman of Jabbar Internet Group (Jabbar.com), a company that established several leading internet businesses, including Souq.com, the Arab world’s largest e-commerce platform. Today, Jabbar is one of the region’s leading investors in internet and technology startups.

Samih holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of London and a Master’s in Management and International Business from HEC Paris. He began his career with Andersen Consulting, gaining extensive experience in technology consulting, systems development, and internet services. In 1994, he co-founded Business Optimization Consultants, and in 2000, Maktoob.

LUBNA

OLAYAN Chairperson and CEO, Olayan

Between 2003 and 2005, Samih served on the board of the Social Security Investment Fund in Jordan, overseeing a multi-billion-dollar portfolio. Currently, he is an active investor in regional and global startups, mentoring numerous entrepreneurs. He is also a founding investor in Oasis500, Jordan’s premier startup incubator.

Samih chairs the board of UnderMyOliveTree, a nonprofit organization supporting education for underprivileged communities. Additionally, he is an investor and board member of the Ruwwad Micro Venture Fund, which provides grants to entrepreneurs in marginalized communities in Jordan.

Samih chairs the board of UnderMyOliveTree, a nonprofit organization supporting education for underprivileged communities.

Financing Group

LUBNA OLAYAN is a trailblazing Saudi businesswoman and one of the most influential figures in the Middle East’s corporate world. With a career spanning over four decades, she has broken barriers for women in business, emerging as a pioneer in Saudi Arabia’s traditionally male-dominated business environment.

Born in 1955, Olayan earned a degree in Economics from Indiana University Bloomington. Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, she joined the Olayan Financing Group, the familyowned conglomerate involved in diverse sectors such as banking, real estate, healthcare, and industrial services. Over the years, she played a pivotal role in transforming the company into one of the largest and most successful private enterprises in the Kingdom.

In 2004, Olayan became the first woman to be appointed to the board of directors of a publicly traded company in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Hollandi Bank (now Alawwal Bank).

This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone for women in Saudi business. She later served as CEO of Olayan Group’s investments, overseeing a portfolio of international assets and leading strategic initiatives across a wide array of industries.

Beyond her corporate achievements, Olayan is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and social development. She has championed numerous initiatives to advance women’s participation in the workforce and improve access to education. As a dedicated philanthropist, she actively supports efforts to enhance healthcare and education in Saudi Arabia, leaving a lasting impact on her community.

Olayan’s legacy is defined by her visionary leadership, groundbreaking career, and commitment to gender equality. She remains a highly respected figure both regionally and globally, inspiring future generations and paving the way for greater inclusion and progress in the Middle East.

NAGUIB SAWIRIS

Chairman, Orascom TMT Investments

NAGUIB SAWIRIS is one of Egypt’s most influential businessmen and a prominent figure in the global telecommunications, media, and investment sectors. As the chairman of Orascom Investment Holding and Orascom Telecom, Sawiris has been at the forefront of building and leading some of the most successful companies in the Middle East and Africa, earning him a place among the wealthiest individuals in the region.

Born in 1954 to a prominent Egyptian family, Sawiris graduated with a degree in Engineering from the American University in Cairo. He joined the family business, Orascom, which initially focused on construction and telecommunications. Sawiris played a pivotal role in transforming Orascom into a telecom powerhouse, spearheading its expansion across Africa,

Europe, and Asia. Under his leadership, Orascom acquired significant stakes in companies like Wind Telecom and Mobilink, which later merged with VimpelCom to create one of the world’s largest telecom companies.

Sawiris’ business expertise extends beyond telecommunications. He has successfully diversified his investments into industries such as technology, real estate, and renewable energy. His portfolio includes stakes in companies like Weather Investments, Cedarcom, and Medhotels, alongside ventures in hospitality and finance.

In addition to his business accomplishments, Sawiris is widely recognized for his philanthropy. He is a strong advocate for education, economic development, and social welfare in Egypt and across the Arab world. His contributions to healthcare, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian initiatives reflect his commitment to improving the lives of others.

Naguib Sawiris’ ability to successfully navigate diverse industries and his significant influence on the global business landscape have solidified his reputation as a visionary entrepreneur. His work continues to inspire entrepreneurs across the Middle East and beyond.

Born in 1954 to a prominent Egyptian family, Sawiris graduated with a degree in Engineering from the American University in Cairo.

FARAZ KHALID

CEO, Noon

FARAZ KHALID is a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of Noon, one of the Middle East’s leading e-commerce platforms. Launched in 2017, Noon has quickly become a household name, revolutionizing online shopping in the region by offering a diverse range of products, including electronics, fashion, home goods, and groceries, to customers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.

Khalid’s journey as a leader in the e-commerce space is rooted in his deep understanding of the region’s potential for digital retail transformation. Before joining Noon, Khalid served as the CEO of Namshi, a leading fashion e-commerce platform, where he played a pivotal role in driving growth and establishing the brand as a market leader in the Middle East. This experience laid a strong foundation for his leadership at Noon.

Under Khalid’s guidance, Noon has grown rapidly, securing significant investment from regional powerhouses like Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Khalid’s expertise in scaling operations, integrating advanced technology, and delivering exceptional customer experiences has positioned Noon as a formidable competitor to global e-commerce giants like Amazon.

A key aspect of Khalid’s leadership has been his focus on building Noon’s brand as a trusted and customer-centric platform. His strategic initiatives include expanding Noon’s fulfillment network, enhancing delivery times, and introducing innovative digital services. These efforts have not only strengthened Noon’s market position but also fostered a tech-driven ecosystem that supports the growth of online retail in the region.

Through Noon, Faraz Khalid has significantly contributed to transforming the Middle East’s e-commerce landscape, driving the shift toward a digital-first retail environment and setting new standards for online shopping in the region. His vision and leadership continue to shape the future of e-commerce in the Middle East.

GHAITH AL GHAITH CEO, Flydubai

GHAITH AL GHAITH is a prominent Emirati business leader and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Flydubai, a position he has held since the airline’s inception in 2008. Under his visionary leadership, Flydubai has grown into one of the Middle East’s most successful and innovative low-cost carriers, transforming regional air travel by offering affordable flights to a wide range of destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Al Ghaith’s career in aviation spans over 20 years and is marked by extensive experience in airline operations and strategic management. Before joining Flydubai, he held key leadership roles at Emirates Airlines, one of the world’s leading international carriers. This tenure provided him with a solid foundation in both the business and operational aspects of the aviation industry, equipping him with the expertise to build and grow a competitive airline.

As CEO of Flydubai, Al Ghaith has been instrumental in shaping the airline’s growth strategy. He has overseen significant expansions in the airline’s fleet and network, making air travel more accessible to millions of passengers. His focus on technology, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction has been key to maintaining Flydubai’s competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic aviation market.

Beyond Flydubai, Al Ghaith is a staunch advocate for the development of the UAE’s aviation sector. His innovative approach and commitment to excellence have positioned him as one of the most influential figures in the Middle East’s aviation industry. With a reputation for strategic thinking and operational leadership, Ghaith Al Ghaith continues to guide Flydubai towards new milestones in the ever-evolving global aviation landscape.

Al Ghaith’s career in aviation spans over 20 years and is marked by extensive experience in airline operations and strategic management.

SAEEDA JAFFAR

Board Member and Senior Vice President, Visa

Her efforts to collaborate with financial institutions, fintech startups, and government entities have fostered a more inclusive, secure, and digitally connected economy.

SAEEDA JAFFAR is a distinguished business leader and a trailblazer in the finance and payments industry, currently serving as a Board Member and Senior Vice President at Visa, one of the world’s largest digital payments technology companies. With extensive expertise in banking, finance, and strategic leadership, Jaffar has played a pivotal role in driving Visa’s growth and innovation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, solidifying its position as a leader in the digital payments space.

As Visa’s Group Country Manager for the GCC, Jaffar previously oversaw operations across the region, focusing on expanding the adoption of digital payment solutions and promoting cashless transactions. Her leadership was instrumental in advancing financial inclusion and fostering a vibrant digital economy in the GCC, which remains at the forefront of the global transition toward cashless societies.

Jaffar spearheaded initiatives to introduce innovative payment technologies, such as contactless payments, mobile wallets,

and digital banking solutions, significantly transforming the regional payments landscape. Her efforts to collaborate with financial institutions, fintech startups, and government entities have fostered a more inclusive, secure, and digitally connected economy.

Prior to her tenure at Visa, Jaffar held leadership roles at top financial institutions, amassing over two decades of experience in strategic banking, operations, and technologydriven transformation. Her dynamic leadership style, coupled with her deep understanding of regional markets, has earned her widespread recognition as a thought leader in the GCC’s financial services sector.

Jaffar’s contributions extend beyond driving technological innovation; she is also a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the financial industry. Her achievements have made her one of the most influential women in fintech and payments, shaping the future of the financial services sector in the Middle East.

SURESH VAIDHYANATHAN

CEO Special Projects, Ghassan Aboud Group

Suresh Vaidhyanathan is one of the region’s accomplished C-suite leaders with an experience of 25+ years with multi-business organizations. He manages a diverse portfolio of businesses at the Ghassan Aboud Group, including strategic public private partnerships with AD Ports Group, digital platforms, and the food sector value chain.

Vaidhyanathan has an excellent professional standing in the region.

He is an alumnus of the Leading Digital Business Transformation program at IMD Business School and is certified in Blockchain Technologies and Artificial Intelligence at MIT Sloan School

NOOR SWEID Partner, Global Ventures

NOOR SWEID is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and venture capitalist, recognized for her pioneering contributions to the startup ecosystem in the Middle East. As the founder and General Partner of Global Ventures, a leading venture capital firm, Sweid focuses on early-stage investments in technology-driven companies across the MENA region. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the region’s rapidly evolving tech and investment sectors.

Before founding Global Ventures, Sweid built a strong foundation in finance and technology. She earned a degree in Business Administration from the American University of Sharjah and an

MBA from Harvard Business School. Her career began at McKinsey & Company, where she advised clients on strategy and innovation, before serving as Chief Investment Officer at Dubai-based private equity firm The Abraaj Group.

In 2013, Sweid established Global Ventures with a mission to support disruptive startups in sectors such as fintech, healthtech, edtech, and SaaS. Under her leadership, the firm has become a cornerstone of the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, investing in a diverse portfolio of successful startups. Her ability to identify highpotential companies and her focus on fostering innovation have positioned Global Ventures as one of the most

of Management. He completed the M&A program at University of Chicago Booth School of Business and in addition to programs in governance and investing at Harvard, INSEAD and Wharton.

He is also an alumnus of the Oxford Leading Sustainable Corporations Program.

On the governance front, Vaidhyanathan is a Certified Board Director with IOD Hawkamah, UAE, Member of GCC Board Directors Institute, Fellow Member of IOD, India and was recognized as a 2012 Board Leadership Fellow NACD, USA. He is also a charter member of the Harvard Business Club of the GCC.

sought-after venture capital firms in the MENA region.

Beyond her investment achievements, Sweid is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship, particularly for empowering women in tech and investment fields. Recognized as one of the most influential female investors in the Middle East, Sweid serves as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike.

Her leadership and commitment to innovation continue to shape the future of technology and entrepreneurship in the Middle East, driving transformative change across multiple industries.

AVINASH BABUR

Founder

and CEO, InsuranceMarket.ae

AVINASH BABUR has played a pivotal role in establishing InsuranceMarket.ae as a leading insurance provider in the UAE. A key element of this success is the creation of Alfred, the brand mascot, which has become a central feature of the company’s marketing strategy. Alfred represents trust, simplicity, and reliability, making insurance more approachable for customers and enhancing the company’s brand recognition and equity.

Under Babur’s leadership, InsuranceMarket.ae has set itself apart by offering a comprehensive range of insurance solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The introduction of myAlfred, a rewards platform, has further strengthened

customer loyalty by providing exclusive benefits, reflecting the company’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction.

Babur has been a strong advocate for digital transformation, leading the company to adopt a digital-first approach. This shift has streamlined processes, from policy selection to claims management, providing customers with a seamless and efficient experience. His emphasis on innovation has not only enhanced customer engagement but has also raised the bar for the insurance industry as a whole.

Since its inception in 2010, InsuranceMarket.ae has grown into a dominant player in the UAE

SATISH SANPAL Chairman, ANAX Holding

SATISH SANPAL is a distinguished entrepreneur and visionary leader renowned for his transformative contributions across multiple industries. As the Chairman of ANAX Holding, Sanpal has redefined industries regionally and globally, leveraging his extensive expertise in media, hospitality, and real estate development. He is celebrated for his exceptional ability to identify growth opportunities and for his forwardthinking approach, which has propelled his ventures to unprecedented success.

A pioneer in global entrepreneurship, Sanpal has established strategic alliances with leading hotel chains and industry leaders, particularly in the hospitality sector. His unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation is exemplified through ANAX Holding, a company that stands at the forefront of disruption across hospitality, nightlife, real estate, and investment sectors. Under Sanpal’s leadership, ANAX Holding remains agile, continuously adapting to emerging technologies and evolving consumer preferences to maintain its competitive edge.

insurance sector, serving over 200,000 policyholders in 2023. With a dedicated team of more than 350 professionals and an impressive 4.8-star rating on Google from over 21,000 reviews, the company has become synonymous with trust and excellence.

Babur’s vision extends beyond achieving customer satisfaction. He focuses on building strong partnerships with insurers and equipping insurance advisors with cutting-edge technology to enhance client service. Through strategic investments and a relentless commitment to innovation, InsuranceMarket.ae has solidified its reputation as a trusted, customercentric leader in the UAE’s insurance landscape.

ANAX Holding is a premier investment firm recognized for managing a diverse portfolio of strategic businesses. The firm’s vision is to drive innovation and transformation across industries by identifying high-potential investment opportunities and empowering its portfolio companies to achieve sustainable growth. Specializing in strategic investments, ANAX Holding focuses on both emerging technologies and established markets.

With deep industry expertise and an extensive global network, ANAX Holding provides robust support to businesses, utilizing advanced analytical tools to help them scale and succeed. The firm is dedicated to delivering superior returns for its partners while driving growth, fostering value creation, and enhancing overall business performance. Through collaborations with companies led by strong management teams and innovative business models, ANAX Holding is building a legacy of success, contributing to a thriving regional and global economy.

ALISHA MOOPEN Managing Director & 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 $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.

OTHMAN IBRAHIM

Group President and CEO, Rawabi Holding

OTHMAN IBRAHIM is a highly respected businessman and the Group President and CEO of Rawabi Holding, a leading Saudi Arabian conglomerate with diversified business interests spanning construction, real estate, manufacturing, and services. Under his visionary leadership, Rawabi Holding has significantly expanded its operations, establishing itself as one of the Kingdom’s most prominent family-owned enterprises, with a robust presence across the Middle East and beyond.

Ibrahim’s leadership has been instrumental in driving Rawabi Holding’s growth and diversification. The company operates across a wide range of industries, including infrastructure development, oil and gas, renewable energy, construction, and industrial

services. Rawabi has played a pivotal role in executing major projects in Saudi Arabia, such as residential complexes, commercial properties, and large-scale infrastructure developments. With a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, the company is committed to delivering long-term value to its clients and stakeholders.

Ibrahim’s background in engineering and management has enabled him to adeptly navigate the complexities of operating in multiple sectors. He has been a key figure in aligning Rawabi Holding’s operations with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil. The company has actively contributed to the Kingdom’s economic transformation through initiatives in

KABIR MULCHANDANI

Founder,

Five Holdings

KABIR MULCHANDANI is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Five Holdings, a Dubai-based investment and development firm. He is best known for creating Five Hotels and Resorts, a luxury hospitality brand that has redefined high-end living in the UAE and beyond. Under Mulchandani’s leadership, Five has quickly established itself as one of the most innovative and sought-after hospitality brands in the region, celebrated for its modern design, exceptional service, and vibrant atmosphere.

Mulchandani’s entrepreneurial journey began with his passion for real estate and development. Over the years, he has built a diversified portfolio spanning residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, earning a reputation as a leading real estate developer in the UAE. His ability to anticipate market trends and his commitment to excellence have been key drivers of his success.

Five Hotels and Resorts reflects Mulchandani’s dedication to creating unique and luxurious experiences. Flagship

renewable energy and sustainable construction.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ibrahim is recognized for fostering a positive corporate culture at Rawabi, emphasizing employee development, corporate responsibility, and ethical business practices. His leadership promotes innovation and operational excellence while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and social impact.

Othman Ibrahim’s strategic vision and dedication to innovation continue to shape the future of Rawabi Holding, reinforcing its position as a leader in diversified industries and a contributor to the Kingdom’s long-term economic development.

properties like Five Palm Jumeirah and Five Jumeirah Village in Dubai have become iconic landmarks, known for their contemporary architecture, world-class amenities, and dynamic energy. The brand is synonymous with blending luxury and comfort, catering to both residents and global visitors seeking an unforgettable experience.

Mulchandani’s leadership is characterized by innovation, attention to detail, and a forward-thinking approach to development. A strong advocate of sustainability, he has incorporated eco-friendly practices into his projects, demonstrating his commitment to responsible development.

Beyond real estate, Mulchandani has made a significant impact in the technology and investment sectors, identifying and nurturing new business opportunities. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence continue to drive the growth of Five Holdings, solidifying his position as a prominent and influential figure in the UAE’s business community.

SHERIF FODA Chairman and CEO, NESR

SHERIF FODA is the Chairman and CEO of National Energy Services Reunited Corp. (NESR), a leading provider of integrated energy services across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Since its establishment in 2017, Foda has spearheaded NESR’s growth into one of the largest independent energy services companies in the region, delivering specialized solutions for the oil and gas industry, including drilling, well services, and production optimization.

With over 25 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, Foda brings a wealth of expertise to NESR. He previously held senior roles at some of the world’s most prominent energy companies, including Schlumberger, a global oilfield services giant and now one of NESR’s competitors. During his tenure at Schlumberger, Foda gained in-depth knowledge of operations, business development, and strategic growth, which has been instrumental in shaping NESR’s success.

Under his leadership, NESR has undertaken multiple acquisitions, strengthened its market presence, and expanded its portfolio of services to address the increasing demand for energy solutions in the MENA region. The company’s commitment to operational excellence and integrated services has secured major contracts with leading national and international oil companies, positioning NESR as a key player in the energy sector.

Foda has also been a strong advocate for digital transformation and innovation within the energy industry. He has overseen the adoption of advanced technologies, such as automation and data analytics, to optimize operations and improve efficiency for clients. Recognizing the importance of sustainability, he launched NEDA, NESR’s decarbonization segment, further underlining the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and corporate social governance.

Foda founded NESR with the ambitious vision of becoming the largest national provider of oilfield services in the region and successfully led its listing on NASDAQ. His leadership

focuses on technological innovation, operational excellence, and empowering the region’s workforce, ensuring NESR remains at the forefront of the energy sector’s evolution.

Foda has also been a strong advocate for digital transformation and innovation within the energy industry.

FAISAL BELHOUL

Vice Chairman, Dubai Chamber, and Chairman of J&F Holdings

FAISAL BELHOUL is a highly influential Emirati entrepreneur, investor, and business leader known for his strategic leadership across sectors such as real estate, technology, and renewable energy. He serves as the Vice Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, one of the UAE’s most impactful business organizations, driving economic growth and fostering global trade and investment. In this role, Belhoul focuses on enhancing Dubai’s position as a global business hub, promoting innovation, and supporting regional economic diversification.

In addition to his work at the Chamber, Belhoul is the Chairman of J&F Holdings, a diversified investment firm with a portfolio spanning real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and other sectors. Under his leadership, J&F Holdings has expanded significantly, prioritizing sustainable investments and long-term value creation. Leveraging his deep

understanding of market dynamics and emerging opportunities, Belhoul has positioned the firm as a key player in transformative investments across emerging markets.

Belhoul’s leadership style blends a profound understanding of regional and global business landscapes with a forward-thinking approach. His efforts have been instrumental in shaping Dubai’s dynamic business environment, attracting global investors, and supporting the city’s strategic push toward economic diversification. He has played a pivotal role in establishing innovative business frameworks and initiatives designed to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.

As a prominent figure in the UAE’s business community, Belhoul is also committed to philanthropy and social responsibility. He actively supports initiatives aimed at advancing education

ALI ALDAMANHORI CEO, HungerStation

ALI IS A SEASONED EXECUTIVE and entrepreneur with a diverse background in leadership roles spanning prominent organizations such as Delivery Hero, McKinsey & Company, and SABIC. Furthermore, he was the Founder and CEO of Payment Solutions LLC., a Saudi-based fintech startup he founded in 2017.He took over as HungerStation CEO earlier this year. Aldamanhori had served as chief operating officer of the company for almost two years, and previously managed logistics and quick commerce in the MENA region for HungerStation’s parent company, Delivery Hero, since 2019. Aldamanhori said after being appointed CEO: “HungerStation was one of the first food delivery platforms in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and has carved a reputation for being both dynamic and deeply focused on the needs of its customers. It is

and fostering entrepreneurship, inspiring a new generation of business leaders in the region.

Beyond his business achievements, Belhoul is a “shark” on Dubai’s Shark Tank, using his expertise to mentor and invest in innovative startups. His extensive experience, strategic vision, and dedication to the UAE’s development make him a respected leader and a driving force in the region’s growth.

Belhoul’s leadership style blends a profound understanding of regional and global business landscapes with a forwardthinking approach.

an honor to be asked to step into this role, and I am very grateful to the team at Delivery Hero for their trust. The HungerStation team worked to achieve incredible things under Assad, and we are all thankful for his steadfast leadership. Now, we are excited to continue on our journey, break new boundaries and explore new opportunities for innovation so we can play our part in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. We’re just getting started.”

TOUFIC

KREIDIEH

Co-founder and CEO, Brands For Less Group

TOUFIC KREIDIEH is the co-founder and CEO of Brands For Less Group, one of the Middle East’s leading discount retail chains, known for offering high-quality products at affordable prices. Under his visionary leadership, Brands For Less has expanded rapidly across the region, establishing a strong presence in countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman.

Founded in 1996 as a single-store outlet, Brands For Less began with the mission of making premium, branded goods accessible to a broader audience. Thanks to Kreidieh’s strategic foresight and entrepreneurial spirit, the company has grown into a retail powerhouse with a diverse portfolio that

Kreidieh’s success stems from his innovative approach to retail and his ability to adapt to changing market trends.

includes clothing, footwear, home goods, electronics, and beauty products. Today, it operates numerous retail stores and online platforms, catering to a wide and loyal customer base.

Kreidieh’s success stems from his innovative approach to retail and his ability to adapt to changing market trends. By focusing on value, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, he has created a brand that resonates with consumers across the region. His commitment to providing an inclusive and enjoyable shopping experience is evident in the company’s emphasis on competitive pricing, highquality service, and a seamless shopping journey both in-store and online.

Under his stewardship, Brands For Less has also prioritized digital transformation, enhancing its e-commerce capabilities to meet the demands of a tech-savvy audience. This move has further cemented the company’s position as a market leader in the discount retail sector.

Toufic Kreidieh’s leadership, customer-first philosophy, and focus on innovation have been instrumental in the continued success and growth of Brands For Less, making it a household name in the Middle East’s retail landscape.

MAZEN KANAAN

Co-founder and CEO, House of Pops

MAZEN KANAAN, co-founder and CEO of House of Pops, has revolutionized the frozen dessert market by offering a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. Founded with his wife and co-founder Marcela Sancho, House of Pops has quickly emerged as one of the UAE’s fastest-growing brands, redefining indulgence with its plant-based, natural, and guilt-free frozen desserts.

Driven by his passion for wellness, sustainability, and creative entrepreneurship, Kanaan has expanded House of Pops to cater to health-conscious consumers across the MENA region. The brand offers a range of popsicles and ice creams made with clean, natural ingredients—free from added sugars, dairy,

Kanaan’s entrepreneurial journey is characterized by his commitment to community engagement.

or preservatives—while maintaining rich flavors and textures that appeal to diverse palates.

Before founding House of Pops, Kanaan had a background in finance and business strategy, working at McKinsey & Company and pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. His vision was to create a product that satisfies sweet cravings while promoting healthier eating habits, a goal he has achieved with House of Pops’ innovative offerings.

Since its launch, House of Pops has gained a loyal following with its creative and unique flavors such as Tropical Mango, Coconut & Passionfruit, and Pistachio & Date, which are made with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. The brand also prioritizes sustainability, using environmentally friendly packaging to minimize its carbon footprint.

Kanaan’s entrepreneurial journey is characterized by his commitment to community engagement. House of Pops frequently partners with wellness events and promotes an active, balanced lifestyle. His innovative approach has earned him recognition, including an appearance on Dubai’s Shark Tank, where he showcased the brand’s success and growth potential.

Under Mazen Kanaan’s leadership, House of Pops has become a beloved brand in the UAE and beyond, setting a new standard for healthy indulgence in the frozen dessert market.

THOMAS LUNDGREN

Founder and CEO, The One

THOMAS LUNDGREN is the visionary Founder and CEO of The One, a pioneering home furniture and lifestyle brand that has reshaped the retail landscape in the UAE and the wider Middle East. Since its founding in 1996, The One has evolved from a single independent furniture store in Dubai to a regionally renowned brand, celebrated for its stylish, high-quality products and exceptional customer experience.

A Swedish entrepreneur with a passion for design and innovation, Lundgren launched The One to fill a market gap for high-quality, contemporary, and affordable home furnishings. His mission was not just to sell furniture but to create a lifestyle brand that offers a curated blend of modern design and functionality. Today, The One operates multiple stores across the UAE and GCC, offering a diverse range of furniture, home décor, and lifestyle products that cater to varied styles and budgets.

Under Lundgren’s leadership, The One has become synonymous with creative and unique collections, encompassing everything

from minimalist and modern designs to timeless and eclectic pieces. The brand’s dedication to combining style, quality, and affordability has garnered a loyal customer base and positioned it as a preferred destination for home furnishings in the region.

Lundgren’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by his commitment to innovation and adaptability. He has successfully steered The One through changing market trends by expanding product lines, embracing sustainability, and integrating seamless omnichannel shopping experiences. His focus on customer-centric service has ensured that The One remains at the forefront of the competitive retail industry.

Beyond business, Lundgren is a staunch advocate for sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring that The One aligns with environmentally friendly standards and communityoriented initiatives. His leadership continues to inspire the brand’s growth while setting new benchmarks in the home furniture and lifestyle industry.

FIROZ MERCHANT

Founder and Chairman, Pure Gold Group

FIROZ MERCHANT is a prominent entrepreneur, philanthropist, and businessman in the UAE, best known as the founder and chairman of Pure Gold Group, a leading conglomerate in the gold and jewelry industry. With over three decades of experience, Merchant has transformed Pure Gold Group into one of the region’s most respected retailers, with a presence in over 170 outlets across the UAE and other key international markets.

Merchant’s entrepreneurial journey began in the early 1980s when he moved to Dubai from India with a vision to meet the growing demand for gold and jewelry in the region. Leveraging his deep understanding of the market and an unwavering commitment to quality,

he expanded Pure Gold Group from a small jewelry shop into a multi-milliondollar enterprise. Today, the company is celebrated for its wide range of highquality offerings, from luxury pieces to more affordable items, and for its reputation for innovation and exceptional customer service.

Beyond his business achievements, Firoz Merchant is highly regarded for his philanthropic efforts. A passionate advocate for social welfare, he has supported numerous charitable causes in the UAE and internationally, particularly in healthcare, education, and social development. Among his most impactful initiatives is his commitment to aiding the underprivileged. Merchant has funded medical treatments for those in

need and donated millions of dirhams to free hundreds of prisoners in the UAE by paying off their debts and arranging airfares for their safe return home.

Firoz Merchant’s legacy is defined not only by his entrepreneurial success but also by his dedication to making a positive impact on society, reflecting a profound commitment to the values of generosity, compassion, and service.

HASSAN JAMEEL

Deputy President and Vice Chairman, Abdul Latif Jameel

HASSAN JAMEEL IS a prominent Saudi businessman and the Deputy President and Vice Chairman of Abdul Latif Jameel, one of the Middle East’s largest and most diversified conglomerates. Founded in 1945 by his grandfather, the company has grown into a global powerhouse, with operations spanning automotive, real estate, financial services, and renewable energy. Under Hassan Jameel’s leadership, Abdul Latif Jameel has expanded its global footprint while maintaining strong ties to its roots in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Jameel’s academic and professional background has shaped his forward-thinking approach to business. He earned a degree in Economics from Harvard University and gained valuable experience in banking and management consulting before taking on a leadership role in the family business. This diverse expertise has been instrumental in guiding Abdul Latif Jameel through the complexities of global markets and emerging opportunities.

A strong advocate for innovation and sustainability, Jameel has spearheaded the company’s investments in renewable energy and technology, aligning its operations with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. One of his key achievements has been strengthening Toyota’s presence in the region, where Abdul Latif Jameel serves as the exclusive distributor for the Japanese automotive giant.

Beyond his business endeavors, Jameel is deeply committed to philanthropy. He plays an active role in the family’s charitable initiatives, focusing on healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. His efforts reflect a broader vision of using business as a force for social good, improving lives and fostering sustainable development.

Through his innovative leadership and dedication to impactful philanthropy, Hassan Jameel continues to shape the legacy of Abdul Latif Jameel, solidifying his reputation as one of Saudi Arabia’s most influential and respected business leaders.

ABDULMAJEED ALSUKHAN

Co-founder, and CEO of Tamara

ABDULMAJEED ALSUKHAN is the CEO & Co-Founder of Tamara. Before launching Tamara, he co-founded Habli in 2017, a Saudi-based logistics provider for grocery delivery, which was acquired in the same year by Nana. Alsukhan has a BA in financial economics from California State University and an MA in economy policy from Boston University. Tamara is the leading fintech platform to shop, pay and bank in Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC region. In December 2023 it achieved the historic milestone of becoming the Kingdom’s first homegrown fintech unicorn by securing $340 million in a Series C equity funding round. This round was co-led by SNB Capital, the leading regional financial institution, and Sanabil Investments, a wholly owned company by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) with participation from Shorooq Partners, Pinnacle Capital, Impulse and others, joining existing investors such as Coatue, Endeavor Catalyst and Checkout.com. It is also among the largest investments in a fintech company in the region, following on from the previous month when the Company secured additional debt financing to upsize its warehouse facility to up to $400 million, led by Goldman Sachs and Shorooq Partners.

With this transaction, Tamara had raised a total of $500 million in equity funding, and well above $400M in debt financing since its inception in late 2020. Tamara operates in KSA, where it is headquartered, UAE and Kuwait and has more than 10 million users, over 30,000 partner merchants and reported six times annual run rate revenue growth in less than two years. The Company was established in late 2020 and founded by three Saudi co-founders, Abdulmajeed Alsukhan, Turki Bin Zarah and Abdulmohsen Al Babtain. It was also one of the first companies to be granted a permit to provide BNPL services from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).

Tamara is the leading fintech platform to shop, pay and bank in Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC region.

RASHID AL GHURAIR

Co-founder and CEO, Cafu

RASHID AL GHURAIR is the CEO and co-founder of Cafu, the UAE’s pioneering on-demand fuel delivery service. Launched in 2018, Cafu has revolutionized the way people refuel their vehicles by offering a convenient, tech-driven solution that delivers fuel directly to customers via a mobile app. Under Al Ghurair’s visionary leadership, the company has achieved rapid growth, positioning itself as a key player in regional logistics and mobility while setting a benchmark for innovation and customer-centric service.

Al Ghurair’s idea for Cafu stemmed from his desire to eliminate the hassle of traditional refueling and offer a safer, more efficient alternative. Through cutting-edge technology, Cafu’s platform allows users to schedule fuel deliveries at their convenience, bypassing the need to visit gas stations. The app extends beyond fuel delivery, offering additional services such as car maintenance, tire checks, and windshield cleaning, making it a comprehensive solution for vehicle owners.

Before founding Cafu, Al Ghurair gained significant experience in entrepreneurship, technology, and business strategy. With a background in engineering and a strong understanding of regional market dynamics, he identified gaps in the fuel and mobility sectors and built a disruptive business model to address them. His hands-on approach and commitment to exceptional customer experience have been instrumental in Cafu’s success.

Under Al Ghurair’s leadership, Cafu has rapidly expanded within the UAE, with plans for regional and international growth. His emphasis on innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence continues to drive the company forward, making Cafu a household name in the Middle East’s burgeoning ondemand services market.

Al Ghurair’s entrepreneurial vision and dedication to innovation have established him as a prominent figure in the UAE’s tech and startup ecosystem, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs to think creatively and disrupt traditional industries.

Under Lundgren’s leadership, The One has become synonymous with creative and unique collections, encompassing everything from minimalist and modern designs to timeless and eclectic pieces.

DR. SHAMSHEER VAYALIL

Founder, Burjeel Holdings

SHAMSHEER VAYALIL is a trailblazing healthcare entrepreneur and the founder and chairman of Burjeel Holdings, one of the UAE’s leading healthcare conglomerates. Under his visionary leadership, Burjeel Holdings has transformed the Middle East’s healthcare landscape, becoming synonymous with high-quality medical services and cutting-edge healthcare facilities.

Since its inception in 2007, Burjeel Holdings has grown into an extensive network of hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics, offering comprehensive healthcare services ranging from general medicine to highly specialized treatments. The flagship Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to the group’s commitment to clinical excellence, patient care, and innovative medical technology, setting new benchmarks in the region.

Dr. Shamsheer’s journey into healthcare entrepreneurship began with a deep-seated commitment to improving access to quality medical services in the region. A trained physician with exceptional business acumen, he combined his medical expertise with a vision to create world-class healthcare

TONY JASHANMAL President, Jashanmal Group

TONY JASHANMAL is a prominent businessman and the President of the Jashanmal Group, one of the UAE’s oldest and most respected retail and distribution companies. With a heritage spanning over a century, the Jashanmal Group has become synonymous with excellence in retailing, offering a diverse portfolio of premium brands across home goods, electronics, fashion, and lifestyle sectors.

Founded by Tony’s grandfather in 1919, the Jashanmal Group began as a small business in Basra, Iraq, before expanding to Kuwait and later the UAE. Under Tony Jashanmal’s modern and visionary leadership, the company has evolved into a market-leading

solutions tailored to the needs of diverse communities in the UAE.

Under his stewardship, Burjeel Holdings has continuously expanded its footprint, ensuring that cutting-edge healthcare is both accessible and inclusive. A strong advocate for innovation in medicine, Shamsheer has invested heavily in state-of-the-art medical technologies and digital health solutions to enhance patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery.

His leadership philosophy is rooted in compassion and patientcentric care, fostering a healthcare environment where global standards of excellence meet personalized attention to patients’ unique needs. Beyond business, Dr. Shamsheer has championed philanthropic initiatives in healthcare and beyond, reinforcing his dedication to improving lives across the region.

Through his remarkable contributions, Shamsheer Vayalil has cemented his position as a leading figure in the global healthcare industry, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals alike.

conglomerate, operating in the UAE, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and beyond. His efforts have played a key role in the group’s diversification and its expansion into retail, distribution, and franchising.

Jashanmal has been instrumental in bringing globally renowned brands to the Middle East, including Marks & Spencer, H&M, Tiffany & Co., and Lego, among others. His innovative approach has kept the company at the forefront of the region’s retail industry, ensuring it remains competitive in a rapidly changing market. Recognizing the growing importance of technology, he has driven the adoption of e-commerce platforms and digital marketing strategies,

blending traditional retailing with modern consumer trends.

In addition to his business achievements, Tony Jashanmal is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. The Jashanmal family has been actively involved in charitable initiatives, focusing on education, healthcare, and social welfare, reflecting the group’s dedication to giving back to the communities it serves.

Tony Jashanmal’s leadership, commitment to innovation, and dedication to preserving the family legacy have solidified his reputation as a key figure in the region’s retail and business landscape.

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