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EDITORIAL

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One way to keep momentum going is

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Editor’s Note

The United Arab Emirates stands as a beacon of

opportunity, innovation, and ambition, a nation where

visionary leaders from across the globe converge to

build extraordinary enterprises. The Top 100 Expat Leaders

of the UAE 2025 is Finance World’s definitive recognition

which honours the well-established titans who have built

empires and redefined their sectors, as well as the rising

stars whose fresh perspectives and innovative approaches

are setting new benchmarks for success.

This year’s Power List is organised into five distinct

categories: Legacy Tycoons, Business Magnates, Game-

Changers, Growth Titans, and Emerging Power. Each profile

represents years of strategic thinking, calculated risks, and

unwavering dedication to creating value in one of the world’s

most dynamic business environments.

From the boardrooms of multinational corporations to

the innovative laboratories of emerging startups, these 100

distinguished individuals represent the very essence of what

makes the UAE a global powerhouse. Their stories transcend

borders, cultures, and industries, united by a common thread:

the relentless pursuit of excellence and the courage to dream

boldly in a land that rewards ambition with opportunity.

The UAE’s unique position as a bridge between East and

West, coupled with its progressive vision and world-class

infrastructure, continues to attract the brightest minds and

most ambitious entrepreneurs.

This Power List stands as a testament to the extraordinary

calibre of leadership that calls the UAE home. These are the

visionaries writing tomorrow’s success stories today, the

architects of industries yet to be imagined, and the pioneers

whose legacies will inspire future generations of leaders.

FEEDBACK & SUGGESTIONS

Ayaz Ahmed

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Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

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September 2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 7

OUR PRIDE IN OUR PEOPLE IS INFINITE.

EQUALLY, WE DEEPLY APPRECIATE

THE VALUED ROLE OF OUR RESIDENTS,

WHO CONSIDER THIS COUNTRY THEIR

SECOND HOME. AND THEIR CONTINUED

CONTRIBUTIONS IN BUILDING AND

DEVELOPING THE UAE SINCE ITS INCEPTION.

HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN

PRESIDENT OF THE UAE AND RULER OF ABU DHABI

THE UAE HAS CEMENTED ITS POSITION

AS A GLOBAL HUB FOR KNOWLEDGE AND

CULTURE, ATTRACTING SOME OF THE

WORLD’S BRIGHTEST TALENT. WE SAY THAT

THE UAE IS EVERYONE’S COUNTRY AND

EVERYONE’S HOME, AND OUR EXPERIENCES

WILL REMAIN AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE.

HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM

VICE-PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UAE, RULER OF DUBAI

THE EXPAT ECONOMY

KEY STATISTICS

2025

THE ARCHITECTS OF TOMORROW’S ECONOMY

AED 455 BILLION

UAE REAL GDP

AED 352 BILLION

NON-OIL GDP

77.3%

NON-OIL CONTRIBUTION

$1.42 TRILLION

FOREIGN TRADE

88.5%

EXPAT ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION

GROWTH

GDP

7.7%

MANUFACTURING

13.4%

7.0%

FINANCE & INSURANCE

14.6%

7.0%

CONSTRUCTION

12.0%

6.6%

REAL ESTATE

7.4%

3.0%

TRADE

15.6%

TOTAL UAE POPULATION:

11.35 MILLION

UAE NATIONALS:

1.31 MILLION

11.5%

88.5%

EXPATS:

10.04 MILLION

THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

A PLACE MORE THAN

200 NATIONALITIES

CALL HOME

Contents September

2025

LEGACY TYCOONS

GAME-CHANGERS

22

23

23

24

24

25

26

27

27

28

28

29

29

30

30

31

32

32

33

33

Yusuff Ali M.A.

Ajay Bhatia

Dhananjay Datar

Ghassan Aboud

Jacky Panjabi

Joy Alukkas

Thumbay Moideen

L.T. Pagarani

Patrick Chalhoub

Ramesh S Ramakrishnan

Renuka Jagtiani

Rizwan Sajan

Sanjay Raghunath

Shamlal Ahamed

Shamsheer Vayalil

Sima Ved

Sunny Varkey

Vidya M. Chhabria

Yogesh Mehta

Zulekha Daud

52

52

53

53

54

55

55

56

56

57

57

58

58

59

59

60

61

61

62

62

Anant Maheshwari

Ashraf El-Afifi

Avinash Babur

Bernd van Linder

Aziz Koleilat

Dimitrios Dosis

Fadi Ghandour

Georg Schroeckenfuchs

Hosam Arab

Jayesh Patel

Niven Al-Khoury

Omar Channawi

Pratham Mittal

Raheel Ahmed

Reem Asaad

Roberto Hoornweg

Renee McGowan

Samer Abu-Ltaif

Selim Kervanci

Walid Sheta

BUSINESS MAGNATES

36

36

37

38

38

39

40

41

42

42

43

43

45

46

46

47

47

48

49

49

Adeeb Ahamed

Ahmed Abdelaal

Antonoaldo Neves

Ahmed Galal Ismail

Hamid Haqparwar

Farah Zafar

Hatem Dowidar

Huda Kattan

Imran Ali Khan

Mohammed Mahfoodh Al Ardhi

Mudassir Sheikha

Nilesh Khalkho

Naresh Kumar Bhawnani

Paul Griffiths

Santosh Varghese

Shayne Nelson

Tom Harvey

Tim Clark

Yves Manghardt

Zubin Karkaria

GROWTH TITANS

64

65

65

66

66

67

68

69

69

70

70

71

72

73

74

75

75

76

76

77

Alisha Moopen

Amr K. El Leithy

Ankur Aggarwal

Atiq Rehman

Dietmar Siersdorfer

Farhad Azizi

Kalpesh Kinariwala

Lewis Allsopp

Maya El Hachem

Nawas Basheer

Neelesh Bhatnagar

Neeraj Mishra

Prateek Suri

Rahul Kumar Gupta

Ravi Menon

Sameh Muhtadi

Thierry Delvaux

Venkatasubramanian Hariharan

Vivek Oberoi

Ziad El Chaar

EMERGING POWER

80

80

81

82

82

83

84

85

86

86

87

87

88

88

89

89

90

91

92

92

Akbar Moideen

Bal Krishen Rathore

Calum White

Ebraheem Husni Al Samadi

Khaled Nuseibeh

Harsh Patel

Kris Fade

Manoj Sureka

Marilyn Lydia Pinto

Mark Chahwan

Masih Imtiaz

Mridula Singh

Reza S. Zamani

Ritesh Tilani

Ross Veitch

Sahar Cooper

Saeed Alizadeh

Safa Siddiqui

Sakshi Nath

Solaleh Saheb Zamani

YUSUFF ALI M.A.

Chairman and Managing Director

LuLu Group

Yusuff Ali M.A. is the Chairman and Managing Director

of LuLu Group, one of the largest and most

successful retail conglomerates headquartered in the

UAE. He moved to the UAE in 1973, beginning his career

in his uncle’s distribution business and gaining in-depth

experience across FMCG and retail sectors.

At the age of 34, he opened the first LuLu Hypermarket

in Abu Dhabi, establishing the foundation for a global

HIGHLIGHTS

Year of Establishment: Industry:

1995 Hypermarkets & Retail

Nationality:

Indian

Awards & Recognition:

Top Civilian Honour by

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin

Zayed Al Nahyan

retail empire. Under his visionary leadership, LuLu Group

has grown to over 272 hypermarkets, operating across

the Middle East, Far East, North Africa, and India. The

company employs more than 65,000 people from diverse

nationalities and reports an annual turnover exceeding

$8.4 billion, reflecting its significant impact on regional

and international retail markets.

Beyond its core retail operations, the Group has diversified

into hospitality, food processing, and real estate sectors.

Yusuff Ali M.A. is widely recognised for his philanthropic

initiatives, supporting education, healthcare, and social

welfare projects through charitable foundations. He

champions sustainable business practices and invests in

community upliftment, often collaborating with organisations

to enhance societal welfare.

Strategic acquisitions and investments in sectors such

as banking and infrastructure also mark his approach to

business expansion. His leadership emphasises operational

excellence whilst maintaining competitive pricing strategies

that benefit consumers across all markets. Driven by

a vision to deliver quality and affordable products whilst

fostering economic growth in the regions it serves, his

ongoing efforts include launching digital and omni-channel

retail innovation. His leadership continues to exemplify

resilience, innovation, and a commitment to empowering

communities worldwide.

22 www.thefinanceworld.com September 2025

AJAY BHATIA

Chairman

Bhatia General Contracting Co. LLC (BGCC)

Ajay Bhatia is the Chairman of Bhatia General Contracting Co. LLC

(BGCC) and Founder & CEO of SOL Properties, two powerhouse

entities representing over five decades of excellence in UAE construction

and real estate. Since 1974, BGCC has delivered 250+ landmark

projects, including the Dubai Waterfront Market, 232 villas in Oud Al

Muteena, and 1,050 villas in Al Khawaneej valued at AED 1.5 billion,

completed in a record 18 months. Building on this legacy, Ajay founded

SOL Properties in 2004, now one of Dubai’s most trusted developers.

Its portfolio includes the AED 2.4 billion Fairmont Residences Solara

Tower, SOL LEVANTE in JVT, and SOL LUXE, a 70-storey mixed-use

tower on Sheikh Zayed Road valued at AED 2.2 billion with Grade A++

offices, premium amenities, and residences offering Burj Khalifa, Burj

Al Arab, and Arabian Gulf views. With a pipeline exceeding AED 13.61

billion, SOL is shaping Dubai’s skyline through ultra-luxury beachfront

projects, mixed-use towers, and gated wellness communities driven by

trust, integrity, and excellence.

DHANANJAY DATAR


Adil Trading

Dr. Dhananjay Datar is the Chairman and Managing Director of Adil

Trading, a leading name in the retail and distribution of Indian

food products across the Gulf region. Popularly known as the

‘Masala King,’ he began his entrepreneurial journey in 1984 with a small

grocery shop in Dubai, which he transformed into a thriving business

encompassing 50 superstores across the GCC, two spice factories, and

two flour mills equipped with modern technology. Adil Trading also

produces over 700 products under its own ‘Peacock’ brand and imports

over 9,000 Indian products, serving the Indian community with authentic

and hygienic food products.

Dr. Datar’s visionary approach has not only expanded access to Indian

staples but has also helped preserve cultural food traditions abroad.

His ability to blend entrepreneurial drive with a deep understanding of

consumer needs has made Adil Trading a trusted household name and

cemented his legacy as a trailblazing leader in the region’s retail and

food distribution sector.


GHASSAN ABOUD

Founder and Chairman

Ghassan Aboud Group

Ghassan Aboud, Founder and Chairman of Ghassan Aboud Group,

is a Syrian-born entrepreneur whose leadership has shaped one

of the Middle East’s most diversified business conglomerates. His

journey from modest beginnings to building a global enterprise

reflects innovation, resilience, and strategic vision.

Founded in the early 1990s as a small trading business, Ghassan Aboud

Group has expanded across automotive, retail, logistics, and hospitality.

Aboud’s commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and operational

excellence has driven the company’s growth regionally and internationally.

Diversification has been central to the Group’s success. Its automotive

division, representing leading global car brands, is a major contributor,

while retail, logistics, and hospitality ventures continue to strengthen its

market presence. Aboud’s focus on long-term relationships and market

adaptability has ensured reliability, loyalty, and sustained competitive

advantage. Beyond business, Aboud engages in philanthropic initiatives

spanning education, healthcare, and community development.

JACKY PANJABI

Chairman

Jacky’s Group

Jacky Panjabi is the Chairman of Jacky’s Group, overseeing one of

the Middle East’s most diversified retail and technology conglomerates

with operations spanning electronics, B2B solutions, and

organic products. Under his leadership, Jacky’s has evolved from a

mail-order business established in Hong Kong in 1970 to become a leading

international trader across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and the

Far East. The Group operates through multiple subsidiaries including

Jacky’s Electronics, Jacky’s Business Solutions, Jacky’s Retail, Jacky’s

Organics, and Jacky’s Logistics, serving both consumer and corporate

markets with comprehensive technology solutions.

Beyond retail operations, Jacky has positioned the Group as a frontrunner

in B2B technology integration, delivering end-to-end solutions

across education, healthcare, banking, hospitality, and government

sectors through advanced robotics, 3D printing, and enterprise computing.

His strategic vision transformed Jacky’s from a single electronics

outlet in Dubai’s Al Nasser Square in 1988 to a multi-national operation.


JOY ALUKKAS


Joyalukkas Group

Dr. Joy Alukkas is the Founder and Chairman of Joyalukkas

Group, one of the world’s largest jewellery

retail chains headquartered in Dubai. Born in 1956

in Thrissur, Kerala, India, Dr. Joy built the family jewellery

business into a multinational powerhouse with over 175

showrooms across 12 countries, including India, the UAE,

the US, the UK, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Southeast Asia.

Starting from a modest store, his relentless passion and

HIGHLIGHTS


1988 Jewellery Retailer

Nationality:

Indian

Net Worth:

$6.7 Billion

business acumen helped Joyalukkas evolve into a top-tier

brand synonymous with quality, trust and innovation.

Despite being a school dropout, Dr. Joy’s early immersion

in the family jewellery trade provided practical

knowledge and shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. He

expanded aggressively into Middle Eastern markets in

the late 1980s and early 1990s, strategically capitalising

on Dubai’s growth as a global luxury hub. The brand became

renowned for traditional Indian jewellery designs

combined with superior artisanship, earning customer

loyalty and industry accolades.

Beyond jewellery retail, Dr. Joy Alukkas has diversified

into multiple sectors, including real estate through Joyalukkas

Lifestyle Developers, money exchange platforms

and silk fashion with Jolly Silks, named after his wife.

His pioneering marketing strategies included celebrity

endorsements and innovative promotions, setting new

industry standards. Joy’s reputation as a visionary leader

is cemented by numerous awards, including the Dubai

Quality Appreciation Award. He has been ranked among

the richest Indian jewellers with a multi-billion-dollar net

worth. His story epitomises perseverance, innovation and

dedication, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs

globally. Dr. Joy Alukkas remains deeply committed to elevating

the jewellery industry while expanding his diverse

business portfolio internationally.


THUMBAY MOIDEEN

Founder and President

Thumbay Group

Thumbay Moideen, born on 23 March 1957 in Mangalore,

India, is an accomplished entrepreneur,

philanthropist, and the visionary Founder President

of Thumbay Group, a diversified international business

conglomerate headquartered in Dubai International Financial

Centre. Coming from a prominent business family,

Moideen assumed leadership of his family’s enterprise at

the young age of 21, marking the beginning of a remarkable

HIGHLIGHTS


1997 Diversified

Nationality:

Indian

entrepreneurial journey.

In 1997, Moideen founded Thumbay Group in the UAE,

now operating across various sectors, including healthcare,

education, retail, hospitality, media and technology. He

established Gulf Medical University in Ajman, becoming the

first Indian expatriate invited by the UAE to set up a medical

institution, which now attracts students from over 111 countries.

Under his leadership, Thumbay Group has grown into a

multi-sectoral powerhouse, with hospitals, clinics, and

pharmacies serving thousands annually and a workforce

of nearly 3,000+. Moideen’s contributions extend beyond

business to community leadership and philanthropy, holding

key positions in organisations. His efforts in medical education

and healthcare and the establishment of Thumbay

Medicity in Ajman have earned him widespread recognition,

including five honorary international doctorates. Through

Thumbay Group, he continues to advance healthcare standards,

foster innovation, and support education globally.

Mr. Moideen’s vision combines business excellence with

social responsibility, leaving a lasting impact on healthcare,

education, and community development. He also champions

collaborative research, sustainability initiatives, and

extensive workforce-development programmes, nurturing

medical talent, investing in innovation hubs, and supporting

community outreach and capacity-building across the

GCC and international partners.


L.T. PAGARANI

Chairman

Choithrams Group

L.T. Pagarani, Chairman of Choithrams Group, has been instrumental

in transforming one of the UAE’s most iconic supermarket chains

into a regional retail powerhouse. With a legacy spanning over

80 years, Choithrams Group began as a small family business in West

Africa, founded by his father, Thakurdas Choithram Pagarani, before

expanding to the UAE. Today, it operates 50 outlets across the country,

with a strong presence in Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman.

Under Pagarani’s leadership, the chain embraced digital transformation,

launching choithrams.com and partnering with delivery platforms

such as Instashop, Talabat, Deliveroo, El Grocer, and Noon. He also

introduced international brands like Tesco, SuperValu, and, through a

partnership with Sainsbury’s, expanded distribution across the Gulf.

Beyond retail, Pagarani directs Giant Exports, Natco Cash & Carry, and

holds a stake in Crown Networks. His commitment to innovation, quality,

and customer service has solidified Choithrams Group as a trusted name,

while his diverse ventures ensure its growth and influence in the GCC.

PATRICK CHALHOUB

Executive Chairman

Chalhoub Group

Patrick Chalhoub, Executive Chairman of Chalhoub Group, stands

at the intersection of tradition and transformation in luxury retail.

Under his leadership, the Group has brought global brands to the

Middle East while nurturing home-grown names that reflect regional tastes

and ambition. He notably led the revival of the heritage French brand

Christofle, demonstrating his instinct for stewardship and reinvention.

Chalhoub drives innovation, joint ventures, and acquisitions, positioning

the Group as a hybrid retailer and trusted partner. His people-centric

philosophy underpins Chalhoub Impact, the Group’s sustainability strategy,

balancing growth with responsibility through Servant Leadership,

reverse mentorship, and start-up support. Beyond the company, Patrick

shapes global sustainability and ethics as a member of the UN Global

Compact Board, UAE Circular Economy Council, and Dubai Chamber

of Commerce & Industry. Honoured with France’s top distinctions, his

leadership unites partnerships, pride, and empowerment to redefine

Middle Eastern luxury.


RAMESH S RAMAKRISHNAN

Chairman

Transworld

Ramesh S Ramakrishnan is the visionary leader of Transworld, a

global shipping and logistics conglomerate. Building on the legacy

of his late father, Sivaswamy Iyer, who founded the company in

1977 despite visual impairment, Ramesh has expanded the business

into a diversified multinational enterprise.

He brings over three decades of expertise in ship owning, chartering,

and management. Under his leadership, Transworld employs 900+ professionals,

offering ship management, liner services, digital supply chain

solutions, freight forwarding, warehousing, project logistics, shipping

agencies, and real estate investments. A proponent of technology-driven

transformation, Ramesh has integrated digital solutions to boost efficiency,

sustainability, and transparency. His values-driven, inclusive leadership

fosters empowerment, collaboration, and continuous learning. Headquartered

in the UAE, Ramesh continues to steer Transworld towards

innovative industry leadership, expanding the company globally through

strategic partnerships and market diversification.

RENUKA JAGTIANI

Chairwoman

Landmark Group

Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group, is a leading

business figure across the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian

subcontinent. With over 26 years in the family-owned business,

she has transformed Landmark Group into a retail and hospitality

powerhouse, operating more than 2,200 stores across 21 countries and

managing 43 brands.

Her leadership focuses on innovation, customer satisfaction, and

social responsibility, positioning Landmark at the forefront of retail

trends while maintaining a sustainable, customer-centric model. Jagtiani

is also deeply committed to philanthropy through The LIFE Trust,

providing education and essential services to underprivileged children,

reflecting her dedication to community impact. A strong advocate for

women’s empowerment, she fosters an inclusive workplace and mentors

emerging leaders, promoting diversity and equality. Jagtiani continues

to guide Landmark’s growth while upholding its values of innovation,

sustainability, and customer focus.


RIZWAN SAJAN


Danube Group

Rizwan Sajan is the Founder and Chairman of Danube Group,

a multi-billion-dollar UAE-based conglomerate with interests

spanning building materials, home furnishings, retail, and real

estate development. Launching his entrepreneurial journey in Dubai in

1993 with a small trading firm, Sajan’s dynamic leadership transformed

Danube into one of the most trusted brands in the region, now operating

across 50 locations in 10 countries.

Danube Properties, the group’s real estate arm, is celebrated for democratising

homeownership with accessible luxury developments and

innovative financing models like the signature 1% monthly payment plan,

making property ownership achievable for thousands. Born in Mumbai,

Sajan overcame early adversity, including the loss of his father at 16 and

challenging early employment experiences in Kuwait, before building

Danube’s impressive legacy. His business philosophy emphasises making

quality products and services accessible to middle-income families,

revolutionising how real estate is marketed and sold in the UAE.

SANJAY RAGHUNATH


Centena Group

Sanjay Raghunath is the Chairman and Managing Director of Centena

Group, a UAE-based multinational offering solutions in marine

electronics, automation, diagnostics, life sciences, security, and

experiential learning. Founded in 1993, he has grown it into a global

enterprise with operations in 100+ countries and 22 offices across the

GCC, UK, India, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. His strategic vision emphasises

innovation, quality excellence, and customer value creation,

aligning Centena with major regional initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030

and the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025. Under his leadership,

the group has achieved consistent strong growth across the Middle East

and established successful international operations. Sanjay fosters a

collaborative, people-centric organisational culture that drives excellence

and continuous innovation throughout all business divisions. Beyond

business operations, he actively contributes to the global entrepreneurship

community, serving on the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation global

board and finance committee, supporting emerging business leaders.


SHAMLAL AHAMED

Managing Director, International Operations

Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Shamlal Ahamed is Managing Director, International Operations at

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, directing Malabar’s global retail strategy

from its Dubai headquarters. A member of the founding family, he

has been central to Malabar’s international expansion; the group today

operates more than 400 showrooms and reports multi-billion-dollar turnover.

Ahamed oversees market entry, retail operations and customer-experience

programmes, applying a disciplined, data-led approach that

tailors assortments to local tastes while maintaining central quality

controls and hallmark standards. Malabar’s vertically integrated model

spanning manufacturing, design studios and wholesale units underpins

its capacity to deliver consistent, high-quality offerings at scale.

Renowned for pragmatic execution and rapid rollouts, he has led strategic

launches and partnerships across GCC, Far East, Europe and North

America. Under his stewardship, the company emphasises operational

rigour, product innovation and a trust-based retail model that supports

high-volume growth.

SHAMSHEER VAYALIL


Burjeel Holdings

Shamsheer Vayalil is the Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings,

a transformative figure in regional healthcare who has built

one of the Middle East’s most comprehensive private healthcare

networks. His entrepreneurial journey began with founding LLL Hospital

in Abu Dhabi in 2007, catalysing the development of an integrated

healthcare ecosystem that now spans multiple countries across the

GCC and beyond. Under his leadership, Burjeel Holdings operates

over 112 medical assets, including 20 hospitals with 1,730 beds, serving

more than 6.5 million patients annually through a workforce of 13,000

healthcare professionals.

Vayalil’s strategic vision encompasses diverse healthcare brands

including Burjeel Hospitals, Medeor Hospitals, LLH Hospitals, Lifecare

Hospitals, and specialised services through Tajmeel and PhysioTherabia.

His flagship facility, Burjeel Medical City, stands as the UAE’s largest

private hospital and the region’s only ESMO-accredited cancer centre. His

philosophy centres on exceptional accessibility, safety, and innovation.


SIMA VED

Founder and Chairwoman

Apparel Group

Sima Ved is the visionary Founder and Chairwoman of

Apparel Group, one of the largest retail and fashion

conglomerates in the Middle East. Established in

1996, the group represents over 85 international brands,

operating more than 2,300 stores across 14 countries with

a workforce exceeding 27,000 employees.

Under her leadership, Apparel Group has become synonymous

with quality and trends, playing a pivotal role in

HIGHLIGHTS


1996 Fashion & Retail

Nationality:

Indian

No. of Employees:

27,000+

shaping the retail landscape of the UAE and the wider GCC

region. Sima’s entrepreneurial journey began at a young

age when she started managing a department store in her

father’s shopping mall. This early experience fostered

her business acumen and passion for retail. Educated at

King’s College London, where she earned a BA followed

by an MBA in Business Management, Sima leveraged her

academic foundation to expand Apparel Group into a

multi-billion-dollar enterprise.

She is widely recognised for her innovative approach, including

adopting omni-channel retail strategies and driving digital

transformation amidst rapidly evolving consumer behaviours.

Beyond business, Sima is a committed philanthropist and

advocate for women’s empowerment. She was the first

female member of YPO to establish a regional chapter

(YPO MENA STAR), promoting gender equality, which

now boasts the highest female membership globally at

52%. She also mentors young entrepreneurs, encouraging

social impact through initiatives like her daughter’s athleisure

brand that supports education for underprivileged

children. Her longstanding commitment to community development

underscores her holistic approach to leadership.

Her inspiring story motivates budding entrepreneurs and

highlights her as a trailblazing figure in the global retail

and fashion industry, setting new standards for success

and inspiring the next generation of leaders.


SUNNY VARKEY


GEMS Education

Sunny Varkey, Founder and Chairman of GEMS Education, is a

pioneering figure in global education, dedicated to expanding

access to high-quality learning. An Indian-born entrepreneur, Varkey

believes education can transform lives and build better societies,

making GEMS one of the largest and most respected private education

providers worldwide.

Varkey’s journey began in Dubai, where his father, K. S. Varkey, founded

the first GEMS school in 1959. Joining the family business in the late

1980s, Sunny Varkey led its rapid expansion, driven by a commitment

to accessible education for all, regardless of geography or financial

means. Under his leadership, GEMS operates 60+ schools across the

Middle East, Asia, and Africa, offering British, American, and International

Baccalaureate curricula. He emphasises quality teaching, modern

methodologies, state-of-the-art facilities, and teacher development to

empower educators. Today, GEMS Education stands as a global leader

in educational excellence, diversity, and innovation.

VIDYA M. CHHABRIA

Chairperson

Jumbo Group

Vidya M. Chhabria assumed leadership of Jumbo in 2002 following

the sudden passing of her husband and the company’s

founder, Manohar Rajaram Chhabria. Facing a critical period,

she demonstrated resilience, strategic foresight, and determination,

transforming challenges into sustained growth. Under her guidance,

Jumbo implemented a robust multi-brand strategy and expanded into

the B2B segment, strengthening its market relevance.

Known for her compassionate yet decisive leadership, Chhabria

emphasises partnership, customer experience, and innovation. She

launched ‘Jumbo Edge,’ automated HR processes, and introduced

remuneration benchmarking to strengthen talent management, while

leading the digital transformation of jumbo.ae for a seamless omnichannel

experience. Inspired by forward-thinking strategies like the

UAE government’s planning ethos, her leadership positions Jumbo as a

pioneer in technology-driven retail, exemplifying resilience, innovation,

and people-centric growth while upholding core values of trust, quality.


YOGESH MEHTA


Petrochem Middle East

Yogesh Mehta is the Founder and Chairman of Petrochem Middle

East, the region’s largest independent petrochemical distributor

and a leading force in the global chemicals trading industry. After

experiencing business challenges in India, Mehta relocated to Dubai

in 1990 and established Petrochem in 1995, transforming it into a multinational

enterprise that now exports over 3 million metric tonnes of

chemicals annually to 27 countries with an annual turnover exceeding

$1.5 billion. Under his leadership, Petrochem has become a strategic

partner to major industries across painting, printing, packaging, oil, and

gas sectors, maintaining partnerships with global producers including

Shell and Eastman. The company operates a state-of-the-art storage

terminal at Dubai’s Jebel Ali port and has strategically expanded with

facilities in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, strengthening its position across

the Middle East and North Africa. Mehta’s leadership philosophy emphasises

a people-centric approach whilst relying on comprehensive

market foresight to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence.

ZULEKHA DAUD

Founder and Chairperson

Zulekha Healthcare Group

Dr. Zulekha Daud is a pioneering Indian Physician and the Founder

and Chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group, which operates

leading healthcare facilities in the UAE. Moving to the UAE in

1964, she became the first female Indian doctor to practice in the region,

initially working at the American Kuwait Mission Hospital. Known affectionately

as “Mama Zulekha,” she managed deliveries of thousands

of babies, attended to every disease with which people came to her, old

and young, and gained the trust of the people.

In 1992, she established the first Zulekha Hospital in Sharjah, starting

as a 30-bed facility and later expanding the group to include a hospital

in Dubai, two medical centres, and a pharmacy chain.

Dr. Daud’s dedication to healthcare and philanthropy is widely recognised.

Beyond medicine, she founded charitable trusts and vocational

centres supporting education and clean water initiatives. Her leadership

continues to influence policy, mentor professionals, and advance

community welfare across the UAE.


ADEEB AHAMED

Managing Director

LuLu Financial Holdings

Adeeb Ahamed is the Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings,

a leading financial services provider headquartered in Abu

Dhabi. Renowned for his entrepreneurial prowess, Adeeb has

transformed LuLu Financial Holdings into a global network with over

260 branches operating across 11 countries in the Middle East, Africa,

and Asia. His strategic leadership has driven the company’s growth in

money transfer, foreign exchange, and remittance services, embracing

digital transformation through innovative solutions like online remittance

platforms and blockchain-based offerings. Adeeb is also Managing

Director of Tablez and Twenty14 Holdings, further demonstrating his

versatile business acumen and investment expertise.

His leadership philosophy emphasises financial inclusion and accessibility,

particularly for underserved communities across emerging

markets. Through strategic partnerships with fintech startups and

government initiatives, he has positioned LuLu Financial Holdings as

a pioneer in digital financial services.

AHMED ABDELAAL

Group Chief Executive Officer

Mashreq Bank

Ahmed Abdelaal is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Mashreq

Bank, one of the UAE’s most prominent and innovative financial

institutions with a legacy spanning over five decades. Under

his leadership, Mashreq continues to build on its strong reputation for

innovation, customer-centric services, and expansion across key global

markets. The bank operates a diverse portfolio that includes local and

international businesses such as Oman Insurance, Mashreq Capital,

Mashreq Global Networks, Mashreq Al Islami, Mashreq Securities, Shorouq

Commodities Trading, Mindscape, Makaseb, and Injaz, positioning itself

as a leader in both conventional and Islamic banking solutions.

With more than 30 years of extensive experience across international

and regional banking sectors, Ahmed has developed deep expertise in a

wide range of disciplines. His career spans Corporate and Commercial

Banking, covering trade finance, contracting and real estate finance, and

cash management, as well as Investment Banking, including debt and

equity capital markets, project finance, and advisory services.


ANTONOALDO NEVES


Etihad Aviation Group

Antonoaldo Neves was appointed Group Chief Executive

Officer of Etihad Aviation Group in October

2022 and has since set a clear strategic agenda to

restore growth, profitability and global relevance to Abu

Dhabi’s flag carrier. A civil engineer by training with an

MBA from the Darden School of Business and a master’s

in corporate finance from PUC-Rio, Neves combines

technical rigor with commercial strategy and consulting

HIGHLIGHTS

In Current Role Since: Industry:

2022 Aviation

Nationality:

Brazilian

experience from McKinsey. He previously led Azul in

Brazil and later served as CEO of TAP Air Portugal, where

he guided complex turnarounds and network expansion.

Under his leadership, Etihad has returned to profitability,

tightened governance, and launched the Journey

2030 plan that targets significant fleet and network growth

while embedding sustainability across operations and

stronger strategic partnerships across global markets.

Neves has outlined ambitions to grow passenger numbers

toward the mid-tens of millions by 2030, add more

than twenty new aircraft in coming years, and expand

Etihad’s reach to over 125 destinations with optimised

point-to-point services. His focus balances disciplined

cost management, careful capacity deployment and investments

in customer experience and cabin harmonisation.

Neves advocates pragmatic growth rather than hub-building

at all costs, prioritising routes that deliver economic

value for Abu Dhabi. He has also signalled readiness

for a future public listing contingent on continued performance

improvements. With a data-driven approach

and pragmatic leadership, Neves is positioning Etihad

to be a financially robust, customer-led and sustainability-focused

global airline that reflects Abu Dhabi’s ambitions.

His emphasis on operational discipline, network

optimisation and sustainable aviation fuels underlines

a long-term commitment to resilient growth globally.


AHMED GALAL ISMAIL

Chief Executive Officer and Member of Board of Directors

Majid Al Futtaim Holding

Ahmed Galal Ismail is the CEO and member of the Board of Directors

of Majid Al Futtaim Holding, overseeing a leading conglomerate

with assets exceeding $19 billion and over 44,000 employees across

the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Appointed CEO in January 2023, Ismail

has served Majid Al Futtaim for more than 17 years, previously leading

the company’s Properties business and Ventures division. Throughout

his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in driving innovation, strategic

expansion, and operational excellence across retail, shopping malls,

hospitality, and leisure portfolios.

His leadership has transformed Majid Al Futtaim into a customer-centric

organisation that consistently delivers exceptional experiences across all

business verticals. Ismail has championed sustainability initiatives and

digital transformation programmes that have positioned the company

as a regional leader in retail innovation. Under his guidance, Majid Al

Futtaim has expanded its footprint across key markets while maintaining

its commitment to creating meaningful social and economic impact.

HAMID HAQPARWAR

Managing Director

Albatha Automotive Group

Dr. Hamid Haqparwar is the Managing Director of Albatha Automotive

Group, a leading division within the Albatha Group, and

CEO of AGMC, the official importer for BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce,

and BMW Motorrad in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates. With

nearly two decades of leadership experience across the Middle East,

India, and Europe with BMW Group, he has been instrumental in driving

growth, innovation, and sustainability in the luxury automotive sector.

Under his stewardship, the group has set new benchmarks in customer

engagement by integrating cutting-edge technologies, advancing sustainable

mobility, and elevating retail experiences. He has championed the introduction

of electric vehicles in the GCC, launched state-of-the-art showrooms, and

expanded BMW’s presence across 13 countries. Beyond corporate leadership,

Dr. Haqparwar promotes collaboration between industry and academia.

His customer-centric and environmentally responsible approach continues

to position Albatha Automotive Group as a transformative force

in the Gulf’s automotive future.


FARAH ZAFAR

Co-Founder and CEO

Lyvely

Farah Zafar is a trailblazing entrepreneur and corporate

executive redefining the future of technology,

finance, and social media. She is the Co-Founder and

CEO of Lyvely, a UAE-born platform revolutionising the

creator and gig economy by merging video calls, social

media, and e-commerce into a seamless, integrated ecosystem.

Powered by its native LVLY Token, Lyvely enables

creators to monetise authentically, gamify engagement, and

HIGHLIGHTS


2023 Tech

Nationality:

British

build meaningful communities around their content. The

platform has been widely recognised as “Social Platform

of the Year,” while Farah herself received the prestigious

“Innovator” award from Mastercard Women SME Leaders.

In addition to Lyvely, Farah serves as Managing Director

and Chief Legal Officer of Phoenix Group, where she led

the company’s historic IPO on the Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange in 2023, making Phoenix the first privately-owned

crypto mining and blockchain entity to list in the Middle

East. Phoenix is now a leading global bitcoin miner, with

operations spanning mining, hosting, trading, investment,

and a recent pivot into AI-driven initiatives and strategic

technology ventures.

Farah’s career also includes high-impact roles at Saudi

Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Dubai Holding,

where she drove transformative initiatives for the GCC’s

investment and digital landscapes, working directly for

the Ruler of Dubai and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia.

Today, she is celebrated as both a visionary founder and a

Rockstar CEO, inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Her mission is bold: to elevate humanity by helping

people turn passion into prosperity through Lyvely’s

platform, empowering millions to dream bigger, monetise

their online presence, and succeed on their own terms and

champion inclusive, technology-driven entrepreneurship

across the globe.


HATEM DOWIDAR


e& (Etisalat)

Hatem Dowidar is the Group Chief Executive Officer

(CEO) of e&, previously known as Etisalat Group.

He joined e& in 2015 as Group Chief Operating

Officer and was appointed CEO – International in 2016

before becoming Group CEO in May 2020. Dowidar has led

a bold transformation of e&, steering it from a traditional

telecommunications provider to a dynamic global technology

group operating across 38 markets worldwide. His

HIGHLIGHTS


1976 Telecommunications

Nationality:

Egyptian


Global Merit Leader CEO of

the Year 2023

leadership emphasised innovation and strategic growth,

positioning e& as a digital pioneer in the industry.

Under his vision, e& adopted a comprehensive digital

transformation strategy, restructuring the company into five

key business verticals: e& UAE, e& life, e& enterprise, e&

international, and e& capital. This allowed the company to

expand beyond telecom connectivity into digital services,

fintech, cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. In 2022,

the company rebranded from Etisalat to e&, reflecting its

mission to be a technology-driven conglomerate with a

diversified portfolio and flexible growth pathways.

Dowidar’s background includes over 32 years in telecom

and multinational leadership roles. Before e&, he served as

CEO of Vodafone Egypt and Malta and held senior positions

within Vodafone Group, including Group Chief of Staff.

His extensive experience spans marketing, operations, and

corporate governance. This wealth of expertise underpins

his strategic direction for e&, boosting business resilience

and innovation. His leadership philosophy centres on agility,

customer trust, and embracing emerging technologies.

Dowidar has fostered key partnerships with industry giants

like Microsoft and Meta to drive digital empowerment.

Today, under his stewardship, e& is recognised as the

fastest-growing technology brand in the Middle East and

Africa, with a premier global reputation for innovation

and sustainable growth.


HUDA KATTAN

Founder and Co-CEO

Huda Beauty

Huda Kattan is a globally renowned beauty mogul,

makeup artist, and entrepreneur, best known as

the founder of Huda Beauty, one of the world’s

most influential cosmetics brands. Her entrepreneurial

journey began with creating content through beauty

blogs and Instagram, where her genuine personality and

expert advice quickly attracted millions of followers. In

2013, Kattan launched Huda Beauty with a modest $6,000

HIGHLIGHTS


2013 Beauty

Nationality:

Iraqi American

investment, starting with highly popular false eyelashes

that gained immediate traction in the beauty community.

Kattan’s innovative use of social media to connect directly

with her audience revolutionised beauty marketing

and customer engagement. Huda Beauty expanded its

product range to include eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks,

foundations, and skincare, focusing on inclusivity, quality,

and trendsetting formulas that cater to diverse skin tones

and beauty preferences. Her brand scaled rapidly, reaching

billion-dollar valuation milestones and fundamentally

changing the beauty landscape through direct-to-consumer

marketing strategies. She is celebrated for embracing

diversity and actively incorporating customer feedback

into product development, fostering strong community

connections. Beyond cosmetics, Huda ventured into fragrances

with the Kayali line, launched in 2018 alongside

her sister Mona. She returned as CEO of Huda Beauty in

2024 and continues to steer the company toward innovation

and global expansion. Kattan exemplifies creativity,

passion, and resilience, inspiring countless aspiring beauty

entrepreneurs worldwide and establishing herself as a

transformative leader in the global beauty industry. She

remains deeply involved in product development and global

strategy, mentoring emerging founders and championing

inclusive beauty standards while expanding Huda Beauty’s

footprint into new markets.


IMRAN ALI KHAN

CEO and Co-Founder

Dubizzle Group

Imran Ali Khan, the CEO and Co-Founder of Dubizzle Group, stands

as one of the most influential tech entrepreneurs in the Greater ME-

NA region. His journey from a technology professional to the helm

of the region’s largest digital classifieds network reflects exceptional

vision, strategic thinking, and relentless determination to transform

how people buy, sell, and connect across emerging markets.

His entrepreneurial expertise was honed through diverse experience in

finance and consulting, where he gained insights into global operations,

risk management, and strategic planning for complex organisations.

This foundation proved invaluable when he co-founded Dubizzle Group,

which has become the leading marketplace platform across the MENA

region. Under his leadership, Dubizzle Group has grown beyond its

roots in real estate classifieds to encompass autos, jobs, and other key

categories, serving millions of users across multiple countries. Khan’s

vision extends to identifying and nurturing emerging digital opportunities,

positioning Dubizzle Group as a technology leader.

MOHAMMED MAHFOODH AL ARDHI

Executive Chairman

Investcorp

Mohammed Mahfoodh Al Ardhi is an Omani businessman and

former military chief, widely recognised for his leadership

in banking, investments, and strategic sectors. He currently

serves as Executive Chairman of Investcorp, a leading global alternative

investment firm with over US$23 billion in assets under management,

and is Chairman of Sohar International, a prominent financial institution

in Oman.

Al Ardhi’s career began in the Royal Air Force of Oman, where he

joined as a fighter pilot and became both the youngest and longest-serving

native head of the Air Force. His military service instilled discipline and

leadership skills that later defined his corporate career. In the financial

sector, he served as Vice Chairman and later Chairman of the National

Bank of Oman (NBO), where he oversaw major strategic initiatives,

including the bank’s expansion into Islamic banking and significant

corporate social responsibility programmes. Under his leadership, NBO

played an instrumental role in youth empowerment and innovation.


MUDASSIR SHEIKHA

Co-Founder and CEO

Careem

Mudassir Sheikha, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer

of Careem, is a visionary entrepreneur whose journey reflects

resilience, ambition, and a commitment to transforming lives

through technology. His entrepreneurial expertise was developed through

experience in Silicon Valley’s fast-paced technology environment and

strategic consulting, where he developed deep understanding of scalable

business operations and market dynamics.

Sheikha co-founded Careem with the vision of building the leading

technology platform in the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan region.

Under his leadership, Careem evolved from a ride-hailing startup to a

comprehensive super-app offering transportation, delivery, payments, and

digital services to over 50 million users across 100+ cities. His strategic

vision led to Careem’s acquisition by Uber for $3.1 billion in 2019, one

of the largest technology exits in the MENA region. Post-acquisition,

Sheikha has continued leading Careem’s expansion and diversification,

maintaining its entrepreneurial culture while leveraging global resources.

NILESH KHALKHO

Founder and CEO

Sharaf DG

Nilesh Khalkho is the Founder Member and Chief Executive Officer

of Sharaf DG, a prominent technology retailer in the UAE. Since

co-founding Sharaf DG in 2004, he has played a pivotal role in

its growth into a leading consumer electronics and home appliances

retailer with extensive presence both online and through physical stores

across the region. Khalkho brings over 30 years of industry experience,

having previously held leadership roles in telecommunications and IT

sectors, including strategic positions at Al Futtaim Telecom and DSS

Mobile Communications. His deep understanding of technology trends

and consumer behavior has enabled him to anticipate market demands

and position Sharaf DG as an innovative retail leader. Under his leadership,

Sharaf DG has focused on integrating advanced technology into

retail operations, creating seamless omnichannel experiences that set

new standards in the UAE’s consumer electronics market. His strategic

vision emphasises customer service excellence, operational efficiency,

and continuous innovation in retail technology.


NARESH KUMAR BHAWNANI


West Zone Group

Naresh Kumar Bhawnani is the visionary Founder

and Chairman of West Zone Group, one of the UAE’s

leading and most respected retail conglomerates.

Arriving in Dubai in the late 1980s from a middle-class

family in Madhya Pradesh, India, Bhawnani was deeply

inspired by his entrepreneurial upbringing and driven by

a lifelong passion for retail excellence, business innovation,

and creating meaningful impact. On December 2,

HIGHLIGHTS


2005 Retail

Nationality:

No. of Employees:

Indian 5,000+

2005, coinciding with the UAE’s National Day, he opened

the first West Zone supermarket in Mirdif, Dubai, with his

mother inaugurating the store a cherished tradition that

continues proudly to this day.

Over the last 20 years, Bhawnani’s visionary leadership

has propelled West Zone Group’s exponential growth,

evolving it from a single supermarket to a diversified

retail and business powerhouse. Today, the group operates

over 150 retail outlets, including supermarkets and

hypermarkets, covering more than 500,000 square feet of

retail space. Its portfolio spans logistics, shopping malls,

real estate, construction, technology, hospitality, and food

and beverage. Strategic acquisitions of Safestway and

Giant Group’s branches have further solidified its market

presence across the UAE and GCC region.

Bhawnani’s commitment goes beyond business, actively

embracing corporate social responsibility programmes that

support communities in both the UAE and India. His focus

on environmental conservation, youth empowerment, and

impactful philanthropic initiatives underscores his holistic

approach to sustainable growth. Looking ahead, Naresh

plans to accelerate West Zone’s expansion beyond the region,

leveraging innovation, superior customer service, and

competitive pricing. His visionary leadership continues to

inspire, making West Zone a household name synonymous

with quality, trust, and community enrichment.


PAUL GRIFFITHS

Chief Executive Officer

Dubai Airports

Paul Griffiths, the Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, has

played a transformative role in shaping the emirate’s aviation

sector since his appointment in October 2007. Under his visionary

leadership, Dubai Airports transitioned from a government department

into a world-class aviation entity, driving significant expansion and

operational excellence. Griffiths has overseen a remarkable journey

that saw Dubai International Airport (DXB) triple its passenger and

cargo capacity, achieving the title of the world’s busiest airport for

international passengers within just a decade.

Griffiths has led the teams at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai

World Central (DWC), ensuring the airports remain global benchmarks

for capacity, efficiency, and customer experience. He has championed

strategic infrastructure developments to accommodate rapid international

travel growth. In 2008, under his guidance, Dubai opened Terminal 3,

one of the largest buildings of its kind, enhancing passenger handling,

and in 2010, he spearheaded the inauguration of Dubai’s second airport.

SANTOSH VARGHESE

Vice President

Toshiba Gulf FZE

Santosh Varghese is the Vice President of Toshiba Gulf FZE, overseeing

the Digital Products and Services Division across the MEA region.

With full P&L responsibility, Santosh drives Toshiba’s growth in

digital and storage solutions, positioning the company to meet the growing

demand for high-capacity data storage and enterprise technologies.

Santosh’s career spans strategic management, business process

re-engineering, and innovation. Before his current role, he served as

General Manager of Toshiba Gulf, focusing on corporate marketing and

innovation for MEA. He holds a B.E. in Electronics and Communications

from Bharathiar University and completed leadership programmes

at INSEAD and IIM Bangalore, strengthening his global management

skills. Under his leadership, Toshiba Gulf introduced cutting-edge

storage technologies like HAMR and MAMR, leading the shift toward

exabyte-scale data storage. Santosh emphasises innovation, strategic

growth, and sustainability, ensuring Toshiba remains a trusted partner

for high-performance, high-capacity data solutions in MEA.


SHAYNE NELSON


Emirates NBD

Shayne Nelson, Group CEO of Emirates NBD, is a veteran banker

with an extensive global career across multiple sectors of the financial

industry. Since taking the helm more than a decade ago,

he has overseen a remarkable transformation of the bank.

Under his leadership, Emirates NBD’s market capitalisation surged

from AED 15.8 billion to about AED 124 billion, while assets grew from

AED 308 billion to AED 956 billion. One of the most significant milestones

during his tenure was the strategic acquisition of DenizBank in

Türkiye for USD 2.7 billion, cementing the bank’s presence beyond the

UAE. Alongside major acquisitions, Emirates NBD has maintained robust

organic growth, securing the largest market share in both Corporate

and Retail banking within the UAE. The bank has also pioneered

technological innovation in the region, reinforcing its position as a

leader in digital banking. ENBD expanded its footprint internationally,

notably in Egypt, India, and Saudi Arabia, with the latter securing the

most additional branch licences granted to any foreign bank.

TOM HARVEY

General Manager - Commercial

Spinneys Dubai LLC

Tom Harvey is the General Manager - Commercial at Spinneys

Dubai LLC, overseeing the commercial and technical functions

across Spinneys UAE, Waitrose UAE, Spinneys KSA, Al Fair Oman,

and international sourcing operations in the UK, USA, and Australia.

With over 20 years in food retail, Tom has been instrumental in driving

sourcing strategies and commercial growth for the group, leading a

diverse team across four continents.

Before joining Spinneys in 2017, Tom gained experience in premium

retail in the UK and UAE, focusing on fresh categories and supply chain

management. His expertise in global sourcing and supplier relationships

has driven Spinneys’ market share and private label growth. He created

the Spinneys Local Business Incubator Programme, supporting local food

manufacturers and entrepreneurs while aligning with government food

security policies. Tom’s leadership emphasises collaboration, innovation,

and operational excellence, positioning Spinneys as a premium

retail brand in the Middle East and fostering community development.


TIM CLARK

President

Emirates Airlines

Sir Tim Clark has been the President of Emirates Airline

since 2003 and is widely recognised as a visionary

leader in the aviation industry. He gained decades of

experience at British Caledonian before moving to Dubai

in 1985 as part of the founding team of Emirates. As Head

of Airline Planning, he played a crucial role in shaping the

airline’s initial route network and operational strategy.

Under his leadership, Emirates grew rapidly, becoming one

HIGHLIGHTS


2003 Aviation

Nationality:

British


CAPA Airline Executive of

the Year 2022

of the world’s largest international airlines, serving over

150 destinations with a fleet of 270 wide-bodied aircraft.

Clark was instrumental in Emirates’ strategic acquisition

of wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777,

which form the backbone of its long-haul operations and

have become synonymous with the Emirates brand. He

introduced unparalleled passenger services such as spacious

cabins, advanced in-flight entertainment systems,

and luxury amenities that set new benchmarks in the

airline industry. His approach to customer experience

and operational efficiency helped Emirates gain a global

reputation for excellence and innovation.

Beyond airline operations, Clark chairs the Emirates

Airline Foundation, a charity he helped establish to improve

the welfare of disadvantaged children worldwide.

His commitment to social causes reflects his holistic

leadership approach, blending business success with

meaningful philanthropy. His decades-long influence has

been pivotal in positioning Emirates as a leading global

airline and a symbol of Dubai’s rise as an international

aviation hub, contributing significantly to the emirate’s

economic diversification and global connectivity.

He continues to mentor industry leaders and advocates

sustainable aviation practices, supporting environmental

initiatives, research, and innovation across airlines

worldwide.


YVES MANGHARDT

Chairman and CEO - Middle East

Nestlé

Yves Manghardt serves as the Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Middle

East, a position that underscores his decades-long journey within

one of the world’s most iconic food and beverage companies.

Under his leadership, Nestlé Middle East has grown into a formidable

entity, employing more than 11,000 people and operating 18 state-of-theart

factories across 13 countries in the region. His role involves driving

strategic growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Nestlé’s global

values resonate strongly within the dynamic Middle Eastern market.

Yves’ association with Nestlé began in 1984, marking the start of

a career defined by global exposure and leadership excellence. He

held pivotal roles in markets including Japan, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong,

and Vietnam, strengthening Nestlé’s presence and brand identity. His

ability to adapt to diverse cultural and business landscapes delivered

consistent growth across regions. In 1991, he was appointed Country

Manager of Nestlé Singapore, further expanding his expertise in managing

complex markets.

ZUBIN KARKARIA

Founder and CEO

VFS Global

Zubin Karkaria is the Founder and CEO of VFS Global, the world’s

leading outsourcing and technology services provider for governments

and diplomatic missions. Pioneering the concept of

outsourcing visa and passport issuance services, Zubin transformed a

traditionally bureaucratic process into a streamlined, customer-centric

experience. Under his leadership, VFS Global has expanded to over 140

countries, handling millions of visa applications annually.

With a background in entrepreneurship and strategic leadership, Zubin

founded VFS Global in 2001, identifying a niche in government service

outsourcing. He built robust technology infrastructure and process

efficiencies, ensuring security, compliance, and excellent customer

service, transforming public sector operations. Zubin expanded VFS

Global into biometric enrolment, e-governance, and digital identity

management, partnering with over 60 governments, redefining global

government-citizen interactions and setting a new standard for technology-enabled

services.


ANANT MAHESHWARI

President and CEO, Global Relations

Honeywell

Anant Maheshwari is the President and CEO of Honeywell’s Global

Regions, overseeing operations across Asia Pacific, Europe, the

Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. In this role, he is responsible

for driving growth, strengthening strategic partnerships, and

advancing Honeywell’s priorities across diverse and dynamic markets.

Anant rejoined Honeywell after serving as President and CEO of

Microsoft India, where he led the company’s business strategy and

presence in one of its most important markets. He engaged with policymakers,

industry leaders, customers, and partners, guiding Microsoft

India through a period of significant transformation and strong growth,

helping the region become one of the fastest-growing markets for the

company globally. Earlier in his career, Anant first joined Honeywell

in 2004, holding senior leadership positions, launching new business

lines, and managing established portfolios. From 2014 to 2016, he served

as President of Honeywell India, overseeing operations in one of the

company’s key growth markets, contributing to its strategic expansion.

ASHRAF EL-AFIFI

Corporate Senior VP and Regional President

Henkel Consumer Brands

Ashraf El-Afifi, a Cairo-born business leader, currently serves

as President of Henkel for India, the Middle East, and Africa

(IMEA), in addition to holding the role of Corporate Senior

Vice President for the firm’s Laundry and Home Care division across

MEA and Asia Pacific. As a member of Henkel’s Executive Committee

for IMEA and GCC, El-Afifi oversees operations across more than 16

countries, guiding strategic growth, operational excellence, and market

expansion initiatives.

El-Afifi began his career with Henkel in 1992, joining the company

during its initial expansion into Egypt. Starting as a brand manager, he

quickly distinguished himself through strong performance, strategic insight,

and leadership skills. By the age of 34, he was appointed Managing

Director of Henkel Egypt, reflecting both his exceptional capabilities and

Henkel’s confidence in his leadership. His tenure in Egypt was marked

by driving growth through brand development, operational efficiency,

and successful market positioning.


AVINASH BABUR

Founder and CEO

InsuranceMarket.ae

Avinash Babur is the Founder and CEO of InsuranceMarket.ae,

the UAE’s largest and most trusted digital insurance platform

serving over 200,000 policyholders in 2023. Since establishing

the company in 2010, Babur has spearheaded a digital transformation

in the insurance industry, creating innovative solutions such as Alfred,

the brand mascot symbolising trust and reliability, and myAlfred, a

customer rewards platform. His visionary leadership has significantly

enhanced customer engagement by streamlining insurance processes

from policy selection to claims management, setting new standards for

service excellence across the region.

His most notable innovation is the creation of Alfred, the beloved

brand mascot that has become synonymous with trust and reliability

in UAE insurance. This strategic branding initiative, combined with the

development of myAlfred, a comprehensive customer rewards platform,

has significantly enhanced customer loyalty and market penetration,

and expanded partnerships across the GCC and beyond.

BERND VAN LINDER


Commercial Bank of Dubai

Dr. Bernd van Linder is a distinguished banking leader with extensive

experience in retail, commercial and corporate banking

internationally. He has served as Chief Executive Officer of

Commercial Bank of Dubai since January 2017, leading the bank’s strategic

transformation, positioning it as a player in the UAE’s competitive

banking sector. His career began at ABN AMRO in the Netherlands,

where he developed a strong foundation in financial services before

moving to the GCC to take on senior leadership roles. His international

expertise and deep understanding of both European and Middle Eastern

banking markets have been instrumental in his regional success. In the

GCC, Dr. van Linder joined Saudi Hollandi Bank as General Manager

of Treasury, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening the bank’s

financial capabilities and risk management frameworks. His vision

emphasises innovation, risk management excellence, and building

long-term stakeholder value while maintaining the bank’s commitment

to serving corporate and individual customers across market segments.


AZIZ KOLEILAT

President and CEO - METCIS

GE Aerospace

Aziz Koleilat is the President and CEO of GE Aerospace

for the Middle East, Turkey, Eastern Europe,

and CIS (METCIS) region, overseeing one of the

most critical and rapidly growing markets in the global

aerospace industry. Since assuming this position in 2017,

Koleilat has been responsible for driving business growth

and strategic initiatives for GE Aerospace across a region

that represents the company’s largest market for widebody

HIGHLIGHTS


2017 Aerospace

Net Worth:

Nationality:

Smart , etc.

Lebenese Canadian 8,000 (as of 2024) news.

aircraft engines.

Under his leadership, GE Aerospace has achieved

significant market expansion while serving major airline

customers, including some of the world’s largest carriers.

His strategic focus on customer satisfaction and innovation

has strengthened GE’s position as the preferred engine

supplier for next-generation aircraft across the region.

Koleilat’s professional journey includes leadership positions

in GE Healthcare for the Middle East and Pakistan,

where he drove considerable revenue growth and contributed

to expanding the company’s regional presence. His

career began with roles at Vietnam Airlines and Johnson

& Johnson, where he managed medical business units

across Europe and the Middle East, providing him with

diverse industry experience and cross-cultural business

expertise. His technical and business expertise enables

him to navigate complex aerospace industry dynamics

with exceptional focus on operational excellence and

strategic growth. Koleilat is passionate about fostering

diversity and inclusion within GE Aerospace, establishing

regional employee resource groups like the Women’s

Network and GE Aerospace Volunteers. As the Middle

East continues to cement itself as a global aviation hub,

Koleilat is driving GE Aerospace’s role in supporting the

region’s increasing demand for advanced aircraft engines

and sustainable aviation solutions.


DIMITRIOS DOSIS

President - Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa

Mastercard

Dimitrios Dosis is President of Mastercard’s Eastern Europe,

Middle East and Africa region and a member of the company’s

Management Committee. He is responsible for driving the

company’s strategy across this newly expanded region, which now encompasses

81 markets with agile, high-potential growth opportunities.

He was previously President of Mastercard Advisors, the company’s professional

services arm, where he led a global team focused on helping retail and

banking customers solve pressing business issues with data-driven solutions.

Mastercard’s anonymised and aggregated transaction insights, world-class

analytic capabilities and embedded platforms with self-service predictive

technology supplement the team’s industry-proven problem-solving skills.

Dimitrios has more than 20 years of experience in technology, transaction

banking and management consulting. He joined Mastercard in

2005 from Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, where he was leading

the transaction banking practice. Previously, he worked for A.T. Kearney

covering its financial institutions business.

FADI GHANDOUR

Executive Chairman

Wamda Capital

Fadi Ghandour is a prominent entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist

who has played a transformative role in shaping the logistics

sector in the Middle East and North Africa. Widely recognised as

the co-founder of Aramex, he serves as Executive Chairman of Wamda

Group, a platform fostering innovation and investing in high-growth

startups across MENA, Turkey, and East Africa.

In 1982, he co-founded Aramex with Bill Kingson, seizing a major

opportunity in the region’s underserved courier sector. Under his leadership,

Aramex became the first Arab company listed on NASDAQ in

1997, a historic milestone showcasing the potential of Middle Eastern

enterprises in global markets. His success with Aramex established him

as a pioneer in regional business development and logistics innovation.

Through Wamda Capital, Ghandour has become one of the region’s

most influential startup investors, supporting the next generation of

Middle Eastern entrepreneurs through capital, mentorship, strategic

positioning, and expert guidance.


GEORG SCHROECKENFUCHS

Cluster Head of SERCE (South East, Russia, Central Europe)

Novartis

Georg Schroeckenfuchs is Cluster Head of SERCE (South East,

Russia, Central Europe) at Novartis, where he leads operations

across markets with focus on growth, innovation, and expanding

access to advanced healthcare solutions. With over two decades

of leadership excellence in the pharmaceutical sector, he has built

a career spanning regions and driving organisational transformation

while strengthening Novartis’ global market presence significantly.

His journey with Novartis began in 2001 as Head of General Medicine in Austria,

and he held senior leadership roles across the Balkans, Poland, Greece, and

Italy. His responsibilities expanded over the years, reflecting his exceptional

expertise in commercial strategy development, market analysis, and organisational

leadership across diverse cultural and regulatory environments.

His approach to pharmaceutical leadership emphasises sustainable

growth, regulatory compliance, and collaborative relationships with

healthcare providers, ensuring that Novartis remains at the forefront

of medical innovation and patient care.

HOSAM ARAB

Co-Founder and CEO

Tabby

Hosam Arab is the Co-Founder and CEO of Tabby, a leading buy-nowpay-later

(BNPL) fintech platform transforming digital payments

across the Middle East. Since co-founding Tabby in 2019, he has

built the company into one of the region’s most successful financial technology

firms, serving millions of shoppers and thousands of merchants

across the GCC with flexible, interest-free instalment payment options.

Under Arab’s leadership, Tabby has revolutionised consumer credit

access by offering transparent, user-friendly payment solutions that

require no traditional credit checks or lengthy approval processes.

The platform allows customers to split purchases into manageable instalments

while providing merchants with increased conversion rates

and customer loyalty.

Arab’s strategic vision has secured over $200 million in funding,

achieving unicorn status and positioning Tabby as the region’s leading

BNPL provider, making it a trusted partner for both consumers and

merchants across the rapidly evolving Middle Eastern fintech landscape.


JAYESH PATEL

CEO

Wio Bank

Jayesh Patel is the Chief Executive Officer of Wio Bank PJSC, the

UAE’s first platform bank, which aims to revolutionise banking

through intelligent, integrated financial solutions tailored for

businesses and consumers. Since joining as CEO in 2020, Patel has

led Wio to rapid growth and profitability, with the bank serving over

200,000 individual customers and more than 105,000 SMEs by 2025.

His leadership focuses on leveraging AI, open banking APIs, and

strategic partnerships to simplify financial management, enhance customer

engagement, and deliver seamless digital banking experiences.

Before Wio, Patel was a key executive at Emirates NBD, driving digital

innovation as Head of Liv. Digital Bank. With academic credentials in

engineering and an MBA from Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business,

he combines deep technological insight with strategic business

expertise. Patel continues to shape the future of banking in the UAE by

prioritising customer-centricity, transparency, and inclusive financial

services that empower SMEs and individuals to thrive.

NIVEN AL-KHOURY

General Manager - General Medicines KSA & Gulf MCO

Sanofi

Niven Al-Khoury is the General Manager of General Medicines

for KSA and the Gulf MCO at Sanofi, where she oversees comprehensive

strategy, operations, and market expansion across

a diverse and rapidly evolving regional pharmaceutical landscape. Her

career reflects more than two decades of leadership excellence in the

pharmaceutical sector, combining deep expertise in sales, marketing,

government affairs, public relations, and corporate communication.

Her professional journey includes senior leadership positions across

several countries and leading healthcare organisations, including

a significant tenure with Johnson & Johnson, where she developed

extensive expertise in global pharmaceutical operations and strategic

market development. Her international experience has enabled her to

build a sophisticated understanding of complex healthcare regulatory

environments, with particular focus on developing sustainable growth

strategies and ensuring broad access to essential medicines across

diverse patient populations.


OMAR CHANNAWI

Senior Vice President - Global Ops

Procter & Gamble

Omar Channawi is a seasoned executive with extensive experience

in brand management, business development, and corporate

strategy. He currently serves as Senior Vice President and General

Manager at Procter & Gamble in Dubai, where he oversees operations

across key regional markets. Over the course of his career, he has led

diverse teams across Asia-Pacific and North West Africa, driving expansion

and strengthening P&G’s market leadership.

His expertise in consumer goods and fast-moving consumer goods

(FMCG) has been central to advancing innovation, improving customer

engagement, and sustaining growth in highly competitive environments.

Channawi combines deep knowledge of market analysis and operational

excellence with a forward-looking approach to leadership, positioning

him as a key figure in shaping the future of global consumer markets.

Beyond his corporate role, he contributes to the wider business ecosystem

as a board member of Dubai Chambers and supports initiatives

aimed at developing the region’s next generation of leaders.

PRATHAM MITTAL

Founder and CEO

Tetr College of Business

Pratham Mittal is a serial entrepreneur reshaping global business

education with a bold vision to place his institutions among the

world’s top 10 business schools within five years. As the founder

of Tetr College of Business and Masters’ Union, he has pioneered a

hands-on model where students learn by building ventures, solving live

problems, and engaging directly with industry leaders.

An alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied Computer

Science and Economics, Pratham was inspired by Adam Grant’s experiential

teaching methods. His early venture, Outgrow, a profitable interactive

content platform serving over 20,000 businesses including Nike and Tesla,

cemented his belief that entrepreneurship is best learned through practice.

Masters’ Union, launched in 2020 in India, redefined placements and

student ventures, while Tetr, launched in 2024, offers a global education

across seven countries. With students generating real revenue and global

partnerships driving learning, Pratham is building the future of business

education outside traditional classrooms and inside the real economy.


RAHEEL AHMED


RAKBANK

Raheel Ahmed serves as the Chief Executive Officer of RAKBANK,

one of the UAE’s leading and most respected financial institutions.

He is responsible for steering the bank’s strategic direction, ensuring

its successful execution, and positioning it for sustainable growth in

a highly competitive, technology-driven market. His leadership focuses

on accelerating digital transformation, strengthening customer-centric

strategies, and driving innovation across banking services.

With more than 30 years of experience in the global banking and financial

services industry, Raheel brings deep expertise and a proven record

of delivering results across diverse markets and cultures. Throughout

his career, he has consistently built high-performing teams, fostered

strong client relationships, and implemented strategies that achieve

long-term value. Passionate about harnessing technology to redefine

customer experiences, he continues to guide RAKBANK in embracing

cutting-edge digital solutions that simplify banking and enhance operational

efficiency, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted financial partner.

REEM ASAAD

Senior Vice President, Head of Client Services CEMEA

Visa

Reem Asaad is a seasoned executive currently serving as Senior

Vice President and Head of Client Services for CEMEA at Visa, a

role she assumed in April 2025. In this capacity, she drives client

engagement strategies, operational excellence, and service innovation

across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, reinforcing

Visa’s leadership in digital payments.

Alongside her work at Visa, Asaad has been a Board Member of the

Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) since

March 2021, contributing her expertise to advancing digital transformation

and technology-driven economic growth. Prior to joining Visa, she

held senior roles at Cisco, most recently as Vice President for the Middle

East, Africa, Türkiye, Romania, and CIS until August 2024, where she led

growth initiatives across multiple markets. Earlier in her career, Asaad

was CEO of Raya CX from 2017 to 2020 and held leadership positions at

Raya Data Centre and Raya Holding for Financial Investments, building

her reputation in the technology and services sectors.


ROBERTO HOORNWEG

Co-Head, CIB and CEO, Americas, EMEA

Standard Chartered

Roberto Hoornweg, Co-Head of Corporate & Investment

Banking at Standard Chartered, and CEO of

Europe, Americas, Middle East and Africa, stands

out as a visionary leader in global financial markets with

more than 30 years of experience across banking and asset

management. Since joining the bank in 2017, Hoornweg

has held critical roles, including Global Head of Financial

Markets, and in 2024, was appointed CEO for Europe,

HIGHLIGHTS


2024 Banking

Nationality:

Dutch

Americas, Middle East, and Africa, based in Dubai.

His expertise lies in navigating complex and high-growth

markets, crafting solutions for global corporates and financial

institutions through risk management, transaction

services, and innovative financing. Before Standard

Chartered, Hoornweg made his mark at Brevan Howard

Asset Management, leading the Liquid Portfolio Strategies

funds. He also spent time at UBS Investment Bank,

overseeing global securities and co-heading the Fixed

Income, Currencies and Commodities division. More

notably, he perfected his craft during 17 formative years

at Morgan Stanley, where he was entrusted with global

leadership roles in fixed income, emerging markets, and

credit. Hoornweg is an advocate for leveraging diversity,

both in talent and thought, understanding its importance

in building resilient organisations equipped for the future.

With a Bachelor’s in Economics from the Massachusetts

Institute of Technology, he applies analytical rigor alongside

cross-cultural insights, making him an influential driver

of the bank’s investment in high-impact, cross-border

projects. His strategies facilitate transformative outcomes

in challenging regions, particularly by connecting global

capital to emerging market opportunities. As Standard

Chartered’s footprint broadens, Hoornweg’s leadership

continues to focus on bridging critical infrastructure

gaps and catalysing sustainable growth.


RENEE MCGOWAN

CEO - India, Middle East and Africa

Marsh McLennan

Renee McGowan is a distinguished business leader, board director,

author, and thought leader in global risks and talent

transformation. She currently serves as CEO of Marsh McLennan

for India, Middle East, and Africa, where she leads a talented and

passionate team across the region. In her role, Renee drives growth,

innovation, and client impact through the company’s market-leading

brands, including Marsh, Guy Carpenter, Mercer, and Oliver Wyman.

With more than twenty years of experience at Mercer, Renee has held

a series of senior leadership positions, including President of Asia,

Middle East & Africa and Global Leader for Individual Wealth based in

New York. Her career has taken her across major global markets, with

leadership roles in Hong Kong, London, Melbourne, New York, Singapore,

and Sydney, giving her a unique perspective on global business trends

and cross-border operations. Renee is recognised for expertise in risk

management, talent development, and organisational transformation,

championing initiatives empowering companies, individuals.

SAMER ABU-LTAIF

President - Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)

Microsoft

Samer Abu-Ltaif serves as President of Microsoft Europe, Middle East

and Africa (EMEA), overseeing operations in more than 120 markets.

In this role, he works closely with enterprises, governments, and

partners to accelerate AI adoption, enable digital transformation, and

promote sustainable growth, helping organisations leverage technology

to enhance innovation and competitiveness.

Joining Microsoft in 2004, Samer has been central to the company’s

regional expansion, spearheading investments in cloud infrastructure,

artificial intelligence, and skills development. He has driven large-scale

initiatives to prepare businesses and workforces for success in an

AI-driven economy. With over 35 years of experience in the technology

sector, Samer has held several leadership positions within Microsoft,

including Regional Director, President of Microsoft Middle East & Africa,

and President of Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa

(CEMA). His deep expertise and long-term vision have been instrumental

in shaping Microsoft’s strategic direction across diverse markets.


SELIM KERVANCI

Chief Executive Officer - MENAT

HSBC

Selim Kervancı is Chief Executive Officer for the Middle East, North

Africa, and Türkiye (MENAT) at HSBC Bank Middle East, a role

he assumed in January 2025. He oversees the Group’s operations

across nine key markets, including Corporate and Institutional Banking,

as well as International Wealth and Premier Banking services. With over

28 years in banking and finance, Selim has built a distinguished career

marked by leadership and strategic transformation.

He began his career at HSBC in 1996, holding senior leadership

roles across investment banking, client coverage, capital markets, and

advisory. Before his current appointment, he served as CEO of HSBC

Türkiye, driving a major business transformation and strengthening

market presence and operational efficiency.

Selim’s deep understanding of both emerging and mature markets

positions him to drive growth across MENAT. He also serves on the

board of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, contributing to governance

and long-term strategy.

WALID SHETA

Zone President - MEA

Schneider Electric

Walid Sheta is the President of Schneider Electric’s Middle East

and Africa (MEA) Zone, a role he assumed in November 2021.

The MEA Zone spans six clusters and covers nearly 80 countries,

where he leads the company’s mission to drive digital transformation in

energy management and automation. His focus is on advancing a sustainable

and inclusive future, leveraging technology and innovation to

help communities and businesses maximise their energy and resources.

Before his current role, Walid served as Cluster President for North

East Africa and the Levant, contributing to major national and private

sector projects. He began his journey with Schneider Electric in 1994

and has held leadership positions globally. He established the company’s

first Regional Distribution Centre in Jebel Ali in 2001 and later took on

international roles in France, including International Accounts Manager

and Vice President of Strategy for Egypt and Africa. Over nearly three

decades, Walid has built expertise in project management, production

planning, sales, business development, and strategic leadership.


ALISHA MOOPEN

Managing Director and Group CEO

Aster DM Healthcare

Alisha Moopen is the Managing Director and Group

CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, one of the largest

integrated healthcare providers across the GCC

and India. She joined Aster in 2013 and has played a

pivotal role in expanding the company’s footprint to 15

hospitals, 117 clinics and 285 pharmacies, overseeing

comprehensive operations with a focus on delivering

primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary care services.

HIGHLIGHTS


2013 Healthcare

Net Worth:

Nationality:

Smart , etc.

Indian

8,000 (as of 2024) news.

Her strategic leadership blends financial acumen with

visionary healthcare management, accelerating Aster DM

Healthcare’s digital transformation and clinical innovation

to improve patient outcomes and operational resilience.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alisha led the rollout of

telehealth services, facilitating over 100,000 teleconsultations

and ensuring continuity of care when access was most

constrained. She also championed the expansion of home

care and diagnostic services, broadening the company’s

reach into community-based care and preventive health.

A strong advocate for diversity and female leadership,

Alisha founded the Women in Leadership programme at

Aster, providing tailored training, mentorship and pathways

to senior roles. Her community engagement is reflected

through the Aster DM Foundation and the Aster Volunteers

initiative, which deliver medical camps, health education

and essential services to underserved communities across

several countries.

Under her stewardship, Aster DM Healthcare has strengthened

clinical governance, improved financial discipline

and expanded its regional footprint while maintaining

patient-centred values. Alisha’s pragmatic, people-first

approach and commitment to innovation have positioned

Aster as a trusted healthcare partner across the region,

delivering quality care at scale and shaping the future of

integrated healthcare in the GCC and India.


AMR K. EL LEITHY

Head of Middle East and Africa Market

Nokia

Amr K. El Leithy serves as the Head of Nokia in the Middle East

and Africa (MEA), a role he assumed in January 2016 following

the landmark merger between Nokia and Alcatel-Lucent. His

leadership has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth

strategy across the region, steering operations in one of the world’s

most dynamic and rapidly evolving telecom markets.

Headquartered globally in Finland, Nokia maintains a significant

presence in the Middle East and Africa under El Leithy’s stewardship,

employing approximately 3,200 professionals across the region. His

strategic direction has enabled the company to spearhead technological

advancements, particularly in next-generation connectivity solutions. In

2021, Nokia recorded revenues of about $2.2 billion in the MEA region,

reaffirming its strong market positioning and commitment to delivering

cutting-edge solutions for operators and enterprises. El Leithy has been

at the forefront of introducing transformative technologies, including

the rollout of 5G networks.

ANKUR AGGARWAL


BNW Developments

Ankur Aggarwal is the Founder and Chairman of BNW Developments

and a driving force in the UAE’s ultra-luxury real estate sector.

In five years he has grown BNW into a developer overseeing

AED 22 billion-plus in projects, delivering architecturally distinguished

residential and mixed-use schemes across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.

Signature developments such as Aqua Arc, Taj Wellington Mews, and

Pelagia exemplify the firm’s focus on innovative design, premium finishes,

and investor-centric planning. Aggarwal’s transition from financial

services to property brought market insight and strategic partnerships

that expanded BNW’s international footprint. His team serves investors

from 30+ countries, conducting business in 82 languages, reflecting

the group’s global reach. A landmark collaboration with Taj Group on

branded residences underscores his emphasis on premium alliances.

Committed to sustainable luxury, Aggarwal balances design excellence

with long-term value creation, pursuing projects that elevate regional

hospitality and residential standards while ensuring strong returns.


ATIQ REHMAN

Co-Founder

RB&A Partners

Atiq Rehman is a seasoned financial leader with 37 years of international

banking experience, primarily with Citi, where he held

numerous senior leadership roles across global and regional markets.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Atiq played a pivotal

role in shaping complex financial transactions and expanding operations

across emerging markets before transitioning to entrepreneurship.

In January 2023, Atiq co-founded RB&A Partners, a specialised advisory

firm focused on providing superior insights and advice in strategically

important, high-value, complex situations. The firm’s leadership team

represents a combined 100+ years of experience, having advised on or

raised over $1 trillion in capital for corporates, financial institutions,

sovereigns and supranational entities across the world. RB&A Partners’

practice areas include capital structure advisory, special situations

and liability management, acquisition financing, financial institutions

advisory, and complex joint ventures. Under Atiq’s leadership, the firm

has successfully advised on landmark transactions.

DIETMAR SIERSDORFER

CEO - Middle East & Africa

Siemens Energy

Dietmar Siersdorfer serves as the Chief Executive Officer of

Siemens Energy’s Middle East and Africa operations, a role he

assumed in April 2024. Based in the UAE, Siersdorfer has played

a pivotal role in shaping Siemens Energy’s strategic presence in one of

the most dynamic regions for energy transformation and sustainable

industrial development.

Siersdorfer’s association with Siemens spans more than three decades,

beginning in 1987 when he joined the company in Mannheim, Germany,

as an electrical engineer. Over the years, he held numerous managerial

positions across the Industry and Energy sectors, driving innovation

and operational excellence across global markets. His leadership journey

reflects a deep understanding of energy technologies and regional

market needs for sustainable solutions. In 1997, Siersdorfer took on a

key international role when he moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as

part of Siemens’ Southeast Asia headquarters. For two years, he was

instrumental in promoting energy sector business across the region.


FARHAD AZIZI


Azizi Developments

Farhad Azizi is the Group Chief Executive Officer of

Azizi Developments, one of Dubai’s leading real estate

developers, renowned for its extensive portfolio of

luxury residential and commercial properties. Raised in

Dubai and deeply connected to the emirate’s transformation,

Farhad embodies strong work ethic and leadership

values, building upon the foundation established by his

father, Mirwais Azizi, founder of Azizi Group.

HIGHLIGHTS


2007 Real Estate

Nationality:

German

Under Farhad’s stewardship, Azizi Developments has

delivered tens of thousands of residences and continues to

play a pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s real estate landscape

through innovative development strategies. His leadership

style is characterised by hands-on management and transparency,

exemplified by an open-door policy that fosters

direct communication with stakeholders, and customers.

With more than 45,000 homes successfully delivered to

local and international investors and end users of over 100

nationalities, the developer prides itself on its extensive

portfolio of modern luxury developments across Dubai’s

most sought-after residential and commercial destinations,

its construction-driven approach, and its commitment

to transparency and customer centricity. The developer

develops lifestyles and enrich the lives of its residents

with a focus on catalyzing the vision and development of

the markets that it operates in. Azizi currently has around

150,000 units under construction, valued at several tens

of billions of US dollars. The company is renowned for

developing the world’s second tallest skyscraper, Burj

Azizi, as well as the master planned communities of Azizi

Riviera, Azizi Venice, and Azizi Milan, among various other

world-class projects across MBR City, Palm Jumeirah,

Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai South,

Dubailand, Al Furjan, Dubai Islands, Studio City, Sports

City and Downtown Jebel Ali.


KALPESH KINARIWALA

Founder and CEO

Pantheon Development

Kalpesh Kinariwala is the Founder and CEO of

Pantheon Development, a Dubai-based real estate

company specialising in affordable luxury properties.

Since founding Pantheon in 2016, Kalpesh has been

dedicated to transforming Dubai’s real estate landscape by

bridging the gap between aspiration and affordability. His

vision is clear: luxury is a right, not a privilege. Under his

leadership, Pantheon Development has become a trusted

HIGHLIGHTS


2016 Real Estate

Nationality:

Indian

name, known for high-quality residential projects outfitted

with world-class amenities in vibrant communities such

as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).

Pantheon’s first project, Pantheon Boulevard, completed

in 2017, featured 157 studio and one- and two-bedroom

apartments, setting a benchmark for affordable luxury.

This was followed by Pantheon Elysée I, a AED 200 million

development offering 268 residential units alongside retail

spaces, completed in 2020. The company is advancing

with projects like Pantheon Elysée II, Maison Elysée

III, and an upcoming launch in Ras Al Khaimah’s Rak

Central area, signaling Pantheon’s growth beyond Dubai.

Kalpesh’s approach focuses on customer-centric design,

sustainability, and delivering homes tailored to diverse

family needs. He pioneered Dubai’s first 10-year payment

plan, making homeownership more accessible, and emphasizes

community building within residential developments.

His leadership has earned Pantheon Development awards

for best affordable luxury developer and project delivery.

Kalpesh’s entrepreneurial spirit, innovative strategies,

and commitment to quality continue to drive Pantheon’s

success, making luxury living attainable for broader

audiences. He is actively expanding Pantheon’s footprint

across the UAE, staying ahead of market trends, and

contributing to Dubai’s vision as a modern, inclusive city

with exceptional real estate offerings.


LEWIS ALLSOPP

Chairman

Allsopp & Allsopp Group

Lewis Allsopp is the Chairman of Allsopp & Allsopp Group, a leading

real estate brokerage firm in Dubai. Starting the company in

2008 during the global financial crisis with just four employees,

Lewis transformed it into a powerhouse with over 650 staff, including

420 agents, establishing it as one of the region’s most successful real

estate agencies.

His strategic leadership has earned Allsopp & Allsopp more property

industry recognition than any other agency in the region, setting new

standards for excellence and innovation in Dubai’s dynamic real estate

market. Lewis brought innovative UK-style real estate business practices

to Dubai, introducing customer-centric approaches and professional

standards that contributed significantly to the company’s rapid growth

and market leadership. His leadership philosophy emphasises creating

a high-performance workplace culture while investing heavily in

cutting-edge technology and comprehensive marketing strategies to

maintain competitive advantage.

MAYA EL HACHEM

Managing Director and Partner

Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Maya El Hachem is a Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting

Group, where she leads the Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices and

oversees more than 750 consultants and staff. A core member of BCG’s

Public Sector, Social Impact, and Consumer Goods practices, she specialises

in human capital development and social impact strategies across the GCC.

She plays a key role in advancing national transformation agendas,

working with governments, private sector leaders, investors, and

non-profit organisations to design policies and implement strategies

that drive economic diversification, institutional reform, and social

development. Her expertise spans strategy design, operating model

development, business planning, and large-scale transformation delivery.

Maya has contributed to megaprojects and tourism transformations

that enhance competitiveness and long-term growth, positioning her

as a trusted advisor to governments and institutions. Her work bridges

policy, planning, and execution, strengthening the region’s capacity for

sustainable development.


NAWAS BASHEER

Executive Director

Nesto Group

Nawas Basheer is the Executive Director of Nesto Group, a

leading retail enterprise in the UAE, renowned for its chain

of hypermarkets and supermarkets across the GCC and India.

Under his leadership, Nesto Group has expanded to over 100 outlets,

employing thousands of people and offering a comprehensive shopping

experience to a diverse customer base. Basheer’s strategic vision has

been crucial in driving the company’s growth and operational success

in a competitive retail sector.

Basheer’s career is rooted in business management, marketing, and

organisational strategy. He began with roles in strategy development

and brand management, demonstrating his ability to boost sales and

streamline operations. His expertise in market research, pricing, and

product management laid the foundation for his leadership in retail.

He has overseen Nesto Group’s expansion across the GCC and India,

ensuring competitive pricing, enhancing product variety, and integrating

digital platforms to modernise the business.

NEELESH BHATNAGAR

Founder and Managing Director

NB Ventures

Neelesh Bhatnagar is the Founder and Managing Director of NB

Ventures, a Dubai-based venture capital fund established in 2016

to invest family wealth in Indian and Middle Eastern startups.

With over 30 years’ experience in retail, finance, and management,

Neelesh leverages his expertise to mentor entrepreneurs and accelerate

innovation across sectors. His strategic vision focuses on bridging Indian

companies to the MENA region, fostering growth and collaboration

between these expanding markets. Before establishing NB Ventures,

he held senior leadership roles including CEO of Emax and Landmark

Arabia, where he launched and managed 300+ retail stores across the

Gulf, demonstrating exceptional ability in large-scale operations and

market expansion. His venture capital approach emphasises hands-on

mentorship and strategic guidance, providing startups capital, operational

expertise, and market access. Through NB Ventures, he continues to

build bridges between markets, mentor entrepreneurs, and contribute

significantly to the region’s startup ecosystem.


NEERAJ MISHRA

Founder and CEO

AMIS Development

Neeraj Mishra’s entrepreneurial journey began with

a fascination for architecture and urban planning,

which evolved into over 15 years of experience in

development, investment, and design across the UAE’s

dynamic real estate market. In January 2024, he founded

AMIS Development to create luxury properties that unite

timeless elegance, innovation, and uncompromising quality.

The debut project, The Woodland Residences in Meydan,

HIGHLIGHTS

Year of Establishment:

October 2023

Industry:

Real Estate

Nationality:

Indian

sold out within a week of launch, setting a benchmark for

branded living in Dubai.

Mishra moved to the UAE in the early 2000s, drawn by its

unique blend of vision and opportunity. Dubai’s commitment

to growth, innovation, and sustainability inspired him to

build a business rooted in global collaboration and investor

confidence. Today, AMIS Development is headquartered

in Dubai with a growing team of 50+, and partnerships

stretching across Singapore, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

In just its first year, the company secured a landmark AED

5 billion strategic partnership with Singapore’s First APAC

Fund VCC, fuelling a pipeline of projects such as Woodland

Terraces and Woodland Crest. Each development integrates

sustainable design, smart living technologies, and highend

brand collaborations, reinforcing AMIS’s position as a

forward-thinking developer. Mishra has earned recognition

for his contribution to luxury and sustainable real estate,

while his decisions securing global investment, launching

design-led projects, and pioneering client-focused payment

models have accelerated growth. He continues to overcome

challenges by prioritising credibility, transparency, and

operational discipline. Looking ahead, Mishra’s ambition

is to expand AMIS within Dubai and into select GCC

markets, delivering projects that redefine urban living.

He remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and

fostering strong global partnerships.


PRATEEK SURI

Founder and CEO

Maser Group

Prateek Suri’s entrepreneurial journey has been shaped

by resilience, vision, and an unexpected twist of fate.

After completing his mechanical engineering at BITS

Pilani in Dubai and finishing schooling at Modern School,

Barakhamba Road, he began trading branded electronics in

India. Policy shifts suddenly disrupted operations, forcing

him to divert shipments through Dubai. By chance, these

shipments reached Africa and that turning point transformed

HIGHLIGHTS


10+ Years Diversified

Nationality:

Indian

Net Worth:

$1.9 Billion

his trajectory. What seemed accidental became destiny.

In 2016, he founded Maser Group, beginning with assembly

and trading of electronics. Africa embraced the

company’s vision, fueling extraordinary growth. Maser

expanded from 50 million dollars in revenue to one billion

dollars in 2024, becoming Africa’s seventh unicorn with a

five billion dollar valuation. For Suri, the numbers were

secondary to the impact, which included creating jobs,

building trust, and unlocking opportunities in markets

often overlooked.

Following Maser’s acquisition, he launched MDR Investments,

channeling capital into infrastructure, shipping,

artificial intelligence, healthcare, and social housing across

Africa and India. In 2025, he established the Maser Foundation,

focusing on philanthropy in healthcare, women

empowerment, and child education. His philosophy is

simple yet profound: wealth is a byproduct of hard work,

but peace comes from giving back.

Dubai has been central to his journey, providing stability,

a global platform, and the connectivity that allowed Maser

to flourish. Looking ahead, Suri envisions MDR Investments

as a global growth engine for Africa while strengthening

philanthropic initiatives through the Maser Foundation.

For him, true success lies not in valuations but in

building ecosystems that last for generations and create

meaningful, transformative impact.


RAHUL KUMAR GUPTA


Aark Developers

Rahul Kumar Gupta’s journey as Founder and Chairman

of Aark Developers reveals a distinct approach to

real estate in the UAE placing belief before buildings.

Beginning his career in brokerage, Gupta learned early that

trust, transparency, and timing outweigh trend-chasing. His

move into land trading and development stemmed from a

conviction to see beyond the obvious. Rather than follow

the market, he pursued his vision even during uncertainty,

HIGHLIGHTS


2023 Real Estate

Nationality:

Indian

Net Worth:

AED 626 Million

believing that setbacks are stepping stones. For Gupta,

resilience is measured not by avoiding failure but by how

steadfastly one rebuilds and adheres to core values.

Aark Developers, established in 2019, now commands

annual revenues of AED 5 billion with over 30 employees.

Gupta’s philosophy is simple: every project is anchored in

trust, delivered with uncompromising quality, and shaped

by partnerships that signify vision and legacy. Flagship

launches like Aark Residences, SORA Beach Residences

and Aark Terraces showcase this perspective, bolstered

by collaborations with global names such as Nikken

Sekkei and Shalini Misra. Gupta’s expat journey involved

earning credibility layer by layer in a highly competitive

market. He maneuvered through regulatory nuances and

cultural dynamics by relying on honest practices and

surrounding himself with talent aligned to his values.

His milestones launching ground-breaking projects and

cultivating a belief-driven team demonstrate a focus on

building a legacy rather than merely expanding his portfolio.

Looking ahead, Gupta aspires to re-define success in the

UAE’s dynamic property sector. His next chapter for Aark

Developers will prioritise meaningful, community-driven,

and sustainable projects aligned with a commitment to

wellness and smart design. By consistently delivering on

promises, Rahul Gupta’s legacy grows, not only in square

footage, but in the trust and confidence he instills.


RAVI MENON

Chairman

Sobha Group

Ravi Menon is the Chairman of Sobha Group, a position

he assumed in November 2024, succeeding the

group’s founder PNC Menon, who remains active as

the Founder and continues guiding the group’s subsidiaries.

With over two decades of experience at Sobha, Ravi has

been instrumental in advancing the company’s strategic

vision and fostering a culture of innovation and operational

excellence. He joined Sobha Limited in India in 2004 as a

HIGHLIGHTS


1976 Real Estate

Nationality:

Omani

Director before becoming Vice Chairman and later Chairman

of Sobha Limited India, then Co-Chairman of Sobha

Group in Dubai. A civil engineering graduate with honors

from Purdue University, USA, Ravi combines technical

expertise with deep understanding of real estate markets

in the Middle East and India. Under his leadership, Sobha

has emerged as a global luxury real estate developer with

a distinctive “Backward Integration” Model controlling

everything from design and manufacturing to delivery,

ensuring superior quality and timelines.

Sobha Group operates across 13 subsidiaries, including

architectural, construction, landscaping, furniture, and

energy solutions companies, securing its position as a oneof-a-kind

integrated developer, which is also the subject of

a Harvard Business School case study. Its projects span

the UAE, and India, with ongoing expansions including the

first masterplan development planned in Texas, USA and

Australia in 2025. Ravi works alongside Sobha Realty’s

Managing Director Francis Alfred to drive Sobha’s growth by

delivering high-quality luxury developments, industry-leading

craftsmanship, and sustainable practices. Sobha Group’s

workforce today exceeds 50,000 employees across the UAE

alone. Committed to upholding the legacy and vision of

Founder PNC Menon, Ravi Menon has big dreams for Sobha,

aiming to make it the most preferred luxury real estate brand

globally while expanding into new international markets.


SAMEH MUHTADI

CEO

RAK Properties

Sameh Muhtadi is the CEO of RAK Properties, the premier real estate

developer in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Since his appointment in 2022,

he has led the company with over 30 years of international real

estate and operational experience spanning the Middle East, Asia, and

the United States, bringing global expertise to one of the UAE’s most

promising real estate markets.

Under his leadership, RAK Properties has made significant strides

in sustainable development, including the ambitious development of

Mina Al Arab, a $1.4 billion master-planned waterfront community that

combines luxury living with environmental sustainability amid natural

mangroves and pristine beaches. His visionary approach focuses on

innovation, sustainable growth, and delivering comprehensive environmental,

social, and economic value aligned with RAK Vision 2030.

Sameh’s strategic leadership has positioned RAK Properties as a pioneer

in sustainable real estate development, integrating advanced technology

and environmental best practices into all major projects.

THIERRY DELVAUX


Equitativa Group

Thierry Delvaux, Chief Executive Officer, Equitativa Group, brings

over 20 years of experience in commercial real estate, spanning

Europe, Asia, the United States, and now the Middle East and

Africa. His career began in 2003 with JLL in Hungary, where he managed

operations across Tenant Representation, Office, Industrial and

Retail Agency, Capital Markets, and Project and Property Management.

In 2007, he spearheaded the establishment of JLL’s office in Romania,

strengthening the firm’s regional presence and leading large-scale

transactions across the Balkans.

A member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), he

is committed to excellence, ethics, and industry best practices. His

expertise covers Tenant Representation, Office and Industrial Projects,

Capital Markets, Real Estate Transactions, Appraisals, and Strategic

Planning. Currently, he applies his global experience to shape real

estate strategies in the Middle East and Africa, enabling organisations

to capture opportunities in high-growth markets.


VENKATASUBRAMANIAN HARIHARAN

Managing Director - EMEA

Canon

Venkatasubramanian Hariharan is the Managing Director of Canon

Middle East (EMEA), the regional headquarters of Canon. He assumed

this leadership role in July 2021, guiding the organisation

through its post-pandemic transition, implementing business recovery

strategies, integrating Canon Turkey, and spearheading expansion

into key regional markets. His mandate also includes driving a strong

customer-centric agenda to ensure sustained growth.

Hariharan’s career with Canon began in 2006, and he has played a

pivotal role in the company’s evolution into a leading B2C organisation

in the Middle East. From January 2017, he served as the B2C Business

Unit Director at CME, where he strengthened the company’s leadership

position across the GCC. During this tenure, he focused on channel development,

regional expansions, and operational streamlining, adopting

innovative approaches that reinforced Canon’s market dominance. Before

this, between 2012 and 2016, Hariharan served as Sales Director for both

B2B and B2C segments, overseeing sales operations across the GCC.

VIVEK ANAND OBEROI

Managing Director and Co-Founder

BNW Developments

Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi is Managing Director and Co-Founder of

BNW Developments, UAE’s ultra-luxury real estate firm with

AED 19.4 billion in assets under development. Beyond his acclaimed

Bollywood career, he is a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist,

shaping the UAE’s real estate landscape with vision and purpose. Under

his leadership, BNW delivers landmark projects like Aqua Arc and Taj

Wellington Mews, blending luxury, sustainability, and social impact.

Co-founded with Ankur Aggarwal, the firm offers branded residences

with sophisticated interiors, world-class amenities, and prime locations.

Oberoi also owns Solitario, a sustainable lab-grown diamond brand,

reflecting his commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility,

and creating long-term social and economic value.

His approach emphasises ethical business practices, community

empowerment, and environmentally conscious development. Oberoi’s

ventures not only redefine luxury and investment in the region but also

inspire a new generation of leaders.


ZIAD EL CHAAR


DarGlobal Real Estate

Ziad El Chaar serves as the Chief Executive Officer

of DarGlobal Real Estate, a role he has held since

2019, spearheading the company’s ambitious global

expansion and solidifying its position among the world’s

leading luxury property developers. With over two decades

of expertise in real estate investment, development, and

strategic leadership, El Chaar has cultivated a reputation

for delivering iconic projects that seamlessly blend design

HIGHLIGHTS


2017 Real Estate

Nationality:

Lebanese

excellence, innovation, and enduring investment value.

DarGlobal’s portfolio spans prime markets across the

Gulf Cooperation Council and Europe, including downtown

Dubai, Muscat, and Spain’s Costa del Sol, establishing the

company as a benchmark for luxury living and high-end

real estate experiences. Prior to DarGlobal, El Chaar held

senior executive positions with Emaar Properties, DAMAC

Properties, and Dar Al Arkan, gaining extensive experience

in corporate governance, executive management, board

oversight, and operational excellence.

Under his leadership, DarGlobal has forged landmark

partnerships with globally renowned brands such as Versace,

Missoni, W Hotels, and Automobili Lamborghini,

delivering signature developments including Tierra Viva in

Marbella and the Trump International Golf Club in Dubai.

His strategic vision emphasises innovation, sustainability,

and a customer-centric approach, ensuring that each

development reflects uncompromising quality, elegance,

and market relevance.

Through his stewardship, DarGlobal continues to redefine

the luxury real estate landscape, combining architectural

distinction, strategic foresight, and financial rigor.

El Chaar’s leadership not only enhances the company’s

global reputation but also exemplifies a sophisticated

understanding of market dynamics, cementing DarGlobal’s

status as a preeminent force in international real estate.


AKBAR MOIDEEN THUMBAY

Vice President – Thumbay Healthcare and Board Member

Thumbay Group

Akbar Moideen Thumbay serves as Vice President of Thumbay

Healthcare, the medical arm of Thumbay Group, and co-chairs

the GMU Academic Health System. Educated across India, UAE,

Italy, and the US, he began his career in New York before joining Thumbay

Group, founded by his father, Dr. Thumbay Moideen.

He oversees hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, labs, and optical outlets

across the UAE. Under his leadership, the group has grown into the

country’s largest private-academic network, serving patients from 175

countries, treating over 11 million people, and conducting 100,000+

deliveries. The division operates seven hospitals with 800 beds and was

the 5th worldwide to achieve JCI Enterprise Accreditation. A pioneer in

medical tourism, Akbar has positioned Thumbay Hospitals as a destination

for advanced care, attracting patients from Africa, Southern Europe,

and beyond. His vision extends to establishing Thumbay Healthcare as

the largest academic healthcare network in the Middle East, combining

world-class quality healthcare with affordability and accessibility.

BAL KRISHEN RATHORE

Chairman

The Century Group

Bal Krishen Rathore is the Chairman and CEO of Century Group,

a diversified enterprise with a strong presence in investment

services, wealth management, real estate, technology, insurance,

logistics, and banking solutions. Rising from humble beginnings in

Jammu & Kashmir, India, he started his career in the UAE in 1999 as a

dealer at Century Financial and rapidly advanced to lead the company.

Under his visionary leadership, Century Group has evolved into a global

financial powerhouse, known for integrating cutting-edge technology

and delivering bespoke asset and wealth management solutions to

high-net-worth individuals.

Bal Krishen is recognised for his people-centric leadership, focusing

on sustainable growth, operational simplicity, and scalability. Beyond

business, he is a dedicated philanthropist supporting financial literacy and

economic empowerment initiatives. His commitment to excellence and

community impact has positioned him as a standout figure in the UAE’s

financial landscape, driving innovation and growth across industries.


CALUM WHITE


White & Co

Calum White has always believed that real estate

is about people, discipline, and vision rather than

just transactions. His journey began more than a

decade ago in a fiercely competitive market, where he

quickly realised that success comes from consistency,

adaptability, and supporting the individuals who drive the

business forward. This guiding ethos, “If you look after

the broker, the broker will look after the client,” became

HIGHLIGHTS


2021 Real Estate

Net Worth:

Nationality:

Smart , etc.

Scottish

8,000 (as of 2024) news.

the cornerstone of White & Co Real Estate.

In 2016, Calum moved from Scotland to Dubai, inspired

by the city’s fast-paced property landscape, international

connectivity, and limitless potential for ambitious entrepreneurs.

By 2021, he launched White & Co with just eight

brokers operating out of a 16,000 sq. ft. office. In only four

years, the company has grown to over 450 professionals

across 41,000 sq. ft., establishing itself as one of Dubai’s

most forward-thinking brokerages. Today, it stands among

the city’s leading lead generators and continues to push

boundaries through innovation, talent development, and

a client-first mindset.

Under his leadership, White & Co has been recognised

for its exceptional growth, high-performance culture,

and contribution to raising industry standards. Central to

this achievement has been a relentless focus on training,

leadership support, and creating an environment where

brokers feel empowered to succeed. Beyond real estate,

White has diversified into nine complementary businesses

across construction, luxury services, and property-related

ventures, building a stronger foundation for long-term

expansion.

Calum remains ambitious about the future. His goal is

clear: to see White & Co recognised as Dubai’s largest and

most respected brokerage, not only by size and revenue,

but by quality, reputation, and lasting impact.


EBRAHEEM HUSNI AL SAMADI

Founder and CEO

Forever Rose

Ebraheem Husni Al Samadi is the Founder and Chief Executive

Officer of Forever Rose, a prestigious luxury gifting boutique

renowned for its artisan flowers, premium chocolates, curated

perfumes and Ouds, and exclusive collections of jewellery and diamonds.

Ebraheem has driven the brand’s evolution from a family-owned florist

into a leading name synonymous with timeless elegance and enduring

luxury gifts across the Gulf region and Europe.

Ebraheem’s business acumen and visionary leadership have driven

Forever Rose’s growth into a leading retail destination for customers

seeking meaningful, long-lasting gifts. The company is known for its

signature ‘forever roses,’ cultivated from volcanic Ecuadorian soils and

preserved to last years without water or sunlight. This product innovation,

along with expansion into premium chocolates, fragrances, and

fine jewellery, reflects Ebraheem’s commitment to quality, creativity,

and creating joyful customer experiences.

KHALED NUSEIBEH


Hala

Khaled Nuseibeh is the Chief Executive Officer of Hala, Dubai’s

leading homegrown e-hailing platform and joint venture between

Careem and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Since his

appointment in June 2022, he has driven the company’s strategic direction

and operational excellence, spearheading growth and innovation whilst

leveraging Careem’s ride-hailing technology and the RTA’s local expertise to

provide reliable transportation solutions across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.

Under his leadership, Hala has achieved remarkable expansion, rapidly

growing its fleet to over 13,000 vehicles with nearly 20,000 captains. His

focus on driver welfare and operational excellence has led to the launch of

innovative initiatives such as Hala Home, designed to support captain wellbeing

and foster a culture of inclusivity and belonging within the organisation.

Nuseibeh brings over two decades of experience in technology and

transport sectors, having held senior leadership positions at prominent

regional companies. During his tenure at Careem, he successfully led

operations across nine key markets spanning the GCC and North Africa.


HARSH PATEL

Founder and Global CEO

Water & Shark

Harsh Patel is consistently ranked among the world’s

most sought-after advisors in asset protection and

cross-border tax strategy, an architect of trust,

influence, and enduring legacies. As Founder and Global

CEO of Water & Shark, he has built one of the most progressive

multi-jurisdictional advisory platforms, spanning

law, tax, finance, and strategic structuring.

He delivers transformative solutions to the who’s who

HIGHLIGHTS


2012 Legal & Assurance Consulting

Nationality:

Indian

of global enterprise, from aviation innovators and retail

giants to technology disruptors, real estate powerhouses,

sovereign offices, family conglomerates, and multinational

corporations. Beyond corporate boardrooms, Patel serves

as Chief Legal Advisor to His Highness Sheikh TahNoon

Bin Saeed Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, where he architects

sovereign wealth strategies, legacy governance, and

cross-border legal frameworks for royal families, billionaire

investors, and government dignitaries.

A global voice on policy and governance, Patel has

addressed the European Parliament, the UK Parliament,

and other international forums, actively shaping debates

on taxation, wealth preservation, and the future of global

capital flows. His insights are regularly featured in Forbes,

The Economic Times, and India Today, and his leadership

has been recognised with distinctions such as the ET Indo

Global Leaders Award 2025, Icon of UAE, Champions of

Change, and Pride of Maharashtra.

Beyond the corridors of power, Patel advances social

impact through the Water & Shark Foundation, dedicated

to education, financial literacy, and supporting underprivileged

children. At the cornerstone of his philosophy lies

a simple yet powerful credo: Protect. Preserve. Prosper.

This vision defines his leadership and cements Water &

Shark’s standing as the most trusted global institution for

legal, tax, and financial strategy.


KRIS FADE

Founder

Fade Fit

Kris Fade is a celebrated Australian-Lebanese radio

presenter, musician, and entrepreneur based in Dubai.

He is best known as the host of The Kris Fade Show,

the flagship breakfast programme on Virgin Radio Dubai,

which also airs across Lebanon and Australia. Beginning

his radio journey in Sydney, Kris played a pivotal role in

launching Virgin Radio’s first Middle Eastern station in

2007, where his dynamic presence quickly made him a

HIGHLIGHTS


2018 Fitness & Lifestyle

Nationality:

Australian Lebanese

household name throughout the region.

Recognised for his engaging personality and infectious

energy, Kris has transformed his show into the

highest-rated English-language morning programme in

the UAE, attracting millions of daily listeners and cementing

his status as one of the region’s most influential

media figures. His authentic style allows him to connect

deeply with audiences, turning morning commutes

into moments of entertainment and companionship.

Beyond broadcasting, Kris has demonstrated his entrepreneurial

spirit through the creation of Fade Fit, a

fast-growing snack and beverage brand offering healthier

alternatives for children and families. The venture reflects

his commitment to wellness and innovation, blending

creativity with strategic business acumen.

Balancing media and business, Kris emphasises passion,

consistency, and authenticity as guiding principles. Despite the

demands of early morning radio and running multiple ventures,

he continues to prioritise wellness, teamwork, and innovation.

Today, Kris Fade stands as a multi-talented personality who

has successfully merged media excellence with entrepreneurship

and family life, making him a prominent figure

in the UAE’s dynamic cultural and business landscape,

inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams

whilst building sustainable ventures that positively impact

communities across the region.


MANOJ SUREKA

CEO and Managing Partner

Synergy Fin. Consulting

Manoj Sureka is a recognised name in finance and

advisory leadership. His career blends business

and investment advisory with strategic acumen,

making a significant impact on Dubai’s financial landscape.

Manoj’s innovative mindset and expertise have driven

success in financial consulting across Dubai and beyond.

He holds a Chartered Accountancy degree from the Institute

of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and a commerce

HIGHLIGHTS


2017 Financial Services & Consulting

Nationality:

Indian

degree from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata. This grounding

laid the platform for an illustrious professional journey

spanning two decades.

Manoj built his reputation through tenures at leading institutions

including RAK Bank, Mashreq Bank, National Bank

of Fujairah and SEI Finance. Leveraging this experience, he

founded and grew Synergy Fin. Consulting into a strategic

financial advisory firm that transcends traditional consulting.

Synergy partners with corporations seeking innovative

solutions in fundraising and financial advisory, specialising

in private equity, debt structuring, trade finance and strategic

corporate partnerships. Manoj and his team have cultivated

a network across the GCC and Far East, connecting with

financial institutions, sovereign funds and institutional

investors in Hong Kong, Singapore and the Middle East.

The firm addresses complex corporate challenges, from

private equity fundraising to intricate debt and trade finance

structures, while advising on mergers and acquisitions,

joint ventures and strategic partnerships. Manoj has

helped many businesses grow by providing timely access

to funding and seizing critical opportunities.

His contributions were recognised with inclusion on the

Advisory Panel for the Divya Chakra Award 2023, testament

to his commitment. He continues to inspire and lead,

helping businesses unlock strategic potential and drive

the region’s financial future, and foster long-term growth.


MARILYN LYDIA PINTO

Founder

KFI Global

Marilyn Lydia Pinto is the Founder of KFI Global, a leading financial

education organisation in the UAE dedicated to transforming the

way young people learn about money. Since its inception, KFI

Global has emerged as a pioneer in financial literacy, equipping teenagers

and young adults with the knowledge and confidence to make smarter

financial decisions. Under Marilyn’s leadership, the organisation has

impacted more than 8,500 individuals through innovative programs and

strategic collaborations with schools, corporations, and financial institutions.

Passionate about positioning financial education as a fundamental life

skill, Marilyn views empowerment through financial literacy as a critical

social justice issue. She is also the author of Smarter, Richer, Braver,

which presents her dynamic, practical approach to teaching finance in

a way that resonates with younger audiences. By combining theoretical

concepts with real-world applications such as budgeting, investing, and

debt management, Marilyn continues to champion financial empowerment

across the region.

MARK CHAHWAN

Co-Founder and Group CEO

Sarwa

Mark Chahwan is the Co-Founder and Group CEO of Sarwa, a

fintech platform revolutionising the investment landscape in the

Middle East. Launched in 2017, Sarwa aims to make investing

accessible, affordable, and user-friendly, particularly for young professionals

and the mass affluent segment. Mark’s vision stemmed from

recognising significant gaps in the Middle Eastern investment market,

where many found traditional investing intimidating and inaccessible.

His professional background includes strategic roles at Accenture

Strategy in banking and wealth management, and positions at Caisse de

dépôt et placement du Québec and BLOMINVEST Bank, which shaped

his comprehensive expertise in financial services and technology integration.

Under his leadership, Sarwa has achieved remarkable growth,

surpassing $10 billion in trading volume with over 180,000 registered

users, establishing itself as a leading fintech platform in the region,

driving financial inclusion, investor education, and empowering the

next generation of tech-savvy investors.


MASIH IMTIAZ


Imtiaz Developments

Masih Imtiaz, CEO of Imtiaz Developments, blends entrepreneurial

drive with a family legacy of over 30 years in international

construction. Under his leadership, the company has expanded

into Dubai’s luxury property market, been recognised as UAE’s fastest-rising

developers and has scaled revenue from AED 100 million to

AED 3 billion within two years, supported by a growing portfolio of

over 30 premium projects across prime Dubai locations.

Masih’s vision emphasises design-focused living, branded finishes,

and sustainable development, positioning the company

as a trusted name for investors and end-users alike. His approach

builds on the firm’s vertically integrated model, ensuring

superior quality, early handovers, and strong returns on investment.

His leadership has also been recognised beyond business. In 2024, he

was awarded the Order of Philanthropy by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum for Imtiaz’s AED 50 million contribution to the

Fathers’ Endowment Campaign.

MRIDULA SINGH


ZENA Properties

Mridula Singh is an award-winning entrepreneur and visionary

executive, serving as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer

of ZENA Properties, a boutique real estate firm established in

2022 focused on strategic acquisition, smart design upgrades, and modern

property management. Her leadership has revolutionised Dubai’s

real estate by transforming underutilised assets into high-performing,

aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial spaces across prime

locations including Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and JVC.

She pioneered a unique business model combining interior design excellence

with strategic leasing and high-yield exit options. ZENA Properties

boasts exceptional occupancy rates and client loyalty, driven by her

dedication to authenticity, trust, and cost-effective solutions. Parallel

to real estate, Mridula directs Spectrum Networks DMCC, a leading IT

and cybersecurity training provider boasting over 200,000 trained professionals

across MEA. Spectrum has been recognised by Microsoft and

Bloomberg for innovation and excellence in digital skills development.


REZA S. ZAMANI

Founder and CEO | Co-Founder

Aban Smart Systems | Eivan Properties | Dubai Props | Kanz.ai

Reza S. Zamani is the Founder and CEO of Aban Smart Systems

and Co-Founder of Eivan Properties and Kanz.ai, a serial entrepreneur

with over 30 years of technology and leadership

experience across the Middle East. His career began in the 1990s as

a software developer, quickly progressing to project leadership, team

management, and international negotiations. In 2005, he founded Aban IT

in Iran, later transforming it into Aban Holding, serving 28 major banks

with AI solutions, digital transformation, and compliance expertise.

After moving to Dubai in 2017, Reza launched Aban Smart Systems in

2019 and co-founded Kanz.ai in 2024, pioneering AI-driven compliance

and risk management for banking. In 2025, he co-founded Eivan Properties,

a leader in AI-based mortgage and PropTech solutions. His ventures

employ over 115 professionals across the UAE, Iran, and Europe.

Reza’s leadership emphasises trust, adaptability, and resilience. He

mentors young entrepreneurs, drives innovation, and aims to position

the UAE as a global benchmark for digital property platforms.

RITESH TILANI

Founding Partner

Enhance Ventures

Ritesh Tilani is the Founding Partner of Enhance Ventures, a

pioneering venture studio focused on scaling innovative online

businesses in the MENAPT region. Since co-founding Enhance

Ventures in 2015, Ritesh has driven its growth by combining entrepreneurship

and technology to build impactful services and products. His

role centres on nurturing startups from inception to success, fostering

innovation, and executing strategic vision.

With a strong business and consulting background, Ritesh co-launched

Joi Gifts, the leading online gifting platform in the Middle East, scaling

it across 21 cities in 8 countries. Under his leadership, Enhance

Ventures has expanded into SME digitisation and PropTech, growing

a portfolio focused on digital transformation. Ritesh’s philosophy emphasises

collaboration, agility, and social impact, ensuring ventures

remain adaptable, customer-focused, and purpose-driven. His legacy

lies in reshaping digital ventures and building a thriving ecosystem of

innovative startups.


ROSS VEITCH

Co-Founder and CEO

Wego

Ross Veitch is the Co-Founder and CEO of Wego, a leading online

travel marketplace simplifying flight and hotel bookings across

the Asia-Pacific and MENA regions. With over two decades of

experience in technology and travel, Ross has played a pivotal role

in shaping Wego into a trusted platform focused on customer-centric

innovation and seamless travel experiences.

Ross began his career as a strategic analyst with the Australian Tourist

Commission, championing the launch of australia.com. He later joined

Yahoo! Southeast Asia, leading product development and scaling digital

services across millions of users. In 2005, Ross co-founded Wego, initially

called Bezurk, to revolutionise travel booking with real-time comparisons.

As CEO since 2012, he has driven growth through innovation,

strategic partnerships, and technological excellence. His visionary and

collaborative leadership fosters creativity, transparency, and continuous

learning. Ross’s legacy lies in transforming travel technology, shaping

how people discover and book travel worldwide.

SAHAR COOPER


Aldar Education

Sahar Cooper is the CEO of Aldar Education, a leading provider of

education in Abu Dhabi. With over 25 years of global education

management experience, Sahar has driven Aldar Education’s

growth and transformation since 2018. Her leadership is defined by a

commitment to inclusive, innovative, and sustainable education, aiming

to deliver world-class learning experiences.

Sahar’s career includes senior roles at institutions such as GEMS

Education, where she was Chief Schools Operating Officer, and the

American University of Sharjah. Her expertise in educational management,

strategy execution, risk governance, and talent development has

been key to Aldar Education’s success. Under her leadership, Aldar

Education expanded its school network, acquiring key institutions

and establishing new schools. She champions a child-centric, inclusive

approach, serving students from over 100 nationalities and integrating

advanced technologies and sustainable practices. Her legacy is transformative

leadership that empowers future generations through education.


SAEED ALIZADEH


Eivan Properties

Saeed Alizadeh, an Iranian entrepreneur, moved to

Dubai in 2001 and has since built a diversified business

portfolio before founding Eivan Properties, where he

now serves as CEO. His entrepreneurial journey began with

a small retail business that grew into importing textiles,

clothing, and footwear. Driven by adaptability and a willingness

to explore new opportunities, he soon expanded

into freight, logistics, trading, currency exchange, and

HIGHLIGHTS


2025 Real Estate

Nationality:

Been in UAE Since:

Iranian 2001

packaged foods, gaining the resilience and strategic foresight

that would shape his path into real estate development.

Recognising Dubai’s potential as a global hub with strategic

sea routes, world-class shipping infrastructure, and

robust financial systems, Saeed embraced the city as the

ideal platform to scale his ventures. In 2025, he established

Eivan Properties, a company now recognised for

exclusive luxury developments, premium communities,

and sustainable projects. Today, he manages over 120+

professionals across the UAE, Turkey, Oman, and China,

serving both investors and end-users.

Under his leadership, Eivan Properties has delivered

landmark projects, built a strong network, and embraced

innovation to remain at the forefront of Dubai’s luxury

real estate sector. Saeed’s leadership style is visionary

yet grounded, centred on trust, adaptability, and community-building.

Though setbacks in trust and partnerships

tested his resilience, he views them as lessons that sharpened

his strategy.

Looking ahead, Saeed aspires to make Eivan Properties

one of Dubai’s top 10 development companies. His focus

for the next three years is to expand the company’s luxury

portfolio, integrate technology for seamless client experiences,

and build communities that inspire and endure,

cementing his legacy as a leader shaping Dubai’s evolving

real estate landscape.


SAFA SIDDIQUI

Partner and CEO

Decisive Living

Safa Siddiqui is the Partner and CEO of Decisive

Living, a Dubai-based real estate firm recognised for

its personalised, client-focused service in the city’s

luxury property market. Leveraging her strong vision and

expertise in high-end real estate, Safa shapes Decisive

Living as a forward-thinking company where buyers, renters,

and investors receive bespoke guidance for seamless,

rewarding property journeys. Her leadership blends deep

HIGHLIGHTS


2025 Real Estate & Entertainment

Nationality:

British & Iraqi

market insight with an unwavering commitment to transparency,

trust, and satisfaction, qualities that continually

set Decisive Living apart in Dubai’s competitive landscape,

making it a benchmark for excellence.

Decisive Living specialises in premium residences and

developments across Dubai’s most sought-after neighborhoods,

utilising advanced marketing tools such as professional

photography, immersive virtual tours, and strategic

digital outreach to maximise visibility and attract discerning

clients. Safa’s approach fosters lasting relationships and

repeat business, earning the company a trusted reputation

among high-net-worth individuals locally and internationally,

while consistently delivering outstanding results.

Located in Business Bay, the firm maintains a strong Dubai

presence while expanding its influence through strategic

partnerships and targeted initiatives, notably extending

into India’s property investment sector. Embracing innovation,

technology, and a progressive company culture,

Safa leads Decisive Living to continuously adapt, raise

standards, and promote sustainable, high-value property

investments. Her entrepreneurial spirit draws global attention,

builds bridges between markets, and creates fresh

opportunities for clients seeking unmatched quality and

excellence. Safa’s dynamic leadership and market-savvy

strategies ensure Decisive Living’s ongoing evolution as

a premier, trusted force in luxury real estate.


SAKSHI NATH

Founder

Passion F&B Brands: Trèsind and Queens Beauty Lounge

Sakshi Nath’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in a passion for

creating experiences that resonate beyond business. She made

her mark in Dubai with Trèsind, the Indian fine dining brand that

transformed culinary storytelling and achieved global acclaim, including

three Michelin Stars for Trèsind Studio. Building on this success,

she launched Queens Beauty Lounge, blending beauty, wellness, and

empowerment

Since founding Passion F&B Brands in 2014, Sakshi has expanded

to eight restaurants in Dubai, three in India, and brought Zaatar w Zeit

to India through franchising. Today, the group employs more than 600

people and generates over AED 80 million annually. Her milestones

include setting new benchmarks for Indian gastronomy, gaining global

recognition for Trèsind Studio, and diversifying into beauty and wellness.

Challenges as an expat tested her adaptability, and she credits resilience,

teamwork, and customer trust for her growth. She remains focused on

international expansion and wellness-driven ventures.

SOLALEH SAHEB ZAMANI

Strategic Advisor and Director

Eivan Properties

With more than two decades of entrepreneurial and advisory experience,

Solaleh Saheb Zamani has established herself as a transformative

leader who unites strategic vision with people-centred

leadership. Her journey began in Iran, where she founded a consulting

firm specialising in organisational transformation and leadership development,

later expanding her influence across Europe and the Middle East.

Since moving to Dubai in 2020, Solaleh has embraced multiple

leadership roles. As Strategic Advisor and Leadership Coach, she

guides executives toward clarity and resilience. As Director at

Eivan Properties, she oversees high-value real estate projects with

a focus on innovation and sustainability. And through DubaiProps.

com, she is pioneering AI-driven real estate intelligence, empowering

investors with data-backed insights and strategic foresight.

To protect investors capital and optimise their portfolios resulting in

accelerated flow of investment into the market. This approach minimises

waste and risk while maximising efficiency.


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Top 100 Expat Leaders of the UAE 2025 | Finance World Power Issue Edition 2025

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Top 100 Expat Leaders of the UAE 2025 | Finance World Power Issue Edition 2025

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