Explore the Fast Company Middle East’s Most Innovative Companies 2025 list, featuring 56 winning entries reshaping businesses and industries. We’ve selected the companies making the most significant impact with their initiatives across 24 categories, including the most innovative AI and data science, sustainability, energy, finance & fintech, and women-backed companies.

Retail influences consumer behavior, trends, and expectations. By leveraging data-driven insights and innovative technologies, brands can create experiences that resonate with customers and drive conversions. These companies continuously experiment, adapt, and innovate to maintain a competitive edge in the market. They prioritize building connections, enhancing experiences, and making an impact, rather than focusing solely on sales.

Chalhoub Group

For sustainable, personalized luxury retail

Chalhoub Group has redefined digital luxury shopping with Layla AI, the Middle East’s first Generative AI-powered beauty coach. Layla AI provides human-like, multi-dialect Arabic interactions, recommending tailored skincare, makeup, fragrance, and haircare routines. Since launch, it has increased engagement and product discovery. The company also advanced sustainability through Resolve, cleaning up over 450 pallets of aged visual merchandise, saving $ 240,000 in storage, and keeping waste under 5 percent. Additionally, it extended product life cycles through reMUSE, a circular marketplace connecting consumers with pre-loved items. By blending AI expertise, cultural fluency, and circular practices, Chalhoub Group enhances customer experience, supports eco-conscious commerce, and empowers operational efficiency.

GMG

For transforming retail and wellness 

GMG has strengthened its leadership by combining consumer insights, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships. It is transforming in-store expertise into personalized digital experiences. Supercare has evolved into a holistic wellness destination with Derma Studio offering tailored skincare consultations. In the sports retail sector, GMG partnered with Frasers Group to bring Sports Direct to the region and expand Nike’s digital footprint across Kuwait and Qatar. Consumer-focused product innovation included Be Perly, a performance-focused electrolyte drink, and Shnax protein chips with new flavors, alongside a co-branded McCain ready-in-minutes meal. Logistics innovation via Trilogi enabled same-day delivery and optimized warehouse operations using AI, resulting in a reduction in fleet size. GMG’s initiatives drive measurable economic, social, and environmental impact while creating future-ready retail experiences.