Creativity is the force that transforms ideas into impact, setting visionaries apart and shaping the future of industries, communities, and culture across the Middle East. It drives businesses to develop pioneering products and strategies, empowers government institutions to design policies that spark positive change, and enables communities to solve complex challenges with fresh thinking. Artists and cultural leaders channel their creativity to inspire, engage, and leave a lasting mark on society.

In its fourth edition, Fast Company Middle East’s Most Creative People in Business 2026 celebrated 49 remarkable individuals whose work spans entrepreneurship, design, the arts, sustainability, government, and beyond. Over the course of the evening, these leaders shared insights, reflected on bold ideas, and demonstrated how creativity, ingenuity, and determination can drive meaningful progress while leaving a lasting legacy.

Binance joined as a strategic partner for the event, connecting honorees and the wider community to networks, learning opportunities, and potential collaborations. Blacklane supported the gathering as the mobility partner, promoting responsible travel and helping turn recognition into lasting professional opportunities. Both sponsors played a key role in empowering the individuals celebrated and in reflecting the purpose and impact at the heart of Most Creative People in Business.

We are proud to have honored this extraordinary group of innovators and visionaries, whose achievements inspire others to reimagine what is possible and set new standards for creativity across the region.

Here is the exceptional list of honorees Fast Company Middle East recognized for their transformative creativity.

H.E. Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE)

His Excellency Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab has served as Chairman of the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE) since its establishment in September 2023, following his pivotal role in merging multiple government entities to form the department. He leads Abu Dhabi’s smart and digital transformation, implementing AI-driven, data-centric strategies to deliver next-generation, citizen-focused services through initiatives like TAMM. A strong advocate for human capital development, Al Kuttab promotes policies and learning initiatives that upskill government employees and foster innovation. He also oversees the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD), ensuring data-driven decision-making across government operations. Beyond DGE, he serves on boards including the Advanced Technology Research Council, Khalifa University, Emirates Development Bank, and the National Defence College.

H.E. Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General, Digital Cooperation Organization

Deemah AlYahya is a Saudi technology leader who currently serves as Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) and sits on the board of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property. She has led the DCO since its establishment in 2021, overseeing efforts to promote international cooperation on digital economy policies, inclusion, and capacity building. Her career spans the public and private sectors. She began her career as a software developer at Samba Financial Group and later worked at Tadawul, becoming one of the first women in technical roles at both institutions. She went on to hold senior positions at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Microsoft, where she focused on developer ecosystems, digital skills, and innovation programs across multiple regions. From 2016 to 2017, AlYahya led Saudi Arabia’s National Digital Transformation Unit, coordinating digital initiatives across government entities. She has also been involved in initiatives supporting digital skills, startups, and women in technology, and continues to advise on digital policy through regional and global platforms.

Fatima Alshamsi, Biomedical engineer & researcher

Fatima Alshamsi is an Emirati scientist making breakthroughs in the understanding of vascular complications in type 2 diabetes through pioneering genomics and precision medicine research. As the first joint PhD student between Khalifa University (UAE) and KU Leuven (Belgium), she uses single-nuclei RNA sequencing and multi-omics to reveal molecular drivers of endothelial cell dysfunction. Her research aims to develop new therapies for metabolic diseases that affect millions of people. Alshamsi also mentors emerging Arab scientists and champions the UAE’s role in global biomedical innovation, representing a new generation shaping medicine’s future in the region. 

Dr. Habiba Al Safar, Dean, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Khalifa University

Dr. Habiba Al Safar is Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Professor of Genomics at Khalifa University. She focuses her research on constructing genomic profiles of individuals of Arab descent. Her goal is to identify disease-related genetic segments, particularly those affecting the UAE’s local communities. With over 100 publications in Q1 journals, her work includes the first whole-genome sequencing of Emirati subjects. This research sheds light on genetic diversity and establishes a UAE-specific reference genome. Dr. Al Safar has been a member of the UAE Science Council since 2016. 

Israa Othman, PhD researcher, chemistry

From advancing nanomaterial research to promoting scientific leadership, Israa Othman is a committed and dynamic young scientist in chemistry. As a PhD candidate working on quantum-dot-based photocatalysts for sustainable CO₂ conversion, she has secured multiple competitive grants to support her work on solar-driven fuel production. In addition to her research achievements, Othman serves as President of the American Chemical Society student chapter at Khalifa University, where she actively mentors and engages the next generation of scientists. Passionate about harnessing nanoscience for environmental impact, she strives to translate laboratory innovation into practical contributions toward cleaner energy and a more sustainable future.

H.E. Dr. Moza Suwaidan, CEO, Digital Applications & Platforms Sector, Digital Dubai Government Establishment

Dr. Moza Suwaidan is the CEO of the Digital Applications and Platforms Sector at the Digital Dubai Government Establishment. She oversees citywide planning and governance for Dubai’s core digital platforms, including shared government services, central digital channels, and initiatives linked to the city’s digital transformation agenda. Her remit spans product strategy and delivery, software development, customer experience, and operational management, alongside major programs such as the Dubai Paperless Strategy, Invest in Dubai, and unified government platforms. She also leads Digital Government planning and transformation, covering strategy, performance, quality management, and project governance. Before joining Digital Dubai, Dr. Suwaidan was the Director of Information Technology at Dubai Culture, where she oversaw IT strategy and digital platforms. Earlier in her career, she held technology roles at Dubai Aluminum (DUBAL). Dr. Suwaidan has more than two decades of experience across public-sector technology and enterprise systems. She holds a PhD in Quality Management, an MBA, and a degree in Business Information Technology.

Osman Bakr, Professor of Materials Science, KAUST

Prof. Osman Bakr is known for changing the field of materials science. He leads work on advanced hybrid semiconductors and turns new research into technologies that improve imaging and renewable energy. His work helps overcome the cost and physical limitations of traditional silicon electronics, enabling the development of high-performance sensors and solar cells for the future. While at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Prof. Bakr developed new methods for producing perovskite and quantum dot semiconductors. He founded Quantum Solutions to bring his research to market. The company now makes advanced imaging systems that operate beyond visible light, including short-wave infrared, at a much lower cost than older technologies. Many industries use these systems for tasks such as monitoring energy infrastructure and helping first responders see more clearly in emergencies.

Dr. Safiya Khalil Alhashmi, Assistant professor, mechanical engineering, NYU Abu Dhabi

Dr. Safiya Khalil Alhashmi leads the Khalil Lab at NYU Abu Dhabi, using artificial intelligence and laboratory automation to accelerate the commercialization of materials for decarbonization, water security, and quantum technologies. Her research turns high-impact publications and patents into real-world solutions. She developed a scalable photocatalyst and photoreactor system, licensed to Coflux Purification. This system destroys PFAS (“forever chemicals”) at the molecular level, achieving 99.8 percent elimination without creating secondary contaminants. She also advances the circular carbon economy by converting CO₂ into clean fuels and essential chemicals. Dr. Alhashmi’s work links fundamental science with scalable impact, developing disruptive materials technologies that drive innovation and sustainability.

BRINGING GOOD THINGS TO MORE PEOPLE

Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility

Azza AlSuwaidi is the Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, where she plays a central role in shaping and leading the strategic and operational delivery of the UAE’s national passenger rail network. With more than a decade of experience in civil engineering and major rail and infrastructure projects, she is recognised as one of the UAE’s national leaders contributing to the development of one of the country’s most strategic transport initiatives. Since joining Etihad Rail in 2019, AlSuwaidi has held several senior engineering and executive positions, supporting the expansion of the national rail network and overseeing complex projects from planning through execution. Her work has focused on strengthening governance frameworks, enhancing technical and operational standards, and ensuring projects are delivered on time while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and long-term sustainability. In her current role, AlSuwaidi brings together engineering expertise and operational leadership to support the rollout of passenger rail services, working closely with stakeholders across government and industry. She is known for a leadership style rooted in practical execution, cross-functional collaboration, and a results-driven approach to delivering large-scale infrastructure that supports national mobility and economic growth.

Elissa Freiha, Co-founder, WOMENA

Elissa Freiha is an entrepreneur and angel investor and the co-founder of WOMENA, a Dubai-based platform supporting female founders and early-stage startups across the MENA region. Through WOMENA, she works to build investment networks, back women-led businesses, and expand access to capital. She is an active angel investor, with a portfolio of more than 30 startups across the Middle East and North America. Earlier in her career, Freiha worked in marketing, sales, and events within the media and entertainment sectors, an experience that later informed her move into digital media and venture building. She is also a frequent public speaker on entrepreneurship, investment, and women’s participation in the startup ecosystem. Born and raised in Paris, Freiha is an Emirati of Lebanese and American heritage and continues to operate across media, investment, and startup communities in the region, with a focus on long-term ecosystem building rather than individual ventures.

Jessica Kahawaty, Entrepreneur & humanitarian advocate

Jessica Kahawaty is a serial entrepreneur, human rights advocate, and internationally acclaimed model who helps bridge cultures through fashion and humanitarian work. She leads brands to greater social responsibility, notably as the face of the Make a Promise campaign by Louis Vuitton and UNICEF. Kahawaty is the founder of Mama Rita, a food and lifestyle brand she co-founded with her mother, Rita, in the UAE. She is also the co-founder of Kahawaty Jewels. Her humanitarian work includes an undercover mission in Kolkata, India’s Red Light District, with NGO Free a Girl to raise awareness about child trafficking. She also actively leads fundraising campaigns for emergency crises with UNICEF and UNHCR, supporting refugees from Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.

H.R.H. Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, Secretary General and Member of the Board of Trustees at Alwaleed Philanthropies

Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud is the Secretary General and a member of the Board of Trustees at Alwaleed Philanthropies. Princess Lamia was appointed Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies in April 2016. HRH Princess Lamia also holds several roles and leading positions across global organizations, including as the UN-Habitat Regional Goodwill Ambassador for the Arab States. Before joining Alwaleed Philanthropies, HRH Princess Lamia founded the publishing company Sada Al Arab in Cairo, Beirut, and Dubai. She is also a novelist, publishing Children and Blood in 2010. The book tackles the complexities of honor killings and the harsh realities of women in the Middle East. 

Maha Gorton, Head, Women’s Pavilion, Expo City Dubai

Maha Gorton is the Head of the Women’s Pavilion at Expo City Dubai, where she oversees programmes focused on women’s participation, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. In this role, she is responsible for shaping the Pavilion’s agenda and partnerships, with an emphasis on initiatives that translate policy goals around gender equity into practical outcomes. She has more than 15 years of experience across communications, social impact, and cross-sector collaboration, working at the intersection of business, urban development, and inclusion. At Expo City Dubai, her work has included developing programmes addressing workforce participation, health, and innovation, such as return-to-work initiatives and sector-focused hackathons. Gorton’s approach centres on building platforms that connect public institutions, private organisations, and communities to address structural gaps affecting women’s participation in economic and civic life. Her work reflects a broader focus on how inclusive planning and collaboration can support long-term, sustainable development across the region’s cities.

Mariam Solika, Founder & CEO, The Good News 

Mariam Solika is the Founder and CEO of The Good News (TGN), a leading Arab-positive news platform she launched at 21 to reframe stories about the region’s youth, challenge stereotypes, and highlight voices often overlooked. Through TGN, Mariam has connected more than 20,000 young people to learning and leadership opportunities. She has also showcased student projects and grassroots initiatives that are shaping the future. In addition, she has served as Youth Communications Consultant for COP27, COP28, and COP29, amplifying youth perspectives in global climate discussions. She now serves on Egypt’s UN Youth Advisory Board, bridging digital media and policymaking to empower youth across the region.

Marriam Mossalli, Founder, Niche Arabia

Marriam Mossalli is a media, luxury, and investment strategist known for transforming how global brands engage with the GCC. As the founder of Niche Arabia, she leads an award-winning consultancy serving luxury clients such as Christie’s, Boucheron, and META, as well as government entities including the Saudi Tourism Authority. Building on her work in strategic consultancy, she is also a serial investor and entrepreneur, co-founding Powder Beauty, the region’s first clean-beauty e-commerce platform, and launching C-Suite Advisory in 2024 to guide female-led start-ups on market entry and fundraising.

Morad Fareed, Founder, FC Mother

Morad is an entrepreneur and inventor whose work spans health, urban development, and social impact. He is the founder of FC Mother, an initiative that uses football as a platform to address maternal health and wellbeing, with a focus on research, community support, and large-scale engagement. The project seeks to connect science-led insights with global audiences through sport. Earlier, Morad founded Delos, a company associated with the development of the healthy buildings sector. Delos operates internationally and has worked on projects related to building design, health standards, and workplace wellbeing. He also established the WELL Living Lab at the Mayo Clinic, which focuses on research into how indoor environments affect human health, and later supported the creation of a research lab at Harvard dedicated to maternal health. Before his business career, Morad played professional football and represented the Palestinian National Team. He has also worked in finance and continues to engage across health, science, and media-driven initiatives.

Nezar Kadhem, Co-founder & CEO, Eat App

Nezar Kadhem is the Co-founder and CEO of Eat App, where he has led the company from its inception to becoming a global leader in restaurant reservations and table management. Raised in the region and shaped by San Francisco’s tech ecosystem, Kadhem holds a master’s degree in entrepreneurship from Babson College. Under his leadership, Eat App has scaled to serve over 5,000 restaurants across 90+ countries and has raised $23 million from leading venture capital firms and strategic partners, reflecting a strong commitment to excellence in hospitality technology.

Omar Farooq, Filmmaker & UNHCR advocate

Omar Farooq is a Bahraini filmmaker and storyteller celebrated for his human-centered approach to narrative and his commitment to amplifying voices that often go unheard. Founder of Atnafas Creative Production and Noqta, he creates purpose-driven content that blends cultural insight with modern storytelling, connecting communities across the Arab world, becoming one of the region’s most relatable and trusted creators. His work not only entertains but empowers, fostering opportunities for emerging voices and meaningful content. Deeply invested in the transformative power of storytelling, he believes narratives can connect, challenge, and inspire, shaping perspectives while reflecting the lived experiences of diverse communities. 

Rateel Alshehri, Youth leader & podcaster

At just 14, Rateel Alshehri has established herself as a leading voice in youth leadership across the Middle East. She is the youngest Saudi and Arab podcaster and the youngest TEDx host, using these platforms to share stories that inspire and engage young audiences. Alshehri is also the founder of Meet & Inspire, an initiative that amplifies youth voices and fosters meaningful regional dialogue, connecting emerging leaders with opportunities to create social impact. Through her work in storytelling, public speaking, and digital media, she has reached over 20 million people, demonstrating the power of youth-driven ideas. Her efforts highlight the role of young leaders in shaping communities, driving change, and fostering innovation across the region, positioning her as a notable figure in conversations about empowerment, leadership, and youth engagement.

Rola Diab, Founder, Alor Solutions

Rola Diab is a keynote speaker, executive strategist, and recognized business leader with extensive experience in leadership development and performance transformation. She is the founder of Alor Solutions, where she works with executives, founders, and leadership teams to enhance decision-making, strengthen sales and leadership capabilities, and position themselves for success in competitive markets. Diab’s signature approach, The Conviction Code, combines insights from neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and performance strategy to help leaders overcome internal barriers, execute with clarity, and communicate with confidence. Her work has been credited with helping clients secure funding, drive growth, and achieve measurable results. Through speaking engagements, coaching, and advisory roles, Diab continues to influence leaders across industries, guiding them to align their mindsets, strategies, and execution to achieve their professional goals and elevate organizational performance.

Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar, CEO, Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education

Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar is the CEO of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education. The Foundation is the Middle East’s largest privately funded education philanthropic organization. With over two decades of experience in strategic philanthropy, she has led initiatives to expand access to quality education. She also focuses on equipping young people with skills for rapidly evolving labor markets. Under her leadership, the foundation has strengthened partnerships with governments, global institutions, and the private sector. This has driven system-level change focused on inclusion, digital readiness, and resilience to bridge the gap between education and employment.  She contributes to international dialogue on equity, innovation, and sustainability in education. 

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO

Amenah AlMuhairi, Snowboarding champion, UAE

Amenah AlMuhairi is an Emirati athlete breaking new ground in winter sports. She has been the UAE’s national snowboarding champion since 2018 and has steadily established herself in international competition despite coming from a country without natural snow. In 2023, she became the first Emirati snowboarder to compete in an FIS-sanctioned event and represented the UAE at the 2024 Youth Winter Olympic Games. In 2025, AlMuhairi won three golds, a silver, and a bronze in FIS competitions across Bosnia and Croatia and went on to compete as one of the first Emirati snowboarders and the only woman in her delegation at the Asian Winter Games, finishing sixth in Slopestyle. She is now focused on qualifying for the 2026 Winter Olympics, serving as an inspiration for a new generation of Emirati athletes in winter sports and expanding the possibilities for sporting achievement in the region.

Jonathan Emery, CEO, Aldar Developments 

Jonathan Emery is the CEO of Aldar Developments, leading one of the Middle East’s largest and most diversified real estate platforms. He oversees Aldar’s residential, commercial, retail, and hospitality projects across the UAE, Egypt, and the UK, with a focus on creating sustainable, human-centered communities. His work emphasizes wellness-led living, innovation across the development lifecycle, and progress toward Net Zero, aiming to ensure that the built environment supports better living, resilience, and meaningful economic and social outcomes. In addition to his role at Aldar, Emery serves as an advisor and non-executive director for several organizations, including London Square, Sodic, Goldman Sachs, and Pi Labs, contributing his expertise in real estate development, strategy, and sustainable growth across multiple markets.

Karim Awad, Group CEO, EFG Holding

Karim Awad is Group CEO, Chairman of the Executive Committee, and a Board member of EFG Holding S.A.E., a financial institution with a universal bank in Egypt and a leading investment bank across the Middle East and North Africa. He joined EFG Hermes in 1998 and has more than 25 years of experience in investment banking and financial services. Under his leadership, EFG Holding expanded its investment banking, brokerage, and research businesses across Egypt and the Gulf, built a diversified non-bank financial services platform, EFG Finance, and completed its transformation into a universal bank through the acquisition of Bank NXT in 2021. In 2024, Awad was appointed to the Egyptian President’s Economic Council and in 2025 joined the Prime Minister’s Macroeconomy Advisory Committee. 

Mohamed Shelbaya, CEO of Beverages, Middle East & Africa, PepsiCo 

Mohamed Shelbaya is the CEO of Beverages for the Middle East and Africa at PepsiCo, where he oversees the company’s franchise-owned bottling operations across the region. With more than three decades at PepsiCo, he has been closely involved in building and managing franchise partnerships, supporting market expansion, and strengthening operational performance across a wide range of markets. Since joining the company in 1994, Shelbaya has held senior leadership roles across Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the broader MENA region. His work has covered sales, marketing, and operations, giving him experience across both company-owned and franchise-led business models. He has led initiatives focused on operational efficiency, commercial execution, and product development. Before his current role, Shelbaya served as CEO of PepsiCo North Africa and earlier as CEO of PepsiCo Egypt, navigating periods of economic change while focusing on capacity expansion, supply chain performance, and digital initiatives. He has also supported sustainability and inclusion efforts across the business, alongside earlier roles in snacks and bottling operations within the region.

H.E. Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority 

Sara Ahmed Buhiji is the CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), where she plays a pivotal role in shaping and implementing comprehensive tourism strategies that advance the kingdom’s vision. Under her leadership, BTEA advances tourism infrastructure, strengthens stakeholder partnerships, and leads effective marketing campaigns, positioning Bahrain as a top global travel destination. As Chairman of Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), which was awarded the World’s Leading New Exhibition and Convention Centre 2023, Buhiji shapes EWB’s vision, ensuring alignment with Bahrain’s tourism and economic development goals. 

Sir Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline

One of the most prominent voices in aviation, Sir Tim Clark is President of Emirates Airline, a position he has held since 2003, and has driven Emirates’ rapid growth into the world’s largest international airline serving 130 cities on six continents via its hub in Dubai. He has also steered the airline through multiple ups and downs in the aviation industry, including a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic into record profitability. He is the Chairman of the Emirates Airline Foundation, which strives to improve the welfare of disadvantaged children worldwide.

DELIGHTING US

Arva Saleem Ahmed, Co-founder, Frying Pan Adventures & Host, Ditch the Silver 

Arva Ahmed is a food entrepreneur and a storyteller who has redefined how Dubai is seen—through its kitchens and neighborhoods rather than its skylines. In 2013, she founded Frying Pan Adventures, the city’s first walking food tour company, pioneering an approach that uncovered Dubai’s story through the everyday dishes and diverse cultures that shape it. Today, Ahmed is also the creator of Ditch the Silver, a YouTube channel and food docu-series recently commissioned by OSN. The series spotlights food personalities and neighborhood subcultures that define Dubai’s identity.  Her work has appeared internationally on Netflix, Travel Channel, Food Network, iTV, and CNN. This exposure has earned her a reputation as one of the region’s most trusted cultural interpreters. 

Dia al-Azzawi, Multi-disciplinary artist

Dia al-Azzawi is a multi-disciplinary artist, publisher, and designer whose work blends contemporary practice with Arab artistic and cultural heritage. His pieces engage with social, political, and historical themes, fostering dialogue between Arab culture and other global traditions. In 1968, al-Azzawi published Towards a New Vision, a manifesto that became a foundation for Arab cultural initiatives during the 1970s. After leaving Iraq, he continued to address issues such as the destruction of Iraqi civil society, Arabic literature, and the struggles faced by Palestinians through international exhibitions and projects. Beyond his own artistic practice, al-Azzawi supports the wider arts community by publishing, collecting, commissioning, and donating works, as well as curating international projects that highlight artists from across the Global South. His efforts reflect a commitment not only to creating art but also to cultivating platforms that amplify underrepresented voices and preserve cultural memory.

Faisal Alharmoodi, Founder, Lets 

Faisal Alharmoodi is a leading force in the region’s modern culinary movement. Known for his dynamic personality and deep passion for gastronomy, he has built a loyal following and champions contemporary Emirati fusion cuisine. He became the first Emirati chef to receive two Michelin awards, recognizing his creativity and role in elevating Gulf cuisine globally. He has cooked for heads of state at the World Government Summit, contributed to the MENA 50 Best Restaurants platform, and partnered with Michelin-starred chefs at the Michelin 8-Hands Dinner at Emirates Palace. Currently, he leads several ventures in Abu Dhabi, including Falwa and Sidra Artisan, which combine heritage, local ingredients, and forward-thinking approaches.

Fatma Lootah, Artist and cultural ambassador 

Fatma Lootah is a leading figure in international art and a principal cultural ambassador for the UAE. Her career spans diverse forms of expression, notably performance, but primarily centers on abstract art. Since her debut solo exhibition in Bolzano in 1984, Lootah has showcased her work globally: throughout Italy, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, India, and the US, where it was displayed in New York’s Times Square as part of the Nasdaq Artist in Residence project. Her art has appeared in acclaimed venues worldwide, cementing her status as a major contemporary artist. 

Gianluca Chakra, Founder & CEO, Front Row Filmed Entertainment

Gianluca Chakra is a film executive and producer who has redefined the landscape of cinema distribution and production in the Arab world. He founded Front Row Filmed Entertainment in 2003 in Dubai, identifying a critical gap in the Middle Eastern market for bold, auteur-driven content. Over the past two decades, Chakra has turned Front Row into one of the region’s most influential film distribution companies, releasing over 120 films annually across theatrical, digital, and broadcast platforms. He was also one of the first in the Middle East to embrace digital disruption—pioneering premium VOD partnerships with global platforms like Netflix, iTunes, and Google Play at a time when the industry was still tethered to traditional release models. Recently, Chakra began producing, with credits including the Arabic-language Netflix hit Perfect Strangers and the acclaimed The Sand Castle, which became the most-watched Arabic-language film globally on Netflix in 2025. Chakra remains a vocal advocate for Arab storytelling, risk-taking cinema, and breaking down the region’s industry barriers. 

Sheikha Hala bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Artist and cultural ambassador

Hala Mohammed Al Khalifa is an established artist and cultural ambassador with an active presence in the art and cultural scene locally, regionally, and internationally. Her work spans artistic practice, cultural programming, and institutional engagement, with involvement in exhibitions as both an organizer and participant across multiple platforms. Over the course of her career, she has held roles within cultural institutions that focused on developing artistic programs, supporting creative communities, and strengthening cultural infrastructure. Her work emphasizes nurturing local talent in the arts and crafts, contributing to the growth and visibility of creative practitioners across the region. Her artistic perspective is closely tied to themes of heritage, identity, and cultural continuity, reflecting a deep connection to her homeland and its history. Alongside her creative practice, she has contributed to strategic initiatives related to cultural programming, community outreach, and the development of long-term cultural frameworks. She is also engaged in cultural dialogue and collaboration through conferences, publications, and cross-sector initiatives that bring together cultural practitioners and emerging leaders. In addition, she has participated in advisory and consultation projects covering exhibition development, public art, international expos, and artistic content creation, supporting broader efforts to promote regional artists and cultural expression.

Himanshu Saini, Corporate Chef, Trèsind Studi

Himanshu Saini stands out as a creative force in modern Indian cuisine. He is known for his inventive approach and careful attention to detail, offering a fine-dining experience that both honors and reinvents traditional flavors. As the executive chef at Trèsind Studio in Dubai, Saini presents his ideas through multi-course tasting menus, each dish telling its own story. Under his guidance, Trèsind Studio has gained international recognition, appearing on lists like the World’s 50 Best Restaurants MENA and the global editions. The restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 2022, a second in 2023, kept both in 2024, and made history in 2025 by becoming the first Indian restaurant to receive a third Michelin star. Saini’s tasting menus are praised for their beautiful presentation, precision, and nostalgic yet unexpected flavors. He keeps raising the bar by focusing on sustainability, creativity, and authentic flavor, setting new standards in fine dining. 

H.E. Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder, Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, Founder & Artistic Director, Abu Dhabi Festival

Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo is a philanthropist and arts patron who founded the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation in 1996 and launched the Abu Dhabi Festival in 2004. She served on the board of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture & Heritage (now the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi) from 2006 to 2012 and has since led initiatives to develop the UAE’s cultural sector. Her work has been recognised with national honours, including the Abu Dhabi Award, the Abu Dhabi Medal, and the UAE Order for Culture & Creativity, as well as international distinctions such as Spain’s Order of Isabella the Catholic, an OBE, Germany’s Order of Merit, France’s Legion of Honour and Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and other awards. She holds a range of trustee and advisory roles with cultural and international institutions, including the UAE National Orchestra, Middle East Institute, Cleveland Clinic International Leadership Board, Lang Lang International Music Foundation, Reina Sofía School of Music, Edinburgh International Festival advisory board, and Tate Modern’s MENA acquisitions committee. In 2025, she was appointed advisor to H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and joined the board of the Grand Theatre of Rabat.

Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President, Dubai Design District 

Khadija Al Bastaki, as the Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), a global business hub for design, art, and creativity, and part of TECOM Group PJSC, has developed and launched strategic cultural and commercial initiatives to nurture and amplify local and regional creative talent while attracting global foreign investment into Dubai’s design and creative sector. In the past year, Khadija has secured partnerships with Fuorisalone.it and Brera Design District, two keystone entities of Milan Design Week, and the Milan-based Isola Design Group, renowned for providing visibility and opportunities to global independent designers, design studios, and brands. Under Khadija’s leadership, d3 and Isola co-launched Design Next, an innovative exhibition on the circular economy. She has also formed partnerships with Vogue Business and the Milano Durini Design Association. All these efforts further elevate Dubai’s creative ecosystem in key international markets.

Nadine Nassib Njeim, Founder & Chief Creative Officer, Nadine Njeim Beauty

Nadine Nassib Njeim is one of the Arab world’s most influential public figures, bridging entertainment, beauty, and entrepreneurship. As an award-winning actress and former Miss Lebanon, Njeim has captivated millions across the Middle East with acclaimed television roles. Her influence extends beyond the screen, making her a trusted voice and style icon with a deep connection to her audience. She is also the founder of Nadine Njeim Beauty, positioning the brand as an authentic extension of her values. Whether on screen or in business, Njeim redefines modern Arab womanhood, proving that success, creativity, and purpose are strongest when they come from within.

Nadir Nahdi, Food Storyteller 

Nadir Nahdi is a cultural leader, storyteller, and filmmaker dedicated to reshaping how we perceive identity, heritage, and global connections. He challenges dominant narratives and sparks cross-cultural dialogue to inspire new ways of thinking about the future of culture. His diverse storytelling—across film, digital platforms, live events, and talks—creates impactful narratives that drive conversation and change. As founder of BENI, Nahdi advances creativity and cultural expression through events, products, and content. His recent sold-out storytelling masterclass exemplifies his mission to empower new storytellers to spark viral conversations and shape cultural narratives. Nahdi’s multicultural roots drive his mission to amplify the voices of underrepresented people. Through food, dialogue, and immersive experiences, he bridges cultures by sharing meaningful stories that build connection.

H.H. Noura bint Faisal Al Saud, CEO, Culture House & JAY3LLE

Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud is a Saudi cultural and fashion leader, recognized for shaping the kingdom’s creative landscape. She played a central role in launching Saudi Arabia’s first Fashion Week and later joined the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission, where she developed national fashion strategies and mentorship programs. In 2022, she founded Culture House, a creative agency focused on cultural activations and innovative communications. That year, she also took on leadership roles at Al Othaim Culture, driving fashion and cultural initiatives. Recognized among the BOF 500, she now leads Culture House and serves as CEO of JAY3LLE, a Saudi-born luxury brand that combines fashion, lifestyle, and sport to redefine luxury with a global perspective.

REWRITING THE RULES

Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO, Cenomi Centers 

Alison Rehill-Erguven is the CEO of Cenomi Centers and a seasoned leader in the shopping mall and real estate industries, with over 25 years of experience spanning Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. Throughout her career, she has led high-profile companies, joint ventures, and globally recognized assets, establishing a reputation for driving transformation and delivering growth across both developed and emerging markets. In her role at Cenomi Centers, Rehill-Erguven focuses on strategic development, operational excellence, and innovation in retail real estate, guiding projects that blend commercial success with customer experience. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is dedicated to mentoring emerging leaders, advocating for diversity in the real estate sector, and drawing on insights from her exploration of global cultures to inform her leadership, strategy, and innovation. 

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&

Hatem Dowidar is a telecommunications and technology leader who has guided e& through a major transformation from a traditional telecom provider into a diversified global technology group. He joined the company in 2015 as Group Chief Operating Officer, became Chief Executive Officer, International in 2016, and was appointed Group CEO in 2020. Under his leadership, e& now operates across 38 markets, expanding its reach while strengthening brand value, employee experience, and stakeholder engagement. Dowidar has driven strategic partnerships and collaborations that advance digital empowerment and innovation across the Middle East and Africa. Before e&, he held senior roles at Vodafone, including CEO of Vodafone Egypt, CEO of Vodafone Malta, and Regional Director of Emerging Markets. He began his career at AEG/Deutsche Aerospace and Procter & Gamble in Egypt. Dowidar serves on multiple corporate boards, including Vodafone Group, Mobily, Maroc Telecom, and Etisalat Misr, and participates in global industry forums such as the GSMA and the UN Internet Governance Forum.

Ibrahim Zalat, Founding & Directors Board Member, Youth Entrepreneurs Network

Ibrahim Zalat is a visionary leader in sustainable development. He focuses on empowering underprivileged communities through human-centered social innovation. He is Head of Global Impact Programs & Partnerships at Arweqah Alreyadah. Zalat is also a founding board member of the Youth Entrepreneurs Network (YEN) and the Global Young Professionals Network (GYPN). With more than 12 years of experience, Zalat has directly impacted 30,000 youth through training, delivered over 1,200 hours of social business consulting, managed initiatives with $164 million in funding, led 200 professionals, and launched 500+ social impact ventures across the MENA region and beyond.

Lateefa Alwaalan, Managing Director, Endeavor Saudi

Lateefa Alwaalan is an entrepreneur, inventor, and business leader. She founded Yatooq, which introduced ready-made Arabic coffee blends and the region’s first automated Arabic coffee machine, and co-founded Aroom, a company developing coffee vending technology. She also works on initiatives supporting women in business, having co-founded CellA+, a professional network for Saudi women. Alwaalan currently serves as Managing Director of Endeavor Saudi, and holds positions on the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce board and the advisory board for GEN Saudi, the Global Entrepreneurship Network. Her work spans entrepreneurship, innovation, and ecosystem development, focusing on creating opportunities and supporting business growth in Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

Mo Gawdat, Author & entrepreneur

Mo Gawdat is an author, entrepreneur, and founder of the One Billion Happy movement. Over a 27-year career, he held roles at IBM, NCR, Microsoft, and Google, focusing on tackling complex challenges and driving innovation. He has co-founded more than 20 companies and has advised and mentored numerous startups. Gawdat is known for developing a framework for happiness following the loss of his son, which he shared in his international bestseller, Solve for Happy. He has also written Scary Smart, That Little Voice in Your Head, Unstressable, and Alive, and hosts the mental health podcast Slo Mo. His recent work explores human potential and artificial intelligence through initiatives such as Emma.love, a platform that helps people build lasting relationships. His career spans technology, entrepreneurship, and personal development, combining practical experience with thought leadership.

Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman & CEO, GMG

Mohammad A. Baker leads GMG, a global well-being company operating across the Middle East and Asia, with a portfolio spanning sports, everyday goods, health and beauty, properties, logistics, and home. As Deputy Chairman and CEO, he oversees a diverse group of homegrown and international brands reaching millions of consumers. Building on a legacy of over 45 years, he has reshaped GMG’s growth strategy by integrating innovation, purpose, and performance while maintaining the agility of a founder-led organization. His focus is on long-term value creation and disciplined execution in fast-evolving markets. Under his leadership, GMG has accelerated international expansion across the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. In 2025, Baker was appointed to the Board of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, reflecting his influence on the region’s retail and business ecosystem.

Noor Sweid, Founder & Managing Partner, Global Ventures

Noor Sweid is the Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, a venture capital firm based in the UAE that invests across the Middle East and Africa. She started Global Ventures in 2018 after working as Chief Investment Officer at the Dubai Future Foundation. Earlier, she helped grow two companies: Depa, her family business, became the world’s largest interior contracting company and was listed on the London Stock Exchange and NASDAQ. ZenYoga, the region’s first yoga studio, expanded into the largest yoga and wellness chain before being acquired by a private equity firm in 2014. Sweid is also a judge on Shark Tank Dubai and the author of Coming of Age: How Technology and Entrepreneurship Are Changing the Face of MENA. She actively supports founders as they grow their businesses worldwide.

Tareq Amin, CEO, Humain

Tareq Amin is a technologist with extensive experience in digital transformation and artificial intelligence. In May 2025, he was appointed CEO of HUMAIN, a full-stack AI company owned by the Public Investment Fund, where he leads efforts to develop AI-native platforms across infrastructure, cloud, data, and applications, aiming to establish HUMAIN as a leading AI company in the region. Before HUMAIN, Amin served as CEO of Aramco Digital, overseeing digital transformation and strategic innovation across Saudi Arabia. He also launched Rakuten Symphony in 2021, leading its entry into mobile networks and automation-driven telecom platforms, and served as CEO of Rakuten Mobile to support growth in Japan. His previous roles include Senior VP of Technology Development at Reliance Jio, VP at Huawei Carrier Solutions, and Senior Director at T-Mobile. Amin is a recognized voice on the future of technology and AI, focused on transforming how industries innovate, operate, and collaborate.

SAVING THE PLANET

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO, Masdar

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi is the Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, where he has overseen the company’s evolution into a global renewable energy developer with a clean energy portfolio exceeding 50GW and a target of 100GW by 2030. Having joined Masdar nearly two decades ago, Al Ramahi has held several senior leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, before being appointed CEO in 2016. As the company’s longest-serving CEO, he has led Masdar’s expansion across more than 40 countries, with a focus on partnerships, large-scale project development, and strategic acquisitions in the clean energy sector. He holds multiple board and chair positions across Masdar’s global platforms and serves on international sustainability and energy councils, advancing global clean energy and hydrogen initiatives.

H.E. Razan Al Mubarak, President, International Union for Conservation of Nature & Managing Director, Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund

Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak is known for her leadership in global conservation and climate work. She is President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and was the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28 UAE. She is the first IUCN President from West Asia and only the second woman to hold this role. She has more than 20 years of experience shaping environmental policies in the UAE and worldwide. She has led efforts in species conservation and climate resilience. As the founding director of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, she has helped support over 3,000 projects worldwide. She is also the Managing Director of the Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi and Emirates Nature-WWF. Internationally, she represents the UAE as Sherpa for the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy and is Co-Chair of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures.