Explore the Fast Company Middle East’s Most Innovative Companies 2024 list, featuring 55 winning entries reshaping businesses and industries. We’ve selected the companies making the most significant impact with their initiatives across 27 categories, including the most innovative design, sustainability and cleantech, manufacturing, real estate, and retail companies.

Social good is no longer an afterthought—it’s at the heart of business. Companies are stepping up, using their influence to tackle pressing issues, from climate change to social inequality. Innovation is about making a real impact, proving that doing good is the ultimate form of success.

3M

For better safety, better training

3M has prioritized training as a critical component of worker safety. The company launched the region’s first Fall Protection Training Center in Abu Dhabi, which offers hands-on, customized training for sectors such as oil and gas and telecommunications. Since its opening, 3M has trained over 250 workers from six countries. The initiative supports its commitment to safety, sustainability, and empowering local communities, contributing 19% growth in the Fall Protection business in 2023.

Mashreq

For facilitating the transition to a low-carbon future

Over the past year, Mashreq has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by facilitating sustainable financing and innovative projects like mountain clean-ups across Nepal, Pakistan, and China, where 2,919kg of waste was recycled, benefiting local businesses. The bank also transitioned to 100% recycled plastic for cards. Mashreq’s global sustainability efforts, including the region’s first LEED Zero Carbon certification for its headquarters, showcase its leadership in ESG, reinforcing its role in driving positive environmental and social change.