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.

The workplace is no longer just a place—it’s a space for flexibility, innovation, and collaboration. With hybrid models and tech-driven solutions, these companies are rethinking how we work, empowering people, fostering creativity, and building a culture that adapts to change.

MCN MENA

For actively contributing to social sustainability

MCN MENA focuses on talent development, advanced technologies, and meaningful collaborations. The company launched MCN Academy to support continuous learning with programs fostering leadership and diversity. MCN MENA’s campaigns address pressing social issues, driving global awareness and measurable impact. By combining the latest technology with emotional intelligence and diverse leadership training, MCN MENA creates an inclusive environment that empowers its people. The company is also committed to sustainability, ensuring long-term, positive change for business and society.

Protiviti Middle East Member Firm

For transforming ideas into action

Protiviti Middle East Member Firm continues to foster a culture of continuous innovation. Its comprehensive framework generated over 300 unique ideas across the firm and implemented 15 innovative use cases. Key initiatives include leveraging AI for talent sourcing and automating IT audit processes. Additionally, over 750 colleagues have been trained in Design Thinking, leading to more than 30 workshops for clients in various industries, enhancing their transformation journeys. The program’s success is evidenced by high customer satisfaction scores, substantial engagement, and critical initiatives emerging from employees.

Publicis Groupe Middle East

For supporting diversity, mobility, and well-being in the workplace

Publicis Groupe Middle East has redefined its HR function, focusing on personalization, inclusivity, and employee well-being. By creating six specialized verticals and implementing programs like Teos, they’ve streamlined processes, making hiring faster and more efficient. Launched initiatives for seamless onboarding and fostered learning across generations. Flexibility-focused programs support working mothers and promote global mobility. With strong employee satisfaction and a 6% reduction in turnover, Publicis is committed to an engaging, sustainable workplace culture, supporting personal growth and organizational success through innovative, people-centered practices.

TBWA\RAAD

For driving growth through a people-first strategy

In the last 12 months, TBWA\RAAD has focused on a people-first approach to enhance the talent experience and overall company performance. This initiative emphasizes agility, collaboration, and innovation by embedding core values into the employee experience. There were initiatives for better work-life balance, achieving an 81% team member engagement score. The agency’s data-driven approach has led to personalized career growth plans, resulting in a 12% improvement in the Talent Experience Index and a 77% reduction in turnover. Additionally, cross-functional account squads have enabled faster decision-making and collaboration, contributing to achieving 80% of new business targets by mid-year.

Zain

For creating an empowered, inclusive work environment

Zain has strengthened its commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity (IDE), introducing initiatives like We for gender diversity, We Able for disability inclusion, and Be Well for employee wellness. A major highlight is IDE University, developed with Spain’s IE University, which offers digital transformation training to employees, including a pathway to a Master’s degree. It also launched the Unity culture program, and held an AI-driven IDE hackathon to bridge gender gaps in tech. These efforts exemplify Zain’s vision of an empowering, diverse, and sustainable work environment.