Entrepreneur Middle East (Special Edition) | The 100 (2025)

SPECIAL EDITION

100

THE

DECEMBER 2025

EXTRAO R D INARY PR IVATE PO O LS | 30+ AMEN ITIES | PRIME LOCATION S

Escape to a home where urban sophistication meets resort tranquility.

BU ILT FOR MOMENTS THAT MAT TER 800-SAMANA | WWW.SAMANADEVELOPERS.COM

DIS COVER R E FINED

living

*Ranking as per the H2025 1 sales volume data of property monitor for Dubai

Special Edition /

CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net MANAGING DIRECTOR Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net EDITOR IN CHIEF Anil Bhoyrul anil@bncpublishing.net MANAGING EDITOR Tamara Pupic tamara@bncpublishing.net FEATURES EDITOR Aalia Mehreen Ahmed aalia@bncpublishing.net DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION

Sarah Saddouk sarah@bncpublishing.net GROUP SALES DIRECTOR – B2B GROUP Joaquim D’Costa jo@bncpublishing.net HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS

Samir Glor Samir@bncpublishing.net DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Andy Soulahian andy.soulahian@bncpublishing.net COMMERCIAL LEAD

Anna Chipala anna@bncpublishing.net CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Farooq Salik

CREATIVE LEAD Christian Harb chriss@bncpublishing.net

SUBSCRIBE

Contact subscriptions@bncpublishing.net to receive Entrepreneur Middle East every issue

COMMERCIAL ENQUIRIES sales@bncpublishing.net

ENTREPRENEUR.COM

Access fresh content daily on our website

EntMagazineME

Entrepreneur-me

PO BOX 502511 DUBAI, UAE P +971 4 4200 506

All Rights Reserved 2024. Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors.

Entrepreneur Middle East and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Entrepreneur Media Inc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Images used in Entrepreneur Middle East are credited when necessary. Attributed use of copyrighted images with permission. All images not credited otherwise Shutterstock. Printed by United Printing and Publishing.

4 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

AWARDS February 6, 2026 Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London, United Kingdom

Nominate Now For Editorial Opportunities Vibha Mehta +971 58 631 4145 vibha@bncpublishing.net

For Commercial Opportunities Joaquim D’Costa +971 50 440 2706 jo@bncpublishing.net

Roma Arora roma@bncpublishing.net

www.GlobalRELeaders.com

Special Edition /

The 100

Celebrating a Region Defined by Possibility A tribute to the innovators, creators, visionaries, and leaders shaping the future of the GCC

F

or this issue of Entrepreneur Middle East, we proudly unveil The 100—our annual guide to the most influential people in the GCC. Every year, this list tells a story far greater than the individuals whose names appear on its pages. It tells the story of a region in motion. A region rewriting its trajectory. A region that has become a global beacon of ambition, ingenuity, and unprecedented opportunity.

This is why The 100 matters. It is more than a ranking—it is a reflection of what the region has become: a magnet for excellence, a hub for global talent, and a source of stories that inspire across borders. As we celebrate these extraordinary individuals, we also celebrate the nations empowering them.

Their success is a testament to what happens when vision meets opportunity, and when dreams are met not with limits, but with limitless possibility.

Today, the Gulf stands at the center of a profound transformation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the UAE and Saudi Arabia—two nations whose visions have ignited a cultural, economic, and technological renaissance. They have built ecosystems where entrepreneurs can scale globally, where artists can find their voice, where scientists can push the boundaries of discovery, and where creators and influencers can build platforms that speak to millions. The GCC is no longer simply a place where people come to work; it has become a place where people come to dream.

Here’s to The 100—and to the GCC’s unstoppable rise as a home for greatness.

The individuals celebrated in The 100 embody this regional momentum. They represent every corner of modern achievement: founders redefining their industries; cultural pioneers elevating the creative voice of the Middle East; scientists expanding the limits of what is possible; and yes— even astronauts who carry the aspirations of the Arab world into space. Their success is not accidental. It is the product of a region determined to inspire greatness.

What is remarkable is not just the breadth of talent, but the pride that binds these achievements. From boardrooms to sound stages, from coding labs to film sets, from digital studios to orbit, the narrative is consistent: the Arab world is a place where bold ideas can become global realities. Policies, infrastructure, and national strategies have converged to create an environment where ambition is met with support, where innovation is rewarded, and where the world’s brightest minds increasingly choose to build their futures.

6 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

PROPERTIES solproperties.ae 800-765-1

Learn More

Nestled by the coast of Lusail sits the splendor of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, where luxury is rooted in even the smallest details. Open the doors to mesmerizing hospitality and make memories in a world of sophistication.

Special Edition /

HIS EXCELLENCY OMAR SULTAN AL OLAMA UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence HIS EXCELLENCY OMAR SULTAN AL OLAMA was appointed UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017, becoming the world’s first minister in this field. In July 2020, his role was expanded to include Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications. In 2023, he was also appointed Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and Director General of the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office.

He holds numerous other leadership positions. He serves as a Board of Trustees member and Deputy Managing Director of the Dubai Future Foundation, Vice Chair of the World Government Summit, and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

As the driving force behind the UAE’s AI strategy and digital economy initiatives, His Excellency has a clear vision for establishing the country as a global leader in AI and technology. His focus areas include fostering a fertile AI ecosystem, enhancing the UAE’s competitive advantage in priority sectors, attracting and nurturing talent for future AIenabled jobs, and promoting cutting-edge research collaborations with target industries.

His commitment to strong governance, effective regulation and the provision of essential data and infrastructure positions the UAE as a prime test bed for AI innovations. With initiatives such as the personal data protection law, the National Program for Coders and the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, he aims to accelerate the growth and transformation of the digital economy, ultimately doubling its contribution to the UAE’s non-oil GDP within the next decade.

His commitment to strong governance, effective regulation and the provision of essential data and infrastructure positions the UAE as a prime test bed for AI innovations.

10 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

MOHAMED ALABBAR Founder, Emaar Properties MOHAMED ALABBAR is one of the most recognized business leaders in the Middle East, celebrated for transforming Dubai’s skyline and retail landscape through global-scale property development and commercial innovation. As Founder and Chairman of Emaar Properties, he has led the creation of some of the world’s most notable landmarks, contributing to Dubai’s rise as a leading destination for tourism, lifestyle and investment.

His leadership has consistently focused on building dynamic communities, innovative hospitality offerings and world-class retail experiences.

Alabbar has been at the forefront of concepts that blend modern design, economic opportunity and memorable customer experiences, expanding the reach of his developments across multiple international markets.

Beyond property, he has played an important role in advancing digital transformation and food retail ventures, demonstrating agility in adapting to evolving consumer needs. His work reflects a combination of vision, operational strength and a capacity to deliver large-scale projects that redefine urban living.

Mohamed Alabbar stands as a symbol of global ambition rooted in local pride — a leader whose influence continues to shape the future of cities and industries in the UAE and beyond. He is also the founder of e-commerce giant Noon, private property group Eagle Hills and a major shareholder in Americana Foods.

Mohamed Alabbar stands as a symbol of global ambition rooted in local pride — a leader whose

influence continues to shape the future of cities and industries in the UAE and beyond.

Special Edition /

YASIR AL-RUMAYYAN Chairman, Saudi Aramco & Governor, Public Investment Fund (PIF) in Saudi Arabia, he later moved into capital markets, discovering a passion for investment strategy and economic transformation. That expertise caught national attention and set him on a trajectory toward roles that would shape the future of the country’s wealth and influence. Today, he plays a pivotal role in implementing Vision 2030, helping accelerate the shift from oil-dependent growth to a diverse portfolio spanning technology, entertainment, clean energy, sports, tourism, and global partnerships.

Under his guidance, the Public Investment Fund has become a powerful engine of growth, investing in iconic international names in sport, technology, and mobility, while building entirely new industries at home. His leadership style combines ambition with calculated risk-taking — the belief that progress is driven by bold moves and long-term vision.

As Chairman of Aramco, he has overseen the company’s evolution from an energy powerhouse into a diversified player investing in sustainability, research, and innovation. Beyond oil, he pushes for strategic investments that develop worldclass capabilities, from hydrogen to digital infrastructure.

YASIR AL-RUMAYYAN has become one of the most influential voices in the global financial and energy landscape, steering Saudi Arabia’s economic ambitions into a new era of diversification, innovation, and international impact. As Governor of the Public Investment Fund — one of the world’s most powerful sovereign wealth funds — and Chairman of Saudi Aramco, the world’s most valuable energy company, he stands at the center of major strategic decisions that are redefining the Kingdom’s place in the global economy.

His career reflects a steady rise through the ranks of banking and investment leadership. Starting in commercial banking

12 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Al-Rumayyan is also known for bringing Saudi Arabia closer to major sporting and cultural platforms, elevating its global profile. His interests extend into knowledge development as well — he is committed to fostering talent, supporting universities, and empowering young innovators who will lead the economy of tomorrow.

Confident, results-driven, and globally networked, he operates with an eye on the next century. To him, transformation is not merely a policy — it is a mindset. And through his leadership across PIF and Aramco, he continues to champion the idea that Saudi Arabia’s greatest investments are those that build a more vibrant, dynamic, and connected future.

/ THE 100

SULTAN AHMED BIN SULAYEM Group Chairman and CEO, DP World SULTAN AHMED BIN SULAYEM is one of the most recognizable architects of the UAE’s rise as a global trade powerhouse. As the head of DP World, he oversees a logistics network that stretches across continents, connecting markets, enabling commerce, and redefining how goods move in a rapidly changing world. His career reflects not only business leadership, but a deep belief in the UAE’s role as a bridge between East and West.

Born into a business family with strong ties to the maritime sector, bin Sulayem grew up with an understanding of the sea as both opportunity and responsibility. His early roles in Dubai’s port development came at a moment when the city was beginning to dream big. He was among the first to see that if Dubai could master global logistics, the economy could expand beyond oil and become a hub for everything from manufacturing to tourism and global finance.

Bin Sulayem played a major role in the creation and expansion of Jebel Ali Free Zone — a landmark project that opened Dubai to a world of international merchants and investors. That success evolved into the launch of DP World, which he transformed from a regional operator into one of the largest port and logistics companies on the planet.

His leadership is built on foresight and movement — moving products, moving economies, moving people forward. Under his direction, DP World has invested in innovation, smart ports, digital trade facilitation, and multimodal logistics that simplify complexity for customers worldwide. He is widely respected for his ability to strike major international partnerships while remaining deeply committed to Dubai’s growth story.

Bin Sulayem values sustainability and social impact as part of future-ready logistics. He supports environmental innovation, community engagement, and talent development, making sure the next generation of Emiratis can lead an increasingly digital global supply chain.

Energetic, bold, and never shy about championing Dubai’s ambition on the world stage, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem continues to build what he describes as “the arteries of global trade” — channels that carry opportunity from one shore to another. His achievements are already woven into the economic history of the region, yet he remains firmly focused on tomorrow’s ports, tomorrow’s markets, and tomorrow’s world.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 13

Special Edition /

KHALDOON AL MUBARAK Managing Director and Group CEO, Mubadala Investment Company

KHALDOON AL MUBARAK is one of the UAE’s most prominent business leaders, known for his stewardship of Mubadala Investment Company, a key driver of national economic diversification and strategic global investment. As Managing Director and Group CEO, he oversees a portfolio that spans advanced technology, energy, infrastructure, healthcare and financial services — sectors central to the UAE’s long-term economic vision.

Al Mubarak has led efforts to cultivate globally competitive industries within the country while strengthening international partnerships that expand access to

14 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

knowledge, innovation and capital. His decisions reflect a disciplined investment philosophy and a strong focus on sustainable value creation.

He is also recognized for his extensive contributions to public service, serving in high-level positions that support policy development and national capabilitybuilding. His leadership style blends strategic clarity with a commitment to institutional excellence, making him a trusted figure across governmental and corporate spheres.

Khaldoon Al Mubarak continues to influence the UAE’s global economic

role, reinforcing its position as a forwardlooking, investment-driven nation.

Khaldoon Al Mubarak continues to influence the UAE’s global economic role, reinforcing its position as a forward-looking, investmentdriven nation.

/ THE 100

HIS EXCELLENCY MOHAMMED ALI AL SHORAFA AL HAMMADI Chairman, Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities & Transport; Member, Abu Dhabi Executive Council

overseeing strategic planning and development.

In his role at DMT, HE Al Shorafa directs Abu Dhabi’s urban planning, municipal services, infrastructure expansion, and transport initiatives, contributing to the emirate’s position as a global model for liveability and smart sustainable cities. He also chairs the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), driving major infrastructure projects and integrated development across the region.

His portfolio of leadership roles includes Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, and the Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA). He is also ViceChairman of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and sits on several strategic boards including the General Civil Aviation Authority and Etihad Rail, reinforcing his impact across transport, finance, housing, HIS EXCELLENCY MOHAMMED ALI AL SHORAFA AL HAMMADI is a senior Emirati government leader and influential architect of Abu Dhabi’s long-term urban, transport, and economic strategy. He currently serves as Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities & Transport (DMT) and is a member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the emirate’s top governing body

and economic sectors.

Before his current appointments, HE Al Shorafa chaired the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and held executive leadership roles in the private sector, including as CEO and Managing Director of UEMedical, and served at the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 15

Special Edition /

AMIN NASSER President and CEO, Saudi Aramco Amin Nasser stands as one of energy’s most respected thought leaders, guiding Saudi Aramco into a future where resilience, innovation, and long-term responsibility define success.

He sees the world in systems — and he is determined to help evolve those systems to meet the challenges of a growing, changing planet.

and resources that keep the energy system running every single day.

He rose through roles where success meant solving high-stakes challenges — from operational resilience to mega-project execution. Over time, he became not only an expert in the science of energy but also a strategist of global markets. This combination ultimately positioned him to lead the company into one of its most transformative eras.

Under his leadership, Aramco executed the largest IPO in history, expanded its international partnerships, and intensified its investment in research, innovation, and cleaner energy solutions. Nasser is a strong believer that the world’s transition must be practical and technologically driven — advancing carbon capture, next-generation fuels, and engineering breakthroughs that deliver reliable, affordable power while reducing emissions.

AMIN NASSER has spent his entire professional life inside one of the world’s most complex and consequential industries — and risen to the very top of it. As President and CEO of Saudi Aramco, he leads a company that powers much of the world while driving a future beyond conventional energy. His voice carries weight in boardrooms, on global policy stages, and among the scientific community working to transform how the planet consumes energy.

Beyond strategy and industry policy, Nasser is known as a leader who values people. He champions education and talent development, pushing the company to empower the next wave of scientists, engineers, and innovators. His calm, pragmatic manner reflects decades spent balancing risk, uncertainty, and progress in an industry where decisions shape economies.

Nasser’s journey began at Aramco long before he entered its C-suite. Joining as a young engineer, he built his reputation deep in the field — in drilling operations, technical management, and major project supervision. That grounding in real-world engineering is central to his leadership philosophy: never losing sight of the people, technology,

Today, Amin Nasser stands as one of energy’s most respected thought leaders, guiding Saudi Aramco into a future where resilience, innovation, and long-term responsibility define success. He sees the world in systems — and he is determined to help evolve those systems to meet the challenges of a growing, changing planet.

16 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

HUSSAIN SAJWANI Founder and Chairman, DAMAC Properties HUSSAIN SAJWANI is one of the most recognizable figures in global real estate — a self-made entrepreneur whose ambition helped shape Dubai’s iconic skyline. As Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties, he has built a brand synonymous with luxury living, bold architecture, and mega-developments that capture international attention.

His career began far from glass towers — in the hospitality and food services sector — where he quickly learned the fundamentals of business: customer focus, financial discipline, and the courage to seize opportunity. When Dubai opened its property market to international investors, Sajwani moved decisively. He saw potential before others believed in the scale

of the dream, visualizing an emirate filled with residences and attractions that would draw the world.

DAMAC’s rise came through projects that embraced extravagance and lifestyle — designer collaborations, worldclass golf communities, premium hospitality brands, and residences that transformed how luxury is defined in the region.

Sajwani developed a reputation for speed, audacity, and market intuition, often launching concepts that set new benchmarks for competitors.

His global expansion took the brand across Europe, the United States, and other key markets. He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in design and fashion, infusing real estate with storytelling and aspiration. To Sajwani, a building is not just structure — it is experience, identity, and community.

Despite massive scale, he remains deeply involved in decision-making, driven by a hunger to keep creating what has never been done before. His success has earned recognition as one of the Middle East’s leading visionaries — a businessman who helped transform desert into luxury destinations.

Alongside his entrepreneurial achievements, Sajwani is committed to philanthropy, supporting education initiatives, housing contributions, and social development programs that uplift communities in need. He believes that success brings responsibility — and giving back is part of fulfilling the purpose behind prosperity.

Hussain Sajwani’s legacy is etched across skylines, but his real imprint is on an industry he helped redefine. He continues to pursue new horizons, guided by the belief that ambition should never settle — there is always a higher skyline to build.

Hussain Sajwani’s legacy is etched across skylines, but his real imprint is on an industry he helped redefine.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 17

Special Edition /

HATEM DOWIDAR Group CEO, e& (formerly Etisalat Group) HATEM DOWIDAR is a business leader who understands that the future of connectivity goes far beyond simple communications. As Group CEO of e& — the global technology and telecom group previously known as Etisalat — he is leading one of the Middle East’s most iconic companies into a new era defined by digital transformation, intelligent services, and innovation that touches everyday life.

His career in the telecom industry spans continents, giving him a unique perspective on how societies evolve when technology becomes more human-centric. Before joining e&, he held executive roles across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, building expertise in market growth, customer experience, and strategic reinvention — skills that positioned him perfectly for a company undergoing one of the biggest brand shifts in regional corporate history.

Under Dowidar’s leadership, e& has transformed from a traditional operator into a diversified technology group with ambitions stretching into AI, fintech, cybersecurity, entertainment, and the Internet of Things. He champions a mindset that telecommunications is no longer just infrastructure — it is empowerment. It allows individuals, businesses, and governments to thrive in a digital economy that rewards innovation.

He is known for his decisive, creative approach to transformation: expanding international partnerships, developing new digital services, and positioning e& as a catalyst for progress in the UAE and beyond.

His focus on customer experience and technological agility reflects his belief that success comes from moving faster than change itself.

Dowidar also emphasizes sustainability and digital responsibility.

He encourages initiatives that reduce environmental impact, foster digital literacy, and protect communities from emerging cyber risks.

His leadership style is open and globally informed — blending sharp strategy with a genuine interest in how technology shapes everyday wellbeing.

Confident in the industry’s future, he continues to push boundaries, ensuring that e& is not simply adapting to the digital world — it is helping define it. Hatem Dowidar stands among the region’s most influential corporate figures, guiding a transformation that is as much cultural as technological, one that reimagines what connectivity can mean for generations ahead.

Hatem Dowidar stands among the region’s most influential corporate figures, guiding a transformation that is as much cultural as technological, one that reimagines what connectivity can mean for generations ahead.

18 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

MUNAF ALI Co-Founder and Group CEO, Phoenix Group hardware. Under his leadership, Phoenix has expanded across multiple geographies, built diversified revenue streams, and evolved into a full-ecosystem player — spanning mining, hosting, trading, digital-asset investments, and technology solutions.

A milestone in Munaf’s journey has been leading Phoenix Group through its public listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. This achievement positioned the company among the first major crypto-focused businesses in the world to gain formal recognition on a regulated stock exchange, helping bolster confidence in the sector and reinforcing the UAE’s role as a forward-leaning hub for digital-asset innovation.

MUNAF ALI is a prominent entrepreneur, investor and technology executive who has become one of the leading figures driving the growth of the crypto-infrastructure industry in the Middle East.

As Co-Founder and Group CEO of Phoenix Group, he has helped transform the company into a global powerhouse in digital assets, mining operations, and blockchain-based services.

Munaf built the foundation of his career in traditional finance.

He spent more than a decade working in capital markets and investment banking, gaining deep experience in financial structuring, institutional investment, and strategic decisionmaking. That background shaped his unique perspective when he later shifted into technology — allowing him to bridge the gap between established financial systems and emerging digitalasset economies.

In 2017, Munaf co-founded Phoenix Group with the vision of building scalable, industrial-grade infrastructure to support the future of cryptocurrency and blockchain adoption. The company began by developing and operating large-scale crypto mining facilities, leveraging both energy efficiency and advanced

Munaf believes in responsible, institutional-grade growth of the cryptocurrency industry. He focuses on strong governance, compliance, and sustainable investment — principles that have earned Phoenix a reputation as a trusted player in a rapidly evolving market. His leadership is defined by agility, innovation, and a constant commitment to operational excellence.

Today, Munaf Ali continues to guide Phoenix Group as it scales globally, supports new technological advances, and empowers investors and industries to participate in the digital-asset economy. His story reflects the transformation of finance itself — from traditional markets to decentralized technologies — driven by vision, expertise, and the courage to lead in a new frontier.

“Munaf Ali continues to guide Phoenix Group as it scales globally, supports new technological advances, and empowers investors and industries to participate in the digital-asset economy.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 19

Special Edition /

FADI GHANDOUR Ex-founder, Aramex | Executive Chairman, Wamda Capital FADI GHANDOUR is a pioneering entrepreneur and one of the most influential figures in the Middle East’s logistics and venture-investment landscape. As the founder of Aramex, he played a central role in building the first globally recognized logistics brand to emerge from the Arab world, transforming cross-border trade and e-commerce capabilities across the region. His leadership helped shape the infrastructure that enabled businesses and consumers in the Middle East to connect with global markets more efficiently and reliably than ever before.

Ghandour’s entrepreneurial path has always been grounded in identifying structural gaps and enabling long-term economic growth. After stepping back from Aramex’s day-today operations, he turned his focus to venture investment, supporting the ecosystem through Wamda, a platform dedicated to advancing regional entrepreneurship. He has backed founders across technology, logistics, mobility and sustainability sectors, consistently championing innovation, knowledge transfer and scalable job creation.

Beyond business, Ghandour has been a vocal advocate for the role of the private sector in driving social progress, particularly in areas such as youth employment, skills development and access to opportunity. His public contributions reflect a deep belief in the economic potential of the region and the need to empower its next generation of innovators.

Throughout his career, he has also served on boards and advisory bodies, contributing to policy thinking and institutional development.

His influence spans infrastructure, innovation and impact-driven entrepreneurship, making him a respected voice in regional business transformation.

Fadi Ghandour remains widely recognized as a catalyst for change — a leader who not only built a global company but helped lay the foundation for the Middle East’s startup and digital-commerce revolutions. His legacy continues through the companies he supports and the founders he inspires.

Fadi Ghandour remains widely recognized as a catalyst for change — a leader who not only built a global company but helped lay the foundation for the Middle East’s startup and digitalcommerce revolutions.

20 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

RONALDO MOUCHAWAR Ex co-founder, Souq Vice President, Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, Amazon

RONALDO MOUCHAWAR is a trailblazing entrepreneur credited with building one of the Middle East’s first major e-commerce success stories. As co-founder of Souq.com, he helped unlock a digital retail economy that reshaped consumer behaviour, accelerated online business models and set the stage for a thriving regional e-commerce ecosystem.

Following the acquisition of Souq.com, Mouchawar has continued to lead digital-commerce growth as a senior executive with Amazon, contributing to innovation in logistics, payments and customer experience. His work enables millions of customers to benefit from accessibility, product choice and convenience — while providing new economic opportunities for sellers across the region.

Ronaldo Mouchawar remains one of the most respected business leaders in the region, closely associated with the ascent of e-commerce as a major economic pillar and a driver of business modernisation.

Ronaldo Mouchawar remains one of the most respected business leaders in the region, closely associated with the ascent of e-commerce as a major economic pillar and a driver of business modernisation.

A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, he has been active in supporting the development of local technology talent, nurturing founders and building institutional knowledge within the digital economy.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 21

Special Edition /

AHMED ALKHOSHAIBI Group Chief Executive Officer, Arada

At the core of Ahmed’s leadership is a clear mission: to create integrated, sustainable communities that support healthier, happier lives while delivering long-term value for residents, investors, and cities alike.

AHMED ALKHOSHAIBI is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Arada, leading the UAE-based developer since its launch in 2017 and transforming it into one of the region’s most influential real estate and lifestyle platforms. Under his leadership, Arada has built a development portfolio exceeding AED 70 billion, spanning residential, mixed-use, hospitality, wellness, education, retail, and industrial assets.

Arada has sold more than 17,000 homes across nine developments in the UAE, with over 10,000 units delivered, and has established a strong reputation for large-scale, communityled masterplans. The company has also demonstrated financial strength, securing over USD 1 billion in public bond issuances, supported by investment-grade ratings from Fitch and Moody’s.

22 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

In recent years, Ahmed has overseen Arada’s expansion into the luxury and ultra-luxury segments, with landmark projects including Akala, the world’s first precision wellness destination, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah, W Residences Dubai Harbour, and Anantara Sharjah Resort and Residences.

Internationally, Ahmed is spearheading Arada’s global growth, with expansions into Australia and, most recently, London, where the company has established a major UK platform through the acquisition of a leading British residential developer and a significant pipeline of urban regeneration projects.

At the core of Ahmed’s leadership is a clear mission: to create integrated, sustainable communities that support healthier, happier lives while delivering long-term value for residents, investors, and cities alike.

/ THE 100

ADEEB AHAMED Managing Director, LuLu Financial Holdings ADEEB AHAMED is a driving force in the global payments and remittance industry, recognized for modernising financial services and expanding access for millions of people across international markets. As Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, he has led the transformation of LuLu Exchange from a regional currency-exchange business into a globally active financial services group. His leadership has championed innovation in cross-border payments, digital remittances and wage-protection services, helping set new standards for transparency, convenience and security.

Ahamed’s career is defined by a strong focus on financial inclusion. He has consistently advocated for solutions that empower expatriates, migrant workers and underserved

communities — ensuring that everyday financial needs are met through reliable, technology-driven platforms. Under his guidance, the business has grown its footprint internationally, building trusted connections between migrant communities and their families around the world.

Beyond the financial sector, Ahamed has demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial instinct through strategic diversification. He has played a key role in developing investments across hospitality and other consumer-facing sectors, reflecting his long-term vision for sustainable growth and economic development.

His work has helped create employment, drive tourism and contribute to the region’s broader commercial landscape.

A respected voice in corporate leadership, Ahamed is active in industry forums and economic councils, contributing to regional dialogue on digital transformation and responsible business. His commitment to social responsibility is also widely recognized, with a track record of supporting initiatives in education, community development and humanitarian programming.

Forward-looking, globally minded and people-focused, Adeeb Ahamed represents the new generation of business leadership in the GCC — combining innovation with impact.

Forward-looking, globally minded and people-focused, Adeeb Ahamed represents the new generation of business leadership in the GCC — combining innovation with impact.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 23

Special Edition /

MAHDI AMJAD Founder and Executive Chairman, OMNIYAT Group MAHDI AMJAD is a distinguished entrepreneur and the founder and Executive Chairman of OMNIYAT, the Dubai-based luxury real estate and lifestyle developer celebrated for transforming the city’s skyline with design-led, ultra-luxury projects since its inception in 2005. Under his leadership, OMNIYAT has become synonymous with architectural excellence and innovation, creating landmark developments that fuse artistry, functionality, and bespoke living experiences.

At OMNIYAT, Amjad has overseen the delivery of iconic projects such as The Opus by OMNIYAT designed by Dame Zaha Hadid, One at Palm Jumeirah, and The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Dubai, each exemplifying his philosophy of “The Art of Elevation.”

Today, OMNIYAT stands as a leader in ultra-luxury real estate, with a robust pipeline and a legacy of setting new benchmarks in design, luxury living, and global investment appeal — a testament to Amjad’s enduring impact on Dubai’s architectural and cultural landscape.

Today, OMNIYAT stands as a leader in ultra-luxury real estate, with a robust pipeline and a legacy of setting new benchmarks in design, luxury living, and global investment appeal — a testament to Amjad’s enduring impact on Dubai’s architectural and cultural landscape.

24 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

FAHAD AL HASSAWI Group CEO of du (Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company - EITC)

Through targeted partnerships with Dubai SME and national innovation programmes, Al Hassawi continues to ensure that digital transformation and growth opportunities extend to startups and SMEs across the UAE.

FAHAD AL HASSAWI is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), the organization behind the du brand and one of the UAE’s leading telecom and digital services providers. An Emirati executive with more than two decades of industry experience, Al Hassawi has been a key architect of du’s transformation since his appointment as CEO, leading the company’s evolution beyond traditional connectivity into a fully integrated digital services and technology platform.

Under his leadership, du has reinforced its position as a digital lifestyle and connectivity enabler, achieving near-nationwide 5G and 5G+ coverage while accelerating investments in AI, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise digital solutions. These initiatives have positioned du as a strategic partner for businesses and

government entities navigating the next phase of digitalization.

Al Hassawi has also prioritised people and talent development, championing Emiratisation and future-ready skills through initiatives such as du’s Certified Digital Talent programme, designed to equip the workforce for emerging technologies.

In parallel, he has overseen the expansion of AI supercluster infrastructure, hyperscale data centre partnerships, and cloudnative enterprise platforms, strengthening du’s role in enabling smart cities, digital government services, and next-generation industries. Through targeted partnerships with Dubai SME and national innovation programs, Al Hassawi continues to ensure that digital transformation and growth opportunities extend to startups and SMEs across the UAE.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 25

Special Edition /

DR. SHAMSHEER VAYALIL Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings

Shamsheer founded VPS Healthcare in 2007 with a vision to provide affordable and accessible healthcare services to those in need. Over the years, VPS Healthcare expanded into a comprehensive healthcare network with a presence across the GCC region, India, and Europe, operating numerous hospitals and medical centers with an expansive workforce.

In 2022, VPS Healthcare unified its GCC assets under a new holding company, Burjeel Holdings, to manage a wide range of healthcare brands.

This consolidation has established it as one of the region’s largest integrated health networks, serving diverse socio-economic segments through various brands, including Burjeel Hospitals, Medeor Hospitals, LLH Hospitals, Lifecare Hospitals, Tajmeel, and PhysioTherabia, which was born out of a desire to provide cost-effective yet specialized and superior quality healthcare services.

Under his guidance, the Group is rapidly emerging as a regional and global front-runner, building a robust healthcare ecosystem at home, attracting world-class expertise, and reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil is a healthcare visionary and successful entrepreneur who transformed Burjeel Holdings from a single hospital to an end-to-end healthcare provider with a rapidly expanding global footprint.

A trained radiologist with a passion for developing medical facilities and improving healthcare quality in the Middle East, Dr.

26 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Dr. Shamsheer is a keen philanthropist with an active involvement towards helping communities and the underprivileged through a series of health-focused campaigns and initiatives. His philanthropic initiatives reflect his deep commitment to community welfare, from funding 50 free heart surgeries for children with congenital heart disease across Africa and Asia to supporting 10 life-changing osseointegration surgeries at Burjeel Medical City. Dr. Shamsheer recently extended $681,000 (AED 2.5 million) in aid to the students and families of BJ Medical College, who were affected by the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, standing with India’s medical fraternity in a time of crisis. His compassion has also touched the lives of individual patients,

/ THE 100

including Sham and Omar, Syrian siblings rescued after the 2023 earthquake, whose treatment at Burjeel inspired wider access to advanced prosthetics and complex care in the region.

Recognized by key global and local accolades for his continuous pursuit of excellence in developing healthcare, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship across the region, Dr. Shamsheer received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, India’s highest civilian award presented to Non-Resident Indians. He is also a member of the UAE Medical Council and a member of the advisory committee of the University of Sharjah College of Medicine.

ABOUT BURJEEL HOLDINGS Burjeel Holdings is one of the leading private providers of world-class healthcare services in the UAE and Oman, with a growing specialized healthcare segment in Saudi Arabia. Burjeel Medical City, the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, houses globally recognized and reputed institutions, including the Paley Middle East Clinic, Advanced Gynecology Institute, FrancoEuropean Multidisciplinary Institute of Endometriosis (IFEM Endo), and Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute. Burjeel Medical City has become a leading destination for complex care, offering advanced treatments in oncology, transplants, orthopedics, women’s health, and other quaternary services supported by cutting-edge technology and international standards.

With strong research capabilities, accredited programs, and comprehensive patient support from travel to follow-up, it attracts patients from across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia who need solutions beyond their home systems. Strategic collaborations and Abu Dhabi’s supportive healthcare ecosystem further strengthen its role in positioning the Emirate as a global hub for medical tourism, combining world-class outcomes with compassionate care.

According to its official website, Burjeel Holdings boasts 6.5 million patient footfall; 112 medical assets, including 20 hospitals; 1,775 doctors; 1,730 beds, and 82,000 total surgeries.

Burjeel Holdings accelerated its strategic initiatives in Q2 2025, focusing on deepening expertise and expanding patient access. The Group enhanced its advanced oncology network by integrating Dubai’s Advanced Care Oncology Center and launching the new Burjeel Cancer Institute clinics in Al Ain, Sharjah, and Oman, as well as the UAE’s first dedicated cancer pharmacy.

Simultaneously, Burjeel launched a regional mental health platform through its joint venture Alkalma, establishing four specialist centers across the UAE and KSA. This marked the beginning of a multi-year expansion plan to meet growing

“Dr. Shamsheer is a keen philanthropist with an active involvement towards helping communities and the underprivileged through a series of health-focused campaigns and initiatives.

demand for mental wellness services. In KSA, the Group acquired a major physiotherapy facility in Riyadh under PhysioTherabia, boosting capacity and unlocking growth potential through secured government contracts.

Patient demand continued to rise across IVF, oncology, and diagnostics, fuelling overall growth. Oncology revenue surged due to network expansion and improved surgical conversion rates. The Group invested approximately $46.3M (AED 170M) to acquire the Medeor Hospital Dubai building, and also expanded primary care with a new medical center on Saadiyat Island, aligning with its urban growth strategy.

In innovation, Burjeel launched DOCKTOUR, a healthcare logistics joint venture with AD Ports Group, aimed at serving underserved and remote communities. Several specialized centers were launched, including the region’s first Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic for limb reconstruction and a state-of-the-art Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. The Group expanded its capabilities in rare diseases, hematology, and metabolic research. Additionally, Burjeel advanced its digital transformation with AI-powered diagnostics and led pioneering research in microgravity, aiming to revolutionize diabetes care on Earth and in space. More healthcare innovations include the Group’s center for Robotic Surgery, equipped with the latest Da Vinci XI Robotic System and highly skilled board-certified robotic surgeons.

Burjeel Holdings achieved a significant milestone on 8 September 2025 with the accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) for its Internal Medicine and General Surgery residency programs. This expands the Group’s existing portfolio, which already includes approved programs in Orthopaedics and Haematology-Oncology Fellowships. The Group also announced the launch of its postgraduate residency and fellowship programs across four key medical disciplines, demonstrating its commitment to fostering the UAE’s next generation of healthcare professionals.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 27

Special Edition /

ELIE KHOURI Founder, Vivium | Chairman, Omnicom Media Group MENA Elie is also an avid art collector and patron and has been featured among the Top 200 Collectors by ARTnews.

ELIE KHOURI, founder of Vivium, a single-family office based in Dubai, and Chairman of Omnicom Media Group MENA, is a seasoned marketing expert, investor, and entrepreneur. With over three decades of experience, he has built a reputation for identifying emerging trends and nurturing innovation across industries.

Through Vivium, Elie manages a curated portfolio spanning real estate, design, startups, and collectibles. A passionate mentor and advocate for entrepreneurship, he serves as a permanent judge on Shark Tank Dubai.

He is also an avid art collector and patron and has been featured among the Top 200 Collectors by ARTnews. In this feature, Elie shares his predictions for 2025, highlighting the key trends likely to shape industries and society in the coming year.

28 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

TOUFIC KREIDIEH Co-Founder and Executive Chairman, BFL Group (Brands For Less)

Anchored in resilience, creativity, and customer-centric innovation, Kreidieh continues to drive BFL Group’s growth while advancing its digital transformation and sustainability agenda.

concepts including Toys For Less, Homes For Less, and Luxury For Less, alongside several international retail partnerships.

TOUFIC KREIDIEH is a seasoned Lebanese entrepreneur and the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of BFL Group, the parent company of Brands For Less, one of the Middle East’s most successful off-price retail chains. He launched the first Brands For Less store in 1996 in Lebanon, driven by a clear vision to make quality, branded merchandise accessible to a wider consumer base.

Following the relocation of the company’s headquarters to Dubai in 2000, Kreidieh positioned the UAE as the hub of BFL Group’s regional growth, expanding its footprint across the GCC and Southeast Asia. Under his leadership, the group evolved into a diversified retail platform, introducing

Today, BFL Group operates more than 120 stores across seven markets, supported by a growing omnichannel presence that integrates physical retail with robust e-commerce platforms. This scale reflects Kreidieh’s strategic foresight and operational discipline in building a resilient, high-growth retail business.

In 2024, Kreidieh led a landmark strategic transaction, selling a 35% stake in BFL Group to The TJX Companies, Inc. for USD 360 million, valuing the business at USD 1.2 billion and unlocking the next phase of regional expansion.

Anchored in resilience, creativity, and customercentric innovation, Kreidieh continues to drive BFL Group’s growth while advancing its digital transformation and sustainability agenda.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 29

Special Edition /

HAIDER ALI KHAN Chief Executive Officer, Bayut and dubizzle CEO, Dubizzle Group MENA

HAIDER ALI KHAN is a tech visionary and business leader serving as Chief Executive Officer of Bayut and dubizzle and CEO of Dubizzle Group MENA, the UAE-based tech powerhouse that leads property and classifieds marketplaces across the Middle East. Under his decade-long leadership, Bayut has grown from a local property start-up into one of the region’s most trusted and innovative PropTech platforms, deploying data-driven tools like TruCheck™, TruEstimate™ and BayutGPT that are reshaping transparency and efficiency in real estate transactions.

Educated in electrical engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, Haider spent over a decade in the United States working with companies such as Goldman Sachs, Silicon Labs, and National Instruments before relocating to Dubai in 2014 to lead Bayut full-time.

His strategic vision has been central to the integration of Bayut with dubizzle, the MENA region’s leading online classifieds

30 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

platform, and to the evolution of the group into a unicorn-valued digital ecosystem with millions of users.

Beyond product innovation, Haider champions industry collaboration, working closely with regulators like the Dubai Land Department to elevate market standards and digital transformation in real estate.

His leadership reflects a deep commitment to technology-led growth, transparency, and customer-centric solutions that continue to influence the future of property technology in the UAE and beyond.

/ THE 100

ABDULLA LAHEJ Chairman and Founding Partner, Ayana Holding | Founder, Amaal

Lahej’s vision centers on crafting purpose-driven urban experiences, underpinned by smart infrastructure, sustainability, and community engagement.

His leadership continues to contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s emergence as a global benchmark for innovative urban development.

with MANSORY for its first branded residences — a testament to Lahej’s emphasis on luxury innovation and global appeal.

ABDULLA LAHEJ is an Emirati real estate visionary and the Chairman and Founding Partner of Ayana Holding, a diversified investment and development platform with a portfolio spanning real estate, master planning, design, and strategic delivery services. With more than two decades of leadership experience across major UAE development sectors, Lahej has played an instrumental role in shaping some of Dubai’s most iconic communities and projects.

Through Ayana Holding’s integrated ecosystem — encompassing architecture, master planning, design, and delivery — Lahej has positioned the company for ambitious expansion both in the UAE and internationally, with a pipeline of distinctive developments designed to redefine modern living.

Lahej’s vision centers on crafting purpose-driven urban experiences, underpinned by smart infrastructure, sustainability, and community engagement. His leadership continues to contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s emergence as a global benchmark for innovative urban development.

In response to Dubai’s evolving real estate landscape, Lahej founded Amaal, a forward-thinking development firm dedicated to creating vibrant, connected communities that blend smart technology, sustainability, and human-centric design. Its flagship project, Amaal 8 in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, sold out quickly and has expanded with a landmark Dhs1.8 billion partnership

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 31

Special Edition /

SHERIF BESHARA Group Chief Executive Officer, American Hospital Dubai SHERIF BESHARA is a leading figure in the Middle East’s private healthcare sector, recognized for his role in shaping one of the region’s most respected medical institutions.

As Chief Executive Officer of American Hospital Dubai, Beshara has overseen the hospital’s evolution into a benchmark for quality, clinical excellence, and patient-centred care in the UAE. With a career spanning several decades, Beshara brings a rare combination of strategic leadership and operational insight to healthcare management. He assumed the role of CEO of American Hospital Dubai in the late 1990s, at a pivotal moment when private healthcare in the region was transitioning from basic service provision to globally benchmarked care. Under his leadership, the hospital expanded both in scale and scope, aligning itself with international standards while remaining deeply attuned to local needs.

American Hospital Dubai is widely recognized for its strong clinical governance, advanced medical technologies, and commitment to international accreditation. Beshara has been instrumental in embedding a culture of quality and accountability across the organisation, ensuring that patient safety, clinical outcomes, and ethical practice remain central to decision-making. His emphasis on continuous improvement has helped position the hospital as a trusted destination for both local and international patients.

Beyond infrastructure and technology, Beshara is known for prioritising people as the foundation of healthcare excellence.

He has consistently invested in attracting and retaining top medical talent from around the world, while also supporting the development of regional professionals. This focus on multidisciplinary collaboration has strengthened the hospital’s reputation for delivering integrated, evidence-based care across a wide range of specialties.

Beshara’s leadership extends beyond hospital operations to broader contributions within

32 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

the healthcare ecosystem. He has been an advocate for responsible private-sector participation in healthcare development, supporting initiatives that promote transparency, regulation, and alignment with national health priorities. His perspective reflects a belief that sustainable healthcare systems require strong partnerships between public institutions, private providers, and the wider community.

Strategically, Beshara has guided American Hospital Dubai through periods of rapid industry change, including advances in digital health, shifting patient expectations, and increased regulatory sophistication.

His approach balances long-term vision with operational resilience, ensuring the organisation remains agile without compromising its core values.

Today, Sherif Beshara continues to lead American Hospital Dubai with a steady focus on excellence, trust, and innovation.

His career reflects a deep commitment to elevating healthcare standards in the region and demonstrates how disciplined leadership, when combined with a clear mission, can create lasting impact in one of society’s most vital sectors.

Beshara’s career reflects a deep commitment to elevating healthcare standards in the region and demonstrates how disciplined leadership, when combined with a clear mission, can create lasting impact in one of society’s most vital sectors.

/ THE 100

Special Edition /

ALI SAJWANI Managing Director, Operations and Technology, DAMAC Properties ALI SAJWANI is a dynamic next-generation business leader driving operational excellence and digital advancement within one of the region’s largest private real estate companies. As Managing Director of Operations & Technology at DAMAC Properties, he plays a central role in optimizing delivery across large-scale development pipelines, enhancing customer experience and steering the company’s digital transformation strategy.

Sajwani has been instrumental in harnessing new technologies to streamline construction processes, elevate service standards and improve efficiency. His work supports DAMAC’s commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities

Ali Sajwani continues to be a prominent voice in the evolution of the UAE property market — bringing fresh ideas, disciplined execution and a strong understanding of future trends.

34 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

that meet the expectations of global investors and modern residents.

Recognized for his entrepreneurial mindset, he has contributed to the diversification of the group’s brand and service offerings, exploring opportunities that strengthen its long-term value proposition. At the same time, he actively participates in industry-wide dialogue that promotes sustainability, innovation and youth leadership in the real estate sector.

Ali Sajwani continues to be a prominent voice in the evolution of the UAE property market — bringing fresh ideas, disciplined execution and a strong understanding of future trends.

/ THE 100

AMIRA SAJWANI Managing Director, Sales and Development, DAMAC Properties; Founder and CEO, PRYPCO; Co-Founder, Amali Properties AMIRA SAJWANI is a rising force in the UAE’s real estate and proptech sectors, recognized for combining family legacy with bold entrepreneurial ambition. As Managing Director of Sales and Development at DAMAC Properties, she plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s global sales operations, launching new destination developments and expanding the brand’s footprint in key international markets.

Her leadership embodies a modern and strategic approach to real estate, with a focus on customer experience, design innovation and market insight.

Her entrepreneurial vision comes to life through PRYPCO — a company she founded to transform the way property ownership and investment work in the region. By introducing solutions such as fractional ownership, streamlined financing services and new pathways for residency-linked investment, she is helping make real estate more inclusive and accessible to a new generation of buyers.

She also co-founded Amali Properties, a luxury development firm focused on boutique, high-end communities that enhance Dubai’s premium lifestyle offering. Through this and her wider portfolio of ventures, Amira is contributing to the elevation of the city’s real estate standards while tapping into global demand for architecture-led, lifestyle-centric homes.

Coming from one of Dubai’s most influential real estate families, Amira has embraced heritage not as a ceiling but as a launchpad. She represents a new wave of business leadership: digitally driven, globally engaged and focused on innovation over convention. She is also a strong advocate for women’s advancement within the sector, demonstrating what empowered leadership looks like in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

With a growing track record of execution, a strong market vision and a reputation for fresh thinking, Amira Sajwani is helping shape the future of real estate in the UAE — and firmly earns her place on any list celebrating influential next-generation leaders.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 35

Special Edition /

MUHAMMAD BINGHATTI Chairman, Binghatti Holding MUHAMMAD BINGHATTI is the Chairman of Binghatti Holding, one of the UAE’s most recognizable and fast-growing real estate development groups. Known for its bold architectural identity and strong brand positioning, Binghatti has become a defining force in Dubai’s property landscape, particularly in the residential and branded residences segments.

Under Muhammad BinGhatti’s leadership, Binghatti Holding has delivered dozens of landmark projects across Dubai, with

a development portfolio valued in the tens of billions of dirhams.

The group has carved a unique niche by blending distinctive design, accessible luxury, and efficient execution—allowing it to scale rapidly while maintaining a strong identity.

A key milestone under his chairmanship has been Binghatti’s rise as a market leader in branded residences, through highprofile partnerships with global luxury brands including Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz, and Jacob & Co. These collaborations have elevated Dubai’s branded living offering and positioned Binghatti as a pioneer in merging real estate with global luxury branding.

Mr.BinGhatti has driven a vertically integrated business model, enabling the group to control design, construction, and delivery timelines—an approach that has strengthened operational resilience and investor confidence.

With a clear focus on innovation, speed-tomarket, and brand-driven value creation, Muhammad BinGhatti continues to shape Binghatti Holding’s expansion while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for design-led, lifestyle-focused real estate.

36 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

IMRAN FAROOQ Founder and CEO, Samana Developers

In 2014, Imran launched Samana Developers with a clear vision: to create homes that combine affordability with features typically found only in luxury developments.

His unique approach focuses on enhancing everyday living — prioritising leisure spaces, resortstyle environments and practical amenities. Under his leadership, Samana Developers has become known for its signature design feature: private pools integrated within apartment balconies, giving residents a sense of exclusivity normally associated with high-end villas.

Imran’s focus on timely delivery, transparent processes and customer confidence has helped the company build a strong reputation in a competitive market.

Samana Developers rapidly expanded its project portfolio to cover several key Dubai communities, and continues to grow year after year with developments that reflect the city’s aspirational lifestyle.

IMRAN FAROOQ is the Founder and CEO of Samana Developers, one of Dubai’s fastest-growing private real-estate development companies and a key part of the broader Samana Group. He is widely recognized for his entrepreneurial drive and his role in bringing innovative lifestyle-focused residential concepts to the UAE’s property market.

Originally from Pakistan, Imran built his business foundation through years of hands-on entrepreneurship before entering real estate. He established Samana Group as a diversified conglomerate operating across sectors such as corporate services, business centres, immigration solutions and investments. This early success provided him with deep market understanding, financial discipline and the confidence to pursue larger ventures.

He is also committed to sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

Through strategic planning and disciplined financial management, Samana Developers has been able to scale without compromising quality — achieving strong market demand and repeat investor trust.

Imran Farooq’s success is not only defined by the buildings he develops, but by the belief that real estate should improve people’s lives. He regularly emphasises that a home is more than a property — it is a source of comfort, wellbeing and longterm security.

Today, Imran continues to steer Samana Developers on an ambitious growth trajectory, contributing to the evolution of Dubai’s residential landscape and establishing the brand as a leading name in modern, experience-driven community living.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 37

Special Edition /

ABBAS SAJWANI Founder and CEO, AHS Properties ABBAS SAJWANI is one of the most dynamic young entrepreneurs in the UAE’s luxury real estate landscape, recognized for redefining premium living in Dubai and shaping the next generation of property development.

As Founder and CEO of AHS Properties, he has rapidly built a portfolio of high-end residential and branded projects designed to meet the expectations of global investors seeking sophistication, exclusivity and architectural excellence.

globally connected and aligned with Dubai’s long-term economic vision. His leadership style blends bold expansion with disciplined execution, enabling AHS Properties to scale at pace while maintaining exceptional brand standards.

Sajwani launched AHS Properties with a bold vision: to elevate Dubai’s most prestigious neighbourhoods with ultra-luxury homes that combine world-class design, prime locations and meticulous craftsmanship. In just a few years, he has positioned the company as a major player in the city’s elite real estate segment, attracting international buyers and amplifying Dubai’s reputation as a global capital for luxury living.

Coming from an entrepreneurial family, he learned the fundamentals of business and asset growth at a young age. That foundation, combined with modern strategic thinking and a strong understanding of consumer behaviour, has empowered him to drive innovation in a traditionally established sector. His developments focus on creating lifestyle-driven spaces that deliver value far beyond the physical real estate itself.

Beyond property development, Sajwani is actively engaged in investment ventures and is recognized as a champion of the UAE’s next-generation business leadership. He represents a new wave of Emirati ambition — agile,

38 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

With a growing portfolio, an instinct for luxury trends and a clear commitment to delivering iconic developments, Abbas Sajwani is emerging as a powerful influence in shaping Dubai’s highend real estate market.

/ THE 100

TALAL AL GADDAH Group CEO, MAG Group

With a considered leadership style and a commitment to responsible growth, Talal Al Gaddah continues to play an important role in shaping the property sector’s development during a significant period of market expansion.

living environments that reflect modern consumer expectations. His efforts include supporting development concepts rooted in wellbeing, functional architecture and long-term investment confidence.

TALAL AL GADDAH is a respected real estate leader recognized for driving innovation and growth at MAG Group, one of the UAE’s established property development and investment companies. As Group CEO, he plays a major role in shaping the organisation’s strategy, project delivery and market positioning in both luxury and high-value residential segments.

Al Gaddah has championed customer-experience enhancements and design excellence in new communities, responding to demand for elevated

He is also active in broader business-community initiatives, contributing his expertise to discussions on regulatory evolution, sustainability priorities and the future of real estate competitiveness in the UAE. With a considered leadership style and a commitment to responsible growth, Talal Al Gaddah continues to play an important role in shaping the property sector’s development during a significant period of market expansion.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 39

Special Edition /

AJAY BHATIA Founder and Chief Executive Officer, SOL Properties AJAY BHATIA is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of SOL Properties, the Dubai-based real estate development company known for luxury residential, mixed-use, and lifestyle projects across prime UAE locations. He established SOL Properties in 2004 with a clear vision to combine architectural excellence, thoughtful design, and enduring quality — transforming the real estate landscape while enhancing how people live and invest in urban environments.

Bhatia also serves as Chairman of Bhatia General Contracting, the civil contracting arm of the Bhatia Group with roots dating back to 1975. Leveraging this legacy of engineering and construction excellence, he has built a vertically integrated platform that ensures precision, timely delivery, and high standards across all projects.

Under his leadership, SOL Properties has delivered and announced a diverse portfolio — from iconic high-end developments such as Fairmont Residences Solara Tower in Downtown Dubai to wellness-centric communities like SOL LEVANTE and elegant villas in Jumeirah Golf Estates. Bhatia’s philosophy centers on integrity, innovation, and quality — blending luxury with liveability and sustainability.

Known for his methodical and visionary approach, Bhatia emphasizes creating spaces that stand the test of time and meaningfully contribute to Dubai’s built environment, shaping skylines and lifestyles with both purpose and precision.

Known for his methodical and visionary approach, Bhatia emphasizes creating spaces that stand the test of time and meaningfully contribute to Dubai’s built environment, shaping skylines and lifestyles with both purpose and precision.

40 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

SATISH SANPAL Chairman, ANAX Holding SATISH SANPAL is a prominent real estate entrepreneur in Dubai, recognized for transforming ANAX Holding into one of the city’s most ambitious luxury development groups. From modest beginnings to leading a diversified business that spans real estate, hospitality and investment, his success reflects resilience, an instinct for opportunity and a commitment to elevating lifestyle experiences in the UAE. Since founding ANAX Holding in 2018, he has positioned the company at the forefront of Dubai’s premium property market, delivering design-driven, lifestyle-focused developments that speak to international investors and new-age residents alike. His latest projects include V-Suites in Business Bay, a fully furnished urban living concept crafted for professionals seeking style and convenience at the centre of the city; Evora Residences, a wellness-centred community built around sustainability, contemporary architecture and elevated comfort;

and the recently announced ELLE Residences on Dubai Islands, a flagship beachfront collaboration with a global lifestyle brand that defines the future of design-led coastal living.

Sanpal views each development as more than construction — but as a curated living environment that blends modern aesthetics, lifestyle amenities and long-term value. With an entrepreneurial drive that continues to fuel expansion and a dedication to timely, transparent project delivery, he is rapidly cementing ANAX as a new-era force within Dubai’s property sector.

Today, Satish Sanpal stands as a figure shaping the evolution of urban luxury in the emirate, his influence growing alongside the skyline he is helping to define — making him a compelling name on any list of powerful business leaders shaping the future of Dubai’s real estate and hospitality landscape.

Satish Sanpal stands as a figure shaping the evolution of urban luxury in the emirate, his influence growing alongside the skyline he is helping to define.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 41

Special Edition /

ALI AL GEBELY Chairman, ONE Development ALI AL GEBELY leads ONE Development as it sets new standards in real estate by seamlessly integrating AI and advanced technology into every facet of its communities. Backed by a 43-year legacy through Al Gebely Holding, ONE Development has rapidly established a presence across Dubai and Cairo and has a vision to expand into new markets, delivering intelligent, future-ready residential destinations.

Driven by a vision to redefine modern living and investment, the company combines rapid project delivery with transparent governance and a focus on long-term value creation. ONE Development operates with the agility and mindset of a tech disruptor — challenging conventional approaches, embedding smart innovation and placing customer-centricity at the heart of every project. This approach enables the creation of

adaptive, sustainable communities that reflect how people want to live, invest and thrive across high-growth regional and international markets.

ONE Development operates at the intersection of real estate and hospitality, with its flagship Laguna Residence in Dubai’s City of Arabia setting a new benchmark for intelligent living. As the UAE’s first fully AI-integrated residential community, Laguna Residence features advanced smart-home systems, panoramic city views and the nation’s largest lagoon on a podium — reflecting ONE’s focus on elevating everyday experiences through purposeful technology and design.

Guided by Al Gebely’s vision to reimagine hospitality and branded living, ONE Development launched DO Hotels — a groundbreaking collaboration with global music icon Amr Diab. This innovative concept introduces the world’s first AI-enabled musical hotel and residence, seamlessly integrating music, AI and wellness to create a uniquely immersive guest experience. The inaugural properties in Dubai and Cairo will soon be followed by expansions into new markets, reflecting his commitment to shaping new standards in lifestyle-driven hospitality.

Al Gebely’s multi-sector experience underpins the company’s drive for excellence. Before founding ONE Development, he played a pivotal role in expanding Al Fanar Gas Group into Abu Dhabi’s largest LPG distributor, overseeing the delivery of more than 1,500 major infrastructure projects across destinations such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Al Reem Island. His leadership within Al Gebely Holding also spans subsidiaries in technology, energy, oil and gas and AI — demonstrating a commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

As ONE Development continues to expand across key markets, the company remains guided by its foundational pillars: embracing innovation, harnessing advanced technology, fostering vibrant communities and building for long-term sustainability. With each new project, Ali Al Gebely seeks to create environments that not only elevate daily life but also anticipate the evolving needs of residents, guests and investors — delivering thoughtful, future-ready destinations inspired by the people who live in them.

42 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

CAPTAIN PRADEEP SINGH Founder and Group CEO, Karma Developers and Aethon Group acclaim. He established Aethon, a globally respected risk management firm, and Spectrum Networks, a technology consultancy recognized for innovation and service excellence.

Today, he leads Karma Developers – a defining pillar of the Karma Group – driving its rise as a powerhouse in luxury real estate across strategic global markets.

Captain Singh’s vision anchors this momentum—delivering developments that inspire pride, enrich lives, and strengthen the legacy of the Karma Group worldwide.

CAPTAIN PRADEEP SINGH is a distinguished industry leader whose global career spans more than three decades across shipping, technology, and real estate development. A Master Mariner by training, he complements his maritime foundation with an impressive portfolio of advanced qualifications, including an MSc in Finance, MBA, LLM, and a PhD from leading UK institutions. He also holds prestigious professional credentials such as CPA, CMA and CGMA, and is a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Owner/President Management program, reflecting his commitment to strategic leadership and financial excellence.

Throughout his career, Captain Singh has successfully founded and scaled multiple ventures with international

Under Captain Singh’s leadership, Karma Developers has delivered more than 25 landmark projects across the UAE, the UK, and Cyprus, with continued expansion underway in Romania and strategic investments in Australia. With a development pipeline exceeding five million square feet, the company has shaped key micromarkets in Dubai, including soughtafter destinations such as Palm Jumeirah and Meydan District.

These achievements are backed by a senior leadership team with more than 75 years of combined experience, ensuring every development balances technical precision, modern lifestyle needs, and long-term value creation.

Renowned for his strategic acumen, governance expertise and brand-building capability, Captain Singh has been honoured internationally – recognized as the Global Indian Maritime Personality of the Year, listed among the Top 100 Most Influential in the Middle East, and celebrated as one of the UAE’s Top 100 Expats. His reputation for excellence reinforces Karma Developers’ unwavering mission: to craft aesthetically inspiring, enduring homes that foster belonging, create thriving communities, and set new standards in quality and design.

Today, with over 2,000 satisfied customers and a focus on smart affordability and sustainability, Karma Developers continues to grow through innovation and strong industry partnerships. Captain Singh’s vision anchors this momentum—delivering developments that inspire pride, enrich lives, and strengthen the legacy of the Karma Group worldwide.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 43

Special Edition /

44 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

FAISAL ADNAN SHAKER Chief Executive Officer, Thakher Development Company MR. FAISAL ADNAN SHAKER is the Chief Executive Officer of Thakher Development Company, where he leads one of Makkah’s most transformative mixed-use projects in close proximity to the Grand Mosque. Under his leadership, the company is delivering major infrastructure works, world-class hospitality developments operated by international brands, and premium serviced apartments.

With more than two decades of senior leadership experience in real estate development, investment, and corporate finance, Mr. Shaker has held several prominent executive positions. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Saudia Real Estate Company (SARED), where he managed a multibillionriyal portfolio spanning Saudi Arabia, London, Istanbul, Cairo, and Dubai. There he led the master planning of large-scale projects, devised innovative funding strategies, and enhanced governance across the organization.

Prior to this, he served at the Jeddah Development Authority as Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and Head of Investment, Development, and the Project Management Office. During his tenure, he oversaw large-scale initiatives in logistics, mobility, tourism, infrastructure, and real estate.

entity tasked with revitalizing Jeddah’s historic district. He also served as Executive Director of the Ministry of Culture’s Jeddah Historical District Program, where he oversaw strategy, development, and asset management in alignment with UNESCO guidelines.

In the earlier stages of his career, Mr. Shaker was Chief Investment and Development Officer at Jabal Omar Development Company, where he led the delivery of landmark mixed-use projects adjacent to the Grand Mosque and launched SAR 10 billion in real estate investment products.

He was later appointed Acting Chief Commercial Officer, overseeing hospitality, retail, and customer-experience operations. He also held senior roles at Vision Capital Group, Al Khabeer Capital, and Saudi Hollandi Bank, where he built deep expertise in investment management, asset structuring, and corporate banking.

Mr. Shaker holds a Bachelor of Engineering Science in Landscape Architecture from King Abdul Aziz University.

With a proven track record of delivering complex real estate developments, he is well positioned to lead Thakher Development Company as it shapes the future of Makkah’s urban landscape and advances the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Previously, he was Acting Chief Executive Officer of Al Balad Development Company, a Public Investment Fund (PIF)

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 45

Special Edition /

RIZWAN SAJAN Founder and Chairman, Danube Group RIZWAN SAJAN embodies the entrepreneurial dream — a story of perseverance that begins with modest beginnings and rises to the top of regional industry. As Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, he has built one of the UAE’s most dynamic conglomerates, grounded in hard work, innovation, and an unwavering belief that success is earned step by step.

Originally from Mumbai, Sajan started his career far from the skyscrapers and showrooms his company would one day occupy. His early life was marked by determination — supporting his family and learning business fundamentals through hands-on experience. When he moved to Dubai in the early 1990s, the city was on the verge of transformation, and he saw possibility where others saw uncertainty.

He launched Danube as a small trading firm in building materials, fueled by relentless effort and a reputation for honesty. Contractors and suppliers quickly learned that Sajan delivered on his promises — quality products, fair pricing, and dependable service. That trust became the foundation for a business that expanded rapidly as Dubai’s skyline began reaching for the clouds.

Over the decades, Danube Group evolved into multiple sectors: real estate development, home improvement retail, manufacturing, and lifestyle. Danube Home, his flagship retail brand, became a destination for furnishing and design, making stylish living accessible to thousands of households.

In real estate, he introduced projects that deliver modern communities with value and comfort — a philosophy that resonates deeply with Dubai’s diverse residents.

Sajan’s leadership style is defined by humility and hands-on involvement. Even as his company grew, he remained close to his team, believing that loyalty and unity drive long-term success. He actively supports employee development and community initiatives, championing causes that offer education, healthcare access, and support for workers who contribute to building modern cities.

His story continues to inspire entrepreneurs across the world — especially those who arrive in new countries with little more than ambition and perseverance. He often says that Dubai gave him an opportunity, and his responsibility is to create opportunities for others.

Rizwan Sajan’s legacy shines not only through buildings and business achievements, but through the values he lives by daily: integrity, generosity, and belief in the power of starting with a single step.

46 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Rizwan Sajan’s legacy shines not only through buildings and business achievements, but through the values he lives by daily: integrity, generosity, and belief in the power of starting with a single step.

ODE TO BAG END Limited Edition

Make every epic writing journey a cosy one. Hobbiton handcraft from the makers of the world’s most magical pens.

© ™ ­

Special Edition /

DR.VIVEK ANAND OBEROI Managing Director and Co-Founder, BNW Developments CREATIVITY sparked it. Strategy scaled it. Purpose drives it. An actorpreneur whose path spans cinema, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and global advocacy, he now applies that rare blend to luxury real estate. As Managing Director and Co-Founder of BNW Developments, Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi is redefining the future of living in the UAE. Celebrated for his distinguished two-decade career in Indian cinema, including acclaimed performances in multiple movies, Dr. Oberoi has long demonstrated the ability to influence culture, build communities, and connect authentically with audiences. “Cinema has been my first great teacher,” he reflects. “It showed me that every frame, every character, and every emotion has the power to move people, change perspectives, and build bridges. The art of storytelling isn’t just about entertainment; it is about understanding humanity at its core.” This deep sensitivity to people, emotion, and narrative now seamlessly informs his approach as an entrepreneur and leader.

At BNW Developments, Dr. Oberoi plays a pivotal role in strengthening the brand’s positioning in the ultra-luxury segment. His leadership has contributed to the company’s rapid rise in the UAE real estate landscape, with BNW achieving AED 32 billion in Gross Development Value to date.

His focus on purposeful creativity, future-ready design, and human-centric luxury guides the organisation’s philosophy: crafting spaces that not only embody architectural sophistication but also respond thoughtfully to how people aspire to live, work, and connect. Under his strategic direction, BNW Developments is setting new benchmarks for innovation, craftsmanship, and lifestyle-driven communities across the region.

Beyond real estate, Dr. Oberoi is an active investor and co-founder across multiple high-growth sectors including edtech, agritech, fintech, sustainable luxury, engineering, and media technology. His ventures, ranging from Solitario, a global leader in lab-grown diamonds, to iScholar, ReadyAssist, Agribid, Pentacle Consultants, Identical Brains, and Nisus Finance Services, reflect his commitment to backing ideas that deliver commercial value while advancing long-term social and environmental progress.

“Entrepreneurship, to me, is the art of envisioning what the world needs before the world itself knows it,” he says. “A great business is not built merely on capital or opportunity, but on purpose, empathy, courage, and the willingness to challenge what others accept as inevitable.” His portfolio is unified by a clear philosophy: that business must serve as a catalyst for systemic change, empowerment, and economic upliftment.

48 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

This belief also anchors his philanthropic legacy. For over two decades, Dr. Oberoi has been deeply involved in transformative initiatives through the Cancer Patients Aid Association, Project DEVI, Project Hope, Lighting a Billion Lives, The Banyan, Habitat for Humanity, Ekal Vidyalaya, and the ONE Foundation. His efforts have supported hundreds of thousands of children, families, farmers, and underserved communities through healthcare, education, housing, women’s empowerment, and rural development. As he often says, “The true measure of life is not what we achieve, but what we enable others to achieve. Philanthropy is not a charity. It is a responsibility, a privilege, and a reminder that success holds its greatest meaning when it becomes a force for dignity, hope, and transformation.” His long-standing service in these areas exemplifies his belief that success is measured not only by professional achievement or financial growth, but by one’s ability to meaningfully impact lives and contribute to the betterment of society.

As a Peace Ambassador for interfaith dialogue and an advocate for social justice, sustainability, and public health, Dr. Oberoi has consistently used his platform to drive meaningful discourse and action. His influence extends beyond sectors or industries; it is rooted in a holistic vision of impact, where creativity, commerce, and conscience coexist.

Today, Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi emerges as a modern leader of rare depth: a successful wealth creator, a culture shaper, and a humanitarian whose work transcends titles and industries.

Whether through BNW Developments’ transformative real estate ventures, his diverse entrepreneurial investments, or his lifelong social mission, he continues to champion a future where success is measured not only by growth, but by the lives improved because of it.

Cinema has been my first great teacher, it showed me that every frame, every character, and every emotion has the power to move people, change perspectives, and build bridges. The art of storytelling isn’t just about entertainment; it is about understanding humanity at its core.

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 49

Special Edition /

/ THE 100

ANKUR AGGARWAL Chairman and Founder, BNW Developments MOST LEADERS inherit momentum. Others create it through sheer precision of thought and an uncommon ability to see what the market has not yet articulated.

Ankur Aggarwal belongs firmly to the latter category.

Taking a journey from Delhi to the UAE with just a few rupees in his pockets, the Chairman and Founder of BNW Developments has become synonymous with the luxury transformation wave in the UAE real estate landscape.

Today, he spearheads a portfolio that exceeds AED 32 billion in Gross Development Value, a benchmark that reflects more than scale. It signals an architect of growth who combines the precision of a Chartered Accountant with the instinct of a market pioneer. Under his leadership, BNW has emerged as one of the region’s most defining forces, particularly in Ras Al Khaimah, where it stands as the largest private real estate developer, reshaping the emirate’s skyline and its global relevance in record time.

What sets Aggarwal apart is not only the volume he delivers but the vocabulary he introduces. For him, a building is never a structure. It is a cultural statement. A BNW Development is designed to stir emotion, anchor identity, and challenge the conventions of luxury. This philosophy is evident in BNW’s partnerships with brands that carry their own gravitational pull. Collaborations with IHCL Taj, FashionTV, Michel Adam, and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts demonstrate his belief that modern luxury is a curated experience, not a checklist. And the multi-billion-dirham partnership with Masah’s MAN Construction reflects his commitment to ecosystems that match BNW’s precision, velocity, and global ambition.

“Success only becomes meaningful when it leaves behind systems, people, and places that can grow without you,” reflects Aggarwal.

Recognition has followed him at every step, though he treats them as milestones rather than destinations. His accolades include the Exemplary Industry Leadership Award from the Indywood Billionaires Club, the Global Icon Award in real estate, the Visionary of the Year title from Pillars of Real Estate Awards, and the Icons of the UAE recognition for three consecutive seasons. He has been honored by the RBPG with the Pravasi Samman Award, featured as Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker by the Taxation Society, spotlighted in DAVOS 2025 magazine for redefining luxury real estate, and celebrated with the JSG Award for leadership excellence.

From ICAI Oman Vista to ICAI Doha and ICAI Udaan, global

stages continue to seek his perspective as a speaker shaping the future of development.

Yet one of Aggarwal’s most meaningful contributions transcends borders. A proud advocate of the Made in India movement, he has woven Indian craftsmanship into the fabric of BNW’s UAE portfolio.

Through his partnership with Geminox, BNW Developments features Indian marble, textures, and materials that carry centuries of artistry.

It is not merely procurement; it is a cultural bridge, a way of placing Indian excellence on a global pedestal where it has always deserved to stand.

Within BNW, his leadership philosophy is simple and deeply practiced.

He believes growth accelerates when people are empowered to think like founders. This mindset has created a culture defined by ownership, clarity, and bold thinking, earning BNW the prestigious Great Place to Work certification. Teams are not managed, but entrusted. Ideas are not supervised. They’re unleashed. “Leadership isn’t about being ahead of the room, it’s about making sure the room can move forward together,” he shares.

What ultimately defines Ankur Aggarwal is not the scale he commands but the substance he refuses to compromise. His instinct for timing, his discipline for fundamentals, and his insistence on building with purpose have transformed BNW into a creator of economic relevance, lifestyle innovation, and future-ready architectural language.

As he often says, “Legacy is built in the quiet decisions no one applauds, but everyone lives with long after.” In a region known for superlatives, Aggarwal’s journey stands out for a different reason. He does not just enhance skylines. He raises the standard for what they should mean.

Leadership isn’t about being ahead of the room, it’s about making sure the room can move forward together.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 51

Special Edition /

/ THE 100

LEWIS ALLSOPP Chairman, Allsopp & Allsopp LEWIS ALLSOPP is a British-born real-estate entrepreneur and the co-founder and chairman of Allsopp & Allsopp, one of Dubai’s most prominent independent property brokerages. Raised in Coventry in the UK, he grew up with a strong work ethic and a belief in self-made success. Those values would later shape his business approach and leadership style in one of the most dynamic real-estate markets in the world.

Lewis Allsopp’s career is defined by resilience, bold decision-making and a belief that success is earned through determination rather than privilege.

From humble beginnings in the UK to leading a multi-award-winning real-estate organization, he has become a recognized business figure who continues to influence and elevate Dubai’s property sector.

Before entering property, Allsopp worked in a series of modest roles, including selling heating spares and taking early sales jobs that taught him the fundamentals of customer service, negotiation and perseverance. He moved to Dubai at 19, driven by ambition and a desire to build something significant. His early career in real-estate gave him first-hand understanding of Dubai’s growth and the opportunity that was emerging in its fastdeveloping market.

In 2008, during the height of the global financial crisis, Allsopp joined with his brother Carl to launch Allsopp & Allsopp. What began as a small brokerage with only a handful of staff soon evolved into an industry-leading firm with hundreds of employees, multiple offices and a strong reputation for professionalism, transparency and performance.

Today, the company is recognized as a key player in Dubai real estate, helping shape industry standards and serving thousands of clients across residential, commercial and off-plan sectors.

Lewis Allsopp’s career is defined by resilience, bold decision-making and a belief that success is earned through determination rather than privilege.

Under Allsopp’s leadership, Allsopp & Allsopp has earned numerous international property awards and diversified into complementary services including property management, mortgages and short-term rentals. A hallmark of his strategy has been smart hiring; structured operations and a company culture grounded in ambition and accountability.

One of his standout accomplishments has been driving the growth of the firm’s ultraluxury segment, including the development of a specialized Private Office serving high-net worth clients purchasing exclusive, often off-market, properties. This move has reinforced the company’s stature at the top of Dubai’s luxury real estate market.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 53

Special Edition /

NOOR SWEID Founder and Managing Partner, Global Ventures

NASDAQ Dubai and the London Stock Exchange — a landmark achievement that made her the first woman in the region to help take a company public.

She later founded ZenYoga, the first yoga and Pilates studio chain in the Middle East, turning a passion for wellbeing into a thriving consumer brand before successfully exiting the business. This blend of scaling corporate enterprises and growing her own startup gave her unique insight into the realities of entrepreneurship — a perspective she takes into every investment decision.

NOOR SWEID is one of the Middle East’s most influential venture capitalists, known for shaping the region’s innovation economy and fostering global-scale technology businesses. As Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, she leads one of the region’s top growth-stage investment firms, backing highimpact companies across the Middle East and Africa. Her work has helped accelerate sectors such as fintech, health-tech, logistics, agritech and digital infrastructure — supporting entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of emerging markets.

Sweid’s leadership in venture capital stems from deep operational and entrepreneurial experience. She began her career with Depa, her family’s international interiors group, where she helped lead an ambitious expansion programme that transformed the firm into a global operator. Her strategic oversight contributed to Depa’s successful dual listing on

54 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Before establishing Global Ventures, Sweid also served as Chief Investment Officer at Dubai Future Foundation, where she played a formative role in building the UAE’s innovation ecosystem and enabling government–industry collaboration in emerging technology.

A vocal advocate for diversity in business and venture capital, Sweid is recognized as a role model for women in leadership.

She sits on multiple boards, guides regional policy on entrepreneurship and actively supports founders navigating high-growth environments.

Strategic, globally minded and purpose-driven, Noor Sweid stands at the forefront of the region’s tech transformation.

Her influence on capital deployment, innovation culture and economic diversification firmly establishes her as a leading figure on any regional or global power list.

/ THE 100

FARAH ZAFAR Co-founder and CEO, Lyvely LYVELY IS THE UAE’S first homegrown Social monetization platform revolutionising the landscape of social media by creating a platform for creators, professionals and businesses to monetise their digital content through a Fiat and a tokenised ecosystem. With the launch and listing of “LVLY”, Lyvely is the first creator platform with a listed token across three centralised exchanges, with many more in the pipeline.

Lyvely is also backed by the first multi-billion-dollar institution, Phoenix Group PLC, listed on ADX. They are one of the world’s largest bitcoin miners and the first tech, web3 and blockchain company to be listed in the region, on ADX. Since Lyvely’s soft launch in August, it has experienced rapid user adoption and has earned significant brand recognition and a stellar reputation, having already garnered over 165,000 active users and more than 270,000 followers on social media with a highly engaged community.

Zafar is very much a corporate powerhouse in the Middle East, known as the “Rockstar Lawyer” – Zafar has been the right hand to rulers and visionaries across the Middle East, has built and listed billion dollar corporations, this is what leads Lyvely to success.

She says: “We are the first social monetization platform which has launched and listed its own crypto token and listed it across centralised exchanges and created its own tokenised ecosystem. Our five-year goal is to be recognized Globally as UAE’s homegrown tech social monetization platform, rivalling big tech and transforming the lives of 100M people, by enabling them to fully monetise from their digital content.”

“We are the first social monetization platform which has launched and listed its own crypto token and listed it across centralised exchanges and created its own tokenised ecosystem.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 55

Special Edition /

56 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

MILA SMART SEMESHKINA CEO, Lectera and Founder of WE Council and WE Convention MILA SMART SEMESHKINA is the CEO and Founder of the international educational platform Lectera.com and the Women’s Empowerment Council. She is a thought leader in the fields of EdTech, women’s empowerment, and personal growth. Additionally, she is a venture investor, a producer of educational courses, and a popular blogger. With a deep entrepreneurial spirit, Semeshkina is also recognized as an international expert in creating and promoting high-tech brands from the ground up.

Born on September 13, 1991, in Krasnodar, Russia, Semeshkina pursued her undergraduate degree at Kuban State University (KSU). She continued her educational journey with graduate studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Erickson International Academy.

Semeshkina’s academic excellence was acknowledged with a gold medal during her high school years and honorary degrees from both KSU and MSU. She is the author of publications and studies in the field of media economics, with experience as a researcher and a lecturer at the leading Russian educational institution, Lomonosov Moscow State University.

At the age of 18, Semeshkina embarked on her professional journey, delving into the realms of marketing and public relations, where she has amassed more than a decade of experience. Over the course of her career, she has adeptly steered the promotion of numerous prominent international brands within the CIS markets.

Semeshkina’s adeptness extends to crafting impactful marketing communications for significant projects spanning Switzerland, Germany, the UAE, and CIS countries. This extensive exposure has forged her expertise in launching and nurturing large-scale international startups, affecting their transformation into thriving and lucrative ventures.

Transitioning her focus in 2017, Semeshkina has directed her energies towards entrepreneurial endeavors and bespoke consulting services, catering to major global enterprises specifically in the realms of marketing and the strategic development of corporate and personal brands.

Currently, in her role as an entrepreneur, Semeshkina is deeply engrossed in the establishment and expansion of Lectera.com — an international educational platform.

Under her purview, a globally distributed team of experts representing 25 countries has converged to drive this initiative. Semeshkina is intricately involved in steering all facets of product development, brand enhancement, educational content curation, and the holistic operations of the Lectera group, headquartered in the United States and

the UAE. With a global reach, Lectera.com imparts knowledge to a diverse student body of over 4 million from 70 countries. The platform’s comprehensive curriculum, available in 15 languages, underscores its status as a preeminent global educational entity.

Semeshkina is also recognized for her philanthropic endeavors, having established the Women’s Empowerment Council in 2021. This organization is dedicated to amplifying women role models and fostering women’s empowerment. Anchored in Dubai, this community encompasses over 30,000 women, garnering acclaim for its annual Women’s Empowerment Convention (WE Convention). The convention stands as a cornerstone of the world’s major women’s conferences, embodying Semeshkina’s vision. Beyond the WE Convention, the council’s initiatives encompass free access to women-centric empowerment courses, workshops and webinars, exemplifying the organization’s commitment to tangible progress.

Semeshkina’s impact extends to her role as a distinguished keynote speaker, taking the stage at prestigious events such as the Women in Tech World Conference and Mastercard Women Leaders Awards. Her speeches resonate globally, as exemplified by her opening addresses at the WE Convention in 2023 and 2024, and insightful interviews with Maye Musk, Carla Bruni, and Maria Sharapova. Semeshkina is also a frequent contributor to the media landscape. Her insightful columns find their place in notable EdTech industry publications, as well as esteemed international media including Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fast Company, and Business Insider.

Currently residing in Dubai, Semeshkina continues to shape and inspire transformative change in both EdTech and Women’s Empowerment on an international scale.

Special Edition /

FAWAZ SOUS Founder and CEO, OCTA Properties BORN AND RAISED IN DUBAI, FAWAZ SOUS is a highly accomplished real estate leader with more than 20 years of experience shaping the industry’s most iconic developments.

Among the early pioneers of Dubai’s branded residences sector, he played a pivotal role in elevating this segment into a globally recognized pillar of luxury real estate. His portfolio includes major master-planned communities, landmark commercial assets, and luxury branded residences, contributing to projects exceeding AED 120 billion in revenue.

Throughout his career, Sous has held senior-level positions— CEO, Senior Vice President, and Head of Sales & Revenue— across major markets such as Dubai, London, Cairo, and Riyadh.

His exposure to international investment environments and hands-on experience as a luxury property buyer with leading organizations like Emaar and Damac have equipped him with dynamic strategies that excel in diverse regulatory and

economic landscapes. Known for his governance discipline, transparent leadership, and meticulous execution, he has consistently driven revenue optimization, strengthened sales performance, and developed elite networks of luxury brokerage partners across the UAE. Under his leadership, OCTA Properties has quickly emerged as a powerhouse in exclusive branded real estate development and investment. The company has built strong alliances with leading international developers, including Saudi Arabia’s largest property developer, Dar Al Arkan, and forged exclusive partnerships with globally renowned brands such as Mouawad, Missoni, Elie Saab, Hilton, Marriott, and W Hotels. These collaborations reinforce OCTA’s role as a central force bringing luxury design and global brand experiences into real estate.

OCTA Properties was established on the foundation of two decades of industry expertise and deep market networks. Today, it operates as the premier development management firm in the region— delivering advanced, end-to-end solutions for real estate developers, with a specialized focus on branded residences. By connecting developers with the right agencies, structuring sales diversification strategies, and executing comprehensive marketing programs, OCTA enhances efficiency while minimizing risk and maximizing profitability.

The company manages more than 4,600 units in its active pipeline, works alongside over 1,600 brokerage firms, and is supported by a growing team of 100+ industry specialists. Its notable portfolio includes SkyHills, SOCIO, Senses at The Fields, Rove Home, The Golf Residence Fortimo, Elie Saab Edition Jasmine Lane, Marriott Residences Business Bay, DG1, and other premier developments shaping Dubai’s most desirable destinations. As a trusted master agency and strategic development partner, OCTA Properties continues to redefine excellence in branded living under the vision and leadership of Fawaz Sous.

OCTA Properties continues to redefine excellence in branded living under the vision and leadership of Fawaz Sous.

58 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

VEER DOSHI CEO and Managing Director, Vincitore Realty Guided by Veer Doshi’s progressive leadership, Vincitore is not simply constructing buildings; it is crafting lifestyle legacies rooted in passion, trust, and timeless craftsmanship.

foot?” This philosophy drives his mission to create spaces where design transcends beauty — delivering environments that support well-being, inspire joy, and nurture the mind and body.

Under his direction, Vincitore Realty has strengthened its position as Dubai’s leading designer developer, dedicated to crafting architectural landmarks that redefine luxury. Since 2013, the company has been driven by an unwavering commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and excellence, with every development seamlessly blending European architectural heritage and innovative, futurefocused engineering.

The company’s portfolio exceeds AED 3 billion in value, with more than 6.2 million sq. ft. under development.

Its iconic creations — including Vincitore Palacio and Vincitore Boulevard — have earned prestigious international accolades, establishing new benchmarks for design and quality. From MEED’s Best Residential Project of the Year to the Royal Recognition Award, these flagship developments represent the brand’s pursuit of perfection.

VEER DOSHI stands at the forefront of a new generation of visionary real estate leadership in Dubai. As CEO & Managing Director of Vincitore Realty, he is spearheading the brand’s transformation into a future-ready, wellness-integrated, designer lifestyle developer. A graduate of the prestigious UC Berkeley College of Engineering, he brings together sharp technical expertise and strong emotional intelligence, enabling him to re-imagine how architecture can truly elevate the human experience.

His leadership challenges the industry’s conventional mindset of value being defined merely by size or numbers. While many ask, “What’s the price per square foot?”, Veer emphasizes a more meaningful metric: “What’s the wellness per square

Building on this legacy, Veer introduced a transformative vision that goes beyond luxury to embrace wellness as an integral part of lifestyle. This philosophy came to life through Vincitore Benessere — Dubai’s first iconic wellness-centric residential landmark — featuring over 100,000 sq. ft. of dedicated wellness amenities including lagoon pools, Himalayan salt caves, meditation decks, and worldclass fitness sanctuaries. It is the embodiment of Vincitore’s revolutionary “Wellness per Square Foot” concept, shaping a new global standard of holistic living.

With upcoming masterpieces such as Vincitore Aqua Flora, Aqua Dimore, Dolce Vita and Vincitore Wellness Estate, the brand continues to elevate designer real estate — creating living experiences that inspire, endure, and empower communities. Guided by Veer Doshi’s progressive leadership, Vincitore is not simply constructing buildings; it is crafting lifestyle legacies rooted in passion, trust, and timeless craftsmanship.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 59

Special Edition /

/ THE 100

WISSAM BREIDY CEO, HRE Development WISSAM BREIDY leads HRE Development with a visionary approach that sees real estate as a powerful form of storytelling. With a diverse career spanning media, entertainment, and entrepreneurship, he brings a deep understanding of how environments shape human experience. To him, a home is more than walls and design—it is the setting where memories are created, and every development is a narrative brought to life.

As CEO, Wissam drives a philosophy rooted in integrity and purpose. Guided by the belief that “Reputation is more valuable than money,” he places strong emphasis on communication, strategic clarity, and responsible leadership. His experience in brand, crisis, and reputation management enables HRE to navigate challenges with resilience, strengthening stakeholder trust and the company’s public image.

He is committed to shifting the business mindset from profit-first to purpose-first— ensuring that growth is meaningful and anchored in positive social impact. For Wissam, leading HRE is not just a role; it is a mission to prove that business can be a force for good, shaping communities that inspire belonging and elevate modern living.

HRE Development itself has evolved significantly over its 22-year legacy. Originally founded as a construction company, it transitioned into real estate development while retaining its powerful in-house construction capabilities. This foundation enables HRE to deliver projects with precision, efficiency, and long-term quality.

The company has completed more than 200 projects, providing homes to over 12,000 families, and contributing meaningfully to Dubai’s architectural evolution. With designs that blend smart technology, aesthetics, and functionality, HRE is committed to creating vibrant communities that elevate daily life.

Its tagline “Building with purpose” reflects this ethos—measuring success not only in financial results but in the social value each development brings.

HRE is deeply invested in corporate social responsibility. One of its standout initiatives includes a AED 30 million contribution to Dubai Cares, supporting education for children and youth in developing countries.

More recently, HRE announced its partnership in the Fazza International Championships for People of Determination 2025, reinforcing its dedication to inclusivity and empowerment.

Its growing portfolio includes Skyhills 1, 2, 3, and Skyhills Astra—each thoughtfully designed to deliver meaningful lifestyle experiences that leave a lasting legacy— alongside Wadi Hills, Celeste, and the Masterpiece Community Project, Sakura Gardens.

Under Wissam Breidy’s leadership, HRE Development continues to set new benchmarks in purpose-driven real estate— enriching lives, strengthening communities, and shaping a better, more sustainable future for Dubai and beyond.

“Under Wissam Breidy’s leadership, HRE Development continues to set new benchmarks in purpose-driven real estate—enriching lives, strengthening communities, and shaping a better, more sustainable future for Dubai and beyond.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 61

Special Edition /

YOGESH BULCHANDANI Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sunrise Capital YOGESH BULCHANDANI is the visionary Founder and CEO, Sunrise Capital — a luxury developer redefining modern living standards in Dubai. Originally from Mumbai, where his family has long been active in real estate investment, he built a strong academic foundation with a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship and Business from Bentley University in the USA before setting his sights on Dubai’s fast-growing property market.

Upon arriving in the UAE, Yogesh began his journey with Sunrise Capital, where he gained firsthand insight into the real estate landscape. Identifying a clear market gap for high-quality luxury

developments at accessible prices, he channeled his vision into establishing his own venture — Sunrise Capital in 2017. His motivation was simple yet bold: to deliver homes that combine aspirational design with enduring value, offering residents unparalleled living experiences.

The company has become a pioneering force in Dubai’s highend real estate sector. It is committed to redefining luxury living through innovation, thoughtful design, and impeccable craftsmanship. Its mission is rooted in offering meticulously designed homes that exemplify accessible luxury, ensuring exceptional quality while prioritizing customer-centricity and operational excellence.

Yogesh personally led the development of Legend by Sunrise — a standout residential project in the heart of Arjan, featuring unique architectural elements and lush vertical gardens that elevate everyday living. Its success became a milestone that propelled him toward even more ambitious goals: creating landmark residential towers and luxury villas in prime UAE communities, each crafted with careful attention to design, location, and long-term value.

In his CEO message featured in the company’s profile, Yogesh describes Sunrise Capital as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream — blending his passion for architecture with a mission to inspire through beautiful, functional spaces that contribute to Dubai’s skyline and community identity.

He remains a hands-on leader involved in business development, land acquisition, legal compliance, and team mentorship, ensuring every detail aligns with Sunrise Capital’s vision of excellence.

Today, under Yogesh’s guidance, Sunrise Capital continues to build legacies in every brick — setting new benchmarks in boutique luxury development, while fostering community well-being and strengthening Dubai’s status as a global real estate hub.

Special Edition /

ARMAND ARTON Chief Global Citizen and Founder, Arton Capital

ARMAND ARTON would tell you himself that he came from humble beginnings. Born of Armenian descent in Bulgaria, Armand’s life has been shaped by migration. When he relocated to Morocco as a child, he saw the arduous visa processes and paperwork that travel required firsthand. This was to become the fuel behind his burning passion for breaking down borders and building consensus towards truly global mobility.

policymakers, investors, and journalists seeking to understand the current landscape and future of global mobility.

This recognition marks yet another milestone for an industry leader who continues to set the pace in the investment migration sector. Earlier this year, Arton Capital partnered with the government of Grenada to launch a groundbreaking Citizenship by Invitation program - a transformative framework that awards citizenship based on an applicant’s potential for social impact Through platforms such as the Global Citizen Forum, rather than the scale of their financial contribution.

Arton continues to champion a future in which mobility It’s an approach that reflects a profound shift in is more inclusive, more secure, and increasingly digital how nations think about mobility, value, and global helping individuals, families, and nations navigate a rapidly partnership, and has become a trendsetter that other countries and marketing agents have sought changing world with confidence and purpose. to replicate.

A visionary entrepreneur, immigration policy expert, and social impact pioneer, Armand’s achievements speak for themselves.

In 2006, Armand founded the world-leading residency and investment advisory firm Arton Capital. Arton Capital plays a central role in advising governments around the world and empowering High Net Worth Individuals to become global citizens. The company has the largest immigration services office in the region, from which Armand advises African and Middle Eastern clients, companies, and governments on migration and mobility.

Armand’s career is driven by a revolutionary goal: to enable the global mobility of a billion people by 2035. As one reporter put it: Armand is the ‘Robinhood of passports’, looking to bring about a world in which borders and passports no longer act as hurdles to success. As part of this mission, he’s acted as an advisor for Concordia, the World Economic Forum, and 13 governments around the world on their migration policy, as well as the structuring and implementation of investor immigration programmes.

His thought leadership continues to shape global discourse.

In 2025, Arton Capital’s ‘Affluence & Elections’ campaign - a groundbreaking survey project analysing how political cycles influence mobility and investor sentiment - earned major industry recognition. The campaign was Highly Commended for Best International Campaign at the CorpComms Awards 2025 and won Gold for Best Communication with Overseas Investors or Media at the Communicate Magazine Corporate & Financial Awards 2025. Celebrated for its data-driven storytelling and geopolitical insight, the project has become a key resource for

64 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

This year, Armand also played a central role in the launch of Botswana’s pioneering new Impact Investment Program, developed in close collaboration with the Government of Botswana. Designed to drive economic diversification and reduce reliance on the diamond sector, the program channels investment directly into national priorities such as affordable housing and tourism development. Arton Capital helped shape the policy framework, financial governance, and impact-measurement model - ensuring the program is both globally competitive and socially transformative. It marks one of the most innovative mobility initiatives in Africa, reinforcing Botswana’s ambition to become a rising hub for sustainable investment on the continent.

Armand remains committed to ensuring that host countries derive meaningful value from the capital generated through investment migration, while never losing sight of Arton Capital’s core ethos: delivering exceptional client service. In November, Arton Capital became Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty exclusive partner for citizenship and residency solutions – uniting HWNI planning for investment migration and luxury real estate under one trusted relationship.

Looking ahead, Arton Capital is preparing to launch the Global Citizen Club, a VIP mobility solutions & concierge program extended to a select group of investors at USD $100,000 per year. This elite service blends global mobility with unparalleled networking opportunities, ensuring the world’s leading global citizens connect with peers who share their vision and values.

Armand is also co-founder of the Passport Index, the world’s first and only real-time platform measuring the power of

/ THE 100

individual national passports. Initially developed as an internal analytical tool, it is now relied upon by governments, border agencies, and millions of travellers to track visa-free access, mobility scores, and bilateral agreements. In 2017, when the UAE announced its ambition to elevate its passport into the world’s top five most powerful passports by 2021, the Passport Index was officially tasked by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with facilitating and monitoring this goal. Drawing on its real-time intelligence and diplomatic data-mapping, the platform supported policymakers in accelerating mobility agreements, and within less than two years, Armand helped guide the UAE passport to become the most powerful passport in the world.

Today, the Passport Index receives more than 400,000 monthly click-throughs to its digital application portal and is set to become a true mobility ‘Super App,’ bringing visa intelligence, application, and accompanying services into one intuitive platform. Having amassed nearly 300 million page views since its launch, Armand has set an ambitious goal for the tool: to facilitate one million digital visa applications per year by 2026.

At the heart of Armand’s work is a belief that global mobility is not merely a privilege, but a powerful catalyst for opportunity, resilience, and shared responsibility. His own family history - spanning generations of migration, reinvention, and renewal - has shaped his conviction that access can transform lives. This ethos underpins all of Arton Capital’s initiatives, from pioneering new government programmes to advancing digital mobility tools like The Passport Index.

Through platforms such as the Global Citizen Forum, he continues to champion a future in which mobility is more inclusive, more secure, and increasingly digital - helping individuals, families, and nations navigate a rapidly changing world with confidence and purpose.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 65

Special Edition /

AJAY RAJENDRAN Founder and Chairman, Meraki Group and have evolved into a powerful ecosystem delivering award-winning built environments and globally minded learning institutions. As both developer and main contractor, Meraki has successfully completed more than 100 major projects across the UAE — from high-rise residential and commercial towers to hospitals, police headquarters, academic campuses, and recreational facilities. Its vertically integrated model ensures end-to-end quality, efficiency, and control at every stage of development.

In addition to shaping skylines, Ajay has significantly advanced the future of education through Meraki Education. Operating premium K-12 international schools in Dubai and Singapore, the platform serves more than 5,750 students from over 108 nationalities, with its fourth campus scheduled to open in Singapore in 2024. This global footprint reflects his belief that education must empower young minds to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

AJAY RAJENDRAN is a distinguished business leader and visionary entrepreneur whose career spans over three decades across real estate development, construction, and premium international education. As the Founder and Chairman of Meraki Group, he has built a multinational, multiproduct enterprise headquartered in the UAE and Singapore, grounded in innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring value creation.

Prior to establishing Meraki Group, Ajay served as Co-Chairman of Sobha Group, where he played a pivotal role in shaping some of Dubai’s most iconic real estate developments. His contributions notably include District One in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, a landmark project delivered in partnership with Meydan that set new benchmarks for luxury community living.

These experiences cemented his expertise in large-scale master planning and integrated project delivery.

Ajay founded Meraki Group with a mission to unify real estate, education, and construction under a cohesive vision of excellence. Today, the Group’s operations trace back to 1992

66 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Ajay’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in customer-centricity, biophilic design, and creating spaces with purpose. Whether developing communities or nurturing learning environments, he is committed to integrating sustainability, contemporary amenities, and architectural distinction to enrich everyday living. Under his guidance, Meraki Group continues to exceed industry benchmarks, earning the trust of families, investors, and partners across markets.

Driven by passion, precision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ajay Rajendran remains dedicated to shaping the future of real estate and education — building legacies that endure, inspire, and elevate communities for generations to come.

Driven by passion, precision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ajay Rajendran remains dedicated to shaping the future of real estate and education.

/ THE 100

SHAHEER TABANI Executive Director, Prescott Real Estate SHAHEER TABANI represents the dynamic next generation of leadership at Prescott Real Estate, bringing a fresh, design-driven perspective to one of Dubai’s most respected development companies. As Executive Director, he plays a central role in shaping Prescott’s newest communities— ensuring they uphold the company’s long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and a resident-first development ethos.

A graduate of Cass Business School in London, Shaheer’s career began with a step that reflects both humility and ambition: he secured his own internship at Prescott and joined the organisation in a true entry-level position. This experience allowed him to rotate across departments, building

a deep understanding of every pillar that supports successful development—from operations and finance to planning and customer experience.

These formative years gave Shaheer invaluable insight into how decisions made in the boardroom directly affect the lives of future residents. Over time, he was naturally drawn toward the creative and technical aspects of the business, focusing his talent on architectural direction, development planning, and the overall enhancement of design standards across Prescott’s portfolio. His growing influence has helped refine the company’s approach to project conception, ensuring every development is visually compelling, functionally thoughtful, and planned with long-term livability in mind.

Today, Shaheer leads strategic elements of Prescott’s upcoming projects, championing design integrity and cohesive execution throughout the development cycle.

His leadership is defined by an ethos rooted in quality without compromise—reflecting Prescott’s belief that responsible development and long-term value creation begin with prioritising the resident’s experience above everything else.

Shaheer’s journey—from a motivated intern to a senior decision-maker—embodies Prescott’s culture: grounded, forward-thinking, and committed to doing things the right way. His evolving vision continues to strengthen the company’s legacy while ensuring that future communities offer not only beautiful spaces, but homes built to support the well-being of those who live in them.

Through his dedication to continuous improvement, thoughtful design, and strategic leadership, Shaheer Tabani is helping steer Prescott Real Estate into its next era—one defined by deeper innovation, enhanced user-centric planning, and developments crafted to stand the test of time.

Through his dedication to continuous improvement, thoughtful design, and strategic leadership, Shaheer Tabani is helping steer Prescott Real Estate into its next era.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 67

Special Edition /

RIZ AHMED Chief Executive Officer, SmartCrowd RIZ AHMED leads SmartCrowd with a powerful belief in its mission: to protect and grow investor wealth by transforming real estate investment into an accessible and transparent opportunity for everyone. His connection to SmartCrowd began long before his appointment as CEO—he has experienced the platform as a client, angel investor, board member, and now as the driving force behind its expansion. This journey reflects his deep conviction in the company’s purpose and potential.

SmartCrowd is the MENA region’s first and leading regulated real estate crowdfunding platform, fully licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). It enables fractional property investment from as little as AED 500, opening the doors of a historically exclusive asset class to everyday investors. With a track record of over 60 successful property exits and market-leading returns, SmartCrowd has rapidly become one of the most trusted names in PropTech—built on transparency, data-backed decision-making, and seamless digital journeys.

Riz brings a distinguished career in finance and strategic leadership to SmartCrowd. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at GEMS Education, where he led over US$5 billion in transactions, including one of the largest private investments in the Middle East. His work extended across Europe, Africa, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, encompassing both school acquisitions and transformative EdTech ventures. He began his career with PwC London, specialising in assurance, corporate finance, and restructuring—building a strong foundation in governance, risk management, and value creation.

Under his direction, SmartCrowd continues to expand its product offerings and technological innovation. The platform has funded more than 10 Flip projects worth AED 200 million, achieving four successful exits that generated AED 90 million in value from AED 63 million invested—with an average ROI of 28% over 15 months. SmartCrowd has also introduced liquidityenhancing mechanisms such as its Share Transfer Facility and serves investors across 130+ countries. The company has raised USD 6 million to date, supporting its growth into commercial and off-plan property investments, and advancing initiatives like real estate tokenization and crypto-enabled payments.

Riz holds a First Class degree in Economics from University College London (UCL), is a qualified chartered accountant, and has completed executive programmes at Harvard Business School and Oxford University. His leadership embodies transparency, innovation with purpose, and customer-centric value creation—ensuring SmartCrowd remains at the forefront of democratizing real estate investment across the region.

68 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

MOHAMMED ALI TAYEM Entrepreneur, Investor and Innovator MOHAMMED ALI TAYEM moves comfortably at the intersection of power, creativity, and technology—where ideas scale, industries shift, and influence is measured not just in ventures built, but in ecosystems transformed. Over more than two decades, the Middle Eastern entrepreneur and investor has emerged as one of the region’s most consequential figures shaping the creative economy and technology-led business evolution.

A shareholder and board member of TGW Group, a New York–headquartered global network, Tayem oversees a diverse portfolio that includes entourage, 214 Creative, en+, EVE Virtual, and O3 Xperiential Studio. His reach extends further through Wiz Holding, the Abu

Dhabi–based investment company he founded to develop technology solutions for emerging markets. Under its umbrella, Tayem launched WizShops, an e-commerce aggregator designed to empower non-Amazon retailers with fully integrated digital eco-systems.

The platform raised USD 2 million in preseed funding and now serves as the launchpad for his next venture, WizJobs, a recruitment platform positioned to reshape talent mobility across the region.

Tayem first made his mark as the founder of entourage, building it into one of the Middle East’s most influential marketing and experiential consultancies. Operating across Du-bai, Riyadh, Al Khobar, Cairo, and Milan, the firm became synonymous with scale, in-novation, and cultural relevance. Its work has been recognized

by Dubai SME100, Effie MENA, Dubai Lynx, and the Middle East Event Awards, and it holds a Guinness World Record—an enduring marker of ambition executed at scale.

Perhaps most emblematic of his strategic influence was his role in Egypt’s post– Islamic revolution tourism revival. Working closely with the Prime Minister and Minister of Tour-ism, Tayem co-developed a national roadmap to restore confidence in the country as a global destination. The resulting campaign played a pivotal role in reversing decline and reigniting tourism inflows, earning him industry-wide recognition and nominations for Best Person in Crisis in 2021 and Industry Icon of the Year in 2022 and 2023.

His counsel has been sought at the highest levels. Tayem has led and shaped collabora-tions with the UAE Prime Minister’s Office, the Saudi Crown Prince’s Office, the Mo-hammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, as well as global institutions including Google, YouTube, LinkedIn, Deloitte, and UNDP. He played a key role in elevating Knowledge Foundation Dubai onto the world stage, notably proposing the creation of an

international knowledge award bearing His Highness’s name. His strategic imprint is evident across landmark platforms such as the World Government Summit, the Knowledge Summit, and multiple national branding initiatives.

When the pandemic disrupted global gatherings, Tayem moved decisively, launching EVE, a fully immersive 3D virtual-events ecosystem integrating payments, communica-tions, digital avatars, live stages, exhibition halls, and even food delivery. Long before the metaverse entered mainstream conversation, EVE demonstrated his instinct for an-ticipating where technology and human connection converge.

At the core of his work lies a belief in the Creative Youth Economy. A committed advo-cate for young innovators, Tayem has championed entrepreneurship through Young Ar-ab Leaders, partnering with DMCC to launch SME Connects, a platform designed to support start-ups and small businesses. His commitment to industry development ex-tends to governance roles, including as a board member of the International Live Events Association and formerly the British International Academy in Amman.

A familiar presence across Bloomberg, Sky News, Abu Dhabi TV, and Dubai TV, Tayem’s insights on business, innovation, and regional transformation carry weight well beyond the boardroom. In 2023, his impact was formally recognized when he was named CEO of the Year – Media at the CEO Middle East Awards.

Born in Amman, Jordan, Tayem holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Al-Zaytoonah University. His early career spanned leadership roles at Orange Tele-com, Hyatt International, Etisalat, and DAMAC International—foundational experiences that continue to inform the strategic vision he brings to every venture today.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 69

Special Edition /

JOELLE MARDINIAN Founder, Joelle Group | Beauty Entrepreneur and Media Personality JOELLE MARDINIAN is a name synonymous with glamour, reinvention, and the modern beauty movement in the Middle East. Entrepreneur, television star, influencer, and salon empire builder, she has shaped the aesthetics industry into a world of confidence and self-expression — empowering women to feel beautiful on their own terms.

Her story began with a love for artistry. Trained as a professional makeup artist, she quickly gained admiration for her ability to highlight individuality rather than hide it. That philosophy ignited a career that soon went beyond makeup chairs and studio sets.

As she entered television, her personality — warm, fearless, and relatable — made her a household name. She became one of the region’s early pioneers in using media to democratize beauty expertise, offering guidance, transformation stories, and a message that beauty is personal, never prescribed.

Not content with fame alone, Joelle turned her platform into a business journey. She founded Joelle Group, which has grown into a portfolio of salons, clinics, cosmetic lines, and wellness services. Each brand reflects her signature: highend experience, meticulous attention to detail, and emotional connection with customers who trust her taste. She is particularly admired for championing Arab beauty standards and celebrating regional identity in a global industry.

70 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Her leadership style is charismatic yet deeply hands-on. She has never hesitated to pivot, innovate, or challenge norms — whether introducing new treatments to the market or using her story to advocate for confidence-building experiences.

Thousands of women view her as more than a beauty icon; she is a friend who understands their insecurities and aspirations.

Joelle Mardinian continues to evolve with the industry she helped grow. She remains focused on pushing boundaries — expanding her brand presence, supporting female entrepreneurship, and embracing digital platforms that bring inspiration directly into people’s daily lives. For her, beauty is not vanity. It is strength, identity, and joy. And through her work, she has given countless women permission to shine, boldly and unapologetically.

Joelle remains focused on pushing boundaries — expanding her brand presence, supporting female entrepreneurship, and embracing digital platforms that bring inspiration directly into people’s daily lives.

/ THE 100

Special Edition /

MOHAMMAD RAFIEE Chief Executive Officer, Richmind Development MOHAMMAD RAFIEE is the Chief Executive Officer of Richmind Development, an ultra-premium niche luxury real estate developer with an ambitious vision to establish a distinguished presence in the Middle East and Europe.

Under his visionary leadership, Richmind is redefining the standards of premium living through design-driven, disruptively original projects that harmonize form with functionality.

With more than 25 years of experience in the real estate sector, both in Dubai and internationally, Mohammad has consistently led transformative initiatives. Under his leadership, Richmind has recently launched its inaugural project as a developer, Oystra—a waterfront masterpiece on Al Marjan Island, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.

Richmind’s commitment to working with the crème de la crème of the industry is evident in the choice of partners for Oystra. Complementing the iconic architectural design by Zaha Hadid Architects, the interiors are crafted

by HBA—one of the world’s most renowned interior design firms. The landscape architecture is shaped

by Cracknell, known for its selective collaboration on high-profile projects. Additionally, Dewan serves as the local architectural consultant, ensuring the seamless realization of conceptual designs into tangible structures.

Although Mohammad has a long-standing presence in real estate, this marks his first foray into property development in the UAE. Oystra exemplifies Richmind’s commitment to architectural innovation, luxurious amenities, and the creation of meaningful living spaces.

Mohammad’s educational background is in the field of tech, which laid the foundation for his analytical and strategic approach to business. He began his entrepreneurial journey in 2004 with successful ventures in technology and foodstuff trading, acquiring valuable insights into finance and the intricacies of regulations and legalities related to it. In addition, his penchant for creativity and obsession with innovation has played a pivotal role in modernizing his business ventures, leading to sustained success.

In 2006, he recognized the immense potential of freehold property in the UAE and began investing in assets which led to the conception of his real estate consultancy. It was initially formed to solely manage his own assets but quickly evolved into a highly lucrative business.

Combining his fascination with real estate investments and extensive financial acumen, Mohammad raised a significant investment fund in 2007, primarily targeting strategic real estate acquisitions in Dubai. His adept

72 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

ability to spot trends and capitalize instantaneously, led to highly profitable investments that significantly enhanced his wealth and reputation as a savvy investor. The reputation he established remains till date and is a major factor in bringing on partners of the highest caliber.

Building on his extensive and diverse experience in the business world, Mohammad is now channeling his focus towards real estate development and the establishment of Concept Plus by Richmind.

Concept Plus will primarily serve as a dynamic design hub which is a platform for creative minds and innovators from diverse fields to converge, exchange ideas, and present groundbreaking concepts. It aims to empower the next generation of talent by offering opportunities for collaboration, potential funding, audience engagement, and showcasing innovative work. By fostering originality and creativity, it will be a catalyst for future growth.

In addition to being a creative incubator, this initiative will stand as another significant milestone under Mohammad’s guidance, which is a revolutionary turnkey real estate solution designed to streamline the development process. Concept Plus will integrate essential development services, from architectural design and legal consultancy to marketing and material procurement, under one unified platform. Collaborating exclusively with leading global

/ THE 100

experts, Concept Plus will set a new benchmark in the industry, significantly reducing complexity and enhancing project efficiency and innovation.

Beyond business, Mohammad’s philosophy centres on leadership cultivation, strategic partnerships, and opportunity identification— principles that permeate all his ventures. He firmly believes that success is not a solitary journey; it requires the right partners and a strong, dedicated team. Even the most groundbreaking ideas require collaboration and collective effort to truly thrive.

Mohammad’s commitment to this philosophy is reflected in the Richmind family, as well as his broader network of companies, encompassing over 200 employees worldwide. He considers his team not just as colleagues but as an extended family, many of whom have been with him for over a decade.

This sense of belonging and mutual respect fosters a work environment where individuals take pride in their contributions, feeling genuinely vested in the company’s success. By nurturing a family-like culture within his organizations, Mohammad has built a resilient and loyal team that

continuously strives to achieve shared goals. He actively fosters environments that encourage creative thinking and forward-looking solutions, positioning Richmind as an incubator of innovation and excellence.

Mohammad Rafiee’s leadership continues to reshape luxury real estate, emphasizing a paradigm shift toward purposeful luxury that prioritizes craftsmanship, intentional design, and enduring value.

“Luxury is not merely about grandeur—it’s about purpose. At Richmind, we craft disruptively original spaces where beauty meets functionality, redefining premium living by enhancing the human experience.”

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 73

Special Edition /

KRIS FADE Radio Host, Entrepreneur and Media Personality KRIS FADE is one of the most recognisable voices in the Middle East’s entertainment landscape, celebrated for his influential role in shaping contemporary radio culture and youth engagement across the region. As a long-standing radio host and media personality, he has built strong connections with audiences through a dynamic, relatable and energising on-air presence that reflects the diversity and ambition of Dubai’s multicultural community.

Beyond broadcasting, Fade has established himself as a successful entrepreneur, venturing into consumer products, entertainment events and content creation. He has demonstrated an ability to transform personal brand equity into sustainable business ventures, leveraging creativity and strong audience trust.

Fade is also admired for his philanthropic involvement and outreach initiatives, using his platform to encourage charitable action and positive social impact. His commitment to authenticity, storytelling and cross-cultural communication has made him a prominent figure in the media space and a role model for aspiring broadcasters and entertainers.

With his influence spanning radio, digital media and industry collaboration, Kris Fade remains an integral part of the region’s entertainment narrative and a key voice shaping its evolving cultural scene.

With his influence spanning radio, digital media and industry collaboration, Kris Fade remains an integral part of the region’s entertainment narrative and a key voice shaping its evolving cultural scene.

74 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

SAEEDA JAFFAR Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager (GCC), Visa SAEEDA JAFFAR is a highly regarded leader in the financial services and payments industry, recognized for shaping the evolution of digital commerce and secure transactions across the Gulf region. As Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for Visa in the GCC, she oversees strategic growth, market development and stakeholder partnerships that support the region’s shift toward cashless economies and digital-first consumer experiences.

With a strong background in strategy, consulting and financial technology, Jaffar has played a pivotal role in advancing payments innovation that enables businesses, governments and consumers to benefit from seamless and secure financial connectivity. Under her leadership, Visa’s initiatives have contributed to expanding financial inclusion, accelerating fintech adoption and improving the infrastructure that underpins an increasingly digital economic environment.

with a people-focused leadership style, has earned her respect across private and public sector circles.

She remains a prominent voice in guiding the GCC’s financial transformation journey, reinforcing the role of trusted digital payments as a foundation of innovation, economic competitiveness and modern society.

Saeeda remains a prominent voice in guiding the GCC’s financial transformation journey, reinforcing the role of trusted digital payments as a foundation of innovation, economic competitiveness and modern society.

Jaffar is also recognized as a strong advocate for the development of regional talent, nurturing future leaders and supporting programmes that open opportunities for women in finance and technology. Her professional credibility, combined

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 75

Special Edition /

76 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

DR. HAN Founder and CEO, Gate DR. HAN is a rare hybrid in the global crypto industry: a rigorously trained scientist who became an entrepreneur through conviction, resilience, and vision. As the Founder and CEO of Gate, Dr. Han has spent more than a decade building one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency platforms, guided by a deep belief in security, transparency, and long-term technological innovation.

With a Ph.D. in Optics and an academic background that spans computer software engineering, mathematics, and high-performance computing, Dr. Han’s professional journey began firmly in science. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Shandong University before continuing his advanced studies in Canada, where he completed his doctorate and postdoctoral research in optoelectronics.

This scientific foundation continues to shape his leadership style—analytical, systems-oriented, and uncompromising when it comes to technical rigor.

Dr. Han’s introduction to cryptocurrency was not planned. In 2012, while conducting high-performance computing research, he observed graphics cards being widely used for Bitcoin mining. Intrigued, he studied Bitcoin’s whitepaper and quickly recognized its technical and economic potential. The turning point came in 2013, when an attempt to purchase Bitcoin on an online forum resulted in a financial loss due to fraud. Rather than deterring him, the experience highlighted a fundamental gap in the market and inspired him to create a safer, more trustworthy trading platform.

Today, Dr. Han is leading Gate’s “All in Web3” strategy, built on a new high performance blockchain infrastructure that supports decentralized trading, perpetuals, and token creation. For Dr. Han, Web3 represents more than a business direction—it is a natural evolution of the decentralized ideals that first drew him to blockchain technology.

Grounded in scientific discipline yet driven by entrepreneurial vision, Dr. Han continues to shape Gate with a singular mission: to build a secure, fair, and efficient crypto ecosystem that accelerates global adoption while staying true to the technology’s original promise.

Grounded in scientific discipline yet driven by entrepreneurial vision, Dr. Han continues to shape Gate with a singular mission: to build a secure, fair, and efficient crypto ecosystem that accelerates global adoption while staying true to the technology’s original promise.

That same year, Dr. Han founded what would later become the Gate Exchange. In the company’s earliest days, he personally wrote much of the platform’s core code, overseeing everything from website development to APIs and infrastructure. This hands-on approach laid the groundwork for Gate’s reputation as a technically robust and security-first platform. As regulatory landscapes shifted, Gate evolved into a global operation, positioning itself for long-term growth and international compliance.

Under Dr. Han’s leadership, Gate has consistently pushed industry standards forward. The platform was among the first to introduce full proof-of-reserves, reinforcing user trust through transparency. Growth has followed innovation: Gate’s user base has expanded dramatically, reflecting both market confidence and the platform’s expanding ecosystem.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 77

Special Edition /

MAAZ SHEIKH Co-founder and CEO, StarzPlay

market dominated by piracy and slow internet speeds was a bold challenge.

But Sheikh believed in innovation over limitation. He developed advanced compression technologies, flexible pricing, and regional content strategies that quickly won over households hungry for new options.

MAAZ SHEIKH is one of the pioneers of the streaming revolution in the Middle East, a leader who understood early that entertainment would shift from scheduled television to personalized screens. As Co-Founder and CEO of STARZPLAY, he has built one of the region’s most successful subscription video platforms, transforming how millions of viewers access movies, series, and sporting events.

Born in Pakistan and raised with a curiosity for technology, Sheikh studied engineering before moving into telecommunications and digital services. His career took him across the United States and the Gulf, where he became deeply involved in the evolution of pay-TV and digital media. Those experiences provided the foundation for a future he could clearly see: entertainment becoming borderless, on-demand, and consumer-controlled.

In 2015, Sheikh co-founded STARZPLAY with a clear mission — bring global-quality streaming to the Middle East, tailored to local tastes and infrastructure. Launching a startup in a

78 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Under his leadership, STARZPLAY became a platform that balanced Hollywood hits with Arabic originals and live sports, including major regional events. He forged partnerships with international studios, telecom operators, and payment providers — unlocking access for millions of users across the MENA region. His focus on customer experience helped build loyalty in a rapidly competitive marketplace.

Sheikh is known for his analytical mindset paired with creative ambition. He sees entertainment not merely as content distribution, but as cultural connection — stories that reflect who people are and who they want to become. He champions local talent, supporting productions that give Arab storytellers a global voice and audiences characters they can identify with.

Despite growing success, he remains entrepreneurial in spirit — agile, curious, and unafraid of disruption. He frequently speaks about the future of streaming in the region, from gaming integrations to personalized viewing powered by AI. To him, the story of digital entertainment is still being written, and STARZPLAY intends to be one of its authors.

Maaz Sheikh’s journey proves that innovation thrives where ambition meets insight. He continues to push boundaries — building a platform that doesn’t just show stories, but shapes the entertainment culture of tomorrow.

/ THE 100

SERGEY AVAYAN Chief Executive Officer, HOLM Developments SERGEY AVAYAN stands at the forefront of a quietly rising force in Dubai’s real estate landscape. As Chief Executive Officer of HOLM Developments, he is shaping a new vision of residential living that blends thoughtful design, long-term value, and a deeply human approach to community building. Under his leadership, HOLM has emerged not simply as a property developer, but as a brand defined by restraint, intention, and permanence in a city known for rapid transformation.

With more than two decades of experience in Dubai’s real estate sector, Avayan brings a rare blend of market foresight, strategic discipline, and entrepreneurial perspective. His career spans multiple industries, from medical equipment distribution to agrotechnology, where he co-founded a sustainable farming venture focused on strengthening local food security. This

breadth of experience continues to shape his leadership philosophy today, one rooted in sustainability, quality, and longterm impact rather than short-term gain.

Founded in 2023, HOLM Developments entered the market with a clear ethos: to create residential environments that endure.

The company’s guiding philosophy, “From Land to Living,” reflects a holistic approach to development that begins with careful land selection and extends through architecture, materials, and lifestyle integration. For Avayan, real estate is not simply about structures, but about how people experience space over time.

HOLM made its debut with Holm One, a flagship residential development located in Jumeirah Garden City, strategically positioned between Dubai’s commercial districts and its coastline. The project introduced the brand to the market as a developer focused on timeless architecture and considered urban living. Holm One comprises 218 fully furnished studios and one-bedroom apartments designed for modern city life, balancing aesthetic clarity with functionality and comfort.

Beyond the residences themselves, the development emphasizes community and wellbeing. Amenities include a temperature-controlled swimming pool, co-working spaces, a fitness studio, yoga areas, and landscaped social zones, all curated to encourage connection while preserving privacy. Scheduled for handover in early 2028, the project reflects HOLM’s commitment to measured growth and lasting value.

Operating on a fully self-funded model with significant capital allocated to land and construction, HOLM maintains full control over quality and delivery. Under Avayan’s leadership, future developments are already being planned in key urban districts, reinforcing the company’s long-term vision.

For Sergey Avayan, HOLM Developments represents more than a business venture.

It is a philosophy in built form, one that prioritizes integrity, longevity, and the belief that the most meaningful developments are those designed not just for today, but for generations to come.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 79

Special Edition /

ABDULAZIZ AL-GHOMLAS Chief Executive Officer, Al-Ghomlas Company ABDULAZIZ AL-GHOMLAS stands among the most influential leaders in Saudi Arabia’s decoration and finishing sector, known for transforming Al-Ghomlas Company into a nationally trusted brand and a benchmark for quality, innovation, and integrated home solutions. As Chief Executive Officer, he has led the company with a clear strategic vision centered on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and customer trust.

Since assuming leadership, Al-Ghomlas has overseen the company’s evolution from a modest establishment into a fully integrated national enterprise. Today, Al-Ghomlas Company operates an extensive network of 10 branches across the Kingdom, supported by advanced factories, modern production lines, and large-scale warehouses built to the highest industry standards. This expansion has been driven by a strong belief that long-term success is built on systems, people, and consistent quality.

A defining milestone under his leadership was the transformative year of 2025, which marked a major leap in both product innovation and infrastructure. The company launched 100 percent aluminum exterior and garage doors manufactured in Saudi Arabia with refined European detailing, setting a new standard in the local market. It also introduced innovative parquet collections, including Chevron parquet, the first of its kind in the Kingdom, reinforcing Al-Ghomlas Company’s role as a trendsetter aligned with global design movements.

Driven by a commitment to offering complete decorative solutions, Al-Ghomlas expanded the product portfolio to include advanced wall cladding materials such as clay panels, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. He also spearheaded the launch of kitchens and wardrobes as a dedicated product line, positioning the company as a one-stop destination for home finishing under the brand promise of “Completes your home.” The introduction of the Elite Doors collection further reflected his focus on refined design and seamless architectural integration.

Beyond products, Abdulaziz Al-Ghomlas has placed strong emphasis on infrastructure and people. The company opened new strategic branches, expanded existing showrooms, established a specialized factory for exterior doors, and relocated to a headquarters five times larger than before. Internally, he led a comprehensive digital transformation, implementing performance indicators across operations, automating customer service processes, and establishing a dedicated quality

80 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

monitoring department. These efforts resulted in significant gains in efficiency, customer satisfaction, and workforce growth, with the team expanding to more than 800 employees.

Through visionary leadership, disciplined execution, and an unwavering focus on innovation, Abdulaziz AlGhomlas has built a modern Saudi success story. His leadership continues to shape Al-Ghomlas Company as a trusted name in home décor, while contributing to the advancement of the construction and finishing industry across the Kingdom and the wider region.

Through visionary leadership, disciplined execution, and an unwavering focus on innovation, Abdulaziz Al-Ghomlas has built a modern Saudi success story.

His leadership continues to shape Al-Ghomlas Company as a trusted name in home décor, while contributing to the advancement of the construction and finishing industry across the Kingdom and the wider region

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 81

Special Edition /

ESSA KAZIM Governor, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Through decades of service, Essa Kazim has played a defining role in shaping Dubai’s economic identity.

markets in the UAE, enabling investors — both domestic and international — to find a trusted home in Dubai.

At DIFC, he has championed a strategy built on innovation and global integration. Under his guidance, the center has expanded into a leading fintech ecosystem, supporting startups, venture capital, and regulatory frameworks that embrace the future of financial technology. Kazim’s stewardship emphasizes long-term growth: a regulatory environment that protects investors while allowing ambition to thrive.

He is also committed to education and capacity building, understanding that sustaining Dubai’s financial edge requires developing local expertise. He has contributed to training initiatives, academic programs, and mentoring talent to ensure the UAE continues to produce leaders who can compete globally.

ESSA KAZIM is one of the primary architects of Dubai’s rise as a global financial center. As Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre, he oversees a district that has become home to thousands of firms operating across banking, fintech, asset management, insurance, and professional services — a hub that has put Dubai firmly on the world’s financial map.

Kazim’s voice carries weight, not because of volume but because of vision. He has earned a reputation for measured leadership — strategic, data-informed, and always aligned with Dubai’s broader aspirations to innovate and diversify. His work reinforces the idea that great cities are built not only on skyscrapers, but on the flow of ideas, capital, and opportunity.

Kazim’s career has long intersected with the transformation of Dubai’s economy. With a background in finance and economics, he took on leadership roles that shaped the city’s market infrastructure, including his time as CEO of Dubai Financial Market. He helped lay the foundation for regulated capital

Through decades of service, Essa Kazim has played a defining role in shaping Dubai’s economic identity. He remains a guiding force for the city’s future, ensuring that DIFC is not simply a financial district, but a beacon for global business — a place where the world’s next chapter of finance is being written.

82 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

SULTAN ALNEYADI Astronaut, Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre SULTAN ALNEYADI has become a symbol of the UAE’s bold aspirations beyond Earth — a pioneer whose journey from the quiet desert landscapes of Al Ain to the International Space Station has inspired a new generation of dreamers across the Arab world. As an astronaut with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, he has helped turn the UAE’s ambition for space exploration into lived reality, proving that Emirati talent belongs at the frontiers of science.

Before entering space training, Alneyadi built a career shaped by curiosity and a love of engineering. He studied communication engineering with a passion for systems that connect people and machines — knowledge that would later serve him well in one of the most technologically advanced environments ever created: low-Earth orbit. His commitment to continuous learning led him to pursue advanced studies abroad, honing both his technical skills and his readiness to take on high-risk challenges.

His selection as one of the UAE’s first astronauts was a national milestone. Years of rigorous training followed — survival courses, robotics, spacecraft systems, language immersion, and physical conditioning designed to prepare him for life in microgravity. He approached each challenge with calm determination, representing not just himself but the aspirations of a country accelerating toward scientific leadership.

In 2023, Sultan Alneyadi launched into space on a historic mission that made him the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-duration stay aboard the ISS. Over six months in orbit, he conducted critical experiments in medicine, materials science, fluid dynamics, and biology — research that contributes to humanity’s push toward deeper space. His spacewalk, another first for the Arab world, showcased his courage and technical precision under the most demanding conditions.

Throughout his mission, he remained connected with the public, sharing images of Earth, speaking to students, and reminding everyone watching that exploration belongs to all of us.

His humility, humor, and awe at the universe gave his mission a human story — not just scientific accomplishment.

Sultan Alneyadi sees the UAE’s space program as a foundation for the future — a pathway toward knowledge, innovation, and unity. His legacy is still unfolding, but he has already secured a place in history as a bridge between generations: young Emiratis looking up, and a nation determined to keep reaching farther.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 83

Special Edition /

MOHAMMAD A. BAKER Deputy Chairman and CEO, GMG

Mohammad A. Baker stands as a key figure in the evolution of regional conglomerates. He leads with energy, creativity, and a forward-looking vision, ensuring GMG continues to champion growth that enriches lives both inside and outside the UAE.

MOHAMMAD A. BAKER represents a new wave of UAE business leadership — dynamic, globally aware, and driven by ambition to expand regional brands onto the world stage. As Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, he has helped transform the familyowned enterprise into a diversified international powerhouse spanning food, sports, health, and lifestyle.

He grew up inside the energy of entrepreneurship, learning the fundamentals of business early while watching his family build ventures across the region. That exposure shaped his belief that businesses must evolve continually to stay relevant. With this mindset, he joined GMG determined to scale the organization beyond its traditional portfolio and turn it into a growth engine across multiple sectors.

Under Baker’s stewardship, GMG has expanded through strategic acquisitions, new brand partnerships, and investments in verticals that support the wellbeing of communities. He has overseen growth in retail and distribution — particularly within sports apparel and fitness — helping elevate the active-living culture across the Middle East. His leadership also extends into

84 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

food manufacturing and distribution, supporting regional food security and quality nutrition.

Baker is a vocal advocate for empowering youth — whether through sports programs, job creation, or platforms that help young entrepreneurs succeed. He believes strongly that business plays a vital role in shaping healthier societies and that long-term success is measured in impact, not just revenue.

His leadership style is collaborative but bold, encouraging innovation and cultivating teams capable of adapting to changing consumer behaviors. He values sustainability, digital transformation, and purpose-driven branding — a philosophy that places GMG at the intersection of business achievement and social contribution.

Today, Mohammad A. Baker stands as a key figure in the evolution of regional conglomerates. He leads with energy, creativity, and a forward-looking vision, ensuring GMG continues to champion growth that enriches lives both inside and outside the UAE.

/ THE 100

DR. NATALIA BOBOK Founder, INSTYTUTUM Dr. Bobok’s career is shaped by rare dual fluency: deep medical science combined with executivelevel operational experience. Before founding INSTYTUTUM in 2014, she held senior C-suite roles across biotech, pharmaceutical, and beauty sectors, developing a full understanding of how science moves from laboratory research to regulation, manufacturing, and global distribution.

She has launched and scaled multiple international ventures, including biotech laboratories, a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Italy, and the global aesthetic and skincare brand Hyalual, now operating in more than 50 countries.

These experiences led to a defining insight: longevity science was either confined to academic institutions and elite clinics, or reduced in consumer products to superficial cosmetic effects. INSTYTUTUM was created to close this gap.

DR. NATALIA BOBOK represents a new generation of scientific founders redefining how longevity is understood, applied, and lived. A medical doctor, longevity scientist, and PhD in medicine, she operates at the intersection of cellular biology, systemic aging, and skincare—translating complex medical science into structured, practical systems designed for daily life.

Her work challenges the long-standing tendency to treat skin as a cosmetic surface rather than a biological organ deeply connected to overall health. Drawing on expertise in cellular aging, inflammation, mitochondrial function, DNA protection, and barrier biology, Dr. Bobok approaches aging as a systemic process—one that can be measured, influenced, and optimized over time. This scientific worldview has positioned her among the most influential voices shaping the future of beauty, and as a defining longevity scientist of her generation.

Dr. Bobok assembled and led a global team of leading longevity scientists with decades of combined expertise in high-performance skincare research, developing advanced formulas with next-generation actives that address all key skin concerns at once. Conceived not as a traditional skincare brand but as Future-Driven Skincare from Longevity Scientists —designed to reduce the skin’s biological age. INSTYTUTUM is grounded in cellular science, loved by Hollywood stars, trusted by leading doctors, embraced by more than 200,000 clients across four continents, and recognized for delivering outstanding results.

Its formulations operate across multiple biological levels— supporting the skin barrier, deeper tissue structures, and cellular pathways associated with aging.

Today, INSTYTUTUM is evolving beyond topical skincare into a broader longevity ecosystem encompassing supplements, biological age testing, and digital tools—reflecting Dr. Bobok’s vision of longevity as an integrated lifestyle strategy. She is redefining how beauty, health, and aging intersect—shifting the industry from temporary results to long-term biological optimization. Her science-driven approach targets biological age, cellular function, and healthspan, establishing longevity as evidence-based, sustainable, and accessible to millions worldwide. Longevity is no longer an elite concept, but a daily discipline—now recognized as the future of beauty, with INSTYTUTUM building the system that defines it.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 85

Special Edition /

SUNNY VARKEY Founder, GEMS Education SUNNY VARKEY is a global education visionary whose work has changed how millions of students learn, grow, and discover their potential. As founder of GEMS Education — one of the world’s largest private education providers — he has built an institution that spans continents, cultures, and generations, rooted in a belief that high-quality schooling should be accessible to families of diverse backgrounds.

Born in Kerala and raised in Dubai, Varkey grew up watching his parents teach. Their classrooms were filled with students from varied nationalities who had come to the UAE in search of new futures. That experience shaped his understanding of education as the single greatest catalyst for opportunity. Inspired by their mission, he began his own journey in the sector, expanding his parents’ small school into a global organization.

Under his leadership, GEMS Education grew into a network that offers premium and affordable schooling to students from every corner of the world. But Varkey’s ambitions extend beyond running schools.

He has spent decades advocating for better education systems worldwide — championing teacher development, access to learning, and private sector partnerships that uplift communities.

His philanthropic drive led to the establishment of the Varkey Foundation, which focuses on achieving education for every child, everywhere. One of its most notable initiatives is the Global Teacher Prize, a celebration of the world’s most inspiring educators. By placing teachers on a global stage, he highlights their essential role in shaping societies.

Varkey’s success stems from a combination of business acumen and deep social purpose. He understands that learning environments must evolve with the future — embracing technology, personalized learning, and values that prepare students for a world defined by rapid change.

He champions education not just as academic development but as character building — empathy, resilience, communication, and creativity.

Today, Sunny Varkey remains a powerful voice in global education reform. His journey proves that impactful change often starts in a single classroom — and, with enough dedication, can grow into an international movement that gives children everywhere a chance to write their own story.

Sunny Varkey remains a powerful voice in global education reform. His journey proves that impactful change often starts in a single classroom — and, with enough dedication, can grow into an international movement that gives children everywhere a chance to write their own story.

/ THE 100

KHURSHID VAKIL Co-Founder, Marina Home Interiors emerging design capitals, discovering materials and makers whose work carried heritage and heart.

Under his leadership, the brand has expanded across multiple countries while staying true to its boutique spirit.

Every store feels like a gallery — layered storytelling that encourages customers to explore, mix styles, and express who they are. Vakil’s approach challenges traditional design rules, embracing contrasts: rustic meets modern, industrial meets organic, East meets West. His aesthetic reflects life itself — varied, evolving, unapologetically unique.

Beyond business, he is deeply supportive of creative talent and sustainability. He champions craftsmanship that preserves culture and reduces waste, bringing the value of quality over quantity into everyday living. He believes that design, at its best, nurtures wellbeing — turning homes into places of comfort, connection, and imagination.

KHURSHID VAKIL is a creator of spaces — not just physical ones, but emotional ones filled with memory, beauty, and personality. As Co-Founder of Marina Home Interiors, he has shaped one of the Middle East’s most distinctive homefashion brands, known for eclectic design that bridges continents, cultures, and eras. His vision has made Marina a household name associated with creativity, authenticity, and character.

Vakil’s journey began with a fascination for how people live — the stories that furnishings tell, and the feeling a room can give when it reflects the identity of the person within it. He grew up inspired

by craftsmanship and global aesthetics, and when he came to Dubai in its early boom years, he sensed an opportunity to build a brand that celebrated individuality rather than uniformity.

Together with his co-founder, he launched Marina Home Interiors with a bold philosophy: homes should feel alive. Instead of mass-produced sameness, Marina offered statement pieces crafted with soul — reclaimed woods, vintage-inspired metals, handwoven textures, and artistic shapes that invited conversation. Vakil personally traveled the world to curate collections, from remote artisan communities to

Khurshid Vakil’s influence is seen in millions of living rooms, yet his legacy is about more than furniture. It is about embracing originality, finding beauty in imperfection, and understanding that a home is not decorated — it is crafted, thoughtfully, with love.

Khurshid Vakil’s influence is seen in millions of living rooms, yet his legacy is about more than furniture.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 87

Special Edition /

THUMBAY MOIDEEN Founder and President, Thumbay Group THUMBAY MOIDEEN is the driving force behind one of the UAE’s most innovative private healthcare and education groups. As Founder and President of Thumbay Group, he has built an ecosystem that delivers medical services, academic excellence, and community wellbeing — a mission that began with a single vision and expanded into one of the region’s most recognizable brands.

Born in India and raised in a family with strong business roots, Moideen inherited an entrepreneurial mindset early in life.

But when he arrived in the UAE, he saw a different kind of opportunity — the chance to contribute to a sector that touches every human life: healthcare. He founded Thumbay Group with the goal of improving access to quality medical treatment, particularly for diverse expatriate communities who consider the UAE their second home.

From those beginnings emerged a multifaceted organization that includes hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, diagnostics, medical education, and fitness — all designed to serve people holistically. One of his most transformative achievements is the establishment of Gulf Medical University, a leading institution that cultivates doctors, nurses, and specialists equipped for a rapidly evolving medical landscape.

Moideen is known for thinking beyond the traditional boundaries of healthcare. He integrates hospitality, research, innovation, and digital solutions into the patient journey — creating experiences that combine medical expertise with compassion and cultural understanding. His expansion strategy has taken Thumbay’s presence across the UAE and internationally, reflecting a commitment to growth that never loses sight of social impact.

Community empowerment is at the heart of his leadership. He actively supports education initiatives, scholarship programs, and partnerships that elevate healthcare

88 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

standards regionally. His philosophy is simple: healthy communities build strong nations.

Through perseverance and purpose, Thumbay Moideen has contributed to the UAE’s transformation into a global healthcare destination. He continues to lead with the same passion that launched his journey — believing that every new facility, every new graduate, and every patient cared for is a step toward a healthier, more hopeful world.

“Through perseverance and purpose, Thumbay Moideen has contributed to the UAE’s transformation into a global healthcare destination. He continues to lead with the same passion that launched his journey — believing that every new facility, every new graduate, and every patient cared for is a step toward a healthier, more hopeful world.

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 89

Special Edition /

RAJI DAOU CEO, DMDC Contracting LLC RAJI DAOU IS a distinguished leader in luxury construction, recognized for transforming bold architectural visions into exceptional built environments. With a foundation in civil engineering and a lifelong passion for craftsmanship, he combines technical precision with artistic innovation — creating spaces that are as thoughtfully functional as they are visually inspiring.

His journey began early, gaining hands-on exposure on construction sites under the mentorship of his engineer father. These formative years equipped him with a deep understanding of balancing creativity with structural integrity. Identifying a gap in the market for design-driven, quality-centred construction, Raji founded DMDC — a company dedicated to elevating both beauty and performance in modern living spaces.

Established in Dubai in 2021, DMDC has rapidly emerged as a premier design and construction firm, reshaping residential, office, and retail spaces with sophistication, innovation, and sustainability. With a team of 700+ specialists, the company has executed more than 350 architectural and over 400 interior design projects, a testament to its operational scale and design-driven expertise.

Raji’s leadership philosophy has evolved from hands-on involvement in every detail to an empowering, trustbased approach. While he continues to uphold the uncompromising craftsmanship that defines DMDC, he has cultivated a strong leadership team capable of delivering excellence across every project. His ability to truly listen — to clients, architects, and artisans — ensures that each development is shaped around people’s lifestyles, ambitions, and values.

DMDC’s portfolio spans luxurious residences, highimpact workplace environments, and immersive retail destinations. Across every sector, the company maintains a deep commitment to accountability, transparency, and sustainability — ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical and aesthetic standards. Its vision is rooted in creating places that inspire happiness, elevate productivity, and redefine daily life through refined design and exceptional construction.

A pivotal moment for Raji was securing DMDC’s first premium luxury villa amid a challenging market environment — a decision that cemented the firm’s reputation and marked the beginning of its rapid

90 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

rise in Dubai’s competitive landscape. Today, he remains focused on expanding DMDC’s market presence, forging innovative partnerships, and mentoring emerging leaders to carry forward the company’s core values.

Through unwavering dedication, visionary thinking, and a passion for redefining standards, Raji Daou continues to shape the future of luxury construction — one exceptional project at a time.

/ THE 100

DANI AFIOUNI Founder and CEO, Longevity Wellness Hub DANI AFIOUNI is a visionary wellness innovator and endurance explorer redefining how people approach longevity, performance, and holistic health. His journey into wellness began in some of the world’s toughest environments—scaling six of the famed Seven Summits, completing the Amazon Jungle Ultra, running the North Pole Marathon, and conquering the World Marathon Challenge, where he completed seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. These extreme feats gave him profound insight into the connection between physical readiness, recovery, and mental resilience.

After nearly two decades in leadership roles at global organisations like PepsiCo and Omnicom, Dani channelled his expertise into a higher purpose: building a wellness ecosystem

that empowers individuals to live with clarity, vitality, and purpose every day. In 2019, he founded Longevity Wellness Hub to bring performance-driven recovery science, cutting-edge diagnostics, and ancient healing modalities together under one integrated experience.

At the heart of the Hub is the Advanced Quantum Scanning System — the first of its kind in the Middle East. This AI-powered diagnostic uses biometrics, voice frequency analysis, and principles of quantum physics to reveal the body’s precise needs within ninety minutes, mapping everything from nutrient deficiencies to immune response, hormonal balance, energy fields, and biological age. The scan then informs tailored wellness blueprints and targeted recovery protocols designed to unlock the body’s innate capacity to heal and thrive.

Longevity Wellness Hub offers a wide range of science-supported therapies including hyperbaric oxygen chambers, cold-water immersion, compression lymphatic drainage, sound and light frequency therapy, infrared saunas, and hypoxic altitude training — all delivered in environments built with biophilic design and a deep focus on restoration, connection, and trust.

More than a wellness space, the Hub is a community — a sanctuary where highperformers, wellness-seekers, and spiritual explorers come together to recharge and elevate one another. Its ecosystem extends to mobile recovery units and the manufacturing of the region’s leading ice baths, ensuring accessibility beyond its physical centres. In March 2025, Longevity secured USD 4 million to expand into Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh, advancing its quantum technology and launching five new locations.

Passionate about mental health, Dani has also completed a 150 km desert run to raise funds for the Emirates Society for Child Mental Health — a testament to his belief that wellness is a balance of mind and body. “Elevating the human experience requires holistic health — a peaceful mind in a strong body,” he says. Today, he stands at the forefront of a movement shaping the future of human performance, helping people everywhere live longer, stronger, and with greater purpose.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 91

Special Edition /

WAJDAN GUL & ANAM KHALID Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, SQUATWOLF Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, SQUATWOLF SQUATWOLF is the first-ever performance wear brand born in Dubai — built to inspire people to become stronger and lead The Hunt for More. Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife duo Wajdan Gul and Anam Khalid, the brand began from a small Dubai apartment and has rapidly grown into one of the fastest-scaling global performance wear companies. Its DNA is built around Progress, Performance, and Pack — celebrating the everyday pursuit of becoming better, not just athletic excellence.

As Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Wajdan Gul drives SQUATWOLF’s commercial vision, global expansion, and multi-channel growth strategy across e-commerce, retail, and wholesale. An entrepreneur with an MBA in Marketing, he transformed a self-funded startup with no background in fashion into a disruptive performance brand recognized across the region and internationally. His leadership is anchored in grit, operational discipline, and a belief in building extraordinary products that ignite purpose-driven lives and empower people to push beyond their limits.

Anam Khalid, Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, leads Brand, Product, and People — shaping SQUATWOLF’s creative direction, culture, and global identity. With a career background in strategy and people roles at major Fortune 500 companies, she ensures that every product and campaign reflects functional innovation with a strong emotional connection. Raised in Pakistan, Anam has consistently broken cultural and gender barriers to build a global business on her own terms. A champion of female empowerment, she is committed to fostering a brand ecosystem where ambition, resilience, and inclusivity are celebrated.

Together, Wajdan and Anam bring a powerful balance of strategic scalability and creative leadership. Their shared belief — that performance wear should support real human progress — has evolved SQUATWOLF from a regional startup into a global symbol of ambition born in Dubai.

Today, SQUATWOLF continues to accelerate across digital, retail, and international markets, cultivating a community of modern athletes who strive daily for progress. With innovation at its core and community at its heart, the brand is redefining performance wear from the Middle East to the world — proving that when purpose meets perseverance, anything is possible.

92 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

SAGAR CHOTRANI & KUSHAL DESAI Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Publsh Co-Founder and Managing Director, Publsh PUBLSH is Dubai’s leading experiential agency — turning ideas into bold, immersive, and impactful brand moments that resonate on a global scale. With more than 1,000 successful campaigns, the agency has earned the trust of industry leaders by amplifying brand presence through events, branding, PR, media buying, social media, influencer marketing, and more. At Publsh, creativity, transparency, and unconventional thinking fuel strategies that cut through clichés and shape powerful narratives that endure.

As Co-Founder and CEO, Sagar Chotrani drives the agency’s strategic vision, innovation agenda, and highimpact partnerships. With 15 years of UAE experience across digital, technology, and media, he is a master at crafting captivating global digital experiences and identifying emerging trends before they reach mass adoption. Sagar’s ability to constantly evolve Publsh’s capabilities keeps clients at the forefront of culture and conversation — ensuring relevance that lasts beyond what’s “trending today.”

Alongside him, Kushal Desai, Co-Founder & Managing Director, brings more than 12 years of operational excellence spanning technology, PR, branding, media, and

digital innovation. Known for his sharp trend-spotting and execution strength, he ensures Publsh consistently delivers strong outcomes while navigating the fast-moving media landscape. Kushal leads with a collaborative mindset, building a culture where creativity thrives and where every campaign pushes boundaries with confidence.

Together, Sagar and Kushal form a complementary leadership duo — one shaping vision and partnerships, the other powering operations and delivery. Their shared philosophy places authenticity and results at the centre of every idea. By challenging convention and embracing originality, they ensure every client experience is crafted with intention, clarity, and measurable brand impact.

In a world where attention shifts fast, Publsh stands firm in ensuring clients remain ahead through bold strategy, story-driven communication, and experiential creativity that transforms audiences into advocates. Whatever the challenge, the team charts a course for brands to not just compete — but thrive. Guided by the founders’ energy, insight, and relentless pursuit of innovation, Publsh continues to redefine what meaningful brand experiences look like across the region and beyond.

“In a world where attention shifts fast, Publsh stands firm in ensuring clients remain ahead through bold strategy, story-driven communication, and experiential creativity.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 93

Special Edition /

QASIM MANSOOR Founder and CEO, Regency Developments Qasim Mansoor’s best work is still to come, as he continues to approach the industry with hunger, curiosity, ambition and fearlessness.

precision — where every line, material, proportion and touch point must feel inevitable. He aims to build developments that inspire, emotionally resonate and set a benchmark for what living well feels like.

Prior to establishing his own firm, Mansoor worked with some of the most compelling real estate brands in the UAE, including Emaar, Aldar, Ellington and Regal London. While serving as Director of Development at Emaar Properties, he was instrumental in the inception and development of Dubai Creek Harbour — the largest integrated waterfront mixed-use development within the Emaar portfolio, valued at USD 75 billion and home to the Dubai Creek Tower.

After Emaar, he held senior leadership roles with companies such as Aldar Properties and Ellington Properties, and developed ground operations as CEO UAE for UK developer Regal.

QASIM MANSOOR is an accomplished real estate design and development executive, often described as part visionary, part entrepreneur, with a gift for seamlessly integrating art and commerce.

Over his 25 years in the field, his track record has been defined by unequivocal successes, resulting in developments that become permanently ingrained in the fabric and rhythm of city life. Mansoor specialises in conceiving design-led, customer-centric, lifestyle developments for discerning homeowners with sophisticated taste.

His philosophy is that buyers aren’t just purchasing square feet; they are investing in identity, taste and lifestyle. Luxury, for him, isn’t about excess but about

94 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Following the acquisition of Regal, Mansoor established Regency Developments, where he now serves as Founder and Chief Executive Officer, building what he describes as “something extraordinary.” The firm’s motto, “A refined life is a Regency development,” reflects his commitment to elevated living.

Furthermore, Mansoor is a globally accomplished architect, having worked with renowned firms including Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum (HOK). He currently serves as an External Senior Advisor to McKinsey & Company for their real estate practice.

His educational background includes a BA (Honours) in Architecture, an MSc in Urban Planning and Development from University College London (UCL), and a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Qasim Mansoor’s best work is still to come, as he continues to approach the industry with hunger, curiosity, ambition and fearlessness.

/ THE 100

FADI JAWAD Founder and CEO, Eurotech Group company with a focus on safety, engineering, and operational competency. From its earliest years, the company emphasised practical, results-driven learning, tailored to the needs of industrial sectors that require rigorously trained personnel. As industries evolved, Eurotech expanded into corporate training, leadership development, digital skills, and a broader array of learning solutions for both public and private sectors.

Under his leadership, Eurotech Group has grown into one of the region’s most influential training providers, serving businesses and government agencies across the GCC and beyond. The company has trained hundreds of thousands of professionals, helping organisations meet stringent international standards while supporting national development goals. Jawad has been adamant that training is not a cost but an investment — one that directly improves productivity, performance, and safety.

Fadi Jawad has consistently advocated for the institutionalisation of training budgets and sustainable workforce development strategies. He has championed a shift away from outdated classroom models toward interactive, competency-based learning supported by technology and measurable outcomes. His guidance has helped many organisations build stronger internal capabilities and nurture leadership pipelines from within.

As a recognized voice in business and humancapital development, Jawad has been frequently acknowledged among the region’s most influential Arab business leaders. What sets him apart is not just business growth, but his long-standing mission to uplift people and improve livelihoods through skills, knowledge, and continual learning.

FADI JAWAD is a pioneering entrepreneur in the Middle East’s human-capital and professional training sector. As Founder and CEO of Eurotech Group, he has spent more than two decades redefining how organisations across the region prepare their workforces for the demands of modern industry. His work has played a central role in elevating skill development, workforce readiness, and professional excellence—particularly in highly technical fields such as energy and oil & gas.

Jawad’s career began with a clear belief: that economic progress must be built on empowered people. In 1998, he established Eurotech as a specialist training

Today, Eurotech Group stands as a market leader and a testament to his vision. Fadi Jawad’s legacy is one of empowerment — helping individuals build careers, helping industries advance, and helping nations grow by putting human capability at the centre of progress.

Fadi Jawad’s legacy is one of empowerment — helping individuals build careers, helping industries advance, and helping nations grow by putting human capability at the centre of progress.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 95

Special Edition /

BILAL MEKKAOUI Founder and CEO, OuiCollab — working at major international firms where he specialized in technology, media, and telecom (TMT) sectors. Over roughly a decade, he honed skills in merger and acquisition, equity capital markets, and public-market preparation. This early phase laid the groundwork for his deep understanding of capital flows, business structuring, and company growth strategies.

In 2012, he transitioned from traditional finance into the startup & internet-business world by joining an incubator known for launching e-commerce ventures globally. There, he contributed to building and scaling multiple companies, learning firsthand how to take ideas from concept to market-ready businesses. He later played a strategic role at a major global online marketplace firm, helping prepare that company for public listing.

By 2016, Bilal decided to strike out independently — founding Jobi Capital (later rebranded as OuiCollab), with the goal of investing in early-stage consumer retail and tech ventures, and providing handson support beyond capital, including operational guidance, market strategy, and access to networks.

Under his leadership, OuiCollab has evolved into a venture studio and brand incubator focusing on direct-to-consumer (DTC) and celebrity-backed consumer goods. He co-founded and helped launch global consumer brands such as a luxury home-care label and a pet-wellness brand, both designed with celebrity partners who contribute authenticity and creative input. These brands have seen significant early success, selling out quickly upon launch and achieving sustainable growth — a testament to Bilal’s disciplined approach to launch timing, brand positioning, and market fit.

BILAL MEKKAOUI is a seasoned global entrepreneur, investor, and founder best known for building and scaling consumer-focused businesses, often anchored around celebrity collaborations and digitally native retail ventures. With a background spanning investment banking, technology startups, venture capital and brandbuilding, he brings a unique blend of financial rigor and creative entrepreneurial vision.

Born to a Lebanese family and raised in London, Bilal began his professional career in investment banking

96 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Bilal’s core philosophy is that building enduring consumer brands is not about hype, but about combining data-driven market insight, strong product fundamentals, operational excellence, and authentic stories or personalities behind the brand. He believes this formula lowers acquisition costs and accelerates growth compared to traditional startup models.

Today, Bilal Mekkaoui stands at the forefront of a growing movement that bridges celebrity influence with disciplined brand building: leveraging capital-markets skills, startup agility, and cultural sensitivity to create consumer products that can scale globally.

/ THE 100

IRFAN TANSEL CEO, Al Masaood Automobiles Irfan Tansel continues to define the growth and success of Al Masaood Automobiles as a trusted name in the UAE’s evolving mobility landscape.

to transform customer expectations into business opportunities.

In 2017, he was appointed CEO of Al Masaood Automobiles, the automotive business of Al Masaood Group and the authorised distributor of leading global car manufacturers in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Western Region of the UAE. Since taking charge, he has led a major transformation of the company — strengthening customer experience, modernising operations and positioning the brand as a pioneer in digital automotive retail.

During the global pandemic, his forward-thinking decisions proved pivotal. Irfan drove the rapid launch of digital services such as online car purchasing, virtual showrooms, and home collection and delivery for servicing. These initiatives preserved business momentum during uncertain times and helped the company grow its market share. Under his direction, Al Masaood Automobiles became one of the first regional dealers to fully integrate e-commerce into the car-buying journey.

IRFAN TANSEL is the Chief Executive Officer of Al Masaood Automobiles and one of the leading figures in the automotive sector in the UAE. His career journey is rooted in real, handson experience: he began working as a teenage apprentice auto-mechanic, developing a deep understanding of vehicles, aftersales operations, and customer needs from the ground up. That early start shaped his approach to leadership — one based on technical knowledge, service excellence and respect for the people who keep the industry running.

Over the years, Irfan progressed through the regional automotive world in roles spanning operations, commercial management and strategic leadership. His experience across multiple brands and dealerships gave him a uniquely broad perspective on challenges facing the mobility industry and how

A strong advocate of innovation and agility, Irfan believes the future of the automotive industry lies in mobility solutions that extend beyond selling cars — focusing on lifetime customer relationships and seamless service. His leadership style is collaborative and people-focused, emphasising empowerment, transparency and continuous improvement at every level of the organisation.

Today, Irfan Tansel is recognized as one of the Middle East’s top CEOs. His journey from mechanic’s workshop to corporate boardroom reflects a belief in hard work, humility and purposeful leadership — and continues to define the growth and success of Al Masaood Automobiles as a trusted name in the UAE’s evolving mobility landscape.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 97

Special Edition /

DR. SONIA BEN JAAFAR Chief Executive Officer, Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation (AGF)

DR. SONIA BEN JAAFAR is an award-winning global leader in strategic philanthropy and education, dedicated to bridging education to economic opportunity across the Middle East & North Africa and beyond. With more than twenty years of experience, she has led high-impact initiatives that expand access to quality education and equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in fast-changing labor markets.

As the Chief Executive Officer of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation (AGF), the region’s largest privately funded education philanthropic organization, Dr. Ben Jaafar has positioned the Foundation as a trusted partner with governments, global institutions, and the private sector. Her leadership has helped drive systemic reforms that bridge the gap between education and employment, with a strong focus on inclusion, digital readiness, and longterm resilience.

A respected voice on global platforms, Dr. Ben Jaafar contributes to key dialogues on equity, innovation, and sustainability in education. Her insights continue to inform policy and shape strategies that link learning to opportunity, ensuring education remains a powerful driver of economic growth and societal progress across the Arab region.

She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and a Master’s in Curriculum Studies from the University of Toronto. Her work has been honored through international awards for educational leadership and philanthropic innovation.

Dr. Ben Jaafar is proud to lead the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation at a time of great possibility—building on the legacy of the Al Ghurair family to help shape a future where all young people have the chance to learn, grow, and contribute.

Dr. Ben Jaafar is proud to lead the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation at a time of great possibility— building on the legacy of the Al Ghurair family to help shape a future where all young people have the chance to learn, grow, and contribute.

98 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 99

Special Edition /

/ THE 100

SALAH ADIB General Manager, Al Masaood – Tyres, Batteries & Accessories SALAH ADIB is the award-winning General Manager of Al Masaood – Tyres, Batteries and Accessories Division (TBA).

Since becoming GM in 2017, the youngest ever to hold that position, Salah revived and turned around the 30-year-old business to become one of the most progressive arms of the Al Masaood Group. Year after year Al Masaood TBA has made record - breaking sales and consistently hit stretch targets under Salah’s leadership.

Recently, Al Masaood TBA celebrated the golden jubilee of its partnership with Bridgestone – one of the division’s main principal brands. It also received multiple global awards from its longstanding partner, TotalEnergies, on performance excellence and business growth. Throughout the years of partnership, Adib has been instrumental in crafting strategies with both global brands. He also forged strong ties with leading government entities, growing a partnership with ADNOC and its retail network in the capital and the Western Region.

Adib believes the secret to a company’s success is to “keep it simple”. His philosophy is: hire the younger generations and invest in them as they are the ones that hold fresh ideas and think outside the box. “Motivate your team by going beyond formalities with ‘personal leadership’; show them that you really

care by understanding what’s important to them. We are all working to generate income for our families and to achieve our life’s dreams.”

Originally from Lebanon, Adib holds a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Management and Marketing. Adib is also the CEO of Juventus Football Academy in Abu Dhabi, as he holds a deep love for football. A passionate advocate of the sport, Adib aims through the academy to inspire and encourage the young generation in Abu Dhabi to embrace football, along with the values of teamwork, discipline, and dedication that the sport embodies. In his role, he draws on the spirit and legacy of Italian football while aligning with the UAE’s vision of nurturing healthy, athletic, and fit generations.

In his role, he draws on the spirit and legacy of Italian football while aligning with the UAE’s vision of nurturing healthy, athletic, and fit generations.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 101

Special Edition /

MICHAEL LAHYANI Founder and CEO, Property Finder MICHAEL LAHYANI is a pioneering proptech entrepreneur credited with modernising the real estate search experience in the Middle East. As Founder and CEO of Property Finder, he transformed the process of buying, selling and renting property by creating a platform that brings transparency, accessibility and quality data to consumers and industry professionals.

Since launching the business, Lahyani has guided its expansion into multiple markets, enabling Property Finder to become one of the most trusted names in digital real estate. His leadership has supported technology adoption across the sector, improving market intelligence and helping elevate consumer confidence.

He continues to advocate for digital transformation in property markets, encouraging higher standards in service, regulation and market information. Lahyani is respected for his entrepreneurial resilience, customercentric strategy and commitment to innovation that strengthens the real estate ecosystem.

With his influence extending across both technology and property development, Lahyani remains a key driver of progress in regional proptech.

With his influence extending across both technology and property development, Michael Lahyani remains a key driver of progress in regional proptech.

102 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

ELIE SAAB Founder and Creative Director, ELIE SAAB ELIE SAAB is one of the most influential figures in global couture, celebrated for bringing a distinctly Middle Eastern aesthetic to the forefront of international fashion. As Founder and Creative Director of ELIE SAAB, he has built a powerful brand known for exquisite craftsmanship, feminine elegance and architectural design. His creations are revered for their intricate detailing and luxurious materials, often seen on the world’s most prestigious red carpets and on leading public figures.

accessories, fragrance and interior design — demonstrating his ability to scale creative identity across multiple lifestyle categories.

Saab’s journey from a self-taught young designer to an internationally acclaimed fashion icon reflects determination, artistic vision and cultural representation. His brand has expanded beyond haute couture into ready-to-wear, bridal,

Saab continues to shape the language of modern luxury fashion, blending heritage, innovation and timeless elegance — making him one of the most widely admired designers of his era.

In addition to global success, Saab maintains a strong connection to regional creative development, supporting talent, education and cultural initiatives that help advance the Middle East’s presence in the global design economy.

Saab continues to shape the language of modern luxury fashion, blending heritage, innovation and timeless elegance — making him one of the most widely admired designers of his era.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 103

Special Edition /

PRATEEK SURI Chairman, Maser Group | Founder, MDR Investments

Whether advancing AI-powered consumer technology, investing in digital infrastructure, or backing the next generation of African founders, his vision is expansive and deeply rooted in the continent’s potential.

104 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

PRATEEK SURI’s rise reads like a modern epic of ambition, resilience, and perfectly timed conviction. Widely recognized as the richest Indian in Africa, with an estimated net worth of US$1.9 billion, Suri has earned the moniker “The Technology Tiger of Africa” for building one of the continent’s most powerful consumer technology empires—and then leveraging that success to shape Africa’s next chapter of growth.

Born into a family with deep roots in electronics, Suri’s journey was anything but linear. After graduating in engineering from BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus, he faced a string of professional rejections while trying to break into banking in the Middle East.

At his lowest point—having sold his car, closed his apartment, and prepared to leave Dubai—he received a long-awaited job offer. In a defining moment, he declined it. Instead, with no external funding, he chose entrepreneurship, launching a small software business that would later become the financial foundation for something far bigger.

That vision crystallised in 2014, when Suri entered consumer electronics, determined to revive the values he had inherited from his father: quality, affordability, and trust. Early success in trading branded electronics in India was abruptly halted by regulatory changes, forcing him to shut down operations.

Rather than retreat, Suri pivoted again—this time creating Maser, an assembly-led electronics brand built for adaptability.

A twist of fate redirected Maser’s trajectory toward Africa.

A shipment diverted from India to Dubai found unexpected demand in African markets, revealing a massive gap: premiumfeeling yet affordable televisions tailored to a fast-growing, youthful population. Suri moved decisively. By studying Africa’s fragmented distribution networks and under-served consumers, he built a high-touch model that reached both major cities and remote towns. Maser rapidly expanded across Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and beyond, establishing itself as a brand that understood local realities better than global giants.

marked one of the most prominent technology exits in Africa, cementing Suri’s status as a continental business force.

Yet Maser was never the final destination. Building on its success, Suri founded MDR Investments, a venture capital and strategic investment platform focused on Africa and the Gulf.

Through MDR, he deploys capital into high-growth startups and large-scale assets spanning mining, infrastructure, ports, shipping, artificial intelligence, data centres, and luxury yacht trading. The firm positions itself as a bridge between global capital and Africa’s long-term development story—pragmatic, patient, and purpose-driven.

Beyond balance sheets, Suri’s influence extends into philanthropy through the Maser Foundation. Guided by his belief that wealth carries responsibility, the foundation channels resources into social impact initiatives across Africa, reinforcing his philosophy of building businesses that create shared value.

Looking ahead, Suri remains firmly focused on the future.

Whether advancing AI-powered consumer technology, investing in digital infrastructure, or backing the next generation of African founders, his vision is expansive and deeply rooted in the continent’s potential. Prateek Suri has not only built a billion-dollar empire; he has helped redefine what global technology leadership can look like when ambition meets emerging markets—and stays committed for the long run.

Between 2018 and 2020, Maser led a smart-TV revolution.

As connectivity and streaming surged across Africa, Suri’s team launched customised smart televisions with intuitive interfaces, voice control, and OTT integrations—without compromising price. Local assembly plants, rapid innovation cycles, and relentless focus on value allowed Maser to overtake established multinationals in unit sales across key markets. Repeat customers became the brand’s strongest endorsement.

By the early 2020s, Maser had evolved from a television manufacturer into a lifestyle technology brand. Its portfolio expanded into home appliances, wellness tech, smart homes, and gaming ecosystems, all developed through rigorous R&D pipelines that fused design, data, and artificial intelligence.

In 2024, Maser crossed US$1 billion in annual revenue. Soon after, a landmark US$5 billion acquisition by Asia’s Chia Group

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 105

Special Edition /

TARIQ CHAUHAN Co-Founder and Group CEO, EFS Facilities Services Group TARIQ CHAUHAN is a highly respected business leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for peoplecentric growth in the facilities management (FM) industry. As the co-Founder and Group CEO of EFS Facilities Services Group, he has played a defining role in transforming the company from a regional operator into one of the most influential FM organisations across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and beyond.

Born and educated in India with a background in economics and finance, Chauhan began his career in banking and corporate investments.

Those early years shaped his strategic mindset, financial discipline, and ability to identify longterm value — skills that eventually paved the way for his transition into entrepreneurship. His move into the facilities services sector came with a vision to elevate industry standards through professionalism, transparency, and genuine investment in people.

Under Chauhan’s leadership, EFS has grown exponentially. From modest beginnings, the company now operates in more than 25 countries and employs tens of thousands of professionals managing large-scale facilities, critical infrastructure, and complex service operations.

The group has become known not only for its operational excellence but also for a business culture grounded in ethical practices and workforce empowerment.

One of Chauhan’s core beliefs is that frontline employees are the heartbeat of the FM sector. He has championed worker welfare, training, career development, and inclusion — ensuring that the organisation’s success translates into improved livelihoods and upward mobility for its staff. This human-centric philosophy has helped EFS achieve high levels of retention, productivity, and client trust.

Beyond corporate success, Chauhan is recognized as a thought leader in business transformation, inclusive leadership, and sustainable workforce development. He writes, speaks, and mentors widely, sharing practical insights on resilience, organisational culture, and navigating rapidly changing markets. His commitment to social impact extends into philanthropic efforts supporting education, skills development, and blue-collar community upliftment.

106 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Widely acknowledged as one of the most influential CEOs in the region, Chauhan continues to shape the future of the FM industry. His career reflects a powerful story of ambition and integrity — proving that strong commercial performance and meaningful social contribution can, and should, go hand in hand.

/ THE 100

DR. LEILA HOTEIT Managing Director and Senior Partner, Boston Consulting Group DR. LEILA HOTEIT is a globally recognized expert in human capital development and one of the leading voices shaping education, employment, and social policy in the Middle East and beyond.

Based in Dubai, she serves as a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she leads the firm’s global Education, Employment, and Welfare sector.

Dr. Hoteit brings to her role a powerful combination of scientific rigor and strategic leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, a PhD in Signal Processing, and an MBA. Her early career included research and technical innovation before transitioning into strategy consulting, where she discovered her passion for helping governments and institutions drive large-scale societal transformation.

In more than 20 years in consulting, Dr. Hoteit has advised ministries, public agencies, and major organizations on national reforms and futurefocused strategies. Her work focuses on designing education systems that equip young people for the future, building strong technical and vocational pathways, improving workforce participation, and developing policy frameworks that enable competitive, inclusive economies. A major theme in her career is enabling women to achieve equal access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities.

Under her stewardship, BCG’s practice in this field has grown significantly, delivering initiatives that range from early-childhood development strategies to higher-education modernization and large-scale labor-market reforms. Her projects have helped countries increase skills readiness, improve employment outcomes, and strengthen human-capital competitiveness in the global economy.

Beyond her client work, Dr. Hoteit is widely regarded as a thought leader and advocate. She is frequently invited to speak at high-profile international forums on gender equality, social policy, and the future of work. Her contributions have earned her recognition from global institutions and leadership networks that celebrate impactful changemakers.

Dr. Hoteit’s career is defined by a conviction that sustainable national progress is built on the

Dr. Leila Hoteit’s career is defined by a conviction that sustainable national progress is built on the empowerment of people.

empowerment of people. Through her strategic influence, research-led insights, and passion for social inclusion, she continues to shape policies and systems that enable individuals — especially youth and women — to flourish in rapidly evolving economies.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 107

Special Edition /

ASHISH VIJAY Founder and Chairman, AV Group ASHISH VIJAY is a Dubai-based entrepreneur, investor, and industry leader with diversified interests spanning luxury gemstones, fine jewellery, real estate, and investment management. As Founder and Chairman of the AV Group, he has built a multi-vertical enterprise that reflects a blend of heritage, strategic vision, and modern global business practices.

Born in New Delhi into a family deeply rooted in the precious-stone industry, Vijay was introduced early to the art of sourcing, evaluating, and trading rare gemstones. This foundation shaped his expertise and passion for quality, authenticity, and long-term value. He later relocated to Dubai, recognising its position as a global hub for luxury, trade, and international investment.

At the AV Group, Vijay leads multiple verticals ranging from gemstone sourcing and curation to high-end jewellery design and international auctions. He remains closely involved in maintaining quality standards, ethical practices, and long-term relationships across the luxury value chain.

Under his leadership, the AV Group has grown beyond its strong legacy in gemstones and highend jewellery into real estate development and investment, as well as structured investment platforms. Through AV Real Properties, the group is actively involved in Dubai’s real estate sector, offering advisory, investment, and property solutions focused on premium residential and commercial assets. This vertical reflects Vijay’s strategic approach to tangible, long-term value creation in high-growth markets.

Vijay is also the driving force behind AV Investment, an investment fund focused on identifying and managing opportunities across real estate, private investments, and alternative assets. The fund operates on disciplined investment principles, market intelligence, and a long-term wealthcreation philosophy, serving investors seeking stability, transparency, and sustainable returns.

Across all ventures, Vijay is known for combining traditional relationship-driven business values with modern governance, transparency, and innovation.

He works closely with private investors, high-networth individuals, and strategic partners, offering 108 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

expertise across luxury assets and real-world investments.

A strong believer in values-driven leadership, Vijay emphasises integrity, trust, and responsible growth.

His vision is to build businesses that endure, contributing not only to financial success but also to industry standards, community development, and long-term legacy.

Today, Vijay is recognized as a multifaceted entrepreneur whose work spans luxury, real estate, and investment management, reflecting Dubai’s evolution as a global centre for wealth, innovation, and opportunity.

Today, Ashish Vijay is recognized as a multifaceted entrepreneur whose work spans luxury, real estate, and investment management, reflecting Dubai’s evolution as a global centre for wealth, innovation, and opportunity.

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 109

Special Edition /

HISHAM MANSOUR Co-Founder and Chairman, CFI Financial Group

since become a reality through the company’s rapid expansion, diversified services, and strong reputation for reliability.

Under his leadership, CFI has embraced cutting-edge technology, offering advanced trading tools, enhanced execution infrastructure, and continuous platform upgrades.

Mansour believes innovation in trading technology is not optional but essential, and he has driven significant investments into AI-assisted analytics and modern trading systems designed to improve decision-making and user experience.

HISHAM MANSOUR is a seasoned entrepreneur and financial-markets innovator who has played a central role in shaping the growth of online trading in the Middle East. As co-founder and Chairman of CFI Financial Group, he has helped build one of the region’s most prominent global multi-asset brokerage firms, offering access to markets across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Born with a passion for finance and technology, Mansour began his career in banking before moving into the rapidly emerging world of online trading. Early in his journey, he founded and led a Swiss online-trading bank,

110 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

gaining deep international exposure and hands-on experience with digital financial platforms. These formative years sharpened his vision for what the future of brokerage could be: accessible, technologically advanced, and customerfocused.

What distinguishes Mansour’s approach is his unwavering focus on transparency and client empowerment.

He advocates for financial inclusion, education, and responsible investing — ensuring clients have the knowledge, support, and safeguards needed to participate confidently in global markets.

This philosophy has helped establish CFI as a firm known for its high ethical standards and personalized service.

In 2015, Mansour joined forces with a long-standing Lebanese financial firm to relaunch and expand the business as CFI Financial Group. His ambition was to create a regulated, globally trusted institution that could empower traders of all backgrounds — from first-time investors to experienced market professionals. That vision has

Today, Mansour continues to guide CFI’s strategic direction, focusing on new global markets, digital transformation, and sustainable long-term growth. His career reflects a rare blend of innovation, regulatory discipline, and entrepreneurial drive — making him a respected figure in the evolution of online trading and financial services in the region.

/ THE 100

PAUL DAWALIBI Chief Executive Officer, Innovation City

PAUL DAWALIBI is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and global tech executive best known as the Chief Executive Officer of Innovation City, the UAE’s groundbreaking AI-powered free zone based in Ras Al Khaimah. Innovation City — formerly RAK Digital Assets Oasis — has been reimagined under his leadership to become a purpose-built ecosystem for tomorrow’s industries, focusing on Web3, artificial intelligence, gaming, robotics, and healthtech.

With over two decades of experience as a technology entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and startup evangelist, Dawalibi brings deep expertise in emerging tech and ecosystem building.

He has founded and scaled companies across North America and advised governments and venture investors on innovation strategy, policy, and digital economy growth.

Dawalibi also hosts and created Game Changers on CNBC Arabia, reaching millions across the Middle East, and coauthored Metaverse Dream, a forward-looking exploration of virtual culture and design.

Under his direction, Innovation City aims to remove friction for founders — offering streamlined AI-driven licensing, a founder-centric community, and strategic support that accelerates innovation and positions Ras Al Khaimah as a global hub for future tech. Dawalibi’s leadership emphasizes agility, community, and building an ecosystem where ambitious founders truly belong.

Under his direction, Innovation City aims to remove friction for founders — offering streamlined AI-driven licensing, a founder-centric community.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 111

Special Edition /

KABIR MULCHANDANI Chairman and CEO, FIVE Holdings create highly profitable hospitality concepts with worldwide appeal.

As a founder with deep real-estate expertise, Mulchandani has steered developments from idea to iconic status, pioneering a brand architecture that caters to a global audience hungry for immersive, luxury-lifestyle destinations. His focus on brand equity, technological integration, sustainability and entertainment as a core economic engine has earned international recognition and reshaped the competitive landscape in Dubai’s tourism sector.

Beyond his track record in hospitality, Mulchandani is also championing innovation in the broader entertainment economy. FIVE has become a launchpad for creative talent, music content and immersive brand partnerships, showcasing his belief in the economic power of creativity and experience-led tourism.

He is committed to impactful corporate governance, philanthropic initiatives and responsible business practices — including environmental measures within his portfolio and communityfocused programmes that align social responsibility with commercial success.

KABIR MULCHANDANI is one of Dubai’s most distinctive and forward-thinking business leaders, credited with shaping a new era of lifestyle-driven hospitality and entertainment. As Chairman and CEO of FIVE Holdings, he has transformed the brand into a globally recognized operator of luxury hotels and residences that fuse exceptional design, high-energy experiences and strong financial performance.

Mulchandani’s vision has been instrumental in positioning FIVE as more than a hospitality company — instead, a cultural powerhouse that blends music, nightlife, culinary creativity and premium living into a single, magnetic ecosystem. FIVE’s flagship properties in Dubai, along with its growing international portfolio, consistently achieve record occupancy and revenue, demonstrating his ability to challenge industry norms and

112 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Bold, data-driven and relentlessly original, Kabir Mulchandani represents a new model of global hospitality leadership. His ability to continuously reinvent luxury and deliver exceptional results places him at the forefront of the region’s most influential executives.

Bold, data-driven and relentlessly original, Kabir Mulchandani represents a new model of global hospitality leadership.

/ THE 100

ALISHA MOOPEN Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare (GCC) ALISHA MOOPEN is a leading figure in the GCC healthcare sector, guiding one of the region’s largest integrated healthcare groups with a blend of professional rigour, strategic vision and humanitarian purpose. As Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare’s GCC operations, she oversees a vast network of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and diagnostic services — ensuring high-quality, accessible care for millions across the region.

She joined Aster in 2013 and has risen through senior leadership roles to assume full responsibility for the company’s strategic

direction, market expansion and operational excellence. Under her stewardship, Aster has embarked on a major expansion drive focused on elevating healthcare standards, innovating patient care and scaling services across key markets, including new hospital openings, clinic and pharmacy rollouts, and enhanced medical-service offerings.

Moopen combines rigorous financial and business training with a strong ethos of social impact. Her background as a chartered accountant and executive education — coupled with realworld experience in early career roles — gives her a rare ability to lead complex operations effectively while keeping patient welfare and corporate integrity at the forefront. She champions workforce diversity and inclusion, particularly supporting women in leadership through dedicated internal programmes and mentoring initiatives.

Beyond corporate growth, she strongly advocates for preventive care, mental health awareness and community outreach. Through philanthropic and volunteer programmes managed by the organisation, Moopen has helped extend medical support and social welfare to underserved communities, reinforcing the idea that quality healthcare is a universal right — not a privilege.

Moopen’s leadership style is defined by a long-term, mission-driven mindset: combining business sustainability, human-centred care and technological innovation to redefine what modern healthcare should look like in the Middle East.

Moopen’s leadership style is defined by a long-term, missiondriven mindset: combining business sustainability, humancentred care and technological innovation to redefine what modern healthcare should look like in the Middle East.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 113

Special Edition /

YIGIT SEZGIN Founder and Managing Partner, Clé & Partners YIGIT SEZGIN is a highly accomplished C-level executive with over 30 years experience, including 15 years in senior leadership roles in global hospitality and real estate development. He has worked with prestigious luxury and lifestyle brands such as Raffles, Fairmont, SLS, Banyan Tree, Regent, Missoni, and Ritz-Carlton, as well as Bilgili Holding, an international developer with partnerships that include Aman, Peninsula, Soho House, and W Hotels.

He was responsible for all commercial functions, including mergers, acquisitions, and integrations, and played a key role in establishing Accor’s global lifestyle platform to cater to the evolving luxury market.Sezgin also served as CEO of Bilgili Holding, where he managed a portfolio of luxury and lifestyle assets, collaborating with esteemed partners such as Aman Hotels & Resorts, Soho House, W Hotels, and Ritz Carlton Residences.

As the Global Chief of Brand & Commercial at Fairmont and a key member of Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle Senior Team, Sezgin led one of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands. Founded in 1907, Fairmont manages over 100 luxury properties, including The Plaza in New York and The Savoy in London, across 40 countries.

Prior to this, Sezgin was Chief Commercial Officer at Accor Group, where he oversaw a portfolio of 42 brands across 41 countries with more than 500 hotels.

Throughout his career, Sezgin has demonstrated a strong ability to forge strategic partnerships and build meaningful relationships with brands, investors, and global funds, solidifying his reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality and real estate. Yigit holds a Master’s Degree from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Bosphorus University in Istanbul.

Throughout his career, Sezgin has demonstrated a strong ability to forge strategic partnerships and build meaningful relationships with brands, investors, and global funds, solidifying his reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality and real estate.

114 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 115

Special Edition /

ABDULMAJEED ALSUKHAN Co-Founder and CEO, Tamara

on technology-driven ventures in logistics and e-commerce, he developed a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, digital growth and the infrastructure needed to support a thriving online marketplace. These experiences shaped his ability to build a payments platform that integrates seamlessly with modern retail needs.

Today, Tamara is recognized as one of the most influential fintech brands in the Gulf, partnering with thousands of merchants and serving a rapidly expanding user base.

Under Alsukhan’s guidance, the firm has secured major investment and achieved unicorn status — a milestone that underscores his strategic leadership and the market’s confidence in his vision.

ABDULMAJEED ALSUKHAN is a defining figure in the Middle East’s fintech revolution, best known for co-founding Tamara, one of the region’s fastest-growing payment and shopping platforms.

As CEO, he has led Tamara from startup to scale-up in record time, reshaping how millions of consumers purchase, pay and access credit.

Alsukhan identified early the opportunity to introduce smarter, more flexible payment solutions across the GCC — particularly those built with transparency, trust and local financial norms in mind. Under his leadership, Tamara pioneered a modern “buy now, pay later” model tailored to regional markets, empowering consumers with greater control over spending while helping retailers boost conversion and customer loyalty.

His entrepreneurial journey prior to Tamara gave him valuable insight into the digital economy. Having worked

116 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

Beyond commercial success, Alsukhan is a vocal advocate for financial inclusion. He is committed to making flexible payments accessible, fair and responsible — ensuring that innovation in consumer finance leads to better outcomes for everyday people.

Alsukhan is committed to making flexible payments accessible, fair and responsible — ensuring that innovation in consumer finance leads to better outcomes for everyday people.

/ THE 100

OWEIS ZAHRAN Managing Director, OWS Capital OWEIS ZAHRAN is a global business leader with a track record of identifying opportunities, pioneering innovative solutions and driving growth. After graduating from the University of Maryland, he ventured into the bustling UAE automotive industry. Despite the competitive environment, he leveraged his strategic foresight, tenacity and inventive spirit to establish the successful multi-million-dollar company OWS Automotive.

Over the years, Zahran has expanded OWS Automotive’s footprint into seven countries, developed unique auto solutions and forged partnerships with various government bodies across the Middle East. His ability to build high-performing teams and harness the strengths of his executive staff has been instrumental in the company’s tremendous success and expansion plans.

In 2020, he launched OWS Capital, aiming to create unique experiences and cutting-edge businesses in the fitness and entertainment verticals. Under the umbrella of OWS Capital, he has partnered with Hollywood icon Steve Harvey to establish

MELT ME and launched Platform Health Club, a state-of-the-art health and wellness gym brand.

Despite his successes, Zahran remains deeply involved in each of his ventures, making impactful decisions, nurturing partnerships and guiding his teams toward achieving a shared vision.

Despite his successes, Zahran remains deeply involved in each of his ventures, making impactful decisions, nurturing partnerships and guiding his teams toward achieving a shared vision.

Special Edition /

JIGAR SAGAR Founder, Triliv Holdings

JIGAR SAGAR is a serial entrepreneur, strategic investor, and government advisor based in the United Arab Emirates, with more than 15 years of experience building, scaling, and advising high-growth ventures across multiple sectors. Over the course of his career, he has been involved in scaling more than 30 businesses with a combined valuation exceeding $350 million, establishing himself as a key figure in the region’s entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem.

He is the founder of Triliv Holdings, a private family office focused on building and investing in global and regional growth ventures. Through Triliv, Sagar is committed to creating a connected ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship from ideation to scale, with a strong emphasis on long-term value creation. His work has contributed to the launch and development of more than 250,000 entrepreneurs in the UAE, driving impact across government services, technology, artificial intelligence, recruitment, digital marketing, and e-commerce.

Sagar’s entrepreneurial journey includes the founding of several influential companies, including Creó Global, Talent Higher, and EZMS, each playing a significant role in marketing, recruitment, corporate services, and institutional venture building. One of his most notable achievements was the launch and successful exit of the UAE’s largest corporate services provider, a milestone that underscored his ability to build and scale market-leading businesses. He also co-founded AppiZap, a technology platform valued at over $100 million, and Ocube, a 1,500-seat business process outsourcing operation with an international footprint.

In parallel with his entrepreneurial activities, Sagar is a trusted strategic advisor to free zones and special economic cities across the UAE. His advisory work focuses on innovation in licensing models, ecosystem development, and the advancement of digital government services, often through effective public-private partnerships designed to help startups scale into globally competitive enterprises.

A recognized thought leader and frequent keynote speaker, Sagar is also widely known for his role as an investor judge on The Final Pitch Dubai, filmed at various locations in Dubai and broadcast on OSN+ and OSN platforms in the Middle East. His presence on the show reflects his standing in the UAE’s investment and corporate governance landscape, where he is a strong advocate for innovation, disciplined execution, and founder-led growth.

Sagar’s entrepreneurial mindset was shaped early through hands-on experience in his family’s retail business at Sharjah’s Gold Souk. He holds a degree in Business Administration from the American University in Dubai and a Master of Financial Management from the University of Melbourne.

Outside of work, he is committed to personal development, maintaining an active lifestyle through strength training, horse riding, and scuba diving. Grounded in family values and driven by curiosity, Sagar continues to build impact-driven ventures while contributing meaningfully to the region’s entrepreneurial future.

118 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 119

Special Edition /

120 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

DR.ABHISHEK JAJOO Founder and Group CEO, AJMS Group AT THE FOREFRONT of regulatory innovation and digital transformation, Dr. Abhishek Jajoo has emerged as a leading voice in AI, RegTech, ESG, and digital risk management. As Founder and Group CEO of AJMS Group, a global business transformation and technology-enabled consulting platform, he leads organizations in designing, digitizing, and operating effectively across complex and regulated environments by aligning governance, regulation, and technology to drive sustainable performance and long-term value.

In parallel, Dr. Jajoo and AJMS Group actively participate in international economic and investment initiatives, including business and investment engagement programs in Kerala alongside official delegations from the UAE Ministry of Economy. The group has also taken part in Dubai Chamber–led trade missions, including participation in GITEX Singapore, where AJMS entities entered into collaboration agreements facilitated through the Dubai Chamber to support cross-border cooperation and innovation.

Operating at the intersection of tax, compliance, governance, healthcare advisory, and technology, his work focuses on enabling financial institutions and enterprises to navigate evolving regulatory landscapes through forward-looking, technology-driven solutions. Supported by a team of more than 700 professionals, AJMS Group serves governmental organizations, listed entities, banking and insurance institutions, and the healthcare sector. Technology is embedded directly into delivery and execution rather than treated as a standalone function, positioning the group as a trusted transformation partner for organizations seeking both regulatory assurance and sustainable growth.

A sought-after speaker and TEDx contributor, Dr. Jajoo regularly shares insights at international forums across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Recognized among the 10 Most Innovative Business Leaders in the UAE and the Top Arab FinTech, RegTech, and ESG Leaders for 2025, he continues to champion a vision of resilient financial ecosystems where compliance, innovation, and impact coexist with integrity.

Dr. Jajoo’s commitment to excellence and people-first leadership has earned widespread recognition. Most recently, he received the Transformational Leadership Award 2025 from Entrepreneur Middle East, while AJMS Group has been recognized as a UAE Superbrand for six consecutive years.

Additional accolades include the Emirates Labour Market Award 2025 for workforce excellence by MOHRE (UAE), the Majra Impact Seal for CSR and ESG leadership, the Dubai AI Seal, and E-Invoicing Solution of the Year 2025. The group has also been recognized under the UAE Ministry of Economy’s Future 100 initiative and was invited to participate in the national program “Unlocking the Use of IP-Rich Intangible Assets: A Pathway to Securing Financing in the United Arab Emirates.” Both Dr. Jajoo and AJMS Group have been featured in leading regional business publications, including UAE Stories, reflecting their growing influence in discussions on regulation, transformation, and technology-enabled enterprise.

Beyond corporate leadership, Dr. Jajoo plays an active role in shaping business and regulatory ecosystems. He maintains close engagement with institutions such as the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, DIFC, VARA, JAFZA, and Dubai Economy and Tourism, contributing to dialogue on regulatory modernization, compliance frameworks, and the evolving role of digital systems in governance. His contributions have received formal recognition from Dubai Economy for supporting international AML and CFT standards, along with appreciation from other recognized institutions across the region.

Recognized among the 10 Most Innovative Business Leaders in the UAE and the Top Arab FinTech, RegTech, and ESG Leaders for 2025, Dr. Jajoo continues to champion a vision of resilient financial ecosystems where compliance, innovation, and impact coexist with integrity.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 121

Special Edition /

MONA KATTAN Founder, Kayali Fragrances & Beauty Entrepreneur

Kattan is admired for championing authenticity, female empowerment and the value of bold selfexpression. Her work continues to broaden the visibility of regional entrepreneurship on the global stage, making her one of the most influential figures in today’s beauty industry.

MONA KATTAN is a celebrated beauty entrepreneur recognized for her role in shaping Middle Eastern presence in the global fragrance and cosmetics industry. Best known as the founder of Kayali Fragrances, she has built a brand that reflects her passion for scent, craftsmanship and personal expression.

Kayali has quickly established a strong international following, admired for its distinctive blends and storytelling rooted in regional culture.

Kattan first rose to prominence as a co-Founder of Huda Beauty, supporting the brand’s rise into one of the world’s most influential beauty companies. With expertise in finance, brand building and consumer engagement, she helped lay the foundation for a modern, digitally led beauty empire.

122 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

As her career evolved, she shifted focus toward her own entrepreneurial vision within the fragrance category. She remains deeply involved in every aspect of Kayali’s growth — from creative development to global expansion — reinforcing her belief in beauty as a highly personal experience.

Kattan is admired for championing authenticity, female empowerment and the value of bold self-expression. Her work continues to broaden the visibility of regional entrepreneurship on the global stage, making her one of the most influential figures in today’s beauty industry.

/ THE 100

SAMIA BOUAZZA Group CEO and Managing Director, Multiply Group SAMIA BOUAZZA is the Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Multiply Group, the Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) that invests across high-growth sectors including media, mobility, energy, wellness, beauty, and the digital economy.

Under Bouazza’s leadership, Multiply Group has delivered strong financial performance, with revenues growing more

than 50% to $367.8 million and assets under management reaching $11 billion in the first nine months of 2024. She has driven a disciplined growth strategy involving organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, strengthening the group’s portfolio and market reach. In 2024, Multiply Group completed several key deals including the full acquisition of BackLite Media and the purchase of The Grooming Company Holding through its Omorfia Group subsidiary, along with a 51% stake in Excellence Premier Investment via Emirates Driving Company.

In 2025, the company took its consolidation further by approving a major acquisition of 2PointZero and Ghitha Holding via a shareswap transaction designed to build a diversified investment platform with an estimated valuation of AED 120 billion.

Bouazza also serves on boards including TAQA, Emirates Driving Company, and Arena Events Group, and her leadership has earned her a spot and several recognition locally and globally.

Bouazza also serves on boards including TAQA, Emirates Driving Company, and Arena Events Group, and her leadership has earned her a spot and several recognition locally and globally.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 123

Special Edition /

BADR JAFAR CEO, Crescent Enterprises; President, Crescent Petroleum BADR JAFAR is an influential business and philanthropy leader whose work spans energy, enterprise development and social impact. As CEO of Crescent Enterprises and President of Crescent Petroleum, he contributes to the advancement of sectors essential to economic opportunity, energy security and long-term sustainability in the Middle East.

Jafar has been closely involved in initiatives that support entrepreneurship, youth empowerment and cultural development. He regularly engages with international organisations, foundations and creative institutions, promoting

cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange.

His leadership emphasises responsible business practices and the importance of private-sector participation in addressing global challenges. He is also recognized for championing the role of the arts and social entrepreneurship in strengthening communities and unlocking creative potential.

Jafar’s influence reaches beyond corporate results — his contributions reflect a broad commitment to progress, impact and inclusive development.

Jafar’s influence reaches beyond corporate results — his contributions reflect a broad commitment to progress, impact and inclusive development.

124 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

AHMAD AL ZAINI CEO and Co-Founder, Foodics FOODICS is redefining how the food and beverage industry operates across the MENA region through technology-led innovation and scalable digital infrastructure. Founded in 2014, the company has grown into one of the region’s leading restaurant operations and financial management platforms, transforming the way F&B businesses manage, scale, and future-proof their operations.

At the core of Foodics’ offering is its all-inone, cloud-based ecosystem, combining restaurant management systems, point-of-sale technology, and integrated payments. Today, Foodics supports more than 30,000 restaurants, delivering a comprehensive suite of hardware and software solutions designed for businesses ranging from independent operators to large enterprise chains.

Innovation remains central to Foodics’ growth. Through AI-powered Business Intelligence, the platform delivers real-time insights that help restaurant owners optimise performance, reduce operational friction, and enhance customer experience. By automating processes such as inventory management, payments, and reporting, Foodics empowers operators to make smarter, data-driven decisions and drive profitability.

“Our mission has always been to empower F&B businesses with end-to-end solutions that are both intuitive and transformative,” says Ahmad Al Zaini, CEO and Co-Founder of Foodics. “By combining deep local market insight with a relentless focus on innovation, we are helping restaurants adapt, scale, and thrive in an increasingly digital economy.”

“Our mission has always been to empower F&B businesses with end-to-end solutions that are both intuitive and transformative.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 125

Special Edition /

HOSAM ARAB Co-founder and CEO, Tabby HOSAM ARAB is an influential entrepreneur who has played a central role in advancing fintech and digital commerce in the Middle East. As Co-Founder and CEO of Tabby, he leads one of the region’s most recognized consumer-finance platforms, enabling more flexible payment choices in e-commerce and retail.

Arab brings significant experience from his earlier leadership in regional online retail, which shaped his understanding of how digital purchasing behaviour could be enhanced by accessible and transparent consumer finance. Under his leadership, Tabby has grown rapidly, partnering with major brands while providing consumers with more control over spending and budgeting.

He has become a notable voice for financial inclusion and innovation, emphasising responsible lending practices and technology that supports economic participation. His work contributes to a maturing fintech ecosystem in the Gulf, with

126 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

scalable solutions that continue to evolve alongside consumer expectations.

Hosam Arab remains a key driver of the region’s fintech revolution, helping unlock new value for merchants, customers and the broader digital economy.

Hosam Arab remains a key driver of the region’s fintech revolution, helping unlock new value for merchants, customers and the broader digital economy.

/ THE 100

SAMIR “SAM” TABAR Chief Executive Officer, Bit Digital, Inc. (NASDAQ: BTBT)

SAMIR “SAM” TABAR is a Canadian entrepreneur, former lawyer, and technology executive known for his leadership in the digital assets and high-performance computing sectors.

He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Bit Digital, Inc. (NASDAQ: BTBT), a publicly listed provider of cloud and data-center services and a major player in Bitcoin mining and digital asset infrastructure. In 2025, he also became CEO of WhiteFiber, Inc., a company focused on building next-generation infrastructure to support AI and highperformance computing workloads.

Tabar began his career practicing law at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in New York after earning his BA and MA from Oxford University and an LL.M. from Columbia Law School, where he was an associate editor of the Columbia Business Law Journal.

He then transitioned into finance and strategy roles, including Head of Capital Strategy for Bank of America Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) and Co-Head of Marketing at Sparx Group in Tokyo.

In 2017, Tabar co-founded Fluidity, a tech venture that developed the decentralized exchange AirSwap, later acquired by ConsenSys.

Tabar’s career reflects a blend of law, finance, and technology expertise, positioning him as a cross-disciplinary leader in emerging tech industries.

Under his leadership at Bit Digital, he has focused on expanding digital asset operations and advocating for more sustainable and efficient mining practices.

Tabar’s career reflects a blend of law, finance, and technology expertise, positioning him as a cross-disciplinary leader in emerging tech industries.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 127

Special Edition /

SHAISTA ASIF Co-Founder and Group CEO, PureHealth

“Under Asif’s visionary, PureHealth is committed to creating a future where people thrive in well-being toward a healthier and longer life.

128 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

A PIONEER in redefining healthcare, Shaista Asif has propelled PureHealth to become the fastest growing and most diversified healthcare group in the region, committed to a sustainable future.

In her role at PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the region, Asif is at the forefront of revolutionizing healthcare across the Middle East and beyond. She spearheads a comprehensive portfolio, comprising over 110 hospitals, over 316 clinics, multiple diagnostic centers, health insurance solutions, pharmacies, health tech, procurement, and strategic investments.

She has led the development and implementation of pioneering innovations and strategic healthcare acquisitions across multiple regions, including the Middle East, the UK, the US, Greece, and Cyprus. Through her vision and leadership, she has played a pivotal role in transforming PureHealth into the fastest growing and most diversified healthcare group in the Middle East, and also establishing a strong presence in global healthcare markets.

Also, Asif steered the successful investment in Ardent Healthcare in the United States, and also led a deal worth over $1.2 billion in a landmark acquisition of Circle Health Group, the first-of-its-kind healthcare acquisition by a UAE-based group in the UK. Her visionary strategies led to her orchestration of PureHealth’s successful initial public offering (IPO) in 2023.

She has been at the forefront of PureHealth’s consolidation efforts, executing the group’s strategy for quality excellence, growth, as well as development, and her accomplishments have earned her multiple accolades and recognitions in key media platforms.

Her direction has led PureHealth’s commitment to a sustainable future, becoming part of the United Nationsbacked Race to Zero initiative for Climate Change, and also pledging Net Zero emissions by 2040. Moreover, she also spearheaded several AI-driven initiatives, aligned with PureHealth’s vision, including the region’s first AI-backed healthcare companion app- Pura, which is helping people live healthier, longer lives.

ABOUT PUREHEALTH PureHealth is the largest healthcare group in the Middle East with an ecosystem that challenges lifespans and reimagines health spans. With more than 110 hospitals, over 316 clinics, multiple diagnostic centers, health insurance solutions, pharmacies, health tech, procurement, investments and more, its ground-breaking innovations are at the forefront of healthcare as the company is on a mission to unlock time for humankind. By advancing the Science of Longevity, PureHealth is introducing the healthcare of the future from the United Arab Emirates to the rest of the world.

PureHealth’s network comprises SEHA, one of the largest healthcare networks of hospitals and clinics in the UAE; SEHA CLINICS, delivering comprehensive communitybased healthcare services; Daman (The National Insurance Company), the UAE’s leading health insurer; and The Medical Office, overseeing Sheikh Khalifa Hospitals and healthcare facilities established under the initiatives of H.H. The President of the UAE. Also, Rafed, the UAE’s largest healthcare Group Purchasing Organization; PureLab, managing and operating the largest network of laboratories in the region; One Health, a network that provides end-to-end medical solutions to a base of over 300 healthcare service providers; The Life Corner, Abu Dhabi’s first holistic pharmacy, serving the health and wellness establishment; and Ardent Health Services, the fourth largest privately held acute care hospital operator in the US. As well as Circle Health Group, the largest independent operators of hospitals in the UK; Hellenic Healthcare Group (HHG), the largest private healthcare provider in Greece and Cyprus; PureCS, a leading cloud and technology services provider, specializing in IT management and consulting solutions, cybersecurity, cloud services as well as AI information systems, as well as Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), the UAE’s largest healthcare complex, delivering integrated complex care.

With a global network and a commitment to innovation, PureHealth aims to improve well-being as well as promote longevity through its services. Through thoughtful investments and forward-thinking strategies, PureHealth’s vision is to drive long-term growth, enhance quality of life worldwide, and deliver healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

According to the Abu Dhabi Media office, PureHealth has strategically expanded its insurance arm, Daman, which demonstrates its transformation from a health-focused provider into a comprehensive, multi-line insurer with a foray into the high-growth Property and Casualty (P&C) segment. As part of this expansion, Daman will adopt a new legal name: The National Insurance Company – Daman. As the insurance arm of PureHealth and the UAE’s leading health insurer, Daman’s expansion into the P&C segment highlights its vision to become a comprehensive insurance provider and reflects the group’s commitment to deliver coverage and holistic care during all stages of life.

In terms of expansion, the UAE’s P&C insurance market is set for further accelerated growth, which is projected to reach around $16.8 billion by 2031, according to Verified Market Research. To align with this growing demand, the company will continue to operate under the Daman brand, launching new P&C products in stages while ensuring uninterrupted service for existing members.

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 129

Special Edition /

130 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

NAIM MAADAD Founder and Chief Executive, Gates Hospitality NAIM MAADAD is a defining force in the Middle East’s hospitality landscape, a founder-leader whose career has been shaped by an instinct for people, places, and purposeful growth. As Founder and Chief Executive of Gates Hospitality, Maadad has built a company recognized for its distinctive concepts, operational depth, and ability to translate global hospitality standards into experiences that feel authentic to their setting.

Born into a family with deep roots in hospitality, Maadad’s path into the industry was both natural and intentional.

He began his career on the operational front lines, gaining hands-on experience that would later shape his leadership style. This early grounding instilled a belief that successful hospitality is built from the inside out — through strong teams, rigorous systems, and an unwavering focus on guest experience.

In 2011, Maadad founded Gates Hospitality in Dubai with a clear vision: to create a diversified hospitality group capable of developing, owning, and operating a broad portfolio of food and beverage and lifestyle brands. Under his stewardship, the company has grown into a respected regional player, with concepts that range from refined dining destinations to vibrant neighbourhood venues.

What unites them is a clear sense of place, thoughtful design, and consistent delivery.

a broader ambition to contribute to the region’s economic and cultural fabric through meaningful, well-executed hospitality experiences.

Today, as Gates Hospitality continues to expand its footprint and portfolio, Maadad remains focused on the fundamentals that have guided his career from the start: authenticity, excellence, and people. In an industry defined by constant change, his steady, values-driven approach has positioned him as one of the region’s most respected hospitality leaders.

In an industry defined by constant change, his steady, values-driven approach has positioned him as one of the region’s most respected hospitality leaders.

Maadad is known for balancing creativity with commercial discipline. While Gates Hospitality is celebrated for its originality and design-led approach, its growth has been underpinned by careful market analysis, scalable operating models, and long-term partnerships.

This dual focus has enabled the group to expand steadily while maintaining quality and brand integrity — a challenge many hospitality businesses struggle to manage at scale.

Leadership, for Maadad, is inseparable from culture.

He places strong emphasis on talent development, empowerment, and diversity, believing that motivated teams are the cornerstone of sustainable success.

His management style is often described as hands-on yet strategic, combining close involvement in concept development with a clear delegation of responsibility to trusted leaders.

Beyond business growth, Maadad is an advocate for the evolution of the region’s hospitality sector. He has consistently championed innovation, local talent, and the idea that Middle Eastern hospitality can set global benchmarks rather than follow them. His work reflects

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 131

Special Edition /

ENG. MAHER MOUHAJER Founder, Main Interior Design Engineer, and CEO of Mouhajer International Design and Contracting ENG. MAHER MOUHAJER is the Founder, Main Interior Design Engineer, and CEO of Mouhajer International Design and Contracting, one of Dubai’s premier luxury interior design and contracting firms.

Trained in London with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Maher blends architectural precision with artistic vision to deliver spaces that are both opulent and deeply personal.

His work harmonizes classical European influences with contemporary innovation and cultural sensitivity, defining a

signature style that resonates across high-end residential, commercial, and hospitality projects throughout the UAE and Middle East. Under his leadership, the firm has completed over 400 distinguished projects and has been recognized with multiple industry awards, reinforcing its reputation for excellence and craftsmanship.

Eng. Mouhajer’s commitment to tailored design, meticulous attention to detail, and client-centric execution has positioned him as a respected leader in the region’s design community and a visionary in luxury spatial experiences.

Eng. Mouhajer’s commitment to tailored design, meticulous attention to detail, and clientcentric execution has positioned him as a respected leader in the region’s design community and a visionary in luxury spatial experiences.

132 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

/ THE 100

HANA AL ROSTAMANI Group CEO, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) HANA AL ROSTAMANI is one of the most influential banking leaders in the Middle East, and a trailblazer for women in finance. As Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank — the UAE’s largest bank and a key financial force in the region — she oversees strategy at a moment when technology, customer expectations, and global economic dynamics are being reinvented simultaneously.

programs that empower youth and social progress. To her, banking is not only about managing capital but helping enable opportunity and resilience.

With her steady calm and thoughtful ambition, Hana Al Rostamani stands at the front of a new era in Middle Eastern finance — one defined by digital transformation, global connectivity, and a stronger role for women in shaping the economic future of the region. She leads with confidence, not only representing success but clearing the path for countless others who will follow.

Her path in banking has always been guided by a talent for translating numbers into foresight. Before becoming CEO, she served in senior executive roles inside the bank, helping manage its transformation from a traditional institution into a highly digital, AI-driven financial powerhouse.

Those experiences shaped her reputation as a leader who balances innovation with stability — delivering growth while never losing sight of trust and governance.

Under her tenure as CEO, FAB has expanded beyond its regional core, strengthened its international footprint, and deepened its relationships with sectors driving the UAE’s future, including advanced technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure investment. She champions digital acceleration: seamless experiences, smarter analytics, and financial inclusion that supports individuals and companies alike.

Al Rostamani is also recognized for advancing diversity within corporate leadership. She is a visible and vocal example of what is possible for Emirati women in industries traditionally dominated by men. Her leadership style is marked by clarity and empathy — pushing teams to think boldly while maintaining a culture built on collaboration and integrity.

Beyond business strategy, she is committed to contributing to national development. Through FAB’s initiatives, she supports entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, green bonds, and community

December 2025 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 133

Special Edition /

ALEX REINHARDT Venture capitalist, blockchain innovator, and Founder of UChain Now based in Dubai, Reinhardt continues to shape the future of blockchain by building practical, realworld ecosystems designed for global adoption.

ALEX REINHARDT is a venture capitalist, economist, blockchain expert, and business coach widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the global crypto industry. Born in Siberia and raised in Germany following his family’s migration, Reinhardt’s early life was shaped by cultural displacement, financial hardship, and the challenge of rebuilding from scratch—experiences that instilled resilience, adaptability, and a multidimensional worldview.

A graduate of Humboldt University in Berlin with a degree in economics, Reinhardt began launching startups while still a student. Over the following decade, he helped build and scale hundreds of ventures, raising more than €500 million in funding. His exposure to entrepreneurship at an early stage enabled him to recognize blockchain’s transformative potential as early as 2011, long before it entered the mainstream.

By 2015, Reinhardt was developing blockchainbased wallets, marketplaces, and gaming solutions. In 2023, he launched the Smart Blockchain Network, now hosting more than 1.2 million accounts, alongside pioneering Splitting Technology—an eco-efficient alternative to mining and staking designed to enhance scalability, inclusivity, and network stability.

Beyond technology, Reinhardt is deeply committed to mentorship. Through the Alex Reinhardt Academy, he has educated over 500,000 participants worldwide, emphasizing sustainable business models, early revenue generation, and personal leadership. Now based in Dubai, Reinhardt continues to shape the future of blockchain by building practical, real-world ecosystems designed for global adoption.

134 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / December 2025

ANANTARA SHARJAH RESIDENCES A NEW CHAPTER OF LUXURY EXPERIENCES

BY THE SEA

Bringing luxury seaside living to Sharjah for the first time, owners at the Anantara Sharjah Residences enjoy access to the Anantara Sharjah Resort’s world-class amenities, including an infinity pool, five distinctive restaurants, an Anantara Spa and a state-of-the-art gym.

As an investment, owners can enjoy the benefits of a rental management scheme operated by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, allowing them to maximize their returns when they are not resident in the property.

To register your interest, visit arada.com LIFE IS A JOURNEY.