50 Most Influential Business Women of the UAE 2025 – Finance World Powerlist

With over 27 years of visionary leadership, Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr has spearheaded the UAE’s digital transformation and emerged as a global advocate for human-centered technology. As Founding Director General of Smart Dubai, she led the world’s first holistic smart city initiative, launching groundbreaking strategies like Paperless Dubai and Blockchain Strategy. Beyond government, she influences innovation through board roles at Emaar Development, University of Wollongong, and Shaffra. A powerful voice on global platforms, she champions ethical, inclusive digital futures.

Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare FZC, has redefined healthcare leadership in the Middle East. From her roots as a Chartered Accountant to leading a network of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, she blends strategic acumen with deep empathy. Guided by the belief that “Healthiness is Happiness,” Alisha champions equitable access to quality care. Under her leadership, Aster expanded across the GCC and launched flagship projects like Medcare Royal Hospital.

Amira Sajwani is redefining the future of real estate in the UAE. As Managing Director at DAMAC Properties, Founder & CEO of PRYPCO, and Co-founder of Amali Properties, she blends legacy with innovation to create people-first platforms in property. With degrees from UCL and LSE, Amira brings global insight to every venture, whether leading DAMAC’s sales force, launching tech-driven PRYPCO, or designing bespoke luxury villas through Amali. A judge on Shark Tank and advocate for women in business, she empowers the next generation through bold leadership.

Anisha Sagar, Head of Marketing Communications at Meydan Free Zone, brings over 24 years of multi-sector experience across the UAE and GCC. Her approach fuses data-led strategy with imaginative storytelling, driving strong business growth and brand influence. At Meydan Free Zone, she built a high-performing marketing function from the ground up, delivering 2,000+ monthly leads with a 70% conversion rate. Her leadership has earned the brand multiple awards in digital transformation and customer experience.

Amna Al Owais, Chief Executive and Registrar of DIFC Courts and Deputy CEO of the DIFC Dispute Resolution Authority, is a driving force in the UAE’s legal evolution. Since 2006, she has led pioneering efforts such as the Middle East’s first Pro Bono Programme and championed digital transformation, including virtual hearings and e-filing. Her leadership has positioned DIFC Courts as a global model for innovation and access to justice. A vocal advocate for gender equality, she mentors young women in law and serves on key advisory boards.

Ebru Pakcan, CEO of Citi’s Middle East and Africa Cluster, is a transformative leader shaping the region’s financial future. With over 20 years at Citi and experience across global financial hubs, she leads operations in 59 MEA markets. A computer engineer by background, she champions digital innovation through AI, machine learning, and fintech partnerships. Under her leadership, Citi has enhanced fraud detection, improved customer experience, and expanded digital banking to support financial inclusion.

Elena Sorlini, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports since 2024, is leading the emirate’s aviation sector through rapid expansion and innovation. With over 20 years of global experience, she blends financial acumen with operational leadership. Under her watch, passenger traffic grew 31%, and key projects like the East Midfield Cargo Terminal advanced. She has championed digital upgrades, sustainability efforts, and international airline partnerships. Elena’s strategy strengthens Abu Dhabi’s role as a global travel and logistics hub.

Erika B. Doyle, Founder and CEO of Drink Dry, is redefining the alcohol-free market in the Middle East. Since launching in Dubai in 2020, she has grown the brand into a regional leader, supplying 50 retail stores and over 200 hospitality venues. A Lithuanian expat in the UAE, Erika combines sharp market insight with bold expansion plans into Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. She champions mindful drinking and healthy living, collaborating with wellness influencers and health bodies.

In the fast-evolving landscape of the UAE’s real estate and investment sector, Elena Barbashina stands out for her visionary leadership and strategic acumen. As Chief Financial Officer of Almal Real Estate Development, Elena has played a pivotal role in steering the company’s impressive growth and cementing its reputation as a dynamic multi-market player. With a decade of international experience in finance, investment management, and banking, Elena’s journey reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence and impact.

Fazeela Gopalani, Partner at EY Academy of Business, is a leading force in finance education and talent development across the Middle East. She oversees learning initiatives in six countries, aligning with national visions like the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” and Saudi Vision 2030. Formerly Head of ACCA Middle East, Fazeela built key partnerships with governments and regulators to raise professional standards. Her work focuses on digital transformation, future-ready skills, and lifelong learning.

Feryal Ahmadi, Deputy CEO and COO of DMCC, is instrumental in shaping Dubai’s status as a leading global trade hub. With over two decades of experience, she has led transformative projects like Uptown Dubai and spearheaded DMCC’s Smart and Sustainable District Strategy. A graduate in Computer Science and a Harvard Executive MBA alumna, she blends technical insight with visionary leadership. Under her guidance, DMCC has achieved record growth in member companies and advanced digital infrastructure.

Hala Badri is a visionary cultural leader and Director General of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, steering the emirate’s transformation into a global creative capital. With over 20 years of cross-sector experience, she has championed landmark initiatives like the Dubai Public Art Strategy and Al Quoz Creative Zone. A former EVP at du, she led award-winning brand campaigns, including the UAE’s first Cannes Gold Lion. Hala serves on several boards, advocating for gender equality, sustainability, and youth empowerment.

Hana Al Rostamani is Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest bank by assets and a global financial leader. Since 2021, she has driven growth, digital transformation, and sustainability, becoming FAB’s first female CEO. With over 25 years in banking, Hana champions inclusive leadership and responsible finance. She chairs the Global Council on Sustainable Development Goals and leads FAB’s $135 billion sustainable financing pledge. Serving on key boards like Buna and the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, Hana’s leadership blends innovation with resilience.

Hind bin Khirbash is the CEO of Emirates National Investment (ENI), a leading regional group in real estate, construction, and FMCG. She combines visionary leadership with a strong family business foundation and innovative strategies to drive high-efficiency business models. Hind holds an Executive MBA from London Business School and a bachelor’s in Software Engineering and Business IT. Currently, she’s pursuing an L.L.M. in International Business Law at University of Paris II.

Huda Kattan, founder and CEO of Huda Beauty, is a global beauty icon who launched her brand in 2013 after building a loyal digital following. Based in Dubai, she transformed a personal passion into a billion-dollar beauty empire. In 2024, she resumed full CEO duties, leading a major brand refresh and, in 2025, regained full ownership of Huda Beauty, making it a rare fully founder-owned company in the industry. With her husband Christopher as Co-CEO and sister Alya heading social strategy, Huda champions independence, creativity, and community-driven growth.

Dr. Ibtesam Al Bastaki brings nearly 23 years of expertise in clinical care, public health leadership, and healthcare investment to her role as Director of Investment and Partnership at Dubai Health Authority (DHA). A Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland graduate with certifications in Family Medicine and Healthcare Management, she spearheads strategic investments and public-private partnerships to advance Dubai’s healthcare sector. Dr. Al Bastaki’s leadership in crafting DHA’s Healthcare Investment Strategy and Investment Guide promotes Dubai as a global healthcare hub.

Jaimesha Patel is redefining leadership in marketing by fusing creativity, strategy, and real-world impact. As the founder of créo Global, she champions a human-centric approach, seeing marketing as a platform for social dialogue and lasting change. Her work challenges conventional thinking, inspires purposeful action, and fosters innovation through collaboration and mentorship. Under her guidance, créo delivers strategic, analytics-driven campaigns rooted in authenticity and measurable growth.

Linda Fitz‑Alan is the Chief Executive and Registrar of ADGM Courts, pioneering its rise as a global leader in digital justice and commercial dispute resolution since 2015. She spearheaded the launch of the world’s first fully digital courtroom and a blockchain-based cross-border judgment enforcement system. Under her leadership, ADGM Courts introduced remote hearings, e-filing, mediation, and virtual arbitration, streamlining access to justice while upholding legal integrity. With over 30 years of international experience, Fitz‑Alan has driven sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven judicial innovation.

Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri is the Chair of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court, where she leads the nation’s global strategic engagements and foreign policy across key areas like climate diplomacy, food systems, and sustainability. Formerly the UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment and Minister of State for Food and Water Security, she played a vital role in shaping national and international agendas, including the UAE’s COP28 bid. An engineer by training, Almheiri bridges science and policy with precision.

Dr. Maryam Mohamed Fatma Matar is a pioneering force in genetic science and public health in the UAE. As Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association, she has revolutionised early screening, diagnosis, and public awareness of inherited disorders. A trained doctor and geneticist, Dr. Matar has led nationwide campaigns for conditions like thalassemia and G6PD deficiency, while shaping national policy through evidence-based advocacy. Her global collaborations and leadership in women’s empowerment, STEM, and ethical genomics have earned her widespread acclaim.

Mona Kattan is the Founder and CEO of KAYALI, a luxury fragrance brand inspired by Middle Eastern heritage and scent layering. Launched in 2018 under Huda Beauty, which she co-founded, KAYALI has gained global recognition for its sensorial storytelling and cultural authenticity. Mona’s strategic vision has secured the brand’s presence in top retailers like Sephora and Harrods. Drawing from her Iraqi roots and love for fragrance, she created a line that encourages personalisation and identity through scent. A vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and purposeful entrepreneurship, Mona continues to elevate the global perception of Middle Eastern beauty and fragrance.

Mona Ataya is a trailblazing entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Mumzworld, the MENA region’s leading e-commerce platform for mother, baby, and child products. Since launching in 2011, she has redefined digital retail for families across the GCC, building a purpose-driven brand that champions choice, transparency, and empowerment for mothers. Under her leadership, Mumzworld scaled to over 250,000 products and was acquired by Saudi Arabia’s Tamer Group in 2021, one of the region’s most significant e-commerce exits. A passionate advocate for women in business, Mona’s legacy is rooted in innovation, inclusion, and social impact through entrepreneurship.

Nada Taryam is the CEO of BEEAH Real Estate and a leading advocate for sustainable urban development in the UAE. With a background in architecture and project management, she champions innovative, eco-conscious design across master-planned communities that support net-zero goals. Under her leadership, BEEAH Real Estate integrates smart technology and circular economy principles into the built environment. One of her standout achievements is delivering BEEAH’s award-winning, fully renewable energy-powered headquarters.

Naeema Ahli, CEO of Dubai Women Establishment (DWE), is a key force behind advancing gender equity and women’s leadership in the UAE. With a background in public administration and years of experience in Dubai’s Executive Council, she brings deep policy insight to her role. At DWE, she drives national campaigns, research, and leadership programs to empower Emirati women across sectors. Committed to systemic inclusion, Naeema champions institutional reform and partners globally to align with best practices.

Najla Al Midfa is a trailblazer in the UAE’s entrepreneurial landscape, known for championing youth empowerment and inclusive innovation. As Vice Chairperson and former CEO of Sheraa, she transformed Sharjah into a thriving hub for startups and social enterprises. Since 2016, Sheraa has supported over 150 startups, raising more than $130 million and generating hundreds of jobs. Najla spearheaded key initiatives like the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival and Sheraa Accelerator, benefiting over 18,000 entrepreneurs. Her advocacy for diversity led to the founding of Khayarat, empowering Emirati youth.

H.E. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi is a distinguished Emirati leader known for her contributions to diplomacy, culture, and creative industries. As Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she advances global partnerships and cultural diplomacy. Formerly CEO of twofour54 and Abu Dhabi Media, she was pivotal in developing the UAE’s media landscape. Noura has led national cultural initiatives, copyright reforms, and creative export strategies. Her diplomatic efforts enhance intercultural dialogue and soft power.

Noor Sweid is a pioneering venture capitalist and Founder of Global Ventures, a leading Dubai-based firm investing in innovative startups across healthtech, fintech, edtech, and enterprise tech. With a background as CIO at Dubai Future Foundation and successful exits like Depa’s billion-dollar IPO and ZenYoga, she combines strategic capital with hands-on support to help startups scale globally. Noor is a vocal advocate for inclusive economies and women’s leadership, frequently speaking at global forums.

Ola Doudin is a pioneering leader in the Middle East’s digital finance and cryptocurrency sector. As Co-Founder and CEO of BitOasis, the UAE’s largest crypto platform, she has driven blockchain adoption and regulatory engagement across the region. With a background in electrical engineering and finance, Ola founded BitOasis in 2015 to create a secure, accessible, and regulated environment for digital assets. She successfully worked with UAE regulators to establish industry standards and expand licensing.

Pelin Incesu is a veteran pharmaceutical leader driving healthcare innovation across the Middle East and Africa as Area Vice President for AstraZeneca. With over 20 years of experience, she oversees operations in 70+ countries, focusing on market expansion, patient access, and public health alignment. Pelin’s leadership blends scientific expertise with a commitment to collaboration, sustainability, and gender equity. She played a key role in AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout, ensuring equitable distribution in complex markets.

Prakriti Singh is Executive Vice President of Core Payments for Mastercard’s EEMEA region, overseeing over 90 countries across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Since joining the company in 2017, she has driven transformative digital payment strategies, advancing financial inclusion and accelerating access to real-time and contactless solutions. Singh has led Mastercard’s “Digital First” rollout, enabling secure, inclusive financial ecosystems while supporting the firm’s global goal to digitise 1 billion people and 50 million small businesses by 2025.

Qadreya Al Awadhi is the Founder and CEO of Bumblebee Food, a UAE-based brand offering fresh, preservative-free meals for babies and toddlers. Since launching in 2019, she has transformed a market gap into a trusted business, promoting early-childhood nutrition with transparency and care. Leveraging her background in finance and venture building, Qadreya has set high-quality standards and partnered with healthcare professionals to build credibility.

Raja Al Mazrouei is the CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE’s federal export credit agency, where she champions trade growth and economic diversification. With over two decades of experience in finance and digital innovation, she previously led DIFC’s FinTech Hive, elevating it into a top fintech hub. At ECI, she drives digital transformation, expands risk solutions for exporters, and boosts SME participation in global markets. Raja is also a strong advocate for gender equity and leadership inclusion, mentoring women in finance and tech.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg is Chairperson and Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, a leading UAE conglomerate with interests in retail, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate. She is a pioneer in family business governance, industrial diversification, and women’s leadership. Under her guidance, the group has grown sustainably with a strong focus on innovation and corporate responsibility. Dr. Al Gurg actively promotes transparency, succession planning, and Emirati women’s empowerment.

Reem Asaad is Senior Vice President and Head of Client Services for Visa across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With over 30 years of leadership experience in finance, technology, and customer engagement, she shapes client-focused strategies for diverse, high-growth markets. Prior to Visa, she held executive roles in global firms, driving operational excellence and digital transformation. Reem is widely respected for aligning business outcomes with inclusive development, particularly through digital access and talent growth.

Renuka Jagtiani is Chairwoman of Landmark Group, one of the Middle East’s largest retail conglomerates spanning fashion, electronics, wellness, and hospitality. Since joining in the early 1990s, she has driven strategic growth, digital transformation, and sustainable retail practices, positioning the group as a market leader across the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. Renuka champions innovation, customer-centricity, and inclusive workplace culture. A committed advocate for women’s leadership, she mentors emerging professionals and leads impactful corporate social responsibility programs.

Rima Assi is Senior Partner and Managing Partner of McKinsey’s Abu Dhabi office, driving economic and institutional reforms across the Middle East. With over 20 years at McKinsey, she advises governments and major entities on fiscal resilience and sustainable development, impacting 400 million people in MENA. Known for analytic rigor and cultural insight, Rima leads diversity and inclusion initiatives and is recognized by Forbes as a top businesswoman. A Young Global Leader with the World Economic Forum, she champions gender parity and public sector productivity.

Rita Huang Zhen is Founder and CEO of iMile Delivery Service, a leading last-mile logistics company in the Middle East. Since launching in 2017, she has leveraged her expertise in AI and logistics to create tech-enabled solutions tailored for e-commerce and cross-border trade across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and emerging markets. With prior experience at Huawei and Alibaba, Rita combines global insight with regional focus to enhance delivery speed, accuracy, and transparency. A dynamic entrepreneur, she champions inclusive innovation and is driving the digital transformation of logistics in the region.

Rola Abu Manneh, CEO of Standard Chartered for the UAE, Middle East, and Pakistan, is a transformative leader in regional banking. She champions inclusive growth, climate finance, and digital innovation while aligning the bank’s strategy with the UAE’s economic vision. With a career spanning infrastructure finance, public-private partnerships, and corporate transformation, she is known for her commitment to sustainability and gender equity in leadership.

Sarah bint Yousif Al-Amiri is a visionary leader driving the UAE’s innovation and technology agenda. As Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology, she aligns cutting-edge tech with education reform and national development. She has championed STEM, digital infrastructure, and research, positioning the UAE as a global scientific hub. Formerly Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency and leader of the Emirates Mars Mission, her impact on space exploration and innovation is profound. With a strong focus on future readiness, Sarah continues to shape policies that empower youth, modernise education, and integrate technology for a knowledge-driven economy.

Sahar Cooper, CEO of Aldar Education, brings 30+ years of global education management experience and is a prominent force reshaping the UAE’s education sector. She previously held senior roles at GEMS Education and the American University of Sharjah. Since 2018, Cooper has led Aldar Education’s growth into Abu Dhabi’s leading provider and the UAE’s second largest, overseeing 31 schools, 38,000 students and 4,000 staff: driving strategic acquisitions, digital innovation, and sustainability.

Shafeena Yusuff Ali is the CEO of Tablez Food Company, where she has led rapid growth and diversification across the UAE and India. With degrees from the University of Phoenix and Oxford’s Saïd Business School, she combines strategic vision with strong operational acumen. Shafeena has introduced global F&B brands to the region while championing innovative homegrown concepts. Under her leadership, Tablez has expanded into fashion, lifestyle, baby care, and sports retail. She also serves as Chairperson of Tablez India and Director at Twenty14 Holdings, and is deeply committed to social impact through education, culture, and community-focused initiatives.

As Group CEO of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the region, Shaista Asif is at the forefront of revolutionising healthcare across the Middle East and beyond. She leads a portfolio of 110+ hospitals, 316+ clinics, diagnostic centres, insurance, pharmacies, health tech, procurement, and strategic investments. Shaista has led innovations and acquisitions in the Middle East, UK, US, Greece, and Cyprus, positioning PureHealth as the fastest growing, most diversified group regionally.

Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui is an inspiring leader and changemaker in the UAE, currently serving as Minister of Community Development and previously as the world’s youngest government minister when appointed Minister of State for Youth Affairs at age 22. A University of Oxford and NYU Abu Dhabi graduate, she champions youth empowerment, social innovation, and inclusive policies. Shamma has led national youth strategies and forums, elevating youth voices in policymaking. Renowned for her strategic vision and dedication, her work continues to drive progress on community development, education, and sustainable growth.

Sima Ganwani Ved is the visionary Founder and Chairwoman of Apparel Group, a multi-billion-dollar retail powerhouse headquartered in the UAE. With over 85 internationally recognized brands, 2,300+ stores across 14 countries, and a global team of 27,000+, her leadership has transformed the group into a dominant retail force. Beyond business, Sima champions sustainability, women empowerment, and global education, serving on prominent boards and speaking at major leadership forums worldwide.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is the President of the American University of Sharjah, where she is driving academic excellence, research growth, and graduate readiness with a focus on global competitiveness. She also chairs the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, boosting FDI, job creation, and economic diversification. As President of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, she champions sectors like renewable energy and digital tech. A leading voice in publishing, she founded Kalimat Publishing Group and has advanced literacy and female leadership.

Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi is a pioneering Emirati leader and the first woman to hold a ministerial post in the UAE. With a background in computer science and an Executive MBA, she has combined tech expertise with public service. As Minister of State for International Cooperation, she expanded the UAE’s global humanitarian footprint, and later promoted national inclusion as the first Minister of State for Tolerance. She also served as President of Zayed University, advancing women’s education.

Sophie Doireau-Tiberghien is CEO of Cartier for the Middle East, India, Africa, and Türkiye, driving the brand’s growth across diverse markets. With a marketing degree from Saint Louis University and experience starting at AESTHETE, she expertly balances Cartier’s heritage with innovative strategies tailored to regional needs. Under her leadership, Cartier has expanded through flagship boutiques, experiential retail, and digital transformation. Sophie is also a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and cultural development, ensuring the brand contributes meaningfully to society while accelerating commercial success in dynamic markets.

Dr. Eng. Suaad Al Shamsi is the UAE’s first female Emirati aircraft engineer and a pioneering force in aviation. She built her expertise in the UK before working with Emirates and Etihad Airways, contributing to key projects including the Abu Dhabi Midfield Terminal. As a founder of Women in Aviation Middle East, Suaad mentors and inspires thousands of young women to pursue opportunities in STEM and aviation. CEO of Learn to Live consultancy and winner of several national awards, her leadership continues to empower youth, break barriers, and champion women’s advancement across the region.

Tayba Al Hashemi is the CEO of ADNOC Offshore, overseeing nearly half of Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas production. With a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering from UAE University, she has more than 20 years at ADNOC, rising through key roles in exploration and field development. Appointed CEO of ADNOC Offshore in 2023, she is the first woman to lead an ADNOC operating company. Tayba manages over 7,000 professionals and leads major projects like offshore electrification to cut carbon emissions. She chairs the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and serves on ADNOC and UAEU boards.

Dr. Zulekha Daud, Founder and Chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group, is a trailblazer in UAE healthcare and a symbol of compassionate leadership. Arriving in Sharjah in 1964 as the first female Indian doctor in the UAE, she built community trust through dedication and care, earning the affectionate title “Mama Zulekha.” In 1992, she established Zulekha Hospital, which grew into a regional healthcare network serving over 550,000 patients annually. Her legacy spans affordable medical care, women’s empowerment, and public health advocacy.