Iconic Business Influencers in the GCC

In a world shaped by rapid innovation and evolving consumer expectations, a select group of business leaders is charting new courses across industries. From revolutionising the retail landscape to steering banking into the digital era, these influential figures are not just responding to change — they’re creating it.

This list shines a spotlight on the visionaries who are driving growth, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of commerce and finance with bold strategies and transformative leadership.

Technology: Mountasser Hachem

Founder and chairman, Monty Group

Visa services: Zubin Karkaria

Founder and CEO, VFS Global Group

Tourism: Issam Kazim

CEO, Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM)

Public parking provider: Mohamed Abdulla Al Ali

CEO, Parkin PJSC

Retail: MA Yusuff Ali

Chairman and MD, LuLu Group International

Fintech: Hosam Arab

CEO and co-founder, Tabby

Food delivery, ecommerce: Tomaso Rodriguez

CEO, Talabat

Banking and Financial Services: Sarah Al Suhaimi

Group chairperson, Saudi Tadawul Group

Retail: Sima Ganwani Ved

Founder and chairwoman, Apparel Group

Real Estate: Amira Sajwani

MD, Sales and Development, DAMAC Properties; founder and CEO, PRYPCO and co-founder, Amali Properties

Creative industries: Khadija Al Bastaki

Senior vice president, Dubai Design District

Hospitality, real estate, entertainment: Kabir Mulchandani

Founder and Executive Chairman, FIVE Holdings

Investments: Noor Sweid

Founder and managing partner, Global Ventures

Business: Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg

Chairperson and managing director, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG)