Middle East's Most Influential Business Leaders to Watch in 2026

Patrick Reilly

With over 35 years of hands-on and senior executive experience in railway and highway infrastructure projects across multiple continents, Patrick Reilly stands among the world’s most respected and solution-driven leaders in the industry. Renowned for his ability to tackle complex challenges that many shy away from, Patrick has earned his reputation as a trusted expert and an influential voice shaping modern infrastructure development.

Currently serving as Senior Vice President at Abyatona Holding Company in Saudi Arabia, Patrick oversees a diverse portfolio of six companies within the group, ranging from civil and rail infrastructure to real estate development. His leadership extends beyond corporate strategy, he is also an active member of several engineering and railway councils, contributing to the advancement of the sector at various levels.

Patrick’s journey began in the early 1980s, following the completion of his formal education. Starting his career in highways and utilities, he soon discovered a growing passion for railway and metro systems through his work managing interfaces between road and rail networks. This realization set the course for his lifelong pursuit of excellence in rail infrastructure. Determined to deepen his expertise, Patrick earned a Master’s Degree in Railway Systems from the University of Birmingham and went on to acquire multiple high-value certifications that have supported his continuous professional growth and knowledge expansion.

His career has been as diverse as it has been dynamic, spanning from the jungles of Africa to the deserts of Arabia, from the frozen landscapes of northern Canada to the humid terrains of India and the Far East. Each project added not just technical mastery but also a deep appreciation for the cultures, environments, and practices that define global engineering excellence. Through these experiences, Patrick gained a rare combination of technical insight, cross-cultural understanding, and operational adaptability that few in the industry can match.

Beyond his operational leadership, Patrick’s influence extends into mentorship and education. Passionate about nurturing the next generation of civil and rail engineers, he has mentored countless graduates and newcomers to the field. As a guest lecturer in university railway programs and a speaker at engineering conferences, he has inspired many to pursue innovation and resilience within this demanding industry. His contributions to technical studies and railway conferences further reflect his commitment to advancing professional standards and knowledge-sharing.

As a qualified and accredited internal and external verifier and assessor of civil engineering awards, Patrick was instrumental in rewriting qualification frameworks for new entrants in the highways sector, particularly those aged 16–18. His efforts have helped strengthen the foundation of education and skill development in engineering, ensuring that the next generation enters the field with both competence and confidence.

Today, as mega and giga projects transform the Middle East and beyond, Patrick continues to bring his trademark passion, precision, and vision to every endeavor. His guidance and leadership have played a crucial role in the planning, setup, and execution of major infrastructure projects that define the modern landscape of transportation and development. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, Patrick Reilly remains a true pillar of progress, bridging continents, disciplines, and generations through the power of engineering.

Joumana Richa

From her early beginnings in the beauty and retail industry to leading one of Qatar’s most dynamic e-commerce ecosystems, Joumana Richa exemplifies how strategic vision and operational excellence can redefine market performance. As Head of Category at Snoonu, she leads multi-category growth spanning beauty, home, fashion, and lifestyle sectors, driving innovation through strategic vendor partnerships, marketplace expansion, and customer-focused transformation. Her leadership has been pivotal in the successful launch of Snoobeauty, a 1P model under Snoonu dedicated to delivering beauty products directly to customers’ doorsteps. With the fastest delivery service across Doha, Snoobeauty brings together a curated selection of trendy, basic, and viral beauty items, reflecting Joumana’s commitment to accessibility, quality, and modern consumer needs.

Before joining Snoonu, Joumana served as Country Leader for Electronics, further expanding her leadership portfolio prior to her current role. She also held leadership positions with Alshaya Group, where she managed iconic global brands such as MAC Cosmetics, Jo Malone London, and Clinique, expanding their regional footprint and developing performance-driven teams across Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon. Her expertise in brand development, operations, and retail excellence has earned her recognition for creating measurable growth, optimizing category performance, and aligning business strategy with evolving consumer needs.

With over 15 years of experience spanning retail, operations, and e-commerce, Joumana continues to set benchmarks in leadership that merge strategic agility with human-centered management. Fluent in four languages and known for her collaborative approach, she is shaping the next chapter of the region’s retail and digital commerce landscape, where innovation, inclusivity, and impact meet at the heart of business transformation.

Instagram:- joumanaricha

Kanza Zia

Award-winning filmmaker, multimedia producer, and digital entrepreneur Kanza Zia has built her career on one simple yet powerful principle, using storytelling as a tool for transformation. As the CEO of Starstruck Films and Founder of The Kanza Edit, she stands at the crossroads of creativity, leadership, and empowerment, crafting narratives that transcend boundaries and spark change.

Kanza’s journey began in the world of filmmaking, where she discovered her passion for stories that matter. What started as a creative pursuit soon evolved into a mission, to tell stories that not only entertain but also inspire people to see themselves differently. Over the years, her career has grown from being behind the camera to leading teams, building brands, and shaping the very narratives that define modern media.

Her decade-long journey in the film and digital industry is marked by perseverance and purpose. As a woman in media, Kanza had to navigate spaces that were not always open to women’s voices. Yet, through resilience, excellence, and consistency, she earned her place in an industry that often demanded twice the proof for half the recognition. Each challenge strengthened her resolve to create a more inclusive creative landscape, one where women could lead, influence, and thrive.

Through her production house, Starstruck Films, Kanza has directed and produced several acclaimed projects, including feature films and creative series that have received international recognition, film festival awards, and global nominations. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how visual storytelling connects people across cultures and generations. Whether it’s through cinema or digital content, her goal has always been to bring meaningful stories to life, stories that leave a lasting emotional impact.

But Kanza’s creative vision extends far beyond filmmaking. With The Kanza Edit, she has built a digital education and empowerment platform that equips women with practical skills in digital marketing, content creation, and online business development. What began as a personal initiative has evolved into a global movement aimed at helping women achieve financial independence through modern tools of communication and entrepreneurship. By combining education and empowerment, she’s opening doors for countless women to step confidently into the digital economy.

As her journey continues to evolve, Kanza is now building her next venture, a digital channel designed for the new generation of creators and viewers. This platform aims to bridge the gap between traditional media and the future of storytelling, blending creativity with technology. Drawing from her experience in filmmaking and digital innovation, Kanza envisions integrating artificial intelligence into content creation, curating, and distribution. Her goal is to redefine the viewer experience, one that educates, inspires, and evolves with its audience.

Through every project and platform she builds, Kanza Zia’s purpose remains consistent: to create spaces where creativity meets opportunity. Whether through Starstruck Films’ cinematic achievements, The Kanza Edit’s transformative programs, or her upcoming digital ventures, her work continues to empower others to embrace their voice, potential, and vision.

Kanza’s journey is a powerful reminder that the path to success is rarely linear, it is a process of constant evolution, learning, and persistence. Her message to aspiring creators and entrepreneurs is both heartfelt and empowering: your journey will test you before it rewards you, but if you stay consistent, keep learning, and believe in your voice, you will find your place in this industry.

Through courage, innovation, and purpose, Kanza Zia stands as one of the Middle East’s most influential business leaders to watch, a woman transforming not just media, but the mindset of an entire generation.

Fiona Garfagnini

Fiona Garfagnini is a French communication strategist based in Dubai, known for supporting leaders, creative talents, and brands seeking visibility, credibility, and impact. After several years at the center of French political life, where she held high-level roles, including Deputy Director of Communications for Emmanuel Macron’s party, she took a bold step in September 2025 by relocating to Dubai and launching Be Next, her “personal communication agent” agency. Inspired by talent-agency models, Be Next offers a hybrid approach that blends strategy, storytelling, image, and influence.

Armed with a master’s degree in political communication, Fiona began her career in the media industry, developing a strong foundation in storytelling, audiences, and digital formats. She later transitioned into politics, supporting national figures and contributing to major political campaigns by leading 360-degree communication strategies that integrated both press and digital. Her path then expanded into strategic consulting for major companies, advising them on corporate positioning, reputation, and communication strategies. These experiences shaped her signature approach, demanding, precise, human, and impact-driven.

When Fiona arrived in Dubai, she brought this expertise to a new audience: entrepreneurs, artists, founders, and emerging leaders she calls “the builders.” Today, her work ranges from personal branding and strategic communication to media relations, content creation, and executive communication. Her philosophy centers on elevating voices, clarifying messages, and helping individuals build strong, coherent, and lasting public identities.

Her journey, however, has not been without challenges. The first was daring to leave an environment where she excelled to start over in a country where she knew almost no one. The second was creating a distinctive offering, premium yet human, capable of meeting the needs of a competitive and rapidly expanding market. The third was balancing strategic rigor with continuous creativity to ensure every client receives bespoke, value-aligned support. These challenges evolved into strengths. In just two months, Fiona built a growing portfolio of clients across the UAE, supporting lifestyle brands, startup founders, and artists. She is also developing a platform dedicated to showcasing the cultural richness of the UAE.

For Fiona, her greatest accomplishment is not only building a business that reflects her identity but creating a deeply human model of support. “The people I work with are not clients. They are builders, creators, voices that deserve to be heard,” she says.

When asked what advice she would give to those ready to take a leap, she shares three core principles: dare to move, because nothing meaningful is built through waiting; choose your circle wisely, because mentors, collaborators, and partners accelerate success; and know who you are before trying to sell anything, because communication begins with identity, not marketing, not advertising, but understanding your voice, values, and purpose.

Today, Fiona continues expanding her work across the Middle East with a clear ambition: to build a leading agency for individuals who want to elevate their projects, while also building something meaningful for herself. Like the “builders” she supports, she came to Dubai to create, grow, and contribute. She is determined to be one of the region’s builders.

To connect with her, she is available on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-garfagnini 

Alexandre Katrangi & Irina Duisimbekova

In a world driven by innovation and cross-border collaboration, Alexandre Katrangi and Irina Duisimbekova stand as two of the Middle East’s most dynamic and influential business leaders into the Investments sphere. Together, they represent the power of visionary entrepreneurship shaped by experience and direct investments realised through joint ventures in the GCC; trust, and a shared pursuit of progress. As partners steering Licorne Gulf Investment Holding, a single-family office with deep roots across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Switzerland, and the UK, they have created a global investment ecosystem bridging energy, defense, healthcare, aviation, and emerging technologies.

2024 had seen an impressive 575M USD investments realised through their Family holding Licorne Gulf  and 2025 keeps the same pace with already Q4 nearly closing at 490 M USD confirmed investments and syndication for their ventures; along with several industrial projects implemented in the GCC region and successful reverse mergers on the Nasdaq and Euronext.

Major achievements in 2025 had been 3 defense contracts of multi millions USD within semi-assembly industrial off-set made in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain with large European, CHinese and Turkish defense companies as well as the investment in Choiseul Arabian Gulf, a branch JV of Institut Choiseul from France being the largest European Think Tank and Public Affairs firm.

With over twenty-seven years of international experience, Alexandre Katrangi a French-Syrian-Saudi origin entrepreneur has cultivated a remarkable legacy as a serial entrepreneur and investor whose career spans Fortune 500 corporations, sovereign funds, and royal family offices across the Gulf. His journey began with extensive involvement in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, and defense, fields in which he has become a trusted specialist known for his ability to build strategic partnerships and mobilize capital syndications for high-value projects. As Associate Founder of Licorne Gulf Investment Holding, Aerojet ME, Alexandre has consistently pursued ventures that merge industrial impact with technological advancement. His work has included key joint ventures in collaboration with CAC 40 and Fortune 500 companies reflecting a rare ability to align commercial insight with geopolitical strategy.

Irina Duisimbekova benefiting from an Eurasian background as Russian- Kazakh complements this vision with an entrepreneurial flair and forward-looking mindset that embodies modern leadership. As Co-Founder of AeroJet ME, Licorne Gulf Holding, and SympathiQ, she has championed the integration of luxury, innovation, and social consciousness across industries. Her diverse portfolio includes investments in private aviation, energy, and technology, along with new-generation ventures such as Healthcare company, a UK-based company transforming medical imaging data for AI research and healthcare innovation. Irina’s leadership within family investment structures reflects a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and the development of meaningful partnerships across continents. Her background, marked by an MBA from London South Bank University and a global perspective through her USSR and Kazakhstan origins, empowers her to navigate markets with both analytical precision and cultural empathy and benefiting from solid international networks and connections within the political, economical and iconic investors.

The professional synergy between Alexandre and Irina has elevated Licorne Gulf Holding to become one of the most respected independent investment entities in the region. Their combined expertise fuels initiatives that connect European technology with Middle Eastern capital, fostering sustainable growth across strategic industries. Projects under their guidance, spanning private aviation, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, mergers at the Nasdaq and Nyse and defense innovation and semi-industrial assets in ammunitions and tactical products, are reshaping how global partnerships are built and scaled. Under AeroJet ME, they have redefined the private aviation experience with a commitment to excellence, discretion, and global reach, serving corporate and government clients with unmatched precision and reliability.

Beyond their business endeavors, both leaders exemplify resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing world. Alexandre’s ability to build alliances between multinational corporations and Gulf institutions has established him as a key architect of transnational cooperation, while Irina’s passion for defense, transmissions, education, wellness, travel has inspired her ventures that blend human connection with technological progress. Together, they personify the next generation of leadership in the Middle East, visionaries who not only drive economic transformation but also cultivate meaningful impact across borders.

As the region continues its accelerated journey toward diversification and innovation, Alexandre Katrangi and Irina Duisimbekova stand at the center of that evolution, bridging tradition and modernity, strategy and vision, investment and purpose. Their story is one of partnership built on trust and global perspective, and their work continues to influence how business leadership is defined across the Middle East and beyond. Their direct capital and funding capabilities and syndication financing lead them to support both private and Governmental sectors.

Visit www.licorne-gulf 

Marita Setas Ferro

In the ever-evolving creative landscape of the Gulf, where innovation and tradition intersect, Marita Setas Ferro has emerged as one of the most influential voices shaping the dialogue between fine craft, sustainability and contemporary art. As the Artistic Director of Double J Collective Gallery in Dubai, the only gallery in the region dedicated exclusively to fine craft, she has redefined curating as both an intellectual and ethical act.

For Marita, curating is not about displaying objects, it is about constructing meaning. “I have always lived between worlds,” she says. “Art, design, curating and climate reflection are porous territories that feed each other.” Her exhibitions at Double J Collective bridge the gap between ancestral craftsmanship and contemporary art, between the hand and the thinking, between memory and the future. Each show becomes a meditation on how we create, consume, and coexist.

With academic foundations in Fashion, Sculpture, Cultural Management and Marketing, Marita embodies a rare synthesis of disciplines. Her work is guided by a rhizomatic, holistic thinking that blurs boundaries between creation and reflection. “Sustainability,” she insists, “is not a trend, it is an existential stance.” In her view, the planet is an expanded body, and every choice, every material used, every process employed, carries a consequence.

As an artist and designer, she transforms waste into poetry and the object into an ethical manifesto. Her sculptural practice, rooted in craftsmanship and tactile engagement, acts as a counterpoint to a world of digital immediacy. “The artisanal gesture,” she notes, “has become an act of resistance.” Each piece embodies authenticity: knowing where materials come from, who shaped them and under what conditions. For Marita, true sustainable design is not about being “green,” but about restoring dignity, to the maker, the material and the Earth.

Her influence extends beyond the gallery walls. As a European Climate Pact Ambassador, she represents a bridge between Europe and the Middle East, advocating for creative practices that are both culturally and environmentally responsible. Her curatorial voice challenges systems of production and perception, proposing a more human, interconnected approach to creation.

Education is another crucial pillar of her mission. In classrooms and conferences around the world, Marita teaches that innovation must be rooted in awareness. “To educate,” she says, “is to plant doubt where the system sows’ certainties.” Her students are encouraged to think critically, to see the invisible and to question technology rather than surrender to it.

“I do not seek definition; I seek coherence,” she reflects. “All my layers, artist, designer, curator, educator, ambassador, do not compete; they dialogue.” In that dialogue lies the essence of her influence: a vision where fine craft becomes philosophy, sustainability becomes ethics, and art becomes a language for imagining post-fossil futures.

Through her curatorial work in the Gulf, Marita Setas Ferro has made one thing clear: sustainability is not an aesthetic, it is a way of being.

Amos and Priya Antin

In the ever-evolving landscape of the UAE’s interior design and renovation sector, Amos and Priya Antin, Founders of aCross designs, have built more than just a business, they’ve created a brand synonymous with integrity, craftsmanship, and client trust. Their journey, rooted in shared passion and perseverance, stands as an inspiring example of how purpose-driven leadership can transform challenges into success stories.

After completing his Bachelor’s in Computer Science Engineering and Master’s in Business Information Technology, Amos began his professional career in business development and technology sales upon moving to Dubai in 2010. However, in November 2017, when he suddenly lost his job, that moment became a catalyst for change. By January 2018, Amos and his wife Priya, who holds a degree in Interior Design and Architectural Engineering, launched aCross designs, a venture that would soon become one of the region’s most trusted names in residential renovation and design.

From day one, their mission was clear: to bridge the critical gaps they observed in the market, delayed projects, poor communication, and substandard finishes. “We wanted to build a company that not only delivered quality but also built trust through transparency and reliability,” they shared. That promise evolved into the brand’s foundation and continues to drive its growth today.

Their journey wasn’t without obstacles. In an emotionally charged industry like home renovation, managing client expectations proved challenging. Through years of experience, they mastered the art of clear communication, aligning with clients who shared their values, and fostering long-term relationships built on mutual understanding. Another key challenge was ensuring that their organizational values reached every team member. By leading through example and ensuring employees feel valued and connected to the company’s mission, Amos and Priya cultivated a work culture grounded in respect, accountability, and shared purpose.

At the heart of aCross designs lies a deep commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. The duo believes in nurturing a culture of learning where creativity flourishes, and employees are encouraged to take calculated risks. “We’re always exploring ways to enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and deliver an exceptional customer experience,” they noted. This forward-thinking approach has been central to maintaining their competitive edge in a highly dynamic market.

Ethics and empathy form another cornerstone of their business philosophy. They’ve instilled strong moral values within their organization, ensuring fair treatment of employees, transparent dealings with clients, and respect for every stakeholder involved. “We believe that ethical business practices are essential for long-term success and sustainability,” they emphasized.

Today, aCross designs operates across three major divisions, Interior Designing (Residential), Construction and Contracting (Residential Renovation, HVAC, Landscaping), and Joinery (Carpentry). The founders also have ambitious plans for the future, including launching a dedicated Kitchens Division and expanding into property development, management, and brokerage. Their long-term vision is to evolve into a one-stop destination managing every aspect of residential and real estate needs under one roof.

Their success, however, isn’t solely defined by business milestones but by their unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. “Your home is not just a space; it’s a reflection of your dreams,” their Founder’s Message states. “We’re honored to be part of that journey.” This belief has earned them a reputation for reliability, quality, and genuine care, values that resonate deeply with their growing clientele.

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Amos and Priya offer simple but profound advice: “Identify real gaps in your market, stay patient, and grow steadily. Avoid unnecessary borrowing, build strong foundations instead. Be authentic, under-market, and over-deliver. When your clients start promoting your services, that’s when you know you’re doing it right.”

With a shared vision and steadfast dedication, Amos and Priya Antin continue to shape the region’s home design and renovation landscape, proving that when passion meets purpose, success naturally follows.

Eslam Atteya

Eslam Atteya has built an impressive career defined by transformation, leadership, and strategic impact across the Middle East and beyond. With nearly two decades of experience in finance, operations, and consulting, he stands as one of the region’s foremost experts in shared services and business process transformation. Today, as Director at PwC Middle East, Eslam continues to lead initiatives that reshape how organizations operate, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

His journey began in Egypt’s financial sector with the Commercial International Bank (CIB), where he developed a strong foundation in finance, risk management, and operational efficiency. This early experience instilled in him a disciplined approach to problem-solving and performance, qualities that would become central to his career. Transitioning to IBM marked a pivotal moment, where Eslam spent over a decade leading transformation programs across the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America. From Finance Team Leader to Delivery Project Executive, he oversaw large-scale service transitions, designed shared service models, and drove projects that improved business performance and financial governance on a global scale.

At IBM, Eslam earned a reputation for bridging strategy with execution. His ability to lead multicultural teams, align cross-functional goals, and deliver measurable results distinguished him as a transformation leader who not only optimized processes but also built lasting organizational capability. This path of excellence continued at Ernst & Young (EY), where he served as Senior Manager in Shared Services and BPO Consulting. There, he guided clients across MENA through major operational transformations, helping them establish efficient shared service centers and sustainable delivery frameworks that balanced cost efficiency with innovation.

In 2024, Eslam joined PwC Middle East as Director, where he continues to advance the firm’s capabilities in managed and shared services, operational transformation, and business optimization. His leadership philosophy combines analytical rigor with empathy and mentorship, fostering collaboration, developing people, and driving change through trust and inclusion. For Eslam, leadership is not about authority; it’s about enabling others to succeed and creating systems that empower sustainable growth.

A firm believer in continuous learning, Eslam holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Benha University, a master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management from Cairo University and the University of Cambridge, and is currently pursuing an MBA. He also holds several professional certifications in Agile, Design Thinking, and Cognitive Practitioner disciplines, reflecting his commitment to staying ahead in a world driven by digital transformation and innovation.

Eslam’s professional milestones are matched by his resilience in overcoming the challenges that come with large-scale transformation, from managing change across complex environments to aligning diverse stakeholders toward common goals. His success stems from his ability to view every challenge as an opportunity for growth, relying on communication, adaptability, and a structured approach to achieve results.

Reflecting on his journey, Eslam highlights three guiding lessons: embrace change as a catalyst for growth, invest in people as the true engine of success, and balance vision with disciplined execution. These principles define his leadership approach and continue to inspire the next generation of professionals across the Middle East.

Through his journey from Egypt’s banking halls to the regional boardrooms of PwC, Eslam Atteya exemplifies the power of purpose-driven leadership. His story is one of perseverance, integrity, and transformation, a testament to how strategic thinking, continuous learning, and empathy can redefine business excellence in today’s evolving world.

Lisa Warren

In the fast-accelerating world of artificial intelligence, where innovation must meet real business outcomes, Lisa Warren stands out as one of the Middle East’s most influential voices in practical AI transformation. As the Founder & CEO of Neural Horizons AI and a Board Director at the Green Economy Partnership, she has become a leading figure guiding organizations through the complexities of AI adoption, transforming it from a distant ambition into an immediate driver of growth, efficiency, and competitive advantage.

Lisa’s journey into AI leadership is built on more than 15 years of experience leading digital transformation initiatives across MEA, APAC, and Europe. Early in her career, she observed that most organizations were not held back by technology limitations, but by the widening gap between what they wanted to achieve and what they could realistically execute. Her work at SecurityHQ in marketing transformation, followed by overseeing multi-country digital campaigns, strengthened her understanding of how organizations evolve. At Amundi Asset Management, she led major digitalization projects across Italy, Germany, Austria, Spain, the US, and Asia, gaining firsthand insight into the cultural, operational, and structural shifts required for true transformation. This perspective deepened during her years at Franchise Direct, where managing large-scale operations and supporting hundreds of businesses revealed a recurring global pattern: innovation fails not due to lack of ideas, but due to lack of implementation clarity.

These experiences led her to establish Neural Horizons AI in July 2024, a consultancy designed not just to advise, but to empower businesses to implement AI with confidence and precision. Through neuralhorizonsai.com, she created an ecosystem offering strategic consulting, AI readiness frameworks, and transformation playbooks tailored to emerging markets. What makes her approach distinctive is her belief that AI transformation is fundamentally human. Technology only succeeds, she emphasizes, when organizations overcome silos, redesign workflows, and build a culture capable of embracing change.

Her work as an AI Thought Leader within Stanford’s ecosystem expands this impact globally. There, she contributes frameworks addressing one of the biggest barriers she identified throughout her career: while many leaders discuss AI’s potential, only a few know how to operationalize it. Her insights into agentic AI, neural marketing technologies, and digital transformation strategies are now referenced by executives navigating the region’s rapid technological shift.

Lisa is known equally for her commitment to knowledge-sharing. Her weekly presence on LinkedIn, particularly through her “Friday AI Insights”, has become essential reading for business leaders and policymakers. Articles such as “The 95% Problem: Why Your Agentic AI Strategy Is Probably Wrong,” “The 2026 AI Divide: Why the Middle East Will Outpace Silicon Valley on Implementation,” and her personal narrative “From Data to Destiny: My Journey to Building Neural Horizons AI” have positioned her not just as an expert, but as a trusted guide. Her AI Playbook 2026 continues to be a practical resource for leaders seeking clarity in a noisy technological landscape.

Beyond digital transformation, Lisa champions the intersection of innovation and sustainability through her role at the Green Economy Partnership. She advocates for AI as a tool for long-term resilience, proving that environmental responsibility and technological advancement are complementary, not conflicting priorities.

Lisa’s vision for the Middle East is bold yet deeply grounded: the region has the leadership, investment, and ambition not only to follow global AI trends but to lead the world in implementation excellence. Through Neural Horizons AI, she ensures businesses are not merely preparing for the AI-driven future, they are already building it. Her work reflects a balance of strategic insight, human-centered leadership, and a belief that the future belongs to those who transform with purpose.

Juergen Brixel

CEO of YOUNEA AI GCC Ltd., Pioneering AI Agents for Business Transformation in the Gulf

At the forefront of Dubai’s AI and innovation movement, Jürgen Brixel, CEO of YOUNEA AI GCC Ltd., is redefining how organizations in the Gulf region harness artificial intelligence to accelerate growth, streamline operations, and transform customer experiences..

His latest initiative, LuxAIaaS, serves as a next-generation “Operating System” for Conversational AI-as-a-Service, a unified platform that empowers businesses to build, manage, and monetize voice and chat automation seamlessly. Fully GDPR-compliant, multilingual, and transparently costed, LuxAIaaS integrates intelligent automation, analytics, billing, and API connectivity into one plug-and-play ecosystem, giving companies complete control over their AI-driven interactions while ensuring data integrity and scalability.

Under Jürgen’s leadership, LuxAIaaS is pioneering the concept of “AI Agents as a Service” in the UAE /GCC, embedding autonomous AI systems directly into enterprise workflows. This approach enables organizations to operate faster, smarter, and more profitably, turning communication and operations into intelligent, self-optimizing systems.

As a participant in the Dubai Future Foundation’s FEEL Program 2025, Jürgen is part of the UAE’s most forward-thinking community of innovators shaping the next wave of AI solutions aligned with the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031, focusing on human-AI collaboration, digital governance, and the creation of scalable business models that enhance national competitiveness.

Before establishing LuxAIaaS under the YOUNEA umbrella, Jürgen spent nearly two decades at Salesforce, where he rose to Regional Vice President, Industry Solutions & Strategy for EMEA. He led the successful launch of the Manufacturing Cloud, transforming it into a multimillion-dollar business and forging strategic partnerships with industry giants such as Accenture, Deloitte, Siemens, and Bosch. His tenure at Zilliant Inc. as Customer Success Executive further deepened his expertise in data-driven transformation and enterprise scalability.

Educated at the University of Applied Sciences Munich, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Harvard Business School, Jürgen’s academic and professional journey reflects his passion for responsible innovation, Industry 4.0 technologies, and lifelong learning. Recognized as a Salesforce Innovation Center Award winner and Cultural Ambassador, he is known for purpose-driven leadership that combines strategic excellence with human empowerment.

Today, through LuxAIaaS, Jürgen Brixel is leading businesses across the UAE and beyond from digital transformation to AI transformation, turning every workflow into an intelligent system and every employee into an augmented achiever. His vision is clear: the future belongs to organizations that can harmonize human creativity with machine intelligence to achieve sustainable success.

A visionary entrepreneur, strategist, and digital leader, Jürgen Brixel embodies the Gulf’s spirit of innovation, where ambition meets technology, and leadership means enabling others to thrive in the age of AI.

Neethu Paul

In a world where global brands often struggle to resonate locally, Neethu Paul has mastered the art of bridging cultural insight with strategic clarity. As the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Ezer Global, she leads with one defining conviction: growth thrives where cultural intelligence, human connection, and purposeful storytelling intersect. With over two decades of experience shaping growth strategies for industry giants such as ServiceNow, Microsoft, Autodesk, Epicor, Keyloop, and Rev1, Neethu has established herself as one of the Middle East’s most dynamic marketing strategists.

Her work at Ezer Global reflects a deep commitment to helping organizations translate global brand visions into locally grounded narratives. Operating across technology, automotive, energy, and retail sectors, she has become a trusted advisor for leadership teams seeking to deepen their presence across the region while staying authentically aligned with local audiences. As she often notes, “The Middle East is not one market, it’s a mosaic,” a belief that drives her approach to designing campaigns that honour regional identity while upholding global brand purpose.

Neethu’s cultural fluency extends beyond language or geography. She excels in aligning European technology narratives with the relationship-driven business culture of the Middle East and in simplifying complex engineering solutions into compelling, accessible storytelling. This rare ability to build bridges, not barriers, has positioned her as an indispensable partner for companies navigating diverse regional landscapes.

Expanding her influence further, Neethu is now shaping retail and lifestyle marketing across the UAE, working closely with local brands to craft campaigns rooted in Middle Eastern heritage and community value. Her recent initiatives blend modern visual aesthetics with traditional cues such as Arabic calligraphy, regional craftsmanship, and the region’s deep values of hospitality and belonging. She believes that retail in the Middle East is far more than a transaction, it is a cultural experience shaped by emotion and identity. This philosophy guides her mission to help homegrown brands compete globally while preserving the authenticity that makes them distinct.

Her impact extends into industrial and technical sectors as well, where she leads multi-year brand transformation programs that combine storytelling, digital strategy, and organizational alignment. By grounding these strategies in a regional cultural context, from decision-making patterns in the Gulf’s energy sector to the expectations of local stakeholders, she ensures that technical organizations communicate with clarity, relevance, and credibility.

Neethu’s journey is equally a reflection of modern leadership in the region. As a woman entrepreneur leading a cross-regional consultancy from the UAE, she represents a new generation of culturally intelligent, collaborative, and purpose-driven leaders. Recognized by CEO Outlook as one of the Women Leaders to Watch in 2025, she continues to mentor emerging marketers, especially women navigating multicultural leadership spaces.

While AI and automation play a central role in her frameworks, Neethu approaches technology with a human-first mindset. “Technology accelerates scale, but empathy sustains it,” she says, emphasizing the importance of pairing data-driven decision-making with emotional intelligence. Her strategies help brands measure impact, optimize performance, and adapt fluidly across markets, always with cultural relevance at the core.

What truly sets Neethu apart is her belief that marketing is, at its heart, an act of respect, a way for brands to say, “we understand you.” In a global marketplace often chasing uniformity, she champions the nuance, diversity, and emotional truth that define the Middle Eastern experience. Through her work, marketing becomes more than communication; it becomes connection.

As the Middle East advances boldly into its era of innovation, identity, and global influence, leaders like Neethu Paul are shaping how the region tells its story to the world. Her influence continues to expand across industries and borders, positioning her as one of the Middle East’s Most Influential Business Leaders to Watch in 2026 and a defining voice in culturally intelligent marketing leadership.

Sabeen Javed

With more than 18 years of experience across global talent acquisition, data-driven recruitment strategy, and high-growth workforce expansion, Sabeen Javed has emerged as one of the Middle East’s most influential voices shaping the future of hiring, leadership, and representation in the technology sector. Her career spans major markets across the UK, Europe, Africa, and the Gulf, where she has successfully led talent acquisition operations for some of the world’s most demanding and complex business environments. Known for her ability to scale organizations at speed, drive AI-enabled hiring solutions, and strengthen global workforce diversity, she has built a reputation for transforming recruitment into a strategic engine for organizational growth.

As Head of Talent Acquisition for AWS Data Center Operations across 21 locations in Europe and the Middle East, Sabeen played a pivotal role in scaling a 2,200+ headcount organization, driving 81.6% workforce growth since 2022, and placing more than 950 professionals since 2023 alone. Her leadership accelerated hiring velocity by over 130% within two years, supported the launch of new AWS regions including Tel Aviv, Bahrain, the UAE, and KSA, and introduced predictive analytics, automated assessment systems, and AI-powered tools that reshaped how large-scale hiring is managed across the cloud industry. Her work in hypergrowth environments, such as achieving 566% workforce expansion in Spain and 179% in Germany, highlights her ability to design, execute, and optimize high-impact hiring frameworks under intense operational demands.

Sabeen’s influence, however, extends far beyond numbers. She is widely recognized for her strong commitment to increasing women’s representation in technology, a focus that has shaped much of her leadership impact in recent years. At AWS, she secured 168 woman hires between 2024 and 2025, raising female representation to 18% across Europe and Israel, and previously led initiatives that increased women hiring in Middle East Data Center Operations from 0% to 14% within a single year. These achievements reflect her deep belief in improving access, visibility, and opportunity for women in technical careers. Through targeted sourcing strategies, community partnerships, employee referral programs, and advocacy for inclusive hiring processes, she has consistently built sustainable pathways for women, underrepresented communities, and individuals with disabilities to thrive in the technology workforce.

Her academic grounding in Sociology and Human Resource Management, combined with certifications from the International Coaching Federation and the European Mentoring and Coaching Council, has positioned her as a people-centric leader who understands the intersection of human potential, organizational behaviour, and workforce development. As a certified Amazon Coach and a GROW model practitioner, she has guided the next generation of professionals while driving initiatives in interview calibration, unconscious bias mitigation, and leadership development across international teams. Her global experience, spanning London, The Hague, Seattle, and Dubai, continues to influence her multicultural approach to building equitable and inclusive workplaces.

Beyond her corporate achievements, Sabeen is also the Founder of her own consultancy, where she works as a certified Women Empowerment Career Strategist dedicated to helping female professionals accelerate their careers, strengthen leadership capability, and break barriers within male-dominated industries. Her coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in her own journey, one shaped by resilience, international exposure, and a passion for creating opportunities that help women rise with confidence and clarity. Whether mentoring early-career talent or advising senior leaders, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight and human-first leadership that continues to resonate across the region.

Sabeen’s work embodies the intersection of innovation, inclusion, and purposeful leadership. Her ability to transform recruitment functions, scale multi-country operations, build high-performing teams, and champion greater female representation in tech makes her a standout leader shaping the future of the Middle East’s technology and digital infrastructure landscape. As organizations across the region continue to prioritize diversity, automation, and long-term workforce planning, her influence is set to grow even further in the years ahead.

Conclusion

As the Middle East enters a new era defined by innovation, cultural intelligence, and global collaboration, the leaders featured in Middle East’s Most Influential Business Leaders to Watch in 2026 remind us that true progress is shaped by people, individuals who lead with vision, authenticity, and a deep commitment to impact. Their journeys span industries as diverse as AI, infrastructure, investment, design, sustainability, talent, and digital transformation, yet they share a common thread: an unwavering belief in the region’s potential and a willingness to build what has never been built before.

From the bold storytelling of creatives, to the strategic foresight of investors, to the precision of engineers and the insight of AI pioneers, each leader contributes to a region rapidly emerging as a global center of excellence and opportunity. Their achievements illuminate the path ahead, demonstrating that leadership in the Middle East is more than influence, it is responsibility, resilience, and purposeful innovation.

As we conclude this feature, we invite readers to reflect on the stories shared, the lessons learned, and the visions revealed. These are not just profiles of success; they are blueprints for the future. Whether you are an entrepreneur, executive, creative, or aspiring leader, may these journeys inspire you to lead with courage, create with intention, and pursue impact that extends far beyond your own horizon.

The Middle East is rising, and with leaders like these shaping its future, the possibilities are limitless.

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