The Gulf region continues to emerge as a global hub of innovation, transformation, and forward-thinking leadership, driven by individuals who are not only adapting to change but actively shaping it. In this special feature, “Gulf’s Visionary Leaders Driving Industry Change in 2026,” we bring together a remarkable group of professionals whose work reflects the region’s dynamic evolution across industries including leadership development, education, construction, digital transformation, and wellness.
This edition highlights leaders who are redefining how organizations grow, how systems evolve, and how industries respond to the challenges of a rapidly changing world. From Ann Palmer FCCT, whose decades of experience in leadership development and AI integration are influencing organizations globally, to Arya Chitra, who is transforming education through creative media and empowering young minds across the MENA region and India, each story reflects a commitment to meaningful impact.
We also feature Greg Fuller, whose precision-driven and technology-enabled approach is reshaping construction management in the UAE, and Dr. Moez Gharbi, whose AI-powered platform is revolutionizing project management through intelligent, data-driven systems. Their work demonstrates how innovation and expertise can come together to drive efficiency, transparency, and sustainable progress.
Completing this distinguished lineup is Winnie LIW, whose entrepreneurial journey bridges Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern wellness solutions, creating a globally recognized brand rooted in sustainability and cultural heritage. Her story reflects the power of blending tradition with innovation to meet the evolving needs of global consumers.
Together, these leaders represent a powerful cross-section of vision, resilience, and purpose. Their journeys go beyond professional achievements, they offer insights into leadership, transformation, and the mindset required to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
As you explore this feature, we invite you to dive deeper into their stories, experiences, and perspectives. Each profile offers valuable lessons and inspiration, showcasing how visionary leadership continues to drive industry change across the Gulf and beyond.
Ann Palmer FCCT
Ann Palmer FCCT’s professional journey reflects a powerful blend of strategic leadership, entrepreneurial vision and a long-standing commitment to helping organisations adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving global environment. With more than 35 years of experience spanning education, corporate consultancy, government advisory and the non-profit sector, she has built a reputation as a trusted authority in leadership development, organisational transformation and the strategic integration of artificial intelligence. As the CEO of Fig Tree International and Executive Director of Race to Excellence and Elevate Ed Global, Ann works with organisations across the United Kingdom, the Gulf region and internationally, supporting leaders to navigate complexity with clarity, confidence and purpose. In addition to her executive leadership roles, she also serves as a Non-Executive Director, providing governance insight and strategic oversight at board level.
Ann’s professional foundation was established in the education sector, where she progressed into senior leadership and headship roles, earning recognition for her ability to lead large-scale institutional transformation. During this time, she successfully delivered a £32 million school redevelopment programme, achieved Investors in People Gold accreditation and led a school that was recognised in HM Chief Inspector’s report as a particularly successful institution. Her leadership during this period was described as being “of the highest order and always first rate,” reflecting the respect she commands within professional circles. These early experiences shaped her belief that sustainable improvement requires both visionary thinking and disciplined execution. Over time, her influence extended beyond individual institutions to national leadership development programmes, including facilitating national leadership qualifications and supporting senior leaders responsible for system-wide improvement.
A defining aspect of Ann’s work is her ability to translate leadership theory into measurable organisational impact. Through Fig Tree International, she has built an international consultancy that supports organisations in responding strategically to global change, particularly in relation to the integration of artificial intelligence into leadership practice and organisational strategy. As a respected keynote speaker and leadership trainer, she works with senior executives, government leaders and organisational teams to strengthen decision-making, foster innovation and encourage ethical leadership within an increasingly AI-enabled world. Her approach combines strategic foresight with practical application, ensuring that leaders leave equipped with tools and insights they can apply within their own organisations.
Ann’s entrepreneurial leadership also led to the creation of the Race and Conscious Equality (RACE) Charter Mark, an accredited framework designed to help schools and colleges implement meaningful, evidence-informed approaches to diversity, equity and inclusion. Through her role as Executive Director of Race to Excellence, she partners with national and international organisations to ensure that inclusive leadership becomes embedded within organisational culture, governance structures and long-term performance strategies. This work reflects her long-standing belief that organisations achieve their strongest outcomes when purpose and performance are intentionally aligned.
Beyond consultancy and executive leadership, Ann is widely recognised as a leadership coach and mentor to senior leaders navigating complex organisational environments. With a strong track record of developing high-performing leaders, she supports executives in strengthening strategic thinking, managing organisational change and leading with confidence and integrity. Her leadership insights also reach a wider audience through her work as an author and podcaster, where she shares practical perspectives on inclusive leadership, organisational transformation and the future of leadership in an AI-driven world.
Ann’s influence extends well beyond the United Kingdom. Through her engagement with leadership systems across Europe, Africa, North America, Asia and the Middle East, she brings a truly global perspective to the organisations she supports. Through Elevate Ed Global, she increasingly collaborates with leaders across the Gulf and wider MENA region, contributing to discussions on leadership capability, future-focused education systems and the responsible adoption of emerging technologies. Her work aligns closely with the region’s ambitions to strengthen innovation, talent development and globally competitive knowledge economies.
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Linkedin:- Ann Palmer FCCT
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Website:- www.figtreeinternational.org.uk
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Email:- contactus@figtreeintl.org
Arya Chitra
Arya Chitra is a passionate photographer and education leader dedicated to nurturing creative expression among young minds. She initiated the Youth & Kids Program in 2015 as an ECA (Extra-Curricular Activity) initiative, which has since evolved into a large-scale, structured education program under her leadership in partnership with Nikon MENA. Over the years, the program has expanded across the region, working closely with government entities including the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (MOCCAE), the UAE Federal Youth Authority, the UAE Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Sustainable Development in Bahrain. These collaborations have enabled the integration of photography into education systems to enhance student wellbeing, creativity, and future-ready skills.
With over a decade of experience and currently serving as the General Manager of the Youth & Kids Program across MENA and India, Arya has played a key role in positioning photography as both a creative and technical discipline within academic environments. Through strategic program design and strong collaborations with schools, educators, and ministries, she continues to lead initiatives that bring structured learning, hands-on workshops, photography clubs, and exhibitions into the education system, empowering students with confidence, self-expression, and discovery.
Building on this strong foundation, Arya is now driving the expansion of the Youth & Kids Program in partnership with Nikon India. The initiative is supported by Nikon India as an official equipment partner, focusing on equipping students with industry-relevant skills in photography, visual storytelling, and digital media through structured learning, workshops, and school-based media labs. Her work in India aligns with national skilling and education priorities, creating pathways for students to explore creative careers while developing critical thinking and communication skills.
She also created a dedicated “Children of Determination” program, designed specifically to make photography and filmmaking accessible to students of determination. This initiative focuses on inclusive learning methodologies, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, is given the opportunity to explore visual storytelling, build confidence, and express themselves creatively. Through adapted tools, guided mentorship, and empathetic program design, Arya continues to champion inclusivity within media education, reinforcing her belief that creativity should have no barriers. She strongly advocates for empowering People of Determination by creating meaningful opportunities within creative education.
Arya envisions media programs for children as transformative platforms that go beyond creative expression to build essential life skills. Her approach focuses on integrating photography and visual storytelling into structured learning, enabling students to develop critical thinking, emotional awareness, and a strong sense of identity. She believes that when introduced at an early stage, media education can empower children to observe the world with empathy, communicate their perspectives confidently, and engage meaningfully with real-world issues. Through her work, Arya aims to cultivate a generation of visually literate, socially conscious, and future-ready individuals who can use media as a tool for impact and innovation.
Looking ahead, Arya envisions building a global community of young visual storytellers, where photography becomes a powerful tool for education, self-expression, and social impact. Through her continued work with Nikon MENA and Nikon India, she aims to shape a generation that is visually aware, emotionally intelligent, and equipped to tell stories that matter.
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LinkedIn:- Arya C.
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Instagram:- thatnikonlady
Greg Fuller
Greg Fuller is redefining construction management in the UAE through precision, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability. With over four decades of global experience across Australia, the UK, and the UAE, he has built a reputation for delivering highly detailed, data-driven solutions that transform how construction projects are planned, managed, and executed. As the Owner and CEO of Sure Growth Management Services FZE, Greg continues to lead with a vision focused on accuracy, efficiency, and long-term value creation.
At the core of his work is a uniquely developed cost management system designed specifically for GCC contractors and developers. This system enables real-time reporting of both cost and project progress, offering a level of precision that goes far beyond traditional construction management practices. By breaking down costs to highly detailed levels, per floor, structure, common areas, and even individual units, Greg ensures that every aspect of a project is tracked, managed, and forecasted with exceptional accuracy.
Complementing this is an advanced project tracking application that monitors construction progress on a room-by-room basis. This innovation allows seamless integration between inspections, approvals, documentation, and ERP systems, enabling accurate monthly applications and real-time forecasting of both financial and operational performance. The result is a fully transparent, data-driven environment where stakeholders can make informed decisions at every stage of development.
Sure Growth Management Services operates as a leading consultancy in the UAE, specialising in commercial and project management for construction and development projects. With a strong focus on optimising performance, minimising risk, and maximising returns, the company supports developers, contractors, and investors across residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. Their approach is built on detailed cost planning, procurement strategies, and live forecasting systems that align closely with project timelines and execution.
What truly differentiates Greg’s approach is the seamless blending of commercial expertise with project management execution. His systems are designed to integrate directly with existing ERP platforms or function as a complete construction-focused ERP solution, covering cost control, programme management, accounting, CRM, and facilities management. This level of integration ensures that projects are not only well-managed but also fully aligned with financial and operational goals in real time.
Beyond operational excellence, Greg is deeply committed to sustainability in construction. His vision for the UAE focuses on aligning cost and programme management with environmentally responsible practices. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration in Construction Management, he is researching how sustainability impacts cost structures and project timelines, and how these challenges can be effectively managed within the region.
His commitment to green construction is further reflected in his ongoing LEED certification journey with the U.S. Green Building Council, alongside over three decades of involvement in sustainable design practices. Through his research, systems, and leadership, Greg aims to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s green initiatives and support the nation’s transition toward more sustainable development models.
With a proven track record across high-value projects and a forward-thinking approach that combines technology, precision, and sustainability, Greg Fuller continues to shape the future of construction management in the Gulf region, setting new benchmarks for transparency, efficiency, and innovation.
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LinkedIn:- Greg Fuller
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Instagram:- dancinman66
Dr. Moez Gharbi
Dr. Moez Gharbi stands at the forefront of digital transformation in project management, combining over 25 years of global expertise with a forward-thinking vision that is redefining how complex projects are delivered in today’s fast-evolving industries. As the Founder and CEO of ChatPM®, he has pioneered an AI-driven platform that is reshaping traditional project management practices by integrating automation, advanced analytics, and seamless collaboration into a unified ecosystem.
ChatPM® reflects Dr. Gharbi’s deep understanding of real-world project challenges, offering organizations a powerful solution to manage portfolios, programs, and projects with greater precision and efficiency. By leveraging technologies such as Microsoft Teams, Power BI, and Microsoft Azure, the platform centralizes data, enhances transparency, and enables real-time, data-driven decision-making. This innovation not only streamlines workflows but also empowers teams to focus on strategic outcomes rather than repetitive administrative tasks, ultimately driving higher success rates across projects.
What sets Dr. Gharbi apart is his ability to translate decades of hands-on leadership into scalable digital solutions. His career spans some of the world’s most complex and high-value projects, where he has consistently delivered excellence in governance, risk management, and project controls. During his tenure at NEOM, one of the most ambitious smart city developments globally, he held key leadership roles, including Senior Risk Director and Senior Manager for Digital Delivery and Governance. His contributions included the development of the CEO WarRoom, implementation of advanced eGRC systems, and the successful rollout of integrated project management platforms that brought together cutting-edge tools and technologies.
Before NEOM, Dr. Gharbi played instrumental roles across major organizations and projects in the Middle East and beyond. From overseeing large-scale education infrastructure portfolios in Qatar to establishing project management frameworks for multi-billion-dollar railway programs, his work has consistently focused on aligning operational efficiency with strategic vision. His global project experience, spanning regions such as the UAE, Canada, Panama, and New Caledonia, reflects his ability to navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments while ensuring cost optimization and performance excellence.
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Gharbi’s academic and technical credentials further reinforce his position as a thought leader in the industry. Holding a Doctorate in Business Administration in Project and Programme Management, along with an Executive MBA and advanced certifications from globally recognized institutions including MIT, he brings a unique blend of academic rigor and practical expertise. His extensive list of professional certifications and memberships across leading international bodies highlights his commitment to continuous learning and industry advancement.
Dr. Gharbi’s innovation with ChatPM® is also recognized through intellectual property rights and international trademarks, underscoring the originality and impact of his contributions to the field. More than just a technological advancement, his work represents a shift in how organizations approach project management, moving towards intelligent, predictive, and fully integrated systems that can adapt to the increasing complexity of modern industries.
Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, Dr. Gharbi brings a truly global perspective to his work, bridging cultural and professional boundaries with ease. His ability to combine technological innovation with strategic leadership continues to inspire organizations to embrace transformation and achieve sustainable growth.
As industries across the Gulf region accelerate their focus on digitalization and large-scale development, Dr. Moez Gharbi remains a visionary leader driving meaningful change. His commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence positions him as a key figure shaping the future of project management and a professional to watch closely in 2026.
- LinkedIn:- Dr. Moez Gharbi
Winnie LIW
Winnie LIW stands as a compelling example of how heritage, innovation, and entrepreneurial vision can come together to create meaningful impact in today’s evolving global industries. As the CEO of Kingdom of Esther, she has successfully carved a niche at the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sustainability, and modern beauty solutions, transforming age-old healing wisdom into globally relevant wellness offerings.
Her journey began in an environment deeply rooted in tradition. Growing up around her father’s medical hall, which he operated for more than three decades, Winnie was exposed early to the world of medicinal herbs and holistic healing practices. This early immersion shaped her understanding of natural remedies and instilled a lasting respect for the balance between nature and science. While her professional path eventually took her into the modern business landscape, a pivotal reconnection with academic experts reignited her passion for TCM and led her to reimagine its potential in contemporary wellness.
Through the Kingdom of Esther, Winnie has brought this vision to life by developing innovative skincare and bodycare solutions that combine traditional herbal knowledge with scientific advancement. Her brand focuses on patented formulations that integrate Chinese herbs, plant-based extracts, and essential vitamins, designed to deliver visible and effective results within a short period of consistent use. This ability to merge authenticity with performance has positioned her brand as a trusted name in natural cosmetics, appealing to a global audience increasingly drawn toward clean, sustainable, and results-driven products.
Under her leadership, the company has expanded its reach beyond local markets, gaining presence in prominent retail platforms such as Singapore’s SQ KrisShop and China’s JD Mall. With a growing footprint across regions including the United States, GCC, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and India, Winnie continues to drive international expansion with a clear focus on accessibility and scalability. Her long-term vision extends beyond products, aiming to build a comprehensive ecosystem that includes wellness spas and holistic health experiences, ultimately promoting beauty that is nurtured from within.
Winnie’s impact has not gone unnoticed. Both she and her company have received significant recognition across multiple platforms, reflecting not only business success but also her commitment to innovation and sustainability. Kingdom of Esther has been honored with accolades such as the SG SME500 Awards in 2024 and 2025, along with distinctions for excellence in TCM-based skincare and professional business solutions. Additional recognition, including sustainability awards and consecutive honors from prestigious institutions, further reinforces the brand’s credibility and forward-thinking approach.
On a personal level, Winnie has been celebrated globally for her leadership and strategic vision. Her recognition as Business Strategist of the Year, along with features in prominent business publications and listings among influential leaders, highlights her ability to navigate competitive markets while staying true to her core values. These acknowledgments reflect not only her achievements but also her role as a thought leader shaping the future of wellness and beauty.
Beyond awards and expansion, what truly defines Winnie LIW’s journey is her commitment to preserving cultural heritage while adapting it for modern relevance. She represents a new generation of leaders who understand that innovation does not always mean reinventing the wheel, it often lies in rediscovering and refining what already exists. By bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary demands, she continues to inspire a shift toward more conscious, sustainable, and holistic approaches in the industry.
As industries evolve and consumer expectations shift, Winnie LIW remains at the forefront, demonstrating how purpose-driven leadership can create lasting value. Her journey reflects resilience, clarity of vision, and an unwavering dedication to excellence, making her a standout figure among visionary leaders driving meaningful change in 2026.
- LinkedIn:- Winnie L.
Conclusion
As the Gulf continues to accelerate its journey toward innovation, sustainability, and global influence, the leaders featured in “Gulf’s Visionary Leaders Driving Industry Change in 2026” stand as powerful examples of what purposeful leadership truly looks like. Each of them, whether advancing artificial intelligence in leadership and project management, transforming education through creative expression, redefining construction through precision and sustainability, or bridging traditional wellness with modern science, is contributing to a future that is both progressive and deeply rooted in value.
What unites Ann Palmer FCCT, Arya Chitra, Greg Fuller, Dr. Moez Gharbi, and Winnie LIW is not just their professional excellence, but their ability to translate vision into measurable impact. Their journeys reflect resilience, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset that embraces change rather than resists it. Through their work, they are not only shaping their respective industries but also influencing how organizations, communities, and future leaders approach growth, innovation, and purpose.
As you reflect on their stories, it becomes clear that the future of the Gulf is being built by leaders who understand the importance of combining expertise with empathy, strategy with innovation, and tradition with transformation. Their paths serve as both inspiration and a blueprint for those looking to create meaningful change in their own fields.
The momentum is undeniable, and with leaders like these at the forefront, the Gulf’s future is not just promising, it is transformative.
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