GCC is a hub full of business talent. Every year, new names appear with fresh ideas and a clear vision of where they want to go. Some work in technology; others run companies in trade, energy, retail, or services. What they have in common is the ability to take an idea and turn it into a tangible reality. In 2025, the top 10 rising entrepreneurs on this list are the ones to watch.
They are not only growing their own companies but are also shaping the way business works in the region. Some are building products that solve local problems. Others are opening markets outside the Gulf. They are proving that success here comes from hard work, learning quickly, and understanding how to adapt.
These leaders are not in the same stage of their journey. Some have already built strong brands. Others are just starting to scale up. However, what makes them all exceptional is that each one is moving forward with a mix of skill, vision, and persistence. The top 10 Rising entrepreneurs we cover here are setting examples for new entrepreneurs and showing that there is no single path to building something that lasts.
What to Expect | Top 10 Rising entrepreneurs
In the sections that follow, you will read about each of the top 10 Rising entrepreneurs and how they have reached this point. We will share what they do, what they have achieved, and the choices that helped them get there. You will also see how their work is shaping industries in the Gulf, from digital platforms to manufacturing, hospitality, and beyond.
1. Stephen Porter | From Battlefield to Expert Consultancy
As a former British Army Sergeant Major, Stephen Porter is currently the Founder and COO of Sirius Solutions Middle East, a performance consultancy redefining leadership across the GCC. His journey from battlefield to boardroom has earned him a reputation as a transformative force in executive development. At the core of his approach is The Corporate Hero Effect—a pioneering leadership framework grounded in neuroscience and elite behavioral profiling. This model isolates and cultivates the traits of high-pressure decision-makers, enabling businesses to recruit, develop, and retain leaders who thrive in complexity.
At Sirius Solutions, Stephen leads the strategic and operational delivery of bespoke leadership, coaching, and development solutions across the Middle East, transforming people and performances at organizations. Working directly with his clients, from government entities to corporate leaders, Stephen designs and delivers training that meets top-notch international standards.
Stephen’s vision for the future is bold: to position Sirius Solutions as the Gulf’s leading business academy for high-performance coaching, cultural intelligence, and accredited leadership qualifications. Through targeted nationalization programs and corporate partnerships, Stephen Porter is building a new leadership pipeline; one that equips emerging and seasoned executives alike with the mindset, resilience, and clarity required to shape the GCC’s next chapter.
2. Saskia Fokke | Pioneering GRC Excellence
With the launch of INTEGRTY partners, Saskia Fokke has redefined the way businesses navigate governance, risk and compliance (GRC). By combining deep regulatory expertise and a practical mindset, Saskia has established a consultancy firm designed to take the weight of GRC off the shoulders of business leaders. The key to INTEGRTY’s success: turning complex regulations into practical and impactful steps. “True impact happens when compliance stops being a box-ticking exercise and starts becoming a mindset embedded in your business,” Saskia says.
Building on more than two decades of international experience across the UAE, Europe, and the Caribbean, Saskia has positioned INTEGRTY as a trusted GRC partner for organisations ready to lead with confidence in uncertain times. As a boutique advisory firm, INTEGRTY delivers fast, clear, and business-savvy solutions grounded in deep regulatory insight. Whether serving insurers, brokers, and VASP firms, or players in the real estate and retail sector, INTEGRTY helps them navigate complex frameworks like DFSA, CBUAE, VARA, and international regulatory standards with clarity and confidence. Ruud Hageman, an experienced board member and entrepreneur, and partner in INTEGRTY, brings additional strategic insight and business acumen. His involvement strengthens our unique proposition: compliance solutions that are not only robust and practical but also fully aligned with broader business priorities and long-term strategy.
What sets INTEGRTY apart is its ability to make GRC accessible and relevant at all levels of an organization, from the reception desk to the boardroom. “I founded INTEGRITY because I saw how often compliance was reduced to paperwork.” Saskia explains, “But real integrity starts long before an inspection. It’s how decisions are made under pressure. It’s how teams behave when no one is watching.”
As a founder thriving in one of the world’s most ambitious business ecosystems, Saskia leads a growing team of specialists united by one purpose: helping values-driven companies turn governance into a competitive advantage. Driven by her vision to position her firm as the first call for organisations that want more than surface-level compliance, INTEGRTY has been offering impactful solutions whilst supporting clients’ sustainable success.
3. Nir Tahan – Leading Smart Farming with Vision, Integrity, and Innovation
Nir Tahan, a seasoned agronomist with over 30 years of global experience, is a pioneer in sustainable desert agriculture and smart farming innovation. Deeply familiar with the challenges of arid climates, Nir founded TAHAN – For Smart Farming (originally NT Agriprojects) in 2021 to deliver expert agricultural consulting tailored to every project’s unique needs.
Backed by a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, TAHAN provides comprehensive guidance for unique turnkey projects—helping clients turn an idea or vision into a thriving, profitable agricultural business. From feasibility studies to strategic execution, every detail is handled with precision, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to the client.
Nir’s approach is rooted in integrity. The company operates independently, without commissions or business ties to equipment or input suppliers—ensuring all decisions serve the client’s best interest.
Technology plays a key role in TAHAN’s consulting process. By leveraging state-of-the-art greenhouses and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) techniques, Nir promotes the integration of advanced systems, automation, and even robotics—selecting tools that maximize productivity, efficiency, and long-term value. But for him, technology is never the goal—it’s a means to achieve smarter, more sustainable farming.
Sustainability is at the core of TAHAN’s mission. The company helps clients reduce their environmental footprint by planning agricultural systems that incorporate renewable energy, integrated pest management (IPM), alternative substrates, and recycling practices.
Whether operating locally or internationally, Nir emphasizes honest communication, in-depth analysis, and solutions that are both practical and visionary. His dedication to long-term partnerships and measurable results positions TAHAN as a trusted leader in the future of farming.
Visit Website | LinkedIn Profile
4. Dr. Meritxell Vila-Fontes | Empowering the Middle East with Advanced Catalysts and a Vision for Local Manufacturing
As the Gulf region accelerates its energy transition and industrial diversification, Dr. Meritxell Vila-Fontes emerges as one of the leading voices in chemical innovation. With more than 35 years of global experience in catalysis, refining, and international business, she is now spearheading a strategic transformation in the Middle East through MERYT Chemicals LLC, based in Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Vila-Fontes is the Founder and CEO of both MERYT Chemicals LLC (UAE) and MERYT Catalysts & Innovation (Spain), two sister companies committed to delivering advanced catalyst and adsorbent solutions for the refining, petrochemical, and clean fuel sectors. What sets her apart is not only her scientific expertise, but also her business vision to bring that innovation directly into the hands of operators across the Gulf.
Ready to Supply: Opening the Door to Local Collaboration: Under her leadership, MERYT has already established a commercial presence in the region, with a full portfolio of catalysts and adsorbents. The company is currently undergoing supplier registration and qualification processes with key refineries and petrochemical clients across the GCC.
“We are here, on the ground, ready to serve. Our goal is to become a trusted technical partner for the region’s energy and chemical industries,” says Dr. Vila-Fontes.
From Vision to Industry: Building Local Manufacturing Capacity: Looking ahead, Dr. Vila-Fontes is preparing the next bold step: the establishment of a catalyst manufacturing facility in the UAE. Thanks to the confidence and backing of a local strategic investor, this future plant will enable regional formulation, adaptation, and testing of advanced materials tailored to local feedstocks and operational needs.
“Building this facility is about more than capacity. It’s about sovereignty, sustainability, and the empowerment of local industry,” she explains.
By combining technical know-how, industrial experience, and regional presence, MERYT is positioning itself to be a true enabler of the Gulf’s industrial ambitions.
Being named one of the “Gulf’s Top 20 Rising Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2025” is a reflection of Dr. Vila-Fontes’ unique blend of vision, execution, and commitment to the region. As MERYT continues to grow, her message remains clear:
“We’re here to create value today—and to build the future of the catalyst industry in the Gulf.”
LinkedIn | Meryt Chemical Website | Meryt Catalyst and Innovation LinkedIn
5. Billy McKeown | Transforming Industrial Landscape through Visionary Leadership
A seasoned professional with a demonstrated history of working in the Oil & Energy, Defence, and Marine landscapes, Billy McKeown is currently leading as the CEO of Marmion Group. Parallel to this, he also serves as the CEO of Invocean.
With a strong background in business development, Billy has done his MBA and MSc focused on Operations and Global Business Management from Anglia Ruskin University (UK). Highly skilled in leadership, negotiation, and business development, he has been a revolutionary force in empowering a wave of change in his field. A certified business analyst, Billy is an experienced professional, successfully serving many organizations throughout his career path.
Specialized in operating, manufacturing, and supplying products and services across multiple sectors, from Oil and Gas, Subsea, to Defence, Marmion Group delivers its services globally. Simultaneously, Invocean offers specialized services and subsea and surface products, particularly in the marine, defence, and offshore industries. As a crucial figure behind both organizations, Billy has been playing an instrumental role in redefining industrial services with cutting-edge solutions, and establishing both the companies as prominent names worldwide.
With strategic planning and management, Billy McKeown has driven excellence in the operations of Marmion Group, and Invocean, positioning them to redefine the future of their industries.
LinkedIn | Marmion Group | Invocean
6. Hanan Al-Shayeb | Transforming the FinTech Landscape
A visionary executive with over two decades of experience in FinTech, Digital Payments, E-commerce, and Crypto, Hanan Al-Shayeb currently leads as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Paytiko, and Payonet. Demonstrating a strong leadership approach in commercial growth, digital transformation, and market expansion, Hanan is passionate about creating innovative solutions, driving business success, and enhancing consumer experience.
With commendable milestones, including 100% YoY revenue growth as CCO, Hanan has established herself as an impactful FinTech leader. From enhancing payment orechestration solutions to building strategic partnerships with major global financial institutions, she has even played an instrumental role in leading Paytiko as well as Payonet as foremost players in the field. Hanan’s outstanding results and top-tier performance throughout high-growth startups and corporate environments have been well recognized by the management teams.
Given her trajectory, Hanan Alshayeb is likely to focus on scaling FinTech and Crypto innovations. She plans to expand fintech payment solutions and blockchain-based financial services in emerging markets, while driving adoption of digital assets in MENA and globally. Hanan even envisions to undertake executive leadership and board roles in the future, potentially taking CEO or board-level positions in FinTech, payments, or digital banking. And, aspires to mentor next-gen leaders in tech and finance.
In terms of venture building and investments, she is looking forward to speak with FinTech startups & folks , especially in AI-driven payments, Web3, and Payment institutions and crypto. Investing in disruptive financial technologies. Reflecting on public policy and regulation, Hanan will leverage her expertise to influence MENA’s digital payment regulations to foster innovation, alongside advising governments on Crypto frameworks and financial inclusion. Additionally, she will leverage her Wharton & Harvard Executive education to shape industry trends, and will likely speak at global FinTech conferences on digital transformation.
Emerging as a trailblazing FinTech leader, Hanan Al-Shayeb’s career highlights her dedication to scaling businesses, driving revenue, and leading digital payment revolutions.
7. Kushagra Mangal | From McDonald’s Crew to Real Estate Visionary
In the ever-evolving Dubai real estate industry, stories of ambition are common, but few resonate with the sheer depth of transformation as that of Kushagra Mangal, Founder and CEO of Elevation International Real Estate. With a remarkable ascent from the counters of McDonald’s in India to the boardrooms of Dubai, Kushagra’s success story is a bold narrative of resilience, reinvention, and purposeful leadership.
Beginning his career as a crew member at McDonald’s, Kushagra’s initial days laid the foundation of his leadership approach, teaching him the value of hard work and resilience. Realizing his passion for the real estate landscape, Kushagra founded Elevation International Real Estate, redefining success in this field. A highly competitive market, where credibility is a priority, his client-first philosophy has played an instrumental role in establishing the company as a major player in the region. With a belief that every deal is a confluence of dreams, trust, and aspirations, Kushagra leads his business with transparency and ethics.
With over 21 years of experience in this field, Kushagra believes success is beyond personal accolades; he reflects it’s all about collective prosperity. By empowering his team, enriching investors, and creating ecosystems of shared value in the region, he aspires to grow with the people around him and leave a strong legacy behind.
Envisioning the future, Kushagra’s ambition transcends transactions, with a vision to shape an industry standard built on trust, transparency, and empowerment. Standing as an inspiration for countless lives, Kushagra Mangal’s journey is a constant reminder that humble beginnings can never define the destination.
8. Dr. Elias Felemban | Veteran and Visionary in Aviation
Dr. Elias Felemban has built a remarkable career in the aviation industry spanning more than 42 years, beginning with Saudia Airlines. In 1987, he earned his FAA Certification, a major milestone that set the tone for his professional journey. Even as a junior at Solano College, he demonstrated ingenuity by reverse-engineering a missing elevator component and fabricating a replacement—an early sign of his technical skill and problem-solving mindset.
Over the years, Dr. Felemban has served as a rated Technician and Structural Engineer on Boeing, Airbus, and McDonnell Douglas aircraft, overseeing major structural repairs and complex modifications. His expertise grew as he became a rated assessor for Airbus and McDonnell Douglas fleets, building an assessment data bank for multiple aircraft types. In 1990, he advanced to Technical Inspection, later moving into the quality domain. In 2007, he led the implementation of Saudia Airlines’ first CAT-5 Digital IT Network infrastructure for MRO hangars—a forward-thinking digital transformation well ahead of its time in the region.
From 2009 to 2012, he served as Tooling Manager before joining the F-15SA manufacturing program as Deputy Program Manager. There, he played a key role in producing the fighter jet domestically at Alsalam in Riyadh until 2020. He later advised the Ministry of MIM in the localization sector and now manages tooling operations at Saudi Technique while serving as an advisor to several private industrial sectors.
Beyond aviation, Dr. Felemban has contributed significantly to community work. He served as Director of Alsharg Homes Association for nearly 15 years and was Makkah Regional Manager of the Saudi Society for Quality for three years. He is now the Co-founder of the Institutional Excellence Innovation Association.
Academically, he holds a PhD in International Diplomatic Relations from the London International College of Economics and Political Science. He lectures at universities on topics including quality management, AI in quality, KPIs, and industrial leadership. A prolific writer, he has authored 12 books—two nearing completion—and is known for titles such as Theyom the Moon and Secrets of the Airplane – Manufacturing Industry vs. MRO Industry. He is also a published columnist and an international expert in gemstones.
9. Dr. Desziree Richardson | Advocate for Humanity and Empowerment
Dr. Desziree Richardson is an award-winning global leader dedicated to women’s empowerment and human connection. For years, she has worked to amplify women’s voices, build confidence, and create opportunities for growth. Her focus on advocacy, branding, and leadership has made her a recognized figure in both humanitarian and empowerment circles.
A skilled vibratory voice healer and international speaker, Dr. Richardson is known for her ability to connect deeply with audiences. Her approach encourages people to value themselves, shift limiting perspectives, and embrace emotional intelligence as a tool for personal and collective well-being.
Her impact has been recognized worldwide, with more than 100 international awards honoring her work in leadership, empowerment, and humanitarian service. She is the founder of several initiatives, including Face of Woha, Women of Heart Awards, Gentlemen of Heart Awards, and Happy Mood Swagger. Each reflects her mission to promote inclusion, positivity, and compassion across cultures and communities.
Dr. Richardson’s vision is a balanced and fair society—one where love, equality, and acceptance are core values, and where resources are shared to support those in need. She believes that by reconnecting with our humanity and the natural world, we can create a more harmonious future for all.
Her work continues to inspire people globally, fostering a culture of respect, unity, and personal empowerment. Dr. Desziree Richardson’s legacy is defined by service, leadership, and a commitment to helping others realize their full potential.
10. Yasmine Gueddiche | Driving Innovation in the Fashion Retail Landscape
Born in Paris, with a French upbringing enriched by Arab heritage, Yasmine Gueddiche has built her career at the intersection of fashion, business, and innovation. “My journey—from the heart of Europe to the dynamic retail hubs of the Middle East—has been fueled by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a vision to redefine how fashion brands operate in an era of retail transformation,” she reflects.
Since relocating to Dubai four years ago, Yasmine has recognized the region as a thriving yet underexplored market—one that demands bold strategies, data-driven insights, and forward-thinking retail merchandising. Today, as part of Adidas Emerging Markets, she shapes retail merchandising strategies for a EUR 950M+ annual network, focusing on inventory optimization, strategic trading, and profitability growth.
Her career is marked by transformative initiatives, from introducing auto-replenishment systems to eliminate stock shortages, to deploying advanced analytics tools that revolutionize merchandising insights, and redefining pricing and markdown strategies to maximize revenue. “Whether shaping the product vision or driving large-scale innovation, my mission has always been to bridge creativity with strategy, data with intuition, and vision with execution,” she says.
For Yasmine, the Middle East is more than just a workplace—it is where she drives retail evolution, blending entrepreneurship with strategic insight to set new standards of success. In 2025, she remains committed to transforming businesses and inspiring the next generation of female leaders to challenge the status quo and make a lasting impact in the fashion industry.
Conclusion
The Gulf continues to be a place where determined leaders can succeed. The top 10 Rising entrepreneurs in this list are proof that ideas grow when they are backed by focus and consistent effort. They are running companies that bring value to customers, create jobs, and inspire other business owners to keep going.
As 2025 unfolds, these leaders will face challenges like any others. But their track records show that they can respond with the right decisions at the right time. Following their work will give a good sense of how the Gulf’s business landscape is changing and where new opportunities may appear.
Also Read: Top 10 Visionary Leaders Who Are Redefining Business in the GCC
Top 10 Business leaders Who Aim to Make Changes in GCC
