Business in the GCC region has been on a fast track, largely thanks to a new wave of visionary business leaders in the GCC. These leaders aren’t just managing companies; they’re driving progress, creating new opportunities, and helping the region make its mark globally. Their approaches may differ, but each brings something unique to the table, pushing boundaries in sectors like finance, technology, and energy. This list spotlights some of the most successful business leaders in the GCC, showing how they’re shaping the future of business in the region.
The GCC is known for its forward-thinking approach, and business leaders in the GCC are right at the heart of it. With a mix of experience, strategic insight, and bold ideas, they’re proving that success in the Gulf is about more than profits. It’s about creating sustainable growth, opening doors for the next generation, and positioning the GCC as a leader in today’s business world.
1. Lario Lovric | Architect of Safety & Security in the GCC
Mr. Lario Lovric, CEO of Aldra Alameen Security Services LLC, is a leader who has established a remarkable presence in the GCC’s security landscape. Based in Dubai, Aldra Alameen has become a key player in securing critical oil and gas infrastructures, particularly offshore oil rigs and refineries, throughout the region. Mr Lovric’s leadership has driven the company’s focus on proactive security measures, protecting these vital assets from threats such as maritime piracy, terrorism, and sabotage.
With a career rooted in innovation and strategic foresight, Mr Lovric has ensured that Aldra Alameen Security operates at the cutting edge of security technologies. His approach involves the integration of advanced surveillance systems and drone-based patrolling, providing enhanced protection for energy platforms. Mr Lovric’s ability to stay ahead of evolving threats has earned Aldra Alameen a reputation for reliability and excellence in the security industry.
Mr Lovric’s commitment to the ongoing development of his workforce is another hallmark of his leadership. He has implemented comprehensive training programs to equip security personnel with the skills required for crisis management and emergency response, ensuring that Aldra Alameen’s team is always prepared to handle the unique challenges of the region.
Looking ahead, Mr Lovric envisions expanding Aldra Alameen’s expertise into the renewable energy sector, aligning with the GCC’s efforts to diversify its energy resources. His leadership continues to position the company as a leader in both traditional and emerging energy security sectors, ensuring that Aldra Alameen remains a trusted partner for safeguarding the future of energy infrastructure in the region.
LinkedIn | Aldra Alameen Security Services | Website
2. Marta Paiar | Pioneering Tech Investments and Decarbonization in the Energy Sector
Marta Paiar is a dynamic entrepreneur and corporate executive with two decades of experience spanning Europe, Africa, the USA, the Middle East, and Central & South America. Known for her expertise in tech investments, cleantech, fintech, and venture building, she is a key figure in the drive to decarbonize and transform the energy landscape. As a Global Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem at Worley, Marta combines her passion for technology and sustainability with an unwavering commitment to business growth and stakeholder success.
Throughout her career, Marta has excelled in top-tier management consulting and blue-chip companies, establishing a reputation for visionary leadership and cultural adaptability. Whether leading global teams or mentoring startups, Marta is recognized as a motivational force, frequently sharing her insights as a keynote speaker at international events. Her approach is collaborative and forward-thinking, inspiring others to embrace sustainable practices and innovative business solutions in the rapidly evolving energy sector.
With a passion for startups and a proven ability to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, Marta has consistently driven impactful partnerships and strategic alliances. Her work today reflects her dedication to pioneering sustainable, tech-driven ventures that align with the future of energy and cleantech, making her a true influencer in the industry’s transformation.
3. James Babb | Championing Servant Leadership Across International Borders
James Babb embodies servant leadership through his three-decade international career in audit, consulting, and corporate finance, consistently focusing on organizational and individual growth. With experience in over 40 countries, he has shown a commitment to driving business growth while fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity.
In his leadership roles in the Middle East, James operated with a “shadow CEO” mindset, overseeing more than 7,000 professionals at Deloitte Middle East and KPMG Lower Gulf. His dedication to strategy execution and cross-cultural and cross-functional team development reflects his servant leadership approach. By prioritizing top-line growth and strategic investments, he enabled significant successes, including multi-million-dollar global bid wins, new innovative firm programs, and industry recognition. At Deloitte, he led a cultural transformation, aligning the firm’s strategic goals with its brand values. This effort, recognized as the greatest growth in the firm’s history, highlights his belief that leadership is about enabling others to succeed.
James’s focus on corporate social responsibility further demonstrates his servant leadership. He introduced programs that fostered community and purpose within the firms he led, enhancing internal culture and contributing to brand recognition and sales growth. His impact is also reflected in industry accolades, including KPMG’s global brand awards and Deloitte’s top 25% rating as a Markets leader across the global network.
“I’ve learned that servant leadership within an international context is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it requires understanding and valuing diverse perspectives. My experience has taught me that true influence comes from listening, building trust, and serving the unique needs of each team and community.”
In 2016, Yale University invited James to join their inaugural Global Executive Leadership Program, recognizing his achievements in servant leadership. As a Yale alumnus, he was later elected Co-President of the University’s alumni chapter in Nevada, fostering community engagement for the past three years.
Now operating independently, James applies his global business acumen to provide board leadership for companies across various sectors. His roles, including Audit and Risk Committee and Advisory Board Chairmanships, emphasize his ongoing commitment to sound corporate governance and strategic direction.
His dedication to servant leadership extends beyond business. He co-founded the Emirates American Football League, volunteers with the Special Olympics, and mentors students and entrepreneurs at Dubai’s Capital Club. By focusing on uplifting others, whether in business or community settings, James Babb stands as a beacon of servant leadership. His blend of strategic vision and a people-first approach illustrates that true leadership is measured by the success and growth it inspires in others.
4. Ansari Shabnam Ateeq | Non-Profit Leader in Healthcare Education & Medical Simulation
Ansari Shabnam Ateeq is a visionary leader who has bridged the gap between business acumen and non-profit initiatives in the healthcare education sector. As the Founder and President of Healthcare Simulation Middle East, she leads the first and only US 501(C)(3) tax-exempt organization dedicated to healthcare simulation professionals in the region. Under her leadership, the organization has become a groundbreaking platform, showcasing her ability to navigate complex international regulatory environments.
With over 18 years of leadership experience across FMCG, medical technology, and healthcare education in the Middle East, Ansari’s business savvy is evident in her ability to secure major partnerships. Through strategic alliances with tech giants like Google and Apple, she has leveraged corporate resources to drive social good. Healthcare Simulation Middle East’s distinction as the only non-profit in the region accepted into both the Apple Developer Program and Google for Developers is a testament to her success.
Ansari’s global impact is also seen in ‘theSimTech,’ a website acquired by Healthcare Simulation Middle East, serving over 250,000 visitors with free resources. Her approach to non-profit management mirrors that of successful businesses, with a focus on accountability and performance. This approach has earned the organization a place on the Percent Causes Portal alongside global icons like UNICEF and WWF.
Her leadership philosophy, inspired by innovators like Steve Jobs, is reflected in her book, Steve Jobs Unfiltered: 55 Lessons for Gen Z & Gen Alpha Innovators. Ansari’s ability to anticipate and address unrecognized needs has been key to her success. Looking to the future, she is positioning Healthcare Simulation Middle East to drive corporate social responsibility and healthcare excellence, recognizing the growing demand for meaningful corporate contributions.
Ansari’s qualifications further underscore her expertise, including an MBA and certifications from prestigious institutions like the Project Management Institute and the Association of Talent Development.
Ansari Shabnam Ateeq stands as a transformative figure, combining non-profit leadership with business strategy to drive sustainable healthcare education across the Middle East and beyond. Her ability to balance multiple roles – as a non-profit leader, author, and subject matter expert across multiple fields – showcases the versatility of modern business leaders making the ranks of the most successful business leaders in the GCC.
LinkedIn I Healthcare Simulation Middle East I theSimTech I Website
5. Zaki Nashif | Leading Sustainable Energy and Water Solutions in the MENA Region
As the Founder and CEO of Energetica, Zaki Nashif has dedicated nearly two decades to transforming the energy landscape, transitioning from traditional oil and gas roots to become a leading advocate for renewable energy and sustainable water solutions. With a career foundation in managing large-scale infrastructure projects, Zaki’s early experience provided him with the technical depth needed to navigate the complexities of the energy sector. This foundation became a launchpad as he embraced the shift toward clean energy solutions, ultimately leading projects across diverse regions, including the UAE, UK, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Iraq, and Africa.
At Energetica, Zaki has led Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects focused on solar, wind, waste-to-energy, and water desalination, aiming to redefine the region’s approach to sustainable resource management. Energetica has quickly established itself as a premier advisory and consulting partner within the MENA region, where it plays an instrumental role in guiding clients through every phase of competitive, bid-based energy projects. By assisting clients in areas from prequalification to bid management and financial closure, Zaki and his team empower organizations to succeed in transformative energy and water initiatives that align with global sustainability goals.
Looking to the future, Zaki envisions Energetica as a catalyst for sustainable energy and water solutions, with a mission centered on client-focused, end-to-end support. Leveraging advanced technology and industry expertise, Energetica is committed to building resilient ecosystems for energy, particularly as the UAE and other MENA nations pursue ambitious targets in energy security and sustainability. This vision includes not only achieving project success for clients but also contributing to a larger, sustainable environmental framework that benefits communities across the region.
Energetica’s impact extends beyond its consulting services; it serves as a beacon for sustainable business practices in the energy sector, setting new industry benchmarks for efficiency, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Through each project, Zaki Nashif is driven by a vision of cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions that not only serve clients but contribute to the well-being of communities and the global environment.
LinkedIn | Energetica Consulting | Website
6. Vladislav Sapozhnikov | Leading Green Innovation with Tech-Driven Solutions
Vladislav Sapozhnikov, Co-Founder and CEO of Green Tips, is at the forefront of driving sustainability through tech-based environmental solutions. A seasoned IT entrepreneur, Vladislav brings over a decade of experience in fintech, blockchain, and crypto, using these technologies to create impactful climate solutions. His leadership has attracted over $40 million in funding for sustainability projects, a testament to his vision and ability to align investors with meaningful change.
At Green Tips, Vladislav and his team are committed to reshaping how businesses and individuals approach carbon reduction. “Our goal is to make a real impact on the planet by developing tools that simplify eco-friendly practices,” he shares. Through Green Tips’ platform, users are empowered to engage with carbon offset projects, with a target of achieving a 30% reduction in carbon footprints across industries. “Technology and sustainability don’t have to be at odds. In fact, the future demands that we bring them together,” he emphasizes.
Passionate about combining technology with practical environmental solutions, Vladislav sees innovation and collaboration as key drivers for a greener planet. He continues to build Green Tips with the vision of creating accessible, transformative solutions that benefit both the environment and the communities they serve.
LinkedIn | Green Tips | Website
7. Nivine Issa | Leading Environmental Change and Empowering Women in Sustainability
When considering the most successful business leaders of 2024, Nivine Issa stands out. As the Founder and Managing Director of Terra Nexus, Nivine brings over 13 years of experience in consulting, specializing in the built environment and infrastructure sectors. Her exceptional leadership and contributions to the field earned her the title of Construction Week Middle East’s Female Leader of the Year in 2022.
Nivine’s vision for Terra Nexus was to create a comprehensive environmental consulting firm that embeds sustainability at every level. “At Terra Nexus, we operate under the principle of ‘Building with Nature,’” she explains, “ensuring our projects not only meet environmental standards but actively support the ecosystem.” Today, Terra Nexus is known for its excellence in technical expertise and advisory services, which are transforming regional projects with a focus on sustainable development.
Her journey as an entrepreneur reflects a keen skill in both business growth and people leadership. Nivine is not only reshaping environmental consulting but is also deeply committed to empowering women in the field. She has fostered an inclusive culture at Terra Nexus, encouraging female professionals to step into leadership roles and bring fresh perspectives. “Empowering women in the environmental field is essential for creating diverse, innovative solutions,” she notes, underscoring her dedication to a more sustainable and equal industry.
LinkedIn | Terra Nexus | Company LinkedIn
8. Mohamed Helal | Visionary in Strategic Finance and Corporate Leadership
Mohamed Helal, Group CFO and Senior Vice President of Finance and IT at Al Watania for Industries, is a distinguished leader in strategic finance who has been shaping financial landscapes across the MENA region for over three decades. His career, spanning 31 years, reflects a dedication to growth and risk management that drives profitability and strengthens operational capabilities.
“Strategic financial planning is about fueling growth and navigating risks with precision,” Helal says, encapsulating his approach to corporate leadership. His extensive skill set includes financial forecasting, competitive analysis, and overseeing complex financial frameworks. Backed by an MBA in Financial Management and certifications like CMA and CTP, Helal’s credentials position him as an influential force in finance.
Throughout his tenure as CFO at Al Watania, Helal has transformed financial processes, creating strategies that boost liquidity and align with the company’s ambitious growth vision. “In my role, I’ve championed a financial transformation that enhances our organization’s resilience and readiness for future opportunities,” he reflects.
Recognized as one of the Top 50 CFOs in KSA and nominated as a Global 200 Power Leader in Finance 2024, Helal regularly shares his insights at top industry events like the CFO Riyadh Vision & Innovation Summit and the World Finance Forum in Dubai.
Helal’s leadership philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Effective financial management drives not only business success but also fuels sustainable innovation within the industry.” His work continues to inspire financial practices and leadership standards across the global business world.
LinkedIn | Facebook | X | Instagram | Website
9. Dr. Reem J. Alattas | Innovating AI and Cloud Technology for a Transformative Future
LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram
10. Omer Zakaria | Pioneering Saudi Arabia’s Recruitment Evolution
Conclusion
The influence of these business leaders in the GCC reaches far beyond their own companies, setting high standards and fostering a culture of innovation across the region. Through their achievements, they’re proving what’s possible in the Gulf and inspiring future entrepreneurs to push even further. As they continue to shape industries and build opportunities, these leaders showcase the GCC’s strength and potential on the global stage, promising a bright future filled with growth and progress.
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