In the rapidly evolving business landscape of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), female leaders are at the forefront of a remarkable transformation. We decided to spotlight the top ten female leaders who are not just excelling in their respective fields but are also redefining the essence of leadership, challenging traditional norms, and setting new benchmarks for success across various industries.
Their dynamic leadership introduces fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to traditionally male-dominated boardrooms. These women act as catalysts for change, driving economic growth and promoting social transformation across the region. By breaking through barriers, they empower a new generation of women to aim for senior leadership roles, fostering a culture that values talent and equality.
This pivotal shift toward inclusive growth is reshaping the GCC’s approach to business and leadership. As these influential women continue to advance and inspire, they pave the way for a more diverse and innovative future, underscoring the importance of diversity in fostering robust economic environments.
Top 10 Female Leaders Redefining Leadership in the GCC
Below is the list of the top 10 female leaders who are redefining the leadership and business landscape in the GCC region:
1. Sabrina Benalia | Pioneering Entrepreneurial Leadership in the GCC
Sabrina Benalia is a dynamic 32 year old serial entrepreneur based in Dubai. As the Head of International GCC companies, Sabrina has developed a significant network of high-potential partners. She stands out for her achievements in marketing and consulting for private offices in Dubai, and she leads several businesses across the MENA region with ambitious international projects.
Her relentless commitment, strategic insight, and leadership have been crucial in forging strong international partnerships and fostering economic development throughout the MENA region. Known for her exceptional ability to navigate complex markets with a forward-thinking approach, Sabrina Benalia continues to inspire through her significant contributions to the entrepreneurial landscape of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Her versatile career spans various innovative sectors, particularly in the aesthetics and dental industries, where she drives excellence with a well established strategy for medical tourism in Dubai.
LinkedIn | Hollysmile Dubai | Website
2. Fariha Salahuddin | Pioneering Modern HR Consultancy and Coaching in the GCC
Fariha Salahuddin, the visionary behind Farihas.com, is redefining human resource practices in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) with her innovative, global, and personalized approach. Founded in April 2023, Farihas.com quickly established itself as a leader in the HR consultancy and coaching industry, accruing over 15 corporate and 25 private clients within its first year.
With a storied career spanning more than 25 years, across three continents at global Fortune 100 companies, including GSK, Citi, Unilever, and PepsiCo, Fariha has brought her vast experience and cultural insights from around the world to the heart of Dubai. Her roles have ranged from SVP CHRO at Pepsi AMEA to Global VP Talent at GSK, showcasing her ability to drive transformative change within major organizations. As a Certified Professional Coach, Hogan Assessor, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Team Coach, and image consultant, Fariha’s expertise is multifaceted and deeply integrated into her practice.
At Farihas.com, Fariha and her team offer a range of services aimed at both organizational and personal transformation. Signature programs like the 120-Day Transformation Program and the 90-Day Personal Image Transformation are designed to align clients’ personal goals with their professional visions, fostering fulfilled and impactful lives. Additional services include organizational restructuring, leadership effectiveness, talent management, and culture transformation, all tailored to meet the evolving needs of today’s complex business environment.
Fariha’s work has not only transformed businesses but also garnered her numerous accolades, such as the ‘UAE Business – HR Thought Leader Award 2023’ and the ‘HR Transformation Coach Award 2023.’ Her recognition as one of Asia’s 100 Women Power Leaders in 2023 underlines her influential presence in the industry.
Reflecting on her achievements and the impact of Farihas.com, Fariha notes, “Our mission at Farihas.com extends beyond conventional HR consultancy. We are dedicated to pioneering advanced HR, coaching, and wellness practices that promote a sense of belonging and success both on individual and at organisational level, ensuring that every organization and individual we work with is equipped to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and challenging world.”
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3. Mona Almuhr | Steering Strategic Change and Empowerment in Saudi Arabia
Mona Almuhr exemplifies transformative leadership in Saudi Arabia’s dynamic construction and engineering sectors. As a Strategic Client and Stakeholders Engagement Manager, she has played a crucial role in strategic mega-projects that shape the architectural landscape of the Kingdom, including New Murabba, DGDA, Qiddiya, and King Salman Park. Her strategic acumen and effective management of key relationships have significantly contributed to realizing the ambitious Vision 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia on the global economic frontier.
Mona’s leadership style is deeply embedded in transformational practices, inspiring her teams to surpass their benchmarks and embrace innovation. “Leadership is about inspiring people to achieve greatness, not dictating their every move,” Mona states. She fosters an environment where creativity and leadership flourish, significantly enhancing project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction. Her commitment to professional development is evident through her participation in elite programs like INSEAD’s Leadership Program and the Artificial Intelligence Program by Leadership Greater Washington, which have refined her strategic insights and leadership skills.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mona is a fervent advocate for women’s empowerment within the GCC. Her involvement as a speaker at the World Ministerial Conference and her consultancy with UNESCO underscore her dedication to bridging the gender gap in Saudi Arabia. She notes, “Empowering women is crucial for sustainable development, and it starts with transformative leadership and inclusive policies.” As Saudi Arabia strides towards a more inclusive economy, Mona’s efforts ensure women are key players in this evolution.
4. Divya Sreekumar | Trailblazer in Legal Affairs and Strategic Alliances
Divya Sreekumar stands out as a formidable leader in legal affairs and compliance, currently holding a prestigious position as the Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance for The Private Office of H.H Ahmed Bin Faisal Al-Qassimi. Her role is pivotal in shaping strategic alliances and policies that impact significant sectors. Divya’s responsibilities extend to being a member of the RAK Ports team in Ras Al Kaimah to many other complex business and legal landscapes.
With a rich academic background including a bachelor’s in economics, a Masters in Economic Analysis, and an MBA in Law, Divya is currently advancing her knowledge further by pursuing a PhD in Business Administration. Her academic prowess complements her extensive practical experience, marked by her tenure in the US where she successfully managed multiple businesses and founded D A Bespoke Consultants. Her entrepreneurial spirit is backed by a keen analytical ability and innovative strategies that enhance operational effectiveness and foster growth.
Divya’s leadership is not only recognized within her immediate professional environment but also by international bodies. She has received accolades from multiple embassies and consulates for her efforts in resolving complex issues for citizens. Her approach to business and legal practice is deeply influenced by her Indian heritage and American professional exposure, emphasizing the importance of understanding and leveraging legal frameworks to drive success. Divya’s motto, “The key to a successful business is to know the limits of the legal framework, exploit it and know your product or service better than anyone else couple it with a burning desire to succeed,” encapsulates her strategic approach to overcoming challenges and leading with vision and integrity.
5. Sara Al-Mohsin | Spearheading Revolutionary Projects in Saudi Arabia
Sara Al-Mohsin stands as a paragon of visionary leadership in the oil industry of Saudi Arabia. Her journey began with an ambitious project aimed at establishing a major facility—a venture that not only promised to enhance operational capacities but also aimed to propel economic growth across the region. With dedication and strategic foresight, Sara transformed what was initially an unplanned project into a cornerstone of industry development, setting new benchmarks for project management and execution in the oil sector.
Under her stewardship, the project became a catalyst for significant revenue generation and a model for future mega-projects within Saudi Arabia. Sara’s role was instrumental in navigating complex challenges and steering the project towards its successful completion, thereby laying down a legacy of achievement that continues to inspire industry standards.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sara is committed to fostering talent and encouraging personal and professional growth among her peers and subordinates. Her efforts are directed towards creating a learning-centric environment, enriching the lives of those around her and ensuring that the path to 2030 is marked by sustainable development and inclusive growth. Her ethos is captured in her belief that each project is a step towards broader developmental goals for Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030’s objectives.
Sara’s leadership is characterized by her analytical prowess and a deep understanding of business dynamics, which she aptly applies to drive strategic initiatives and innovative solutions. Her active participation in key industry events and her role in facilitating essential dialogues at forums highlight her influence and commitment to shaping the industry’s future.
6. Renu Singh | A Visionary Leading the Green Revolution in Energy
Renu Singh’s professional journey is marked by a bold transition from an oil trader with expertise in the Far East and Middle Eastern markets to an innovative entrepreneur in the renewable energy sector. Her foundational experience in commodity trading empowered her to establish her own firm, leading to further ventures in technology and infrastructure.
Motivated by her commitment to environmental sustainability, Renu founded Rean Earth post-pandemic. This venture is dedicated to revolutionizing the green energy landscape by designing, developing, and optimizing premier carbon credit projects. Through the use of advanced technology, Rean Earth is not only contributing to the carbon offset market but is also pioneering the creation of a comprehensive green hydrogen ecosystem. This initiative reflects her vision of integrating sustainable practices with economic growth and technological advancement.
Renu Singh’s approach is a testament to her role as a sustainability pioneer, focused on fostering innovative solutions for a greener future. Her work illustrates a profound dedication to impacting the global energy sector, highlighting her belief in sustainable development and her commitment to ecological responsibility.
7. Aruna Vaz: Steering Global Risk Management and Compliance with Vision and Expertise
Aruna Vaz, a veteran in Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance, has significantly shaped the strategic paths of organizations worldwide. With over two decades of rich professional experience and more than seven years in pivotal leadership roles, Aruna has been instrumental in driving major projects in the compliance and risk sectors. Her extensive career spans across notable global locations including Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and the UAE.
Presently based in Dubai, Aruna serves as the Risk Director at M2 the Crypto Exchange registered in ADGM-UAE. In this role, she oversees Operational Risk Initiatives and strategieson risk management frameworks that underpin critical business decisions and growth. Her previous position at Aster DM Healthcare involved managing the Enterprise Risk Management and Loss Prevention across the company’s vast network.
Before moving to Dubai, Aruna worked at M&G plc in India, where she was a key player in developing risk strategies that fortified organizational resilience. She has been recognized for her leadership at various international forums, including the Everywoman Global Summit and G(P)RC summit. Awards and accolades such as being a finalist at the Women in GRC Awards and winning the Asia’s top 100 Women Power Leaders 2023underscore her impact in the field.
Aruna is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusivity within professional communities. She founded the Diversity and Inclusion chapter in Mumbai and has consistently worked towards empowering women in leadership roles across sectors.
She even stated her future visions, saying, “To use my skills, expertise and network to create a holistic, inclusive and included environment for women to be decision makers and at the forefront of change. If I am the only woman in a room full of men, I have to ensure my voice is heard and I make a positive impact.”
8. Wafa AlObaidat | Leading with Vision and Empowerment
Wafa AlObaidat, the Founder & CEO of Playbook, is redefining leadership within the MENA region through her digital membership networking platform. Playbook is designed to empower and connect women and executive leaders, fostering an environment that champions inclusivity and professional growth. Her role as a serial entrepreneur and an award-winning leader is complemented by her recognition as a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, highlighting her influence and commitment to positive change.
As an experienced speaker and advocate for entrepreneurship, Wafa’s work centers on empowering women and youth, catalyzing entrepreneurship, and scaling companies in the Middle East. Her approach is both revolutionary and grounded in practical strategies for substantial business growth. She was named one of the top 50 most influential women leaders in business by Business in the Gulf, underscoring her impact and authority in the region.
At the heart of Wafa’s vision is a commitment to inclusivity and equity in leadership. Through Playbook, she envisions a world where leadership transcends traditional boundaries, fostering a diverse and vibrant leadership landscape. Her quote captures the essence of her mission: “My vision for the future is a world where leadership is synonymous with inclusivity and equity. At Playbook, we’re not just fostering skills; we’re cultivating leaders who will drive positive change and influence across industries and geographies.” By nurturing a supportive community with resources like education and mentorship, Wafa is paving the way for a future where women’s leadership is integral to societal success and innovation.
LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | X | Playbook Instagram | Playbook LinkedIn
9. Shreya Rammohan | Pioneering Career Progression for Women with Playbook
Shreya Rammohan, as the Co-Founder & Chief Marketing Officer of Playbook, is at the forefront of transforming career progression for women. Her extensive background, spanning over 12 years in marketing consulting across various sectors in the Middle East, has equipped her with the insights necessary to drive Playbook’s mission forward. Under her leadership, Playbook has launched expert-led masterclasses and community initiatives specifically tailored to elevate women’s careers.
With a proven track record that includes leading the successful startup “Women Who Read,” recognized by the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) of the U.S. State Department, Shreya’s strategic acumen is evident. Her efforts alongside Playbook’s CEO have significantly scaled the business, enhancing its offerings and reach.
Driven by a vision to not only encourage but also celebrate women’s leadership, Shreya is committed to creating a more equitable professional landscape. She articulates this commitment by stating, “My vision for the future is to create a world where women’s leadership is not just encouraged but celebrated. At Playbook, we are dedicated to building an equitable platform where women can access the tools, mentorship, and community support needed to excel in their careers.” Through continuous innovation and expansion, Shreya aims to empower a global network of women, ready to transform industries and societies with their leadership.
LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | X | Playbook Instagram | Playbook LinkedIn
10. Dr. Reem J. Alattas | Pioneering AI and Cloud Innovations in Technology
Dr. Reem J. Alattas stands as a distinguished figure in the field of technology, currently enhancing the realm of spend management as the Director of Value Advisory at SAP in Saudi Arabia and EMEA. With a robust background that includes a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering and the distinction of being a NASA Datanaut, Dr. Alattas has marked her career with significant achievements and innovations.
Her expertise is not only recognized through her role at SAP but also through her active engagement in the broader tech community as one of the top AI influencers on LinkedIn. Dr. Alattas has made substantial contributions to technology with her four US patents and numerous publications in over 20 scientific journals, underscoring her commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in artificial intelligence.
Previously holding the groundbreaking position of the first female Technical Account Manager at Microsoft Saudi Arabia, Dr. Alattas has continued to break barriers and foster a culture of inclusivity and innovation. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning her accolades such as the Entrepreneur Innovation Award and a nomination as a Women of Innovation finalist.
Dr. Alattas is passionately committed to leveraging AI and cloud computing to transform industries and improve lives. This commitment is tightly aligned with her dedication to Saudi Vision 2030, where she aims to accelerate economic growth and societal progress through advanced technologies. As a mentor, she dedicates herself to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders, ensuring that the future of technology is as dynamic and diverse as the world it aims to serve.
LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram
Vision for the Future
These trailblazing women are not just content with their personal or organizational achievements; they are deeply invested in the socio-economic fabric of the GCC. Many are advocates for policies that support women’s economic inclusion and leadership, which are crucial for the region’s diverse and fast-growing economies. Their vision extends beyond individual success to include the broader goal of uplifting entire communities and paving the way for future generations of women leaders.
Conclusion
As the GCC continues to evolve, the role of female leaders will be increasingly crucial in steering the region towards new heights of global competitiveness. Encouraging more women to take up leadership roles, supported by policies that foster an inclusive and equitable work environment, will ensure that the leadership landscape in the GCC reflects the diversity and talent of its people. These top ten female leaders are just the beginning of a profound shift towards a more balanced and innovative leadership paradigm in the region.
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