Mina Vucic | Page 2

WOW 2026 in Dubai brings together global HR leaders, innovators, and AI experts to explore how people, data, and technology are reshaping the workplace.

In its first international expansion, DIFC is taking the Dubai FinTech Summit to Pakistan — a strategic move that signals rising global confidence in the country’s digital finance ecosystem and reshapes the UAE–South Asia economic corridor.

Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF) has backed Dubai-born deep-tech company Immensa to accelerate its global expansion and scale its digital spare parts platform. The investment strengthens advanced manufacturing capabilities from the UAE while building more resilient, on-demand supply chains for industries worldwide.

Pakistan unveils the Islamabad AI Declaration, signaling a bold vision for a sovereign, responsible, and human-centric AI future aimed at boosting governance, economic growth, and digital transformation.

“Being limited by the place you’re born shouldn’t define your life. My mission is to help people overcome those barriers and unlock a world of possibilities, regardless of nationality or borders.” — Armand Arton, CEO & Founder, Arton Capital

AKI has announced its official partnership with the World Economic Forum, marking a strategic step in the Emirati group’s commitment to global collaboration, responsible private-sector leadership, and the development of future-ready economies. The partnership positions AKI at the center of international dialogue on sustainable growth, innovation, and long-term economic impact.

Four-time F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel opens up about life after racing, the lessons he’s taken from the track, and how he’s redefining success beyond the podium

Dr. Han, PhD in optoelectronics, founded Gate in 2013 to create a secure and transparent crypto trading platform, personally building its early infrastructure. Today, Gate serves over 20 million users worldwide, combining technical innovation, strong security measures, and a long-term vision for crypto adoption and institutional growth.

Riz Ahmed's rise from SmartCrowd client to CEO reflects a leader whose belief in the platform runs deeper than strategy—it's personal. Now, he steps in to shape a new era of accessible, transparent investment for the region.

Hasnae Taleb is the first-ever Arab-African woman to hold a position at Nasdaq, a Wall Street prodigy, and a trailblazing investor reshaping global finance. As former Morgan Stanley, she now serves as Managing Partner at Mintiply Capital and GCC Partner at Fuel Venture Capital, breaking barriers, building influence, and creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

Wissam Breidy is reframing real estate through a purpose-driven lens, building communities grounded in meaning, wellness, and long-term value. As CEO of HRE Development, he leads with intention and humanity, proving that the most powerful projects are those that leave a legacy beyond the skyline.

With Longevity Wellness Hub, Dani Afiouni is pioneering a new era of precision wellness rooted in science and self-mastery. His mission: empower people to understand their bodies and design a life of clarity, vitality, and resilience.

Ajay Rajendran has transformed Meraki Group into a global ecosystem that unites real estate, education, and construction under one human-centric philosophy. His approach blends innovation, craftsmanship, and purpose to create spaces and experiences that inspire lasting impact.

Fawaz Sous, CEO of OCTA Properties, is redefining Dubai's real estate landscape through innovation, integration, and intelligent collaboration. As featured in The Visionaries powered by Publsh, his approach transforms development into a seamless ecosystem built on connection and purpose.

The Managing Director of DMDC shares how trust, craftsmanship, and vision shaped his journey to the top of luxury construction.

A master mariner with a mind for business, Captain Pradeep Singh has navigated Karma Developers toward global recognition. His leadership stands as a beacon for innovation, resilience, and forward-thinking in real estate.

At GITEX GLOBAL 2025, Hamad Al Marzooqi, SVP of Presales and Business Operations at e& UAE, highlighted how the company is driving the UAE's digital transformation through AI, IoT, 5G, and cloud technologies. His focus on building intelligent ecosystems is empowering businesses, enabling smart cities, and connecting communities across the nation.

At GITEX GLOBAL 2025, Saleem AlBlooshi, CTO of du, showcased how the company is driving the UAE's digital transformation through cutting-edge technologies like AI, IoT, 5G+, and sovereign cloud. His vision focuses on creating intelligent ecosystems that enhance public safety, connectivity, and efficiency—empowering communities and reinforcing the UAE's position as a global leader in digital innovation.

At Expand North Star 2025, Mohammad Alblooshi highlighted his pivotal role in Dubai's innovation ecosystem and how initiatives like Ignyte are accelerating the growth of startups and fintech ventures. The platform provides entrepreneurs with access to investors, mentors, corporate challenges, and a startup-focused marketplace, helping turn ideas into scalable businesses and positioning Dubai as a global hub for innovation.

At GITEX 2025, Entrepreneur Middle East spoke with Chip Strange, Chief Strategy Officer at Ookla, about e& UAE's historic recognition as the World's Fastest Mobile Network for 2025, the first network globally to achieve this four times. Strange highlighted how this award, along with e&'s fastest 5G and fixed broadband networks, underscores the UAE's leadership in reliable, high-speed connectivity that empowers businesses, education, and communities.

At GITEX GLOBAL 2025, Entrepreneur Middle East spoke with Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du, about the company's pivotal role in driving the UAE's digital transformation. Under his leadership, du is evolving into a technology powerhouse, leveraging AI, IoT, 5G+, and cloud innovation to build a smarter, safer, and more connected nation.

At Expand North Star 2025, Entrepreneur Middle East sat down with Valerio Soldani, Trade Commissioner of the Italian Trade Agency, to explore how Italy's largest-ever startup delegation is redefining "Made in Italy" for the digital age. From AI to fintech, Soldani highlighted how Italy's blend of heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship aligns perfectly with Dubai's vision for a global tech-driven future.

In an exclusive interview with Entrepreneur Middle East at GITEX 2025, Amit Gupta, Head of Data and AI Practice at e& Enterprise, shared how the company is using AI to create real-world impact across industries. With a focus on responsible innovation, data security, and measurable outcomes, e& Enterprise is redefining what practical, purpose-driven AI looks like.

ANAX Developments has partnered with global fashion powerhouse ELLE to launch ELLE Residences Dubai Islands, marking ELLE's first branded residences in the Middle East. Blending fashion, lifestyle, and architecture, the project redefines luxury living in Dubai with design-driven homes, world-class amenities, and a vision that celebrates individuality and contemporary style.

BYD, led by Executive Vice President Stella Li, has partnered with Al-Futtaim to launch the Shark 6, the region's first plug-in hybrid pickup designed for the UAE's unique landscape. The move underscores BYD's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the nation's clean mobility vision.

At the New Global Sports Conference 2025 in Riyadh, HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud highlighted Saudi Arabia's ambitious push to become a global esports hub. Under his leadership, the Saudi Esports Federation has evolved into a central authority driving the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aims to contribute $13.3 billion to GDP and create 39,000 jobs by 2030.

Daniil Shuleyko, CEO of Yango Group, joined Entrepreneur Middle East's podcast to share how the company has grown from a ride-hailing app into a global digital ecosystem spanning 30+ countries. With a hyperlocal approach and initiatives like "Go to the Fields," he outlined Yango's vision to reach one billion users while staying true to its startup spirit.

From bold collaborations with global icons like Trump and Versace to a sharp focus on the needs of modern investors, Ziad El Chaar is turning Dar Global into a global force in branded luxury real estate.

Ohana Development CEO Husein Salem is setting a new standard for luxury real estate in the UAE with the launch of Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana. Blending timeless design with personalized living, the AED 4.7 billion coastal development reimagines what it means to live exceptionally by the sea.

An exclusive conversation with Samana Developers' founder Imran Farooq on pioneering private pool apartments, building a construction empire, and leading with vision in Dubai's competitive real estate market.