Leadership | Page 6

"Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not. We're here to fix that — to showcase the founders building extraordinary companies elsewhere — and the Middle East is leading the way."

Under Hussam Baghdadi's leadership, AW Rostamani Automotive is evolving beyond vehicles toward a connected mobility ecosystem. The COO shares with how purpose, integrity, and innovation are shaping both his leadership legacy and the wider transformation of the UAE's automotive landscape.

COO Chema Basterrechea explains why every RHG guest experience feels both globally consistent and locally meaningful.

"Through advanced deep ocean exploration using robotics, data innovation, digital twins and equitable partnerships, OceanQuest aims to shine a light on the deep ocean so we can better understand its role in the Earth system."

"We're building an economy of the future: one that empowers digital talent, attracts investment, and drives creativity."

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.

"Our goal is to give companies control — instantly."

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 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.

"Success in our sector used to be measured by selling out a tower. Today, it's about shaping districts and influencing how people experience city life."

At the helm of Dubai World Trade Centre's expanding portfolio, Trixie LohMirmand has turned GITEX Global into a symbol of the UAE's ambition. As the 45th edition opens today, LohMirmand marks 20 years of powering Dubai's rise as a world capital for innovation.

If we want the future to be shaped by individuals who act with conscience, lead with empathy, and think beyond themselves, leadership education must start as early as literacy and numeracy.

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.

The ambitious vision of the founder of Lectera and the Women's Empowerment Council Mila Smart Semeshkina - 50 million learners, one million women.

The Tech Innovation Awards 2025, staged by BNC Publishing with the support of in5 Dubai and Virtuzone, commended the visionaries and organizations who have reshaped industries and inspired the whole region.

Insights from The Tech Innovation Forum 2025 by Entrepreneur Middle East on the tangible impact of bold ideas and innovations.

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.

Having grown up in a war-torn Iraq, Kawa Junad understood the necessity for digital innovation from a tender age. But the founder of First Iraqi Bank says he refuses to be led by trends—for him, every decision is rooted in a singular purpose: improving the lives of his people.

With Sherif Beshara at the helm, American Hospital Dubai has surpassed the traditional healthcare model.

H.E. Ahmed Al Sayegh is set to enhance healthcare services, contribute to the country's ongoing economic diversification initiatives, and bolster international collaborations.

Under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, H.E. Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel is leading efforts to transform healthcare in the Kingdom through innovation and strategic reforms