With International Women’s Day around the corner, there’s no better moment to spotlight the women who are redefining what leadership looks like across the region. These trailblazers are not just participating in the business world; they’re reshaping it. Across the Middle East, a new generation of bold, visionary women is proving that ambition has no limits. Here are the women leading the way across the Middle East.
Hana Al Rostamani
Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi
With more than 25 years of experience in financial services, spanning roles at AW Rostamani Group, FAB Private Bank Suisse, and Mastercard Advisory, Hana Al Rostamani built a career defined by strategic growth and transformation. She joined First Abu Dhabi Bank in 2000 and, in 2021, was appointed Group CEO of the UAE’s largest bank by assets.
Al Rostamani made history as the first female CEO of a UAE-based bank. Recognized as a leading change-maker, she has been featured on Forbes and Forbes Middle East lists, cementing her reputation as one of the region’s most influential business leaders.
Shaikha Khaled Al Bahar
Deputy Group CEO of the National Bank of Kuwait Group (NBK)
Shaikha Khaled Al Bahar has been serving as Deputy Group CEO of National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) since 2014, leading the group’s operations across 13 countries and playing a central role in shaping its regional and international strategy.
Al Bahar also holds several prominent board positions. She is a member of the board of trustees at the Al-Ojeiri Scientific Center and serves on the Egyptian Kuwaiti Cooperation Council. In addition, she is the Vice Chairperson of TurkishBank in Türkiye.
Dalia Khorshid
Group CEO & Managing Director of Beltone Holding
After over 25 years of experience spanning investment, banking, and public service, Dalia Khorshid was appointed Group CEO and Managing Director of Beltone Holding in 2022.
Khorshid previously founded MASAR Financial Advisory and Eagle Capital for Financial Investments, solidifying her position as a driving force in Egypt’s financial landscape. She also served as Egypt’s former Minister of Investment, where she played a central role in advancing economic reforms and strengthening the country’s investment environment.
Tayba Al Hashemi
CEO of ADNOC Offshore
Emirati CEO Tayba Al Hashemi assumed her role in February 2023, leading one of the world’s largest offshore hydrocarbon producers and overseeing operations across nine fields.
Al Hashemi brings extensive experience from her previous leadership roles, including CEO of ADNOC Sour Gas and CEO of Al Yasat Petroleum, where she played a key role in optimizing production, driving operational efficiency, and advancing strategic growth initiatives in the energy sector.
Hind Bahwan
Founder & Chairperson of Hind Bahwan Group
Hind Bahwan became Founder and CEO of Hind Bahwan Group after two decades of industry experience. The group spans 12 companies across technology, energy and infrastructure, education, and lifestyle, including BCT Consulting, FuelTrans, Al Khadra Partners, and the Bahwan International Institute of Technology. As part of the group, Bahwan also founded and chairs the Bahwan CyberTek Group.
In November 2024, the Omani entrepreneur was appointed Chairman of the Family Business Council Gulf. Her prior experience includes serving on the advisory boards of Deutsche Bank and the Middle East Center at the London School of Economics, highlighting her influence in both corporate and academic circles.
Soha El-Turky
Deputy CEO & Executive Board Member of the National Bank of Egypt (NBE)
Soha El-Turky joined the National Bank of Egypt as Deputy CEO in September 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in banking and finance.
Before this role, El-Turky served as Vice President and CFO at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and as CFO at Banque du Caire, where she played a pivotal role in financial strategy, risk management, and organizational growth.
Dana Nasser Al Sabah
Group CEO of Kuwait Projects Company (Holding)
Dana Nasser Al Sabah joined KIPCO in 2004 and has served on its board since 2020, before being appointed Group CEO in January 2022.
Al Sabah is also the founder and Chair of the Board of Trustees at the American University of Kuwait. In addition, she chairs the United Education Company, Jordan Kuwait Bank, and the OSN Group, underscoring her leadership across education, finance, and media sectors in the region.
With years of dedication and groundbreaking leadership across finance, energy, and industry, these remarkable women have not only driven growth and innovation within their organizations but have also redefined the business landscape of the Middle East, inspiring a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
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