Most Influential Business Leaders in the UAE 2024
TradeFlock’s special edition, “Most Influential Business Leaders in the UAE 2024 is now here to rock you.” This issue highlights the trailblazers redefining the UAE’s business landscape, offering exclusive insights into their strategies, challenges, and leadership journeys. Our exclusive conversations reveal how these influential business figures are not only achieving extraordinary feats but are also steering the UAE’s economy toward global competitiveness. Delve into their stories to discover the unique challenges these best business leaders in the UAE have overcome, the strategies that have propelled them forward, and the invaluable leadership lessons they’ve amassed over years of navigating complex business landscapes. Additionally, this edition features articles on key industry trends, management lessons, compelling case studies, and human interest stories spanning history, sports, and geopolitics. Dive in to discover how UAE’s top business leaders shape the future and gain a wealth of inspiration and knowledge from their experiences and transformative approaches.
Ahmed Al Hamadani is a leader in the health and nutrition industry. With a background as a Process Engineer at ENOC and experience at BP, Ahmed brings deep technical expertise and strategic insight to Vitallea. His leadership has driven significant innovation in creating sustainable and health-conscious products that address evolving consumer demands for personalised health solutions. Under his guidance, Vitallea has expanded its reach and set new benchmarks for success, navigating complex regulatory landscapes while focusing on results, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
Aya Dimashkieh has played a pivotal role in strengthening Deloitte’s position as a leading risk advisory firm across 15 countries. With a unique combination of technical expertise and strategic foresight, Aya has driven remarkable growth in key sectors by anticipating market needs and leveraging advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and data analytics. She is known for her client-first philosophy, fostering long-term relationships and driving digital transformation in risk management.
Harald Schmit, Executive Vice President at NOMAC, leads the charge in transforming the GCC’s energy landscape with innovative maintenance strategies and a focus on sustainability. With over 15 years of experience, he champions the integration of renewables and advanced technologies, driving NOMAC’s operational excellence. Harald’s leadership shapes a resilient energy future through strategic partnerships and talent development.
Jubilant Clement, Managing Director at Leviat for the META region, embodies resilience and strategic brilliance. From launching his own business fresh out of college—where he learned the hard lesson that a deal isn’t done until payment is secured—to rising through industry giants like Tata and Saint-Gobain, Jubilant has turned every setback into a stepping stone. Now at Leviat, his innovative leadership has transformed challenges into growth, fostering both impressive financial success and an inclusive, thriving work culture.
Khaled is revolutionising trading by making it accessible and risk-free for aspiring traders. Motivated by his own college struggles to enter the trading world, he founded FundingPips in 2022, offering a supportive, simulated trading environment where users can grow without financial pressure. Khaled’s leadership emphasises resilience, community, and empowerment, turning obstacles into opportunities and inspiring traders to achieve their dreams with confidence.
Khurram Majeed is overseeing operations across 72 countries. With experience living and working in six different countries, he blends cultural adaptability with strategic insight, allowing him to lead diverse teams and craft strategies that meet local market needs while aligning with global goals. Khurram emphasises an external focus in his leadership, staying attuned to market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and customer needs. Known for his commitment to performance and accountability, he consistently delivers on his promises, maintaining a high “say-do” ratio and driving innovative solutions to exceed targets.
Najla Al Midfa has been a driving force in fostering innovation and youth entrepreneurship in the UAE. As the founding CEO, she transformed Sheraa into a global hub, incubating over 180 startups and helping them raise more than $170 million in investments. Through her leadership of initiatives like the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival and Khayarat, Najla has empowered young Emiratis to make informed career choices and build impactful businesses, cementing her legacy as a champion of inclusive, purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Renuka Jagtiani is a global retail powerhouse she transformed from a regional player into an industry leader. Known for her visionary leadership, she pioneered digital retail transformation and introduced successful brands like Splash, Max, and Lifestyle. Renuka’s commitment to innovation, social responsibility, and sustainable growth has earned her global recognition as a trailblazer in retail.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil is a leading healthcare provider in the UAE and Middle East. From humble beginnings in Kerala, India, he pursued medicine and rose to prominence as a pioneering healthcare leader, founding VPS Healthcare in 2007 and transforming the region’s medical landscape. Under his visionary leadership, Burjeel Holdings has expanded to include over 20 hospitals and 125 medical centres, earning global recognition for clinical excellence while also championing humanitarian initiatives to make healthcare accessible to all.
Sreeraj T R, COO of Elevate Gaming, is a trailblazer in the eSports world, leveraging his visionary approach and global network to drive the company’s international expansion. Originating from Kasaragod, Kerala, and thriving in the UAE, he combines expertise in media, entertainment, and community building to create engaging eSports experiences. With his first book on eSports on the horizon, Sreeraj’s influence is rapidly growing.