The Gulf region is witnessing a powerful shift, with women at the forefront of business, innovation, and leadership. From technology and finance to retail and sustainability, women entrepreneurs are shaping the future of the GCC in ways never seen before. Their influence goes beyond boardrooms—they are redefining industries, driving economic growth, and breaking barriers that once seemed unmovable.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we highlight the top 10 women entrepreneurs who are not just thriving but revolutionizing their fields. Their success stories reflect the region’s commitment to diversity, progress, and empowerment.
Top 10 Women Entrepreneurs & Leaders
Below are the top 10 women entrepreneurs and leaders who are revolutionizing the GCC in 2025. Let’s get to it.
1. Dr. Mariam Shaikh | A Visionary Leader Nurturing Talented Minds
With over three decades of experience, Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s journey in education is a testament to her unwavering dedication to empowering students and fostering global learning opportunities. She has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape, from establishing a nursery school in her early career to founding MS Education Consultants in 2020. Her early success laid the foundation for her expansion into K-12 education and higher education leadership, where she played a pivotal role in bringing international universities to the UAE. She was instrumental in establishing the University of New Brunswick’s Dubai campus and held senior leadership roles at Heriot-Watt University, Canadian University Dubai, and Amity University, shaping policies that enhanced student experience, academic excellence, and institutional reputation. Her vision is driven by a deep belief in bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring that students worldwide have access to quality education.
As a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and student growth and wellbeing, Dr. Mariam Shaikh has dedicated her career to fostering mentorship, professional development, and skill-building for both students and educators. Recognizing the critical importance of mental health, she has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting wellbeing in educational environments. These initiatives include workshops and programs focused on mental health awareness, resilience building, and support systems for students facing challenges. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping policies and institutional collaborations that enhance global education networks. By seamlessly integrating her commitment to mental health into her work, she has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for students, ensuring that education serves as a catalyst for empowerment, innovation, and long-term impact.
A firm believer in global partnerships, Dr. Mariam has been instrumental in facilitating collaborations between universities and educational institutions, supporting global institutions in establishing their presence in the UAE and GCC. Her goal is to position the region as a hub for academic excellence and innovation.
Her pioneering spirit extends beyond education, as seen in her groundbreaking appointment as one of the first Ambassadors of the Canadian Business Council (CBC) Dubai. In this prestigious role, she has bridged opportunities between Canada and the UAE, fostering bilateral ties in education and cross-cultural collaboration. She has played a key role in creating meaningful pathways for students, facilitating access to world-class education, scholarships, and unique learning opportunities. Through her commitment to international engagement, she has strengthened CBC Dubai’s mission of championing global understanding and student success.
Awards & Recognitions
Dr. Mariam’s outstanding contributions to education and leadership have earned her several prestigious accolades with the latest being:
- Women Economic Development Global Icon & Lifetime Achievement Award (2024)
- Global 200 Women Power Leaders (2024)
- PAWES Award for Outstanding Collaborative Partnership – Africa (2024)
- Women Entrepreneur Award Winner – Emirates Women Award (2022)
- Business Excellence Award for Excellence in Education (2022)
Beyond her professional milestones, Dr. Mariam actively supports initiatives that provide scholarships and educational opportunities to underserved students, particularly refugees and orphaned girls. She has played a crucial role in mentoring student entrepreneurs, with her contributions recognized by the Al Jalila Foundation.
Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s influence in international education has been widely recognized through high-profile features in Forbes Canada, UK, among others. Her Forbes feature, “Adapting to a New Era in International Education,” highlighted her insights on hybrid learning, student well-being, and global collaboration. She was also honored as one of The Top 10 Indian Personalities of 2024 for her contributions to education and international student mobility.
With Dubai at the forefront of global educational transformation, Dr. Mariam continues to inspire and drive change. Her legacy is built on the belief that education is not just a tool for learning but a catalyst for empowerment, innovation, and lasting impact.
2. Priscilla Elora Sharuk | Transforming The Tech Landscape Of the Gulf
Priscilla Elora Sharuk is the CEO and Managing Partner at Gulf Bridge Venture Partners (GBVP), a firm dedicated to bridging the gap between global ventures and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) investments. With a strong focus on fostering cross-border investments, GBVP connects high-potential technology startups with strategic capital from the region, accelerating innovation and economic growth. GBVP is at the forefront of shaping the next wave of tech-driven transformation in the GCC, empowering entrepreneurs, investors, and enterprises to scale globally while driving sustainable impact in the regional ecosystem.
Her leadership journey began as the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of MYKI, a Password Management & Authentication solution that pioneered data protection with decentralized identity management tools, and garnered significant recognition including PCMag’s coveted Editors’ Choice Award and a spot among Apple’s “Most Powerful Password Managers.” Notably, MYKI was later acquired by the US-based unicorn JumpCloud.
Building on that success, Priscilla assumed the role of Co-Founder & Global Operations at JumpCloud where she contributed to the enhancement of JumpCloud’s international endeavors and expansion, further solidifying her expertise in steering high-growth technology enterprises.
Priscilla’s accomplishments extend beyond her successful ventures. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Top 10 Women in Tech in the MENA region and listed among the Top 100 Business Women in the Middle East, she has received accolades such as the Women Leaders Council Impact Award and the title of Game Changer by Women’s Health Magazine. Her insights have been featured in leading publications like The Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, and Entrepreneur, solidifying her status as a thought leader in the industry.
Actively involved in the global tech ecosystem, she has provided coaching to over 500 technology companies with a comprehensive approach spanning strategic planning, operational efficiency, investor relations, global expansion, and leadership. “My vision for 2025 is to drive the next wave of tech in the Gulf by bridging global innovation with strategic regional investment—fueling growth, scalability, and lasting impact,” she reflects. Priscilla champions the transformative impact of knowledge-sharing to drive both the regional tech ecosystem and the broader tech landscape forward, dedicated to making a lasting impact in the world of technology and entrepreneurship.
3. Dr. Isha Farha Quraishy | Intelligence with Elegance – A Visionary Tech Entrepreneur And Philanthropist
Dr. Isha Farha Quraishy, an entrepreneur and technology expert specializing in Artificial Intelligence and the Metaverse, is widely referred to as the “Crowned Technopreneur of UAE.” With equal success in both her professional life and personal passions, Dr. Isha holds a Doctorate in Educational Technology. As the Founder and former CEO of IFQ Technologies, she aimed to establish the company as a global leader in AI and the Metaverse. She successfully exited IFQ at twice its valuation and subsequently joined a global tier-1 company in the region in a strategic role. Through cutting-edge AI-powered educational technology, Dr. Isha envisions a world where every child has equal access to education, especially those with special needs.
Dr. Isha Farha Quraishy is an AI Innovation Strategist with over 15 years of experience in AI, Metaverse, Robotics, Cloud & Infrastructure, Storage & Virtualization technology. As a former tech startup founder and CEO, she successfully led and incubated AI startups, achieving a 2x valuation upon exit before embarking on her corporate journey with Oracle. She has worked with leading companies like Hewlett-Packard, Dell EMC, and VMware, gaining extensive experience in Data Center Management and Virtualization. Quraishy has held roles such as Cloud and Infrastructure Practice Head at Finesse and collaborated with GEMS Education on AI-driven EdTech strategies to further her mission of making education accessible to every child on the planet.
A well-known face in the media industry since childhood, Dr. Isha has appeared as an artist, speaker, host, and professional dancer, working with multiple TV channels due to her outstanding talents in art, technology, social initiatives, and fashion. Moreover, she made history as the first Middle Eastern candidate to win the prestigious title of “Mrs. Universe” in 2019, competing against 92 nations, after securing the “Mrs. International” title in 2018. She has been recognized by Forbes for her contributions to technology and business, earning the title “Crowned Technopreneur – Tech Brilliance Meets Beauty & Grace.”
She has served as a Global Ambassador for MS’s Hevolus Innovation and is a serial TEDx speaker. Dr. Isha has received numerous accolades, including multiple Doctorate degrees, the title of Her Excellency from the United Nations Diplomatic Mission, and recognition as the Youngest Crowned Techno Genius. Her research and intellectual properties include the development of AI analytics platforms for “Children of Determination” to promote inclusion. She began her social journey by earning the Mrs. Universe 2019 Solidarity title as the first Middle Eastern candidate to represent the UAE in a competition with 92 nations. Dr. Quraishy was also crowned Ms. UAE United Nations 2023.
Beyond technology, she is a Bollywood actress, professional Indian classical dancer, inspirational speaker, and a well-known media personality since childhood. Her philanthropic efforts and commitment to community service have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition among the Top 50 Women in the UAE (2022), the She Awards Global (2023), and as a Woman Icon Making Waves in the Arab World (2023). Dr. Quraishy actively volunteers for the Ministry of Community Development UAE and holds certifications from the National Commission for Women’s Rights and the National Commission for Human Rights in India. She has served on boards and advisory forums such as the World Leaders Forum Dubai and the World Women’s Health Forum. Additionally, as a Global Ambassador for H.O.P.E. Africa, she advocates for financial inclusion and digital literacy in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (2030).
4. Samreen Fuad | Creating Functional and Livable Spaces
Samreen Fuad, the founder of Studio SA Designs, leads with dedication to design excellence and innovative solutions that transform spaces into timeless masterpieces. As a qualified Interior designer from London, UK, and having a previous background in Computer Science with an honorary degree from USA, she blends technical expertise with creative insight to craft bespoke contemporary interiors. Born and raised in the UAE, Samreen spent most of her years living in Ireland, which further enriched her global perspective and design capabilities.
Samreen focuses on designing spaces that exude sophistication while embracing the essence of quiet luxury. “We specialize in infusing every space with a distinctive personal touch,” she says, emphasizing her commitment to understanding every client’s needs when designing spaces. Her work reflects a balance between aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that every design is tailored primarily for comfort and usability of her clients. She works closely with a team of finest artisans and contractors, overseeing every detail from concept to completion on her projects.
As a woman in a field that merges creativity and technical skills, Samreen embraces the challenges that come with defying expectations. “Design — like life — is an ever-evolving process, one driven by vision, empowerment and the courage to redefine the future,” she shares. Her work is rooted in the belief that interior design should be more than just visual appeal; rather, it should enhance the way people live and experience their surroundings.
Committed to supporting women in business, Samreen leads by example, proving that passion and dedication can break barriers. “Women are the builders of tomorrow, shaping a world that reflects our resilience, creativity and unwavering vision.” Her attention to detail and bespoke approach ensures that every project is unique and thoughtfully curated. Samreen serves clients in the UAE and internationally, offering tailored design expertise for both residential and commercial spaces.
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
5. Leila Salieva | Effective Marketing Across Web2 And Web3
Leila Salieva, a seasoned marketing veteran, who has significantly contributed behind the scenes to the success of numerous blockchain projects, from DAOs and start-ups to established protocols. Her journey began in the fashion industry, where she pioneered digital marketing and over time, she became a top-level strategist, guiding Fortune 500 companies in marketing their products and services globally. She believes, “Women in business are still undervalued and underestimated; I am trying to build the path for the new generation of girls, being an example of how women can thrive in a tech world.”
In 2021, she dedicated her experience to assisting Web3 projects, aiming to help them shine in the competitive market landscape. In 2023, Mrs. Salieva was elected as one of the Special Council members for the Horizen Ecosystem, and in 2024, she was one of the Apecoin DAO Special Council candidates.
Eventually, in April 2024, Mrs. Salieva Co-founded Sombrero Galaxy Agency (SGA), which leverages AI in marketing strategies, content creation, and analytics. This innovative agency empowers its partners to build vibrant Web3 communities and visually stand out from the competition. Additionally, she has been associated with developing SaaS products, guiding startups on the incorporation of AI, and co-founded startups as well.
With more than 15 years of experience in product marketing and brand building, Mrs. Salieva has evolved as a strategic and creative leader over these years, fostering growth and innovation for tech and entertainment brands. With SGA, a boutique marketing agency, Mrs. Salieva offers her expertise to Web3 projects, helping her clients establish a strong market position through standout visuals.
6. Payal K. Bhatia | Recruiting The Finest Talents
With years of expertise in delivering technical and support staff to top Engineering and energy companies in the MENA Region & Asia, Payal K Bhatia is a visionary leader when it comes to the recruitment landscape. Payal holds over 20 years of experience in recruiting Emirati and international talent for C-Suite roles. Currently, Payal leads as the Executive Director for MEA at Robbert Murray & Associates Middle East, a business focused on helping organizations realize their potential by connecting them with exceptional talent.
Witnessing how the right talents could drive organizations forward, ignited a vision in Payal to create a platform that fosters growth and innovation by aligning exceptional talent with forward-thinking organizations. The vibrant and ever-evolving GCC market provided the ideal canvas and aligned with her vision, compelling her to join an agency with its dynamic industries and boundless opportunities. With Robbert Murray & Associates, Payal serves her purpose of leading a trusted partner in shaping careers, empowering businesses, and redefining recruitment as a driver of meaningful success. “Leadership is an act of service and privilege, not a position of status,” she reflects.
With her role at Robbert Murray & Associates, Payal fulfills her commitment to bridging between ambition and achievement, helping organizations realize their potential by connecting them with exceptional talent. The organization’s focus is on the executive search, to find leaders who can transform vision into reality. And she works on offering tailored staffing solutions that empower businesses to scale and adapt in an ever-changing landscape.
“In a world full of trends, be a timeless classic,” She believes. For Payal, being in this field is more than just filling roles, rather it’s about understanding the aspirations of both clients and candidates and aligning them for mutual success. Every partnership she builds reflects her commitment to creating meaningful impact, one strategic match at a time.
7. Nawal Benzaouia | Pioneering the Future of Literacy and Inclusive Education
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, where education and literacy remain at the core of societal progress, Nawal Benzaouia stands out as a visionary entrepreneur redefining access to learning. As the Founder and CEO of UmiVerse, she is spearheading innovative, inclusive, and multilingual learning solutions, ensuring that literacy is not just a privilege but a fundamental right for all.
UmiVerse is more than a library—it is a strategic initiative reshaping education by bridging cultures and fostering global literacy. Through door-to-door book services, curated educational tours, and strategic school partnerships, UmiVerse creates structured and immersive learning experiences that cater to the diverse linguistic and cultural landscape of the GCC and beyond.
“UmiVerse is a movement. We’re building an universe where literacy, culture, and creativity empower every child, where education is accessible, and where stories bridge worlds,” Nawal affirms.
Her approach goes beyond conventional education models by integrating creative arts, life skills, and cross-cultural exchanges, ensuring that learning extends beyond books and fosters critical thinking and innovation in young minds.
The GCC has placed a strong emphasis on educational innovation and accessibility, aligning with global trends that prioritize knowledge-based economies. UmiVerse complements this vision by actively collaborating with government entities, private institutions, and international universities to enhance literacy programs, support bilingual education, and develop sustainable, scalable learning solutions.
With strategic partnerships in place, UmiVerse is poised to become a leading force in literacy and cultural education, playing a pivotal role in the GCC’s commitment to future-ready learning and educational transformation.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Nawal is a mother of two and an advocate for inclusion and accessibility in education. Inspired by her sister, who has Down syndrome, she authored Maya and Grace: The Tale of the Girl with No Hair, a book aimed at challenging stereotypes and fostering acceptance.
Her expertise spans both academia and the creative sector. She lectures at universities in France, Japan, and Africa, sharing her insights on education, inclusion, and accessibility. In the creative space, she founded Massiraa, an initiative that has brought inclusive fashion showcases to major fashion weeks across Asia and Europe. Additionally, she has led the development of innovative accessibility solutions for government entities and museums, working with her team to enhance user experiences and ensure inclusivity for all.
For Nawal, the vision for UmiVerse transcends books—it is about building a global literacy movement that fosters belonging, connection, and empowerment.
“In 2025, UmiVerse isn’t just about books—it’s about belonging. It’s where stories connect us, cultures collide beautifully, and every child finds their voice, one page at a time.”
As a founder, educator, and published author, she continues to drive systemic change in education while paving the way for future women leaders in business. Her work underscores the power of entrepreneurial vision, strategic partnerships, and community-driven innovation in shaping the future of education.
Nawal leadership exemplifies the transformative impact of women in business, demonstrating that literacy, accessibility, and innovation can go hand in hand in building a more inclusive and knowledgeable world.
8. Niharika Momtaz | A Multifaceted Expert’s Journey To Global Fashion
A celebrated Bangladeshi couturier and entrepreneur, Niharika Momtaz’s journey from Chittagong to the global fashion stage is truly inspiring. Beginning her career at just 18, Niharika has made remarkable strides in the fashion industry, seamlessly blending traditional Bangladeshi aesthetics with contemporary design. She is the Founder of the jewelry brands 1972nineteenseventytwo, along with its conscious wing 1972Conscious, as well as Heritage Bangladesh Foundation, Bangladesh Art Week Dubai, Moina Gallery, Meta Moina, Maison Edge Realty, Zenana, Men’s Fashion Week Bangladesh, Men’s Fashion Week Dubai, Bangladesh Jewelry Week, and Niharika Momtaz Production.
A dynamic force in promoting her country’s rich cultural heritage through innovative fashion and art initiatives, Niharika’s work has been showcased at prestigious international events, cementing her reputation as a visionary designer. She has also arranged several photo exhibitions, art exhibitions, and fashion shows, always keen to express her design skills and deep-rooted passion for art. As the founder of Bangladesh Art Week (BAW) and Heritage Bangladesh Foundation, Niharika fulfills her endeavor to promote art, movies, culture, and heritage of Bangladesh.
Professionally, she also completed a Chartered Accountancy Articleship with KPMG Bangladesh and worked for the NGO Acid Survivors Foundation as Head of Finance & Fundraising from 2000 to 2008. As an NFT enthusiast, Niharika founded Meta Moina, an interactive design gallery and NFT space. Through this platform, she offers artists, designers, and collectors a unique opportunity to leverage blockchain and NFTs to create, showcase, buy, and sell exclusive digital fashion items and art pieces. With its decentralized model, Meta Moina ensures a transparent and secure ecosystem, fostering direct connections between artists and collectors.
Niharika moves forward with the belief that art holds the power to bridge cultures and boundaries, reflecting a visionary approach toward the field. As a woman leading the business landscape across diverse industries, Niharika believes, “2025 is the year for women in business to break barriers, lead with confidence, and redefine success on their terms. Empowered, resilient, and innovative – they will shape industries and inspire future generations.”
LinkedIn | Website | Instagram
9. Nadia Rahpaima | Leading with Purpose in Beauty & Business
With over a decade of experience in marketing, sales, and business development, Nadia Rahpaima has been at the forefront of shaping the beauty and wellness industry. As the Marketing Director of Omorfia Group, she leads brand strategy for renowned names like Tips and Toes, Bedashing Beauty Lounge, Juice Beauty, Atelier Hommage, and TB+, ensuring each brand not only thrives but continues to set industry standards.
Beyond marketing, Nadia is deeply involved in product development, buying, and visual merchandising—bringing her creative vision to life in ways that resonate with customers. Her passion lies in crafting meaningful brand experiences, where every detail tells a story and connects with the audience on a deeper level.
A strong advocate for women in business, Nadia believes in the power of fresh perspectives, resilience, and creativity in leadership. “It’s not just about breaking barriers; it’s about redefining success on our own terms,” she shares. Her journey, from filmmaking to marketing, reflects her adaptability, love for storytelling, and ability to create brands that truly engage.
Navigating an ever-evolving consumer landscape has been one of her greatest challenges, but also her greatest strength. By staying ahead of trends, listening to customers, and focusing on long-term brand loyalty, she ensures the brands she works with continue to evolve with purpose. She is also a firm believer in sustainability and the power of exceptional customer experiences.
For Nadia, leadership is about more than just professional achievements—it’s about balance, growth, and impact. “Success isn’t just about hitting milestones; it’s about making space for what truly matters and having the energy to keep pushing forward,” she says. Through her leadership, she continues to mentor and inspire, particularly empowering women who are ready to make their mark in the industry.
LinkedIn | Website | Omorfia Group | Instagram
10. Kristina Tantsyura | Supporting Women in Business and Global Expansion
Kristina Tantsyura has built a career on helping businesses find their footing in new markets. As the Managing Partner and CEO of SKY Consulting Group, she has spent over a decade guiding companies through the process of relocation and expansion in the UAE and the Middle East. Recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Entrepreneurs in Dubai, Kristina has played a key role in helping over 200 companies move their operations and establish themselves successfully in the region.
Since 2012, she has worked closely with businesses in a variety of industries, including healthcare, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Her expertise has helped launch multiple regional offices from the ground up and provided hundreds of companies with practical guidance on business setup, legal frameworks, and market strategy. Under her leadership, SKY Consulting Group has become a go-to resource for companies looking to navigate the complexities of doing business in the UAE.
Beyond her consulting work, Kristina is a strong supporter of women in leadership. She believes that women bring a unique perspective to business and should have the confidence to take on executive roles. “Opportunities don’t come to those who wait—you have to step forward and create them,” she says. By mentoring female entrepreneurs and professionals, she hopes to encourage more women to take leadership positions and build businesses that have lasting impact.
On International Women’s Day, Kristina’s story is a reminder that business success is built on experience, persistence, and the willingness to take risks. Through her work, she continues to help companies grow while encouraging more women to take their place at the table.
LinkedIn | Website | SKY Consulting Group | Instagram
Conclusion
The rise of women leaders in the GCC is no longer a trend—it’s a movement. The top 10 women entrepreneurs featured in this list prove that innovation, resilience, and leadership have no gender. Their achievements are setting new standards, inspiring the next generation, and transforming the business landscape across the region.
As the world watches the GCC evolve, one thing is clear: the future of entrepreneurship in the region is being shaped by visionary women who refuse to settle for anything less than extraordinary.
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