< Previous100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 80 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 Abu Manneh is the first Emirati woman to lead an international bank across the UAE, Middle East, and Pakistan following her role as CEO of Standard Chartered UAE, which she held since August 2018. She has been instrumental in transfor ming Standard Chartered’s UAE business into one of the largest three markets for the Standard Chartered Group globally. In January and May 2023, Abu Manneh was appointed director on the boards of both Standard Chartered (Pakistan) and Standard Char tered Uganda. She is also a board member at MyZoi, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Char tered and incubated through SC Ventures. In 2021, she was selected as a member of the board of director s of the Dubai International Chamber, whose mission is to represent, support and protect the interests of the business community in Dubai. Throughout the years, she has consistently championed women’s empowerment and female entrepreneurship. She actively spearheads initiatives aimed at providing mentorship programmes for university students, ensuring participants are well-prepared with the necessary skills for success. Her impact extends globally, as evidenced by her roles such as a member of the Global Council for Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality (SDG5), a UAE delegate in the G20Empower, and a member of the NYUAD Vice Chancellor’s Leadership Council. Additionally, she ser ves as a director on the Board of Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE and holds advisory positions for both the Global Summit of Women and the Fortune Global Forum. Prior to her career with Standard Chartered, Abu Manneh served as the Head of Corporate & Investment Banking for Abu Dhabi at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). Prior to this, she held the role of general manager of FAB’s Wholesale Banking Group, comprising Project Finance Syndications, Financial Institutions Group, and Global Transaction Banking. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Operational Research from the University of London, Royal Holloway, and Bedford New College. About Standard Chartered Standard Chartered’s purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity. It sets a single direc- tion for everything the bank does, connecting its strategy to its growth and the ambitions it has in the societies that it operates in. The bank’s strategic priorities put this purpose into action by connecting the Bank with major economic and social shifts in the markets they call home. This defines how the Bank engages with its customers and society as it aligns its activities to these shifts to shape the forces driving its growth. Furthermore, the bank has pledged its support to the UAE’s sustainability agenda, with a dedicated team focusing on environmental, social, corporate governance, and sustainable finance and is well positioned to deploy its resources strategically to support the UAE in achieving its 2050 net zero objective. Rola Abu Manneh CEO UAE, Middle East, and Pakistan Standard Chartered Banking 37 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 80ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8028/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10arabianbusiness.com 81 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 As the group CEO and managing director of one of the fastest-growing Abu Dhabi-based investment holding companies, Hamad Salem Al Ameri is able to extend his influence in many sectors. Alpha Dhabi Holding has more than 250 businesses spread across industries such as healthcare, renewable energy, investment, oil and gas, real estate, construction, hospitality, and more. Al Ameri was appointed group CEO in 2021 and has since transformed the company as a strategic contributor to the UAE’s economy. He is steadfast in his commitment to drive continuous growth for its stakeholders not only through investments, but also by supporting emerging businesses and championing innovation and diversity. Guiding the organisation to new heights Some of Al Ameri’s most notable achievements during his tenure include guiding the group’s IPO on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange in June 2021, which in its first year saw overseas revenues increase by over 500 percent, as well as leading a multi-billion-dollar mergers and acquisitions and investment strategy. This saw Alpha Dhabi Group enter new sectors including renewable energy, petrochemicals, fintech, and luxury lifestyle. Al Ameri has also endeavoured to expand the group’s geographic reach. For H1 2024, Alpha Dhabi Holding reported a net profit of $1.8bn, while its revenue reached $7.97bn, a 32 percent increase year on year. The company’s total assets stood at $42bn. Key developments for the year have included Enersol, the group’s joint venture with ADNOC Drilling Company, agreeing to acquire a 51 percent equity stake in NTS Amega – a provider of manufacturing, repair, and rental solutions for the oil and gas sector – for $58m. PureHealth reported a 53 percent year-on-year increase in consolidated revenue, while the National Mar ine Dredg ing Company secured projects worth AED8.4bn ($2.29bn). Aldar Investment Properties also issued a second $500m green sukuk. In 2012, Al Ameri founded Trojan Holding, one of the largest construction service providers in the GCC, which in 2021 was rebranded to Alpha Dhabi Holding and transformed into the investment juggernaut it is today. Trojan Construction Group is now a subsidiary of the construction ver tical at Alpha Dhabi Holding, with in-house capabilities for delivering turnkey projects, of which it has more than 200, spanning 17 million square metres of built-up area and 2,500 kilometres of roads, utilities and railways. Leading multiple companies Alongside his current roles, Al Ameri also holds several key positions in other listed and private companies spanning multiple sectors across the UAE. This includes serving as a board member of Aldar Properies, OCI Methanol Group, Mawarid Holding, Nshmi Development LLC, Pure Health, ADC Acquisition Corporation, and Al Jazeera Technical and Oilfield Supplies Company. He is also vice chairman of the National Marine Dredging Company, and chairman of Abu Dhabi National Hotels. Al Ameri graduated from the American University in Dubai in 2006 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, before studying for an MBA at the Canadian University Dubai in 2012. Hamad Salem Mohammed Saeed Al Ameri Group CEO and Managing Director Alpha Dhabi Holding Investment 38 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 81ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8128/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 82 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 39 In April 2019, Hala Badri was appointed as the Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority by a royal decree from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, following 20 years of an impressive path in dynamic business sectors critical to the U A E’s economic dev elopment: telecommunications, oil and gas, media and real estate. A passionate marketer, a technology enthusiast, transfor ming businesses through innovation and her exemplary managerial qualities, she is able to capably spearhead the achievement of the Authority’s strategic objectives. Under her leadership, Badri managed to transform the authority in the first three years, and increase Employee Happiness by 24 percent, and raise its ranking in Customer Happiness from 33rd in 2019 to 13th in 2022. Additionally, she orchestrated the launch and execution of sectoral strategy 2020- 2025, creative economy strategy as well as public art and Al Fahidi rehabilitation strategies. Under her super vision, the authority also won the bid to host – and for the first time in the MENASA region – the largest conference on museums, ICOM Dubai 2025. Prior to joining Dubai Culture, Badri was a senior advisor on strategic communications for ADNOC, the 12th largest oil and gas company in the world. She oversaw the management of strategic communications, while managing several projects that reflected positively on the company’s brand image, value and equity. During her tenure with ADNOC she was also seconded to the National Media Council as a senior consultant to oversee the content strategy and visitor experience for the UAE National Pavilion at Expo2020. Before ADNOC, she spent 11 years at UAE’s second telecommunications company, du, as the Executive Vice President of Brand and Communications. While at du, Badri passionately championed the creation of an enhanced, end-to-end brand and communications experience. Her efforts resulted in a cohesive brand strategy for the telecom operator that was then worth over AED2bn, making it the fourth most valuable telecommunications brand in the region in 2016. Nurturing the leaders of tomorrow In order to link strategic vision with employee productivity, Badri orchestrated several initiatives to nurture the next generation of Emirati visionaries. Throughout her career, she led communications teams comprised of the highest number of Emirati employees, many of whom progressed from graduate trainees to mid-management and director- level roles. A staunch advocate of social responsibility and the driving force behind the execution of long-term sustainability goals, Badri headed the first implementation of Social Return on Investment (SROI) for any telecom in the region in 2014. Her passion extends to female empowerment and she has championed women in ICT throughout her career, breaking stereotypes along the way. She is the Vice Chairperson for the Dubai Women Establishment Board of Directors, a member of Dubai Media Council, as well as Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) Board of Trustees. Hala Badri Director-General Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Culture and society ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 82ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8228/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10arabianbusiness.com 83 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 As a keen businesswoman, Dr Raja Al Gurg has a string of stellar achievements on her impressive resumé, but she is also well known for her support of Arab women entrepreneurs. Not only is she the chairperson and managing director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, but also the president of the Dubai Business Women Council, where she leads and supports other women looking to carve their own niche within the corporate world and achieve a similar level of success. Family business Al Gurg’s leadership was steered by her late father, Easa Saleh Al Gurg, the company’s founder. Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, established in 1960, is a multidivisional conglomerate with over 30 companies under its banner. It has a range of diverse products and business interests, including retail, construction, client services, industrial operations, and joint ventures, with an active presence across the UAE and Oman, as well as reach across Asia, Africa, America, Australia, and New Zealand. It is a regional partner to hundreds of international brands, from Siemens to Dunlop and Smeg to 3M, among many others, and its key joint ventures include AkzoNobel, Al Gurg Unilever, and Siemens. Al Gurg joined the group back in 1989 as a member of the board of directors, and continues to successfully oversee day-to-day operations and the continual expansion of the business. Outside of this role, Al Gurg also serves as a member of the board of directors of Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. She occupies roles on the board of Dubai Chamber of Trade and Dubai Women’s Association, as well as for the German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce. She is also a member of the Arab International Women’s Forum. In addition to these key contributions, Al Gurg is the vice chairman of the boards at the National Bank of Fujairah and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), and vice chair at the University of Dubai. She contributes her insights to the advisory board of Coutts Bank, the wealth division of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. She is also a vital component of the board of directors for Dubai Academic Health Corporation and on the board of trustees for Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University and member of the board of trustees for Ajman University. She was awarded with an honorary doctorate at Queen’s University Belfast for economics and also conferred the Doctor of Literature honour by Amity University in India. In 2022, she assumed the role of honorary pro-chancellor at Heriot Watt University, which is complemented by the presence of Professor Dame Heather McGregor, the provost and vice-principal in Dubai. Al Gurg’s influence within education also extends to her role on the board of directors of the Emirates Schools Establishment, an independent entity that oversees the implementation of policies, strategies, and standards related to the sector. Her vast contributions additionally span philanthropic realms through the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, and she holds the role of chairperson of the board of directors at the Al Jalila Foundation. Dr. Raja Al Gurg Chairperson and Managing Director Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group Diversified 40 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 83ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8328/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 84 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 THE One is not just a chain of furniture stores, but instead Thomas Lundgren’s dream to “save the world from soulless, overpriced furniture retailers”. The founder of the affordable luxury furniture brand refuses to think of his shops as “stores” and opts to call them “theatres”. He doesn’t call himself a CEO, either, but a “creative emotional originator”. This out-of-the-box thinking is what has led to the company being recognised as the best workplace in the UAE by Great Place to Work time and time again. THE One has achieved remarkable success by prioritising the well-being and happiness of its employees. Lundgren first moved to Saudi Arabia from his home country Sweden when he was 24 years old, after seeing an advertisement for a job at IKEA in the kingdom. He started working as a decorator for the brand, but later moved to the UAE and, after three years of persistence and challenges, including several rejection letters from banks and investors, he launched his own self-funded company in Abu Dhabi in 1996, before relocating it to Dubai. This ushered in a new era in home décor retailing in the region. Almost 30 years later and Lundgren is still fascinated by furniture, reportedly designing and/or handpicking 60 percent of the creations showcased at his 18 stores and one bistro café across eight countries in the MENA region. In the UAE, that includes retail outlets in Mall of the Emirates, Al Quoz, Jumeirah Beach Road and, most recently, Dubai Hills Mall in Dubai, as well as Al Ain Mall, Yas Mall, and Mushrif in Abu Dhabi. Core ethos As a brand, THE One aims to offer a ‘total home experience’ of affordable yet unique furnishings and accessories for all living spaces with new collections released throughout the year. Lundgren does all this while making sure everything remains true to the values of their brand, engaging staff, suppliers, customers, and communities in their core purpose of “changing the world together” through doing good. This includes working with ethical suppliers that aren’t involved in the use of child labour, and sourcing eco-friendly and sustainable materials. The company uses FSC-certified wood endorsed by the Forest Stewardship Council, promoting responsible forest management. Products also meet European E1 standards, ensuring low formaldehyde emissions for a safe home. Additionally, the brand supports several local and international charities, particularly in education and environmental conservation, and makes a point of employing people of determination. Employee wellbeing Notably, Lundgren rejects the idea of traditional leadership, instead advocating for authenticity as a superpower that fosters trust and cooperation. He places happiness and employee well-being as a top priority and refers to his team as his “family” and his “tribe”. This success not just in business but also society has earned him numerous accolades over the years, which stand testament to Lundgren’s creativity as well as his perseverance. Thomas Lundgren Founder and CEO THE One Retail 41 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 84ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8428/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10arabianbusiness.com 85 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Kerala-born Omani businessman Puthan Naduvak- katt Chenthamaraksha Menon, better known as PNC Menon, has made a mark on the UAE’s real estate landscape thanks to his Sobha Group of Companies, a multinational real estate and construction group with diversified global interests and a footprint across India and the GCC. Menon moved to Oman in the 1970s to work as an inte- rior designer on projects such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Al Bustan Palace Hotel, working with royalty and diplomats across the world. In 1995, the Sultan of Oman granted citizenship to Menon and his family. That same year, Menon saw opportunities in the real estate industry back home, launching Sobha Developers in Bangalore, naming the company after his wife. It is now a publicly listed $1bn market-cap company with a presence across 24 cities and 13 states in India, having delivered more than 100 million square feet of residential and commercial projects since inception. Today, the company is run by Menon’s son, Ravi, an engineer from Purdue University, while Menon lives in Dubai. Capitalising on the booming market In 2003, he launched Sobha Middle East in the UAE, entering the luxury market with a mission to provide residential development, construction, glazing, metal works, and furni- ture manufacturing. It is now a thriving company that has turned him into a billionaire property developer and one of the country’s most successful real estate moguls. Sobha has myriad noteworthy real estate projects under its banner, including the $4bn resort-style luxury housing development Sobha Hartland in Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid City, encompassing eight million square feet of free- hold community and mixed-use development, with 30 percent of the community reserved for green and open spaces. Another pinnacle project includes District One, an $8bn joint venture with Meydan Group that includes 1,500 ultra-luxury villas. Philanthropy in action Menon is also a dedicated philanthropist, having launched initiatives such as Sobha Hermitage, Sobha Rural Women Empowerment Programme, Sri Kurumba Educational and Charitable Trust, Sobha Icon, Sobha Healthcare Centre, Sobha Social Weddings, Sobha Vocational Training Centre, Sobha Academy, and Sobha Green Initiative. Furthermore, he serves on the board of governors of the Rashid Centre for People of Determination in Dubai and is a valued part- ner of the Al Jalila Foundation. In 2016, he and his wife signed The Giving Pledge, a campaign by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Warren Buffet to donate 50 percent of their wealth to charity. It is perhaps no wonder that Menon has been awarded with many prestigious accolades, including the Golden Peacock Lifetime Achievement Award for Business Leadership by the Institute of Directors, a Lifestyle Achievement Award by NDTV Property Awards and the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Puraskar, given to him in 2009 by the then-president of India, Pratibha Patil. Additionally, Menon serves as a member of the Prime Minister’s Advisory Council of Overseas Indians. PNC Menon Founder and Chairman Sobha Realty Real estate 42 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 85ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8528/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 86 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 In 2019, just before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Ahmed Abdelaal took over as CEO of Mashreq, one of Dubai’s oldest financial institutions, from Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, who had been in the position for three decades. Abdelaal has a career spanning more than 30 years himself, having established an impressive track record as a seasoned banking professional, ascending through senior roles within international and regional banks across key global markets. Abdelaal moved to Mashreq as group head of corporate and investment banking in November 2017, after spending a decade in various senior roles at HSBC in Dubai. Prior to that, he had worked at ABN AMRO, Arab African International Bank, American Express, and Arab Bank. Banking expert His breadth of expertise encompasses a diverse array of fields, showcasing his hands-on proficiency in both corporate and banking sectors, including areas such as trade finance, real estate finance, payment and cash management. Additionally, his skill set extends to investment banking, encompassing debt capital markets, equity capital markets, project finance, and advisory services. Notably, he also possesses in-depth knowledge in Islamic banking, retail banking, and portfolio management. Abdelaal’s expertise further extends to global market products, structured trade, and supply chain solutions, highlighting his versatile skill set in navigating complex financial environments. Academically, Abdelaal is a distinguished alumnus of both London Business School and Harvard Business School. He holds an MBA from the University of London, UK, obtained from the London Business School. He is also a graduate of the Harvard AMP programme and holds a BA in Economics and Political Sciences with a major in Economics from the Faculty of Economics and Political Sciences at Cairo University, Egypt. At Mashreq, he has been able to steer the bank through some of the most trying crises, including the pandemic. Now, he is leading it through further transformation as it becomes a banking as a service (BaaS) platform and integrates artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations with a focus on leveraging AI technologies for positive impact. His leadership style is paying off, as the lender reported net profit of $544.6 million in Q1 of 2024, reflecting a 25 percent year-of-year increase. In its digital transformation journey, Mashreq achieved a significant milestone with the launch of Mashreq NEO, an all-encompassing digital bank tailored to the needs of the online generation. Furthermore, Mashreq has established a seamless digital account opening process for Non-Resident Indian (NRIs) customers in the UAE, in collaboration with Kotak Mahindra Bank, facilitating access to both UAE and NRE accounts through the Mashreq NEO App. Expanding its digital offerings, Mashreq has introduced NEOBiz, a dedicated platform targeting start-ups and contributing to the growth of the UAE’s startup ecosystem. In line with its global expansion strategy, Mashreq is strategically focusing on key markets such as Pakistan and KSA to strengthen its digital banking presence and drive long-term growth and digitalisation efforts in these high-potential markets. Ahmed Abdelaal Group CEO Mashreq Banking 43 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 86ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8628/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10arabianbusiness.com87 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Abdullah Albader embarked on his tenure at Almarai in 2000, progressing to the role of CEO in March 2021. Throughout his two-decade career at the multinational dairy company, he has held several positions across different sectors, including manufacturing, distribution, sales, marketing, and shared services. The most recent position was the executive vice president of the Bakery Division. Albader holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Leicester in the UK. Almarai products are distributed to more than 220,000 retailers in seven countries. A household brand name with a commitment to quality, Almarai conducts over 10,000 daily quality tests to ensure that consumers receive products they can trust. Notably, Almarai secured the third spot on the list of the most influential global and local brands in KSA for 2023, as per the Consumer Confidence Index released by Ipsos, a global research firm. Recognised as the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy company, Almarai was listed fourth among the top 20 companies in KSA as well as the UAE for brand value in 2023, as reported by Kantar, a global research organisation. Present- ing a diverse portfolio of 622 products under seven brands, Almarai serves over 100,000 customers with a commitment to consistent quality. Steered by Albader, the company also set 25 sustainability goals to achieve by 2025 under the strategy ‘Doing better every day’. Goals include increasing clean energy usage to 20 percent across divisions and supporting the packaging economy transformation in KSA. With a significant presence in key markets, Almarai stands at the forefront of driving sustainability initiatives and contrib- uting to a more resilient and equitable future. The company demonstrates consistent dedi- cation to achieving its sustainability targets, aligning closely with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. ESG initiatives Upholding principles of transparency and responsibility, Almarai has recently released ESG policies and position statements, outlining its commitments in areas such as animal welfare, climate action, community engagement, energy conservation, sustainable packaging, ethical sourcing, environ- mental stewardship, human rights, responsible marketing, and water management. Most recently, the company signed a memo- randum of understanding with the Charity Association for Orphan Care in Riyadh, as well as the Autism Families Associ- ation and Cochlear Implants Association. Investment plans Albader has outlined Almarai’s ambitious investment plans totalling $4.8bn until 2028. The company aims to enhance its current operations and venture into new market segments, with a significant portion of the investment earmarked for strategic growth initiatives. Specifically, Almarai intends to allocate $1.8bn towards expanding its poultry sector and an additional $1.3bn to fortify key food categories including dairy, juice, and bakery. In a strategic move in February 2023, the group’s subsidiary, Almarai Investment Holding, success- fully concluded the acquisition of PepsiCo’s 48 percent ownership in IDJ for $68m, thereby securing full ownership. Abdullah Albader CEO Almarai Industry 44 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 87ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8728/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 88 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 Embarking on an extraordinary journey spanning decades, P aras Shahdadpur i’s jour ney unlike conventional career trajectories, is a tapestry woven with threads of diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and community service. His voyage, which began in the hallowed halls of the Indian Foreign Ser vices, took an unexpected turn when he decided to chart his course in the uncharted waters of business. Shahdadpuri, a former diplomat in the Indian Foreign Services with illustrious postings in China, the US, KSA, and Libya, took an unexpected turn in 1987. Choosing to pivot from a successful diplomatic career, he embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that led him to the vibrant city of Dubai. What began as a layover en route to London transformed into a 35-year residence, positioning Shahdadpuri at the helm of the Nikai Group of Companies. The conglomerate, with interests ranging from electronics and appliances to food products, staffing outsourcing, Technology, Digital Transformation and 3PL logistics, has grown into a global force, employing over 6000 people present in the UAE, Oman, China, KSA, Qatar, Egypt and beyond. Shahdadpuri’s strategic prowess is evident in the accolades achieved by the Nikai brand, earning Superbrand status in 2011, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2024. Leading the charge, he transformed Nikai into a major contender in the electronics market, offering a diverse portfolio of over 400 products that challenge industry giants. With a footprint in 60 countries and a customer base exceeding 65 million, Nikai’s global reach mirrors Shahdadpuri’s vision. Beyond corporate boardrooms, Shahdadpuri’s impact extends to strengthening India-UAE business relations. As the former chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC), he played a pivotal role in fostering economic, investment and trade relations between the two nations. His leadership turned IBPC into a driving force, contributing significantly to the UAE becoming one of India’s largest trading partners. Continuing his commitment, Shahdadpuri remains an influential figure at IBPC as governor on its Board, contributing to ongoing initiatives. Beyond the business world In late 2022, he assumed the role as Chairman of The Electronics Group (TEG) under Dubai Chambers, representing the electronics industry. He actively promotes large-scale investments and business setups between India and the UAE. Acknowledging his contributions, Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum had appointed Shahdadpuri as an Honorary board member of the UAE Billiards and Snooker Association. Beyond business, his commitment to community development is evident in his support for initiatives like Dubai Cares and organisations such as the Dubai Autism Group and Rashid Centre for the Disabled, of which he is a Board member. His philanthropic efforts extend to education where, under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, he established awards for excellence in teaching and outstanding student achievement at the Higher Colleges of Technology in the UAE. Paras Shahdadpuri Chairman Nikai Group of Companies Diversified 45 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 88ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8828/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10arabianbusiness.com89 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Only eight months after graduating from Eastern Washington University in the US with a Bache- lor’s Degree in business administration in 1995, Abdulla Al Khalifa joined QNB’s corporate bank- ing team. Now, with a diverse business and finance career spanning over two decades, Al Khalifa has held numerous posts within the Qatari banking group, including chief busi- ness officer and executive general manager. Since November 2018, he has held the position of Group CEO, taking the banking behemoth to even greater heights. His experience spans risk management, finance, business, M&A, sales and marketing, and strategic planning. In 2007, Al Khalifa was appointed to the role of general manager for QNB’s Corporate Banking Group. Now, he is also the chairman of QNB Capital, a market leader in Qatar in investment banking services and financial advisory, established in 2008, with headquarters in Doha, and European offices in Paris and London. In addition to these responsibilities, since 2018, Al Khalifa has served as a board member for Ooredoo, Qatar’s multinational telecommunications company. Solid foundations Established in 1964, QNB is the largest bank in Qatar and the largest financial institution in the MEA region, with 51.93 percent owned by the Qatar Investment Authority. The group, subsidiaries and associate companies have a presence in more than 28 countries across three continents. It employs 28,000 people serving over 27 million customers, with over 900 locations supported by more than 4,800 ATMs. This year, QNB reported its net profit for H1 2024 reached $2.2bn, an increase of 7 percent compared to the same period last year, with operating income up by 9 percent to reach $5.5bn, reflecting the group’s ability to maintain growth across multiple diversified revenue streams. The group’s total assets as of the end of June 2024 reached $345bn, a year-on-year increase of 5 percent. This increase was primarily fuelled by a solid 7 percent growth in loans and advances, reaching $242bn. Customer deposits also saw significant growth of 6 percent to amount to $245bn from the prior year. The loans to deposits ratio was at 98.7 percent as of 30 June 2024. QNB Group demonstrated operational efficiency with a cost- to-income ratio of 22.4 percent, positioning it as one of the top performers among major financial institutions in the MEA region. Additionally, the loan loss coverage ratio reached 100 percent, indicating the prudent approach taken by the group towards non-performing loans. Significantly, subsidiary QNB Financial Services received recognition from the Qatar Stock Exchange in June 2023 after successfully implementing and launching the exchange’s new trading system. Al Khalifa has demonstrated that being user-friendly is a top priority of the group, particularly when, in April 2024, it introduced FAWRAN, a cutting-edge payment solution designed to enhance customer payment experiences through innovative technology. This new payment method enables swift and secure transactions to individuals in Qatar using the recipient’s mobile number or alias. Powered by the real- time payment infrastructure of the Qatar Central Bank, FAWRAN stands as a ground-breaking addition to Qatar’s digital payments ecosystem, offering customers advanced convenience and efficiency. Abdullah Al Khalifa Group CEO and Chairman QNB Banking 46 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 89ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_70-95_entries 27-52_13359807.indd 8928/08/2024 12:1028/08/2024 12:10Next >