< Previous30 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 he UAE is a land of pioneers and vision- aries, continuously shaping the future. Among these trailblazers is Abdulaziz Hassan Ali Baker, who in the late 60s, established a food business to cater to the growing expatriate population. His foresight gave birth to Gulf Marketing Group (GMG), a retail titan now flourishing across sectors such as food, sports, everyday goods, wellbeing, and logistics. The driving force behind the continuing success and expansion of the brand is Mohammad A. Baker. Mohammad credits his success to his father’s guid- ance and the company’s ability to withstand chal- lenges while adapting to changing times. Mohammad has nurtured GMG’s growth beyond the borders of the UAE, establishing opera- tions across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. The company has introduced more than 120 brands into these diverse markets. GMG is fundamentally a growth company with long-term global ambitions, setting a purpose-centric vision to inspire people to win in ways that make the world better. Under his leadership, GMG has expanded its footprint by establishing offices in key regions, such as Asia and North Africa, to improve customer service and expand its brands. The company’s diverse portfolio spans five key verticals: GMG Sports, GMG Everyday Goods, GMG Health and Beauty, GMG Properties, and GMG Logistics. One of GMG’s most successful ventures is Sun & Sand Sports (SSS), launched in 1979. The compa- ny's retail partnerships with brands such as Nike, Columbia, Converse, Timberland, and Vans have been the cornerstone of its success. GMG has also expanded SSS to Singapore, and plans to open 100 stores across Southeast Asia by 2025. In the food retail segment, GMG holds exclusive rights to expand well-known supermarket brands across most of the Middle East, including Géant, Mohammad A. Baker Deputy Chairman and CEO Gulf Marketing Company Retail 1 T Franprix, Monoprix, and monop. The recent acqui- sition of aswaaq added 22 supermarkets to the group’s rapidly growing retail network. GMG’s journey of innovation and excellence goes beyond retail. The company’s Everyday Goods division includes food manufacturing capabilities, food retail, and the food distribution arm. As a major food manufacturer, GMG’s farm-to- fork strategy aligns with the UAE’s food security strategy. The company’s commitment to sustaina- bility and local communities is reflected in its goal to source 30 percent of fresh food locally and its efforts to support the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051. As GMG continues to evolve, Mohammad A. Baker remains focused on inspiring people to lead better lives. With plans to double GMG’s global work- force by 2025, the company is committed to investing in and nurturing its talent. GMG’s mission is not just to be successful but to make the world better, one step at a time, by setting new standards, challenging the status quo, and shaping a better future. ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3024/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com31 30 Under 40 ona Kattan, founder of Kayali, has significantly impacted the beauty industry with her luxury fragrance brand. Co-founding Huda Beauty in 2013 with her sister, Kattan’s entre- preneurial journey continued with Kayali in 2018. The brand, known for its unique, high-quality fragrances, quickly gained global recognition. Mona’s early years were steeped in a love for beauty and fashion, an interest nurtured by her family's entrepreneurial spirit. Relocating to Dubai during her teenage years, she pursued higher education, earning a degree in Finance. While her academic background provided the foundational skills for the business world, her true calling was beauty. As the co-founder and Global President of Huda Beauty, Mona was instrumental in its mete- oric rise, overseeing operations, brand strategy, and product development, cementing its interna- tional acclaim. Kayali, meaning "my imagination" in Arabic, was born from her passion for perfumes and her dream to craft unique fragrances that encapsulate Middle Eastern perfumery. Kayali’s debut collection featured scents designed for layering, enabling consumers to create their bespoke fragrances. With over 3 million Instagram followers, Mona’s feed infuses professional insights with personal moments, inspiring many. Beyond her business ventures, she is a committed philanthro- pist, actively participating in various charitable initiatives related to education, women’s empow- erment, and global humanitarian efforts. Mona Kattan Founder Kayali Retail 2 M ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3124/07/2024 18:3732 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 ora Al Matrooshi, born in 1993, is an Emirati astronaut celebrated for her achievements in advancing the UAE’s space exploration. Selected as the UAE’s first female astronaut in 2021, Al Matrooshi has become a role model, particularly for women in the Middle East. Her selection came after a rigorous process by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, where she stood out for her exceptional skills and passion for space exploration. Known for her engineering expertise and lead- ership, Al Matrooshi advocates for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, encouraging young Emiratis to pursue careers in these fields. Her role as an astronaut embodies the UAE’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities and fostering a new generation of scientists and engineers. Al Matrooshi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the United Arab Emir- ates University. Before her selection as an astronaut, she worked as an engineer at the National Petroleum Construction Company, honing her technical and problem-solving skills. Her background in engineer- ing and passion for space exploration equipped her with the expertise needed for her role as an astronaut. In addition to her work at the MBRSC, Al Matrooshi has undertaken extensive training, includ- ing participation in NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and lay the groundwork for future Mars missions. Her involvement in such high-profile projects under- scores her capabilities and the UAE’s ambitions in the global space arena. Nora Al Matrooshi’s journey from an engineer to the UAE’s first female astronaut highlights her exceptional talent, determination, and the ground- breaking nature of her achievements. Known for her contributions to space exploration and her advo- cacy for STEM education, Al Matrooshi continues to inspire and lead. Nora Al Matrooshi Astronaut Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre Science 3 N ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3224/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com33 30 Under 40 iyad Mahrez, born on February 21, 1991, in Sarcelles, France, is a profes- sional footballer celebrated for his exceptional skills and remarkable journey to stardom. Currently play- ing for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League and a key player for the Algerian national team, Mahrez began his career at AAS Sarcelles. His break- through came with Leicester City in 2014, help- ing them gain promotion to the Premier League. Mahrez is best known for the role that he played in Leicester City’s 2015-2016 Premier League title win, earning him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year. In 2018, he joined Manchester City, where he continued to excel, winning multi- ple domestic titles. His contributions on the field were instrumental in City’s success, showcasing his consistency and calibre as a top-tier footballer. With over 12 million followers on Instagram, Mahrez remains a significant figure both on and off the pitch, inspiring fans worldwide. Mahrez’s choice to represent Algeria, honour- ing his heritage, and leading the national team to victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations high- lights his dedication and influence in football. Known for his football skills and ability to perform in crucial moments, Mahrez continues to be an influential figure in football, inspiring millions of fans around the globe with his journey and achievements. Riyad Mahrez Footballer Al-Ahli Sport 4 R ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3324/07/2024 18:3734 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 arah bint Yousif Al Amiri, the UAE Minister of State for Public Educa- tion and Advanced Technology, has advanced the UAE’s technological and educational landscape. Born in 1987, her rise began with her contributions to the UAE's space programme, notably as Deputy Project Manager of the Emirates Mars Mission. The mission's success in 2021 showcased the UAE's space capabilities. In recognition of her work, Al Amiri was appointed Minister of State for Advanced Sciences in 2017, before taking on her current role. She is known for her efforts to integrate advanced tech- nologies into public education and for promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields among Emirati youth. Her vision is to foster a generation equipped with the skills necessary for the Fourth Industrial Revolu- tion, positioning the UAE as a leader in innovation and technology. Al Amiri's background is rooted in her solid educational foundation and professional achieve- ments. She holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from the Amer- ican University of Sharjah. Her early career involved working at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, where she played a key role in devel- oping the UAE's space initiatives. In addition to her ministerial duties, Al Amiri chairs the UAE Space Agency and is the President of the UAE Council of Scientists. Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri Chairperson UAE Space Agency Science 5 S ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3424/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com35 30 Under 40 alal Moafaq Al Gaddah is known for his impactful contributions and inno- vative vision in the real estate sector. As the Founder and CEO of Keturah and the CEO of MAG Lifestyle Develop- ment, Al Gaddah has orchestrated a series of projects that have reshaped the UAE’s skyline. With a port- folio exceeding $5 billion, 14 complete projects and seven in progress, his commitment to excellence and community development is unmistakable. MAG Lifestyle Development, under Al Gadd- ah’s leadership, has become a cornerstone of the UAE’s real estate market, delivering top-tier resi- dential and commercial properties. The compa- ny’s diverse range of projects, from iconic resi- dential towers to comprehensive mixed-use developments, have significantly contributed to the UAE’s urban evolution. In 2022, Al Gaddah launched the Keturah brand, introducing a novel concept that blends luxury with wellness principles. His forward-think- ing vision promotes a lifestyle anchored in innova- tion, quality, and well-being, marking a key shift in the industry towards sustainable and enriching living environments. The Keturah brand made its debut at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Dubai, Creekside, part of the Keturah Resort. The development was a trailblazer, being the first in the region to actively pursue a WELL Health-Safety Rating certification, thus setting new standards for health and safety in luxury real estate. Following this, Keturah Reserve was unveiled, featuring the Middle East’s first 'Bio Living' concept, which immerses residents in land- scaped nature, significantly enhancing their phys- ical, mental, and emotional well-being. Keturah stands at the intersection of luxury and well-being, offering unparalleled living expe- riences. Each project, from the distinguished Ketu- rah Resort to the pioneering Keturah Reserve, establishes new benchmarks for luxury living, not only in the UAE but on a global scale. Al Gaddah’s ability to anticipate and adapt to evolving trends have firmly positioned him as a leader in the real estate industry. By merging luxury with sustainability and wellness, he has crafted a new standard for future developments, driving a vision where innovation and sustainabil- ity effortlessly converge. Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah Founder and CEO – Keturah CEO – MAG Lifestyle Development Real Estate 6 T ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3524/07/2024 18:3736 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 ashid Alabbar began his career in the UAE’s banking sector, with tenures at HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank. However, his entre- preneurial spirit led him to launch three inno- vative companies between 2012 and 2013, marking his transition from finance to business leadership. In January 2012, Alabbar co-founded Alabbar Enter- prises, a dynamic parent company overseeing various retail and franchise operations across the Middle East. The company's portfolio includes high-end cafes and restaurants such as Angelina and Karak House, as well as food truck concepts and luxury furniture brands like Ethan Allen. Expanding his entrepreneurial drive into the digital world, Alabbar launched Symphony Technology in June 2012. Based in the UAE with branches in Malaysia and the US, Symphony Technology aims to introduce disruptive technologies to the MENA region, Malaysia, and other Asian markets. By leveraging innovations from global hubs like Silicon Valley, Alabbar is determined to establish Dubai and the surrounding region as a leading technology hub. In August 2013, Alabbar co-founded Sivvi.com, an e-commerce platform that offers apparel, accessories, beauty products, furniture, and more from over 2,000 international brands. Powered by noon, Sivvi.com delivers top-tier brands to customers across Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Alabbar’s academic achievements are equally noteworthy. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance from the University of San Diego, US. mira Sajwani is the founder and CEO of prop- tech start-up, PRYPCO and the Managing Director of Sales and Development at DAMAC Properties. As the founder and CEO of PRYPCO, Amira has created a platform that empowers the real estate ecosystem with the knowledge and information necessary for property ownership and management in the UAE. PRYPCO’s prop-tech solutions enhance transparency, security, and ease of transactions, transforming the way people engage with real estate. In her role at DAMAC Properties, Amira oversees the development of properties, ensuring that every aspect— from design and construction to sales, marketing, and analytics—maximises product value. Her responsibilities also include managing DAMAC’s network of direct and independent sales agents, both locally and internationally, and developing programmes that empower these agents to sell more effectively. Her approach has transformed DAMAC's sales vertical, activating channel partners, launching agent portals, and introducing in-demand prod- ucts that keep DAMAC ahead of the curve in the compet- itive MENA real estate market. In 2023, Amira, along with her brother Ali Sajwani, launched “Amali,” a venture that offers concept luxury villas with a high degree of customisability. Each villa, curated by hand-picked international designers and archi- tects, is a unique masterpiece, ensuring no two residences are alike. Rashid Alabbar Co-founder Alabbar Enterprises Amira Sajwani Founder and CEO PRYPCO E-Commerce 78 Real Estate RA ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3624/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com 37 30 Under 40 ami Shaar is known for revolutionising the UAE's laundry and dry-cleaning industry. Shaar's career began in the financial sector, starting as an Investment Banking Analyst at Morgan Stanley in 2010. In 2013, he transi- tioned to Swicorp as a Private Equity Analyst. His career took a turn when he joined Uber in 2014 as an Operations & Logistics Manager. In 2015, Shaar co-founded Washmen, a digital laundry and dry-cleaning service, alongside Jad Halaoui. Initially adopting an asset-light model, Washmen connected custom- ers with logistics partners and existing laundromats. However, in 2019, the company took a significant leap by launching its own 30,000-square-foot facility, thereby fully owning the supply chain. Today, Washmen has become a household name in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. By integrating technology with top-notch customer service, Washmen has redefined conven- ience and quality for its users. The service allows users to order laundry and dry-cleaning services through a mobile app, available on both Android and iOS platforms. Custom- ers can select pick-up and drop-off times, with a standard turnaround time of 48 hours Shaar's academic background includes a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from Concordia University, comple- mented by studies at the University of Toronto, the Ameri- can International School in Riyadh, and Jeddah Prep. His diverse education and work experience have equipped him with a foundation in finance, operations, and logistics. evin Chalhoub is leading a movement towards a sustainable future in the Middle East and beyond. As the founder and CEO of EV Lab, Chalhoub developed the first multi-brand elec- tric vehicle (EV) platform in the Middle East, reshaping transportation with a vision for a cleaner future. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil and Environmental Engi- neering from Imperial College London and a Master’s in Atmosphere and Clean Energy from Stanford University. His career includes roles at Bain & Company and NEXTracker. In 2020, Chalhoub launched EV Lab to accelerate electric mobility adoption in the region. EV Lab offers a wide range of electric vehicles and educates the community on sustainable transportation. The platform’s Retail as a Service (RaaS) model allows customers to test drive, rent, lease, or purchase EVs in a brand-agnostic environment. A key milestone was the opening of the Electric Mobility Experience Centre at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Supported by the UAE’s leader- ship in energy transition, the facility showcases electric vehicles, micro-mobility options, and charging solutions, including electric yachts and boats. EV Lab also hosts events, workshops, and discussions to foster innovation in sustainable transportation. The centre serves as a hub for collaboration among EV companies and specialists. EV Lab’s app facilitates renting, leasing, buying, and selling used electric vehicles, making sustainable mobility more accessible. Partnerships with industry stakeholders, such as Rimac Automobili, highlight EV Lab’s commitment to cutting-edge EVs. Rami Shaar Co-founder Washmen Kevin Chalhoub Founder and CEO EV Lab Services 910 Mobility RK ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3724/07/2024 18:3738 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 bdullah Al Othman, one of Saudi Arabia's youngest and most dynamic entrepreneurs, is the mastermind behind Geidea, a leading payment service provider known for its digital payment solutions. As the driving force of Geidea, Al Othman has championed a vision of making affordable, accessible, and customer-centric payment solu- tions available to everyone. Al Othman embarked on his professional journey in real estate in 2008. However, his passion for digital inno- vation led him to invest in Geidea in 2011, marking his entry into the fintech sector. Under his leadership, Geidea has grown to become a fully licensed fintech powerhouse in Saudi Arabia. Al Othman is also an active member of the Business Entrepreneurs in the Chamber of Commerce, an organi- sation dedicated to fostering commercial solidarity and protecting business interests. His reputation as a fintech pioneer is further solidified by his participation in numer- ous international conferences, including Fintech Connect, Mifintech, Seamless, Trustech, L39, and Money2020, where he shares his insights and drives discussions on the future of digital payments. In 2019, Al Othman founded AO Holding, a family investment house that focuses on emerging technologies and innovative business ventures across Saudi Arabia. Through AO Holding, he supports forward-thinking projects that promise significant advancements and posi- tive changes. baid Al-Safi, born in 1991 in Wadi ad-Dawa- sir and now based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is an artist who blends new media installations, video, and data-driven projects to explore the unseen facets of life. With a background in computer science, Al-Safi takes a systematic approach to his creative process, investigating the profound impacts of data on our physical reality, visible environment, and collective memory. Graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Satam bin Abdulaziz University in 2014, Al-Safi spent three years teaching Computer Science at Al Maarefa Colleges for Medical and Technical Sciences in Riyadh while simultaneously pursuing a career as a multi- media artist. His scientific training informs his precise and methodical approach to art, resulting in works that are as intellectually stimulating as they are visually arresting. Al-Safi’s artistic practice is rooted in his deep under- standing of artificial intelligence and software. He uses these tools to create artworks that make the invisible processes of data visible, drawing attention to the way data shapes our world. His works often incorporate elements of photography, poetry, and Arabic literature, demonstrating a rich intertextuality. Obaid Al-Safi is not just an artist – he is a digital alche- mist, turning the intangible into the tangible. His work stands at the intersection of art and technology, pushing the boundaries of both fields and offering a fresh perspec- tive on the future of data and its impact on our lives. Abdullah Al Othman Founder and Chairman Geidea Obaid Al-Safi Artist Financial Technology 1112 Art AO ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3824/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com 39 30 Under 40 ania Alshowaikh is the co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Daleel, a financial marketplace aimed at enhancing financial well-being and inclusion across the region. Driven by her passion for making finance accessible and comprehensible for the everyday person, she has made significant strides in the ever-evolving industry. In her career, Dania has played key roles in helping businesses scale their operations across the MENA region. As the marketing lead at Tarabut Gateway, she forged a close-knit collaboration with the FinTech ecosystem, fostering an environment ripe for innovation. Her influence extends further through her active participation in several MENA working groups dedicated to empowering the next generation of financial services. Since its launch in 2022, Daleel has formed a number of partnerships with key financial institutions that range from the National Bank of Bahrain to Rain, a crypto asset trading platform, headquartered in Bahrain. Daleel is also home to over 14,000 members, and has just launched Daleel 2.0, which includes a revamped app experience, while staying true to the brand’s core mission of making finance simple and accessible to all. Dania’s expertise is well-founded, boasting certifica- tions in inbound marketing and digital transformation from MIT, an MSc in Strategic Marketing with Honours from Imperial College London, and a BA in Media Stud- ies and Business from the University of Newcastle. Dania Alshowaikh Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer Daleel Finance 13 D s the Head of Dubai Opera, Paolo Petrocelli is making a significant mark on the cultural fabric of the UAE. His leadership is charac- terised by a blend of cultural enrichment and community engagement, positioning Dubai Opera as a central hub for artistic excellence and social cohesion. Petrocelli's approach is multifaceted. By curating a diverse array of cultural events that celebrate global talent and heritage, he fosters an environment of inclusivity and appreciation for different cultures among residents and visitors alike. His vision extends beyond mere entertain- ment – it’s about creating a platform for cultural exchange and enrichment that benefits the entire community. Education is a cornerstone of Petrocelli's mission. He has implemented a range of outreach programs designed to make the arts accessible to all, promoting local talent development and arts education. These initiatives ensure that Dubai Opera's impact extends well beyond its walls, nurturing the next generation of artists and fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community. Under Petrocelli’s stewardship, Dubai Opera has become more than just a venue for world-class perfor- mances. It is a hub for cultural exchange. A hot spot for social gatherings, a place for shared experiences and mutual appreciation of diverse artistic expressions. His dedication to bridging cultures and nurturing local talent emphasises his role as a catalyst for positive change in the UAE's cultural landscape. Paolo Petrocelli Head Dubai Opera 14 Entertainment A ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 3924/07/2024 18:37Next >