< Previous40 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 oor Naim, widely recognised as "Noor Stars," is a prominent Iraqi influencer, YouTuber, and social media personality. Born on June 21, 1997, in Baghdad, Noor's rise began in 2014 with her YouTube channel, which quickly attracted a significant following. Her content, a mix of beauty tutorials, comedic skits, lifestyle vlogs, and social commentary, resonates widely due to her engaging person- ality and storytelling skills. By 2024, Noor Stars had over 21 million YouTube subscribers, making her one of the Arab world’s most subscribed YouTubers. She also has over 15 million Insta- gram followers, showcasing her wide-reaching influence. Noor’s experiences, having moved from Iraq to Syria and then to Turkey, have deeply influenced her perspective and content. Despite the challenges, she pursued her passion for content creation, using her platform to inspire and entertain her followers. Noor’s dedication and hard work have led to numer- ous brand collaborations, including Sunsilk, M·A·C Cosmetics, Ole Henriksen Middle East, and SHEGLAM. Her 2022 collaboration with SHEGLAM involved work- ing closely with the brand to launch a limited-edition Liquid Blush & Highlighter Kit, reflecting her personal style and preferences. Her journey from a young girl in Baghdad to a leading social media personality is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and ability to connect with people across differ- ent cultures. aria Pavani, the powerhouse behind Tres Marias Coffee Company, has quickly become a key player in the speciality coffee sector. After moving to Dubai in 2013 to work as a barista, Pavani founded Tres Marias in 2019. Her brand is now recognised for its commitment to qual- ity, ethical consumption, innovation, and sustainability. Under Pavani’s leadership, Tres Marias has formed exclusive partnerships with Costa Coffee, supplying plant- based milk to all 150 of their UAE branches, as well as locations in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. The brand is also available in Al Maya Supermarkets and Zoom convenience stores across the UAE. Pavani’s journey with Tres Marias began with a deep passion for coffee and a vision to transform that passion into a successful venture. She aimed to contribute to the speciality coffee sector by creating high-quality, innova- tive coffee products. As consumer preferences shifted towards milk alternatives, Pavani adapted her vision to ensure that these consumers could still enjoy exceptional coffee. Tres Marias now focuses on delivering both outstanding coffee and plant-based milk options, catering to evolving lifestyle choices. Pavani sees Tres Marias as more than just a coffee company; she envisions it as a platform for positive social change. The brand actively promotes plant-based alterna- tives and their benefits through social media, pop-up events, and community initiatives, aiming to raise aware- ness and inspire the younger generation. Noor Naim Influencer Maria Pavani Founder Tres Marias Coffee Company Entertainment 1516 Food and Beverage NM ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4024/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com 41 30 Under 40 lia Abdel-Razeq, a leader in stem cell banking in the Middle East, is the Chief Operating Officer of CellSave Arabia, the region's first stem cell facility. With a background in chem- ical and pharmaceutical engineering and exten- sive healthcare management experience, Abdel-Razeq has navigated the male-dominated industry with resilience. Her rise to prominence is marked by her risk-taking nature and unwavering focus, driving her to push the bound- aries of what is possible. At CellSave Arabia, she has devel- oped a comprehensive range of services, including cord blood and tissue processing and storage for newborns, adult stem cell banking, and stem cell therapy services aimed at treating a variety of medical conditions, including autoim- mune disorders, heart disease, and neurological disorders. Driven by a vision for the future of stem cell banking in the Middle East, Abdel-Razeq believes that stem cell tech- nology and regenerative medicine have the potential to transform healthcare by providing personalised, targeted treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Her passion for integrating cutting-edge medical technology into the field has consistently driven her efforts to innovate and expand the industry's possibilities. Abdel-Razeq’s dedication and perseverance have earned her respect and admiration, both within and outside the healthcare sector. Her commitment to expanding CellSave Arabia's capabilities and services and forging new partner- ships with healthcare providers and researchers in the region highlights her belief in the power of stem cell technology. Alia Abdel-Razeq Chief Operating Officer CellSave Arabia Healthcare 17 A man Al Shorafa, a trailblazer among Emirati female executives, has made significant strides in both the healthcare and investment sector. After earning her Bachelor's degree in Market- ing and Business Administration from Zayed University in 2009, Al Shorafa began her career at United Eastern Medical Services (UEMedical) in Marketing and Executive Administration. Her ascent in the healthcare sector was marked by her tenure at Danat Al Emarat for Women & Children, where she served as the Chief Protocol Officer from October 2015, and subsequently, the Chief Operating Officer from 2019 to 2022. During her time as COO, Al Shorafa managed a team of 200 employees across various departments, including the call centre, VIP services, biomedical engineering, catering, hospitality services, and patient relations. In 2023, Al Shorafa transitioned to the investment sector, founding WEVIN Investments – a privately owned company that seeks business opportunities across diverse sectors, including security, technology, and education, both locally and regionally. WEVIN Investments' scope includes project management, retail, business management consultancy, and information technology. The firm also includes WEVIN Consultancy, which offers a wide range of services such as strategy consulting, operations consulting, and HR consulting. Al Shorafa's entrepreneurial spirit is further exemplified by her role as a board member at United Eastern Group (UEG) and her co-founding of three businesses: Mon Café, Mon Bebe, and Rohr Chocolats, a Swiss chocolate brand. Eman Al Shorafa Founder and CEO WEVIN Investments 18 Investment E ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4124/07/2024 18:3742 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 rika Doyle, founder of Drink Dry Store, has spearheaded the non-alcoholic beverage industry in the Middle East. Launched in Dubai in 2020, the store offers a curated selection of high-qual- ity, alcohol-free drinks, meeting the growing demand for healthier options. Doyle's entrepreneurial journey began with her keen obser- vation of a gap in the market for premium non-alcoholic bever- ages in the region. Recognising the demand for healthier and inclusive drinking options, she established Drink Dry Store, which quickly gained traction. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence, Doyle has positioned Drink Dry Store as a trusted name in the industry. Supplying over 50 restaurants and hotels across the UAE, Drink Dry Store integrates premium non-alcoholic options into their beverage menus. Erika Doyle’s achievements extend beyond her business acumen. She has been instrumental in changing perceptions around non-alcoholic drinks, advocating for their inclusion in various dining and social experiences. As of 2024, Erika Doyle continues to expand Drink Dry Store, exploring new markets and introducing inno- vative products. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to promoting a healthier lifestyle have made her a notable figure in the industry, inspiring many to embrace the possi- bilities of non-alcoholic beverages. haker Khazaal, an author, speaker, and humanitarian, is known for his impactful storytelling and advocacy for refugees. Born in a Palestinian refugee camp in Beirut in 1987, Khazaal’s early life was marked by the challenges of displacement, shaping his perspective and inspiring his later work. Khazaal’s rise to prominence began with his debut novel, "Confessions of a War Child," published in 2013. The book, blending fiction with real-life experiences, garnered critical acclaim and highlighted the plight of refu- gees. His ability to weave compelling narratives that humanise the refugee experience has made him a standout figure in contemporary literature. With over 100,000 Instagram followers, Khazaal uses social media to engage with readers, share insights about his work, and raise awareness about humanitarian issues. His influence extends beyond writing, frequently speaking at international conferences and advocating for refugee rights. After spending his early years in Lebanon, Khazaal moved to Canada, where he pursued higher education. He graduated from York University in Toronto with a degree in International Development Studies, which further fuelled his passion for humanitarian work. His academic background, combined with personal experiences, enriches his writing and advocacy efforts. Chaker Khazaal Author Erika Doyle Founder Drink Dry Entertainment 1920 Food and Beverage CE ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4224/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com43 30 Under 40 oor Taher, a Jordanian actress, dancer, model, and social media influencer, has taken the Arab world by storm. Bor n on November 2, 1999, in Amman, Jordan, Taher’s rise to fame is a story of talent, perseverance, and an unwaver- ing dedication to her craft. Taher burst onto the scene with her unforget- table performance in Netflix’s 2021 original series Arabic, "AlRawabi School for Girls." Playing Layan, the charismatic leader of a bullying clique, Taher delivered a performance that was both nuanced and powerful. The New Yorker lauded her for bringing "soul and depth" to a character that evolved from detestable to sympathetic over the course of the series. The role not only showcased her acting prowess, but positioned her as a significant talent in the entertainment industry. Growing up on film sets in Jordan, Taher was no stranger to the world of acting. Her performing arts teacher, who also worked as a casting agent, saw her potential early on. By the age of six, she was appearing in films such as Rowan Joffe’s "The Shooting of Thomas Hur ndall" and Cyrus Nowrasteh’s "The Stoning of Soraya M". Despite her early success, Taher took a break from acting to focus on her studies. After graduat- ing from high school, she returned to the screen in the 2019 thriller "Infidel," reuniting with director Cyrus Nowrasteh. In March 2022, Taher revealed on Instagram that she had been dealing with epilepsy, which led to a sudden seizure and brain surgery. Using her platform to raise awareness, she spoke candidly about the pain and recovery process, inspiring many of her followers. Years later, she continues to leverage her social reach to educate others about the condition. With a background in classical ballet and a diverse range of roles under her belt, Taher is set to continue making waves in the industry, making her an icon of contemporary Arab culture. Noor Taher Actress Entertainment 21 N ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4324/07/2024 18:3744 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 nas Bukhash, an Emirati entrepreneur, speaker, and social media personality, has significantly impacted the business world. His journey began in the corporate sector before co-founding Ahdaaf Sports Club in 2013, promoting health and fitness in the UAE. He later founded Bukhash Brothers, a consultancy firm specialis- ing in influencer marketing and social media strategy. Bukhash is widely recognised for his YouTube show, #ABtalks, which he launched in 2019. The show features in-depth interviews with celebrities, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, exploring their personal and professional journeys. By 2024, #ABtalks had garnered over 2 million subscribers and millions of views, praised for its candid and insightful discussions. With over 2.5 million Instagram followers, Bukhash shares motivational content, business insights, and glimpses into his personal life, engaging a wide audience. His educational background includes a degree in Mechan- ical Engineering from Northeastern University, which provided a strong foundation for his problem-solving and analytical skills. Bukhash’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach have made Bukhash Brothers a leading player in the Middle East's digital marketing landscape, repre- senting top influencers and brands. His dedication to inspiring others is evident in his content and public speak- ing engagements. Anas Bukhash Founder Bukhash Brothers 22 Media A my Roko, a Saudi influencer, comedian, and social media personality, has taken the digital world by storm with her distinctive blend of humour and sharp social commentary. Born in Riyadh, her rise to stardom started in 2014 when she began posting comedic skits on Vine. Her witty and relatable content quickly struck a chord, earning her a dedicated following and propelling her into the limelight. Roko's satire navigates the intricacies of everyday situ- ations and societal norms, with a particular focus on culture, gender roles, and the idiosyncrasies of Middle Eastern life. Her choice to wear the niqab both publicly and online has ignited significant discussions about iden- tity and representation, adding depth to her comedic persona. By 2024, Roko had amassed over 1.5 million followers on Instagram, with substantial audiences on Twitter and Snapchat, marking her influence well beyond the Middle East. Initially charting a course in medicine, Roko's true passion for comedy and content creation led her to embrace the life of a full-time influencer. Her journey from aspiring medic to celebrated comedian underscores a powerful message of following one's passion – a theme she consistently imparts to her followers. As she forges ahead, Roko remains an icon of modern Saudi culture – a true example of the power of humour, the importance of representation, and the impact of stay- ing true to oneself. Amy Roko Influencer Entertainment 23 A ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4424/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com 45 30 Under 40 azen Kanaan, co-founder and CEO of House of Pops, has transformed the frozen dessert industry with healthy, all-natural popsicles. Launched in 2018, House of Pops uses natu- ral ingredients and sustainable packaging, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Kanaan's entrepreneurial journey began with his keen interest in creating a product that combined health bene- fits with delicious flavours. The brand quickly gained popularity for its commitment to using natural ingredi- ents, free from artificial additives and preservatives. Kanaan’s focus on environmental responsibility is evident in the company’s use of compostable packaging and dedi- cation to reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with global trends towards sustainability. House of Pops products are available in numerous retail outlets, cafes, and food service locations across the UAE, including major supermarkets and popular tourist spots such as Dubai Marina and JBR. The brand’s success has been recognised with several awards, includ- ing the Gulfood Innovation Award and the Middle East Food Award, highlighting its impact on the food and beverage industry. Mazen Kanaan’s background in marketing and brand development has driven House of Pops’ success, position- ing it as a leader in the industry. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach continue to inspire, offering deli- cious and healthy treats while promoting sustainability. Mazen Kanaan Co-founder and CEO House of Pops 24 Food and Beverage M t just 17 years old, Sophia Sacoor is making waves in the world of fashion and philan- thropy with her innovative athleisure brand, SU1. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of eight, Sacoor has turned her personal challenge into a mission to support others facing similar struggles. SU1, inspired by her nickname "Su," is more than just a clothing line – it is a lifeline for children with Type 1 Diabetes. SU1’s innovative business model merges fashion with philanthropy, pledging $5 or AED 20 from each sale towards institutions aiding children with Type 1 Diabetes. This approach has already borne fruit, exemplified by a successful partnership with the Al Jalila Foundation in the UAE and a forthcoming pop-up store at Kuala Lumpur’s Sunway Pyramid Mall, set to donate all revenues to Sunway Medical Centre. The brand resonates with the vibrancy and hope of Generations Z and Alpha, reflecting a “cool” and optimis- tic vibe through its sportswear designs. SU1’s global outreach strategy ensures that its products are accessible online, allowing supporters from anywhere in the world to contribute to this cause. SU1 is not just a brand – it’s Sacoor’s statement that fashion can indeed help change the world, one garment at a time. Her vision is to expand SU1’s presence internation- ally, establishing it as a leading name in both the fashion and philanthropic sectors. Sophia Sacoor Founder SU1 Retail 25 A ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4524/07/2024 18:3746 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 n a rapidly changing industry, Maged Marie, CEO of Magnom Properties, stands out with his significant and lasting impact. At the helm of the real estate arm of Rawabi Holding, Marie is leading a transformative wave in design, sustain- ability, and technology that is redefining living and working spaces across the Middle East. With a business legacy spanning 25 years, Marie is carving out a unique niche in the region’s booming real estate market with the Forbes International Tower. Marie’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2000 with the founding of Magnom Group. A self-made businessman, he has managed over 5,000 workers and employees, steering his ventures to remarkable heights. In 2020, Marie's strategic acumen saw him become the partner and representative for Lürssen Group, the world’s largest German designer and constructor of luxury yachts and naval ships. This collaboration has significantly bolstered Egypt’s maritime industry, culminating in the founding of NVL Egypt, with Marie at the helm as CEO. Bridging continents and industries As the agent for Jan De Nul in Egypt, a global leader in dredging, Marie has been pivotal in the Intercon- nector project, aimed at establishing an electrical connection between Egypt and Europe. Under his leadership, Jan De Nul signed an MOU with the Egyp- tian Government to explore subsea solar energy exports to Europe. This project exemplifies Marie’s commit- ment to sustainability and international cooperation. In 2021, Magnom Holding partnered with Rawabi Holding, one of the Middle East’s largest fami- ly-owned businesses, to form Magnom Properties. This venture focuses on premium real estate, encom- passing office, commercial, and residential property development, along with luxury retail and hospitality. A sustainable future: Forbes International Tower The upcoming Forbes International Tower, set to Maged Marie CEO Magnom Properties Strategic Investment 26 I be the world’s first net-zero negative tower, is a testament to Marie’s visionary approach. Sched- uled for development in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, this project underscores his commit- ment to sustainability. “Our project has character and soul, making it more than just an office build- ing,” Marie states. “It took time to develop and be recognised by our target customers, but we are in this for the long term, and we are confident that we will develop one of the most luxurious sustain- able towers in the world.” Designed by renowned architects Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill, the tower integrates sustainable elements, ensuring a carbon-neutral footprint and a human-cen- tric atmosphere. Sculptor Richard Orlinski's bespoke sculptures and HBA’s expertise in interior design further enhance the tower’s allure. Magnom Properties, the real estate developer of FORBES International Tower, is partnering with UNICEF to support young people’s empowerment in Egypt, bridging the digital divide and providing a wide range of skills development opportunities to young girls and boys. Magnom Properties will also collaborate with UNICEF to facilitate access to information and digital training to young people, especially girls, to equip them with the necessary skills for better career opportunities and prospects of their choice. ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4624/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com47 30 Under 40 adine Mezher is redefining the financial land- scape of the Middle East as the co-founder of Sarwa, the region’s first and fastest-growing investment platform and personal finance app tailored for young professionals. Sarwa’s mete- oric rise, backed by top international and regional stakehold- ers such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADQ), is a tribute to Mezher’s leadership and approach. Mezher’s journey to fintech fame began with a foundation in consultancy, specialising in retail strategy and marketing. Her portfolio includes projects for clients ranging from the Office of HH the Crown Prince of Dubai to global giants like Nestlé. Prior to co-founding Sarwa, she honed her expertise in retail strategy and strategic alliances at Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai. With over 15 years of experience in management strategy and brand communication across various industries and geog- raphies, Mezher brings a multidisciplinary perspective to her ventures. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a minor in Marketing, from the American University of Beirut, and a degree in Design from Esmod Paris. Sarwa was born out of a vision to democratise investing for the community, enabling young professionals to achieve their financial goals without the complexities typically asso- ciated with investment platforms. The platform provides a comprehensive suite of services, including hands-off auto-in- vesting with Sarwa Invest, self-directed trading of stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies with Sarwa Trade, and cash management solutions with Sarwa Save. Nadine Mezher Co-founder Sarwa 27 Finance ohanad AlHattab, a Syrian national born and raised in the UAE, has become a significant figure in the digital entertainment landscape. Known for his impressive reach and dynamic range of characters, AlHattab has captivated audiences with his unique blend of humour, creativity, and cultural commentary. AlHattab's educational journey laid a solid foundation for his multifaceted career. He completed an undergrad- uate degree in Marketing and Management at the Ameri- can University of Sharjah, followed by a Master's in Marketing at Brunel University London. Based in Abu Dhabi, AlHattab's videos are often filmed at home, frequently featuring his family, who are enthusi- astic participants in his comedic sketches. His characters, which span various dialects and genders, each have their own cult-like fan-bases, with some crossover between char- acters. These personas are more than just amusing figures; they are fully developed identities with backstories that AlHattab crafts, periodically releasing new instalments in their individual sagas. AlHattab's tech-savvy approach and deep understand- ing of digital platforms have played an important role in his success. He explains that while some people recognise the work that goes into each character and storyline, many assume it's all quite easy. The reality, however, involves significant effort and creativity, highlighting AlHattab's dedication to his craft. AlHattab's videos, rich with cultural nuances and sharp wit, have made him a beloved figure in the digital space. Mohanad AlHattab Influencer Entertainment 28 MN ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4724/07/2024 18:3748 Vol. 25/09, August 2024 30 Under 40 ad Hobeika, the son of famed Leba- nese designer – Georges, is a fashion force to be reckoned with. Growing up surrounded by the allure of glamorous runways and intri- cate designs, Jad has infused a fresh, contemporary spirit into the esteemed fashion house, Maison Georges Hobeika. Founded in 1995 in Beirut, Lebanon, Maison Georges Hobeika has become synonymous with red-carpet glamour. The House is renowned for its exquisite couture gowns that have graced some of the world’s most iconic women, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Heidi Klum, Alessandra Ambrosio, Rita Ora, and Jennifer Lopez. This rich heritage is maintained and invigorated by the combined crea- tive forces of Georges and Jad Hobeika. Jad honed his skills at the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, where he devel- oped a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship that defines haute couture. In 2016, he began contrib- uting to the creative process at Maison Georges Hobeika, gradually becoming an integral part of the brand’s evolution. His official appointment as Co-Creative Director, which took place in June 2022, marked a new chapter for the House. Jad’s influence has been transformative. His youthful energy and contemporary perspective have helped to attract a younger, more fashion-forward audience, boosting the House’s international profile. His first collection as Co-Creative Director, the Couture Fall/Winter 2019-2020, set the stage for this new direction. Under his co-leadership, Maison Georges Hobeika has ventured into new territories, while retaining its signature elegance and sophistication. The collaboration between Georges and Jad is a delicate balance of tradition and modernity. Georges embodies the brand’s heritage and metic- ulous attention to detail, while Jad brings a fresh perspective and an eye for contemporary trends. Jad Hobeika Co-Creative Director Maison Georges Hobeika Fashion 29 J ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4824/07/2024 18:37arabianbusiness.com49 30 Under 40 pencer Metzger's journey began at 15, during a two-week work experience at The Ritz, London. This early exposure to fine dining ignited his passion for the culinary arts. He joined The Ritz as an apprentice, rapidly advancing to sous chef. In 2016, seeking to expand his skills, Metzger spent a transformative year at L’Enclume in Car tmel, one of the UK's most acclaimed restaurants. This experience enriched his culinary perspective, and he returned to The Ritz in 2017 as premier sous chef. His talent and dedication were soon recognised, leading to his promotion to head chef in July 2021. Metzger's career is marked by significant accolades. In 2019, at the age of 26, he was awarded the prestigious Roux Scholarship – an achievement that facilitated a three-month internship at the three-Michelin-starred Frantzén restaurant in Stockholm. His commitment to culinary excellence was again acknowledged in 2022 when he was named a Master of Culinary Arts by the UK’s Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. After 13 years of service at The Ritz, Metzger announced his departure. Soon after, he joined Jason Atherton’s Row on 45 in Dubai, where his innovative 17-course tasting menu has made an immediate and profound impact. His approach to cuisine is characterised by a deep respect for ingredients and a commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. His ability to engage warmly and playfully with guests while showcasing his skills reflects a chef who is as comfortable in the dining room as he is in the kitchen. As he embarks on this new chapter, the culinary world eagerly anticipates the innovations and excellence that he will bring to his new role. Metzger's journey from a young apprentice to a celebrated chef epitomises the power of passion and dedication in the relentless pursuit of perfection. Spencer Metzger Chef Row on 45 Food and Beverage 30 S ABE_2509_30 under 40_The List_13341474.indd 4924/07/2024 18:37Next >