< Previous130 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Al Mamari has an extensive background with Omantel, having served the organisation for over two decades before assuming his current role in June 2014. Before this position, he held various leadership roles within the organisation, including his most recent as Omantel’s chief financial officer. He played a key role in several significant projects during his tenure, such as leading the Omantel team in the acquisition of a 21.9 percent stake in the Zain Group. He also over- saw the restructuring of Omantel by consoli- dating its mobile and fixed operations and successfully facilitated the legal merger of Oman Mobile with Omantel. Now, Al Mamari is propelling Omantel into the future, diversifying the telecom’s offering, expanding in the region, and working towards the achievement of Oman Vision 2040 objectives by investing in emerging technologies and provid- ing the latest solutions in modern technology, such as cloud solutions, AI, cybersecurity, and more. Oman’s digital transformation Under Al Mamari’s guidance, as the telecommunications sector leverages digital innovation, Omantel is striving towards enabling large corporates and enterprises to migrate to the cloud through its subsidiary company Oman Data Park. The company is doing this by designing cost-effective solutions that streamline customers’ operations without compromising data security. In April 2023, a five-year contract was signed between Omantel and Bank Dhofar to provide the bank with a wide suite of data centre offerings, ranging from co-location and connectivity solutions to bespoke hybrid solutions followed by steps for workload migration into cloudification. In April 2024, Omantel and Asyad Group, a global inte- grated logistics provider in Oman, announced a collaborative partnership to introduce an innovative accelerator programme aimed at empowering local tech startups within the logistics industry. The formal signing ceremony represented a signif- icant milestone in Oman’s tech and logistics sectors. The Asyad-Omantel Accelerator Programme has been meticulously crafted to provide comprehensive support to Omani tech start-ups, encompassing mentorship, training, networking opportunities, and fundraising assistance. Span- ning over six months, the programme specifically targets promising start-ups with innovative technologies that contrib- ute to the enhancement of Oman’s logistics landscape, with a strategic focus on supply chain optimisation, cold chain enhancement, and sustainable logistics solutions. Operating from the Omantel Innovation Labs, partici- pants in the Asyad-Omantel Accelerator Programme stand to gain a host of benefits, including access to mentorship from industry experts, specialised training sessions, potential investment prospects, and a dedicated learning platform. Additionally, startups will have the opportunity to engage in collaborative discussions and knowledge-sharing within the dynamic community of the Omantel Innovation Labs, while also exploring Asyad’s integrated logistics ecosystem. The company is also committed to several innovative CSR initiatives. In August 2024, for example, Omantel teamed up with Omani startup Innotech to boost local fish populations by creating artificial reefs using 3D concrete printing technology. In Al Mamari’s efforts to create value for shareholders and drive Omantel towards achieving its growth plans, he also serves on the boards of the Al Amal Fund, the Zain Group, and the Oman Corporate Governance & Sustainability Centre. Talal Said Al Mamari CEO Omantel Telecoms 87 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 130ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13028/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 131 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 CEO and co-founder Wego Travel and hospitality Ross Veitch is CEO and co-founder of the online travel company Wego which operates the MENA region’s #1 travel app and is used by over 100 million travel- lers every year to search and book flights and hotels. The Wego Group also operates WegoPro, a business travel & expense management business, WegoBeds, a B2B hotel booking platform, ShopCash a cashback e-commerce app and Wego Media Solutions which runs digital campaigns for most of the tourism boards, airlines and hotel chains operating in the region. Wego was founded in Singapore way back in 2005 as a metasearch website focused on Southeast Asia but in 2011 switched the focus to the MENA region where the conditions seemed right for the then nascent online travel market to really take-off. The company established its Dubai Internet City office in 2013 and now operates a dual headquarters model across both Dubai and Singapore. Veitch is a resident of both Dubai and Singapore and travels so frequently between the two hubs then he can just about do the DXB-SIN commute blind-folded. Wego has raised over $60m and is backed by investors including Tiger Global Management, Ares Management, Square Peg Capital, MBC Group, MEVP and Arqaam Capital. The company is one of the largest privately-held tech companies in the MENA region and is likely to go public in the next few years. A product guy by training and a passionate technologist, he is most absorbed when researching the latest technologies and thinking about how to apply them at Wego. Recent break- throughs in AI systems are a particular focus for Veitch currently. Beyond his own venture, Veitch has also been angel investing in the tech sector for more than two decades now and he enjoys working with and advising other passionate entrepreneurs at both the initial startup phase and the later scale-up phase. He is a regular public speaker on topics of travel, tourism, avia- tion, technology and startups and a regular on the travel and technology conference circuit. Veitch is a long serving board member of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and has been lucky enough to have a ring-side seat to see tourism boom in the northern emirate. Solid foundations He is a veteran of the internet industry having established operations in Singapore for Yahoo! in 1998 where he led prod- uct and engineering teams and built out products across 40 verticals and across 10 countries. Yahoo! in the early days was the most exciting company in tech and he considers himself very fortunate to have been a part of that and to have worked with so many amazingly talented people. After finishing up at Yahoo! and taking an extended break to do some more traveling, Veitch and business partner Craig Hewett co-founded Wego and nearly 20 years later they are still going strong. Future of Middle East travel and tourism Wego perfectly timed its move into the Middle East region to ride the online travel boom of the last decade and it looks set to continue for the foreseeable future. Economies and popu- lations are growing rapidly in the GCC and across the wider MENA region and the transition from offline shopping to online is accelerating. Travel and tourism sectors are key pillars in the economic transformation and investment plans of all GCC countries and the billions being invested into travel hubs, new airports, new airlines, new destinations and tourism infra- structure will ensure the sector remains vibrant for the decade. Veitch and the team at Wego stand to benefit from this rising tide but they will also be working furiously and applying their technology expertise to help turn these tourism visions into reality. Ross Veitch 88 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 131ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13128/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35132 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Alex Zagrebelny is a visionary leader at the helm of one of the most innovative companies in the luxury real estate sector. With operations spanning Latvia, Spain, Germany, and most recently, the UAE, Zagrebelny’s creative leadership and strategic foresight have established R.Evolution Group as a prominent player in the high-end real estate market. His pioneering approach integrates cutting-edge advancements in architecture, construction, sales, marketing, and company philosophy, ensuring the group stays ahead of industry trends. With over 24 years of experience in real estate development, including two years in the UAE, Zagrebelny brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. His leadership is characterized by a relentless drive to push boundaries and explore new possibilities, making him a key force behind R.Evolution Group’s growth and success. Luxury real estate player Beyond his role at R.Evolution, Zagrebelny holds positions on several prestigious boards, including LEGEND. Jurmala; Lofts&Rosegold; Bulduru Investment; TAL Residence; Philosophers Residence; Villa Milia; Hoft; R.Evolution Nami; R.Evolution City GmbH; and R.Evolution Strategy. His academic background includes a Master’s Degree in Finance and Credit from Riga Aviation University, Latvia, which has further contributed to the sustained growth and excellence of the group in the luxury real estate market. Exclusive development R.Evolution Group, with a legacy spanning over two decades, is set to make a significant impact on Dubai’s skyline with its debut project, Eywa, located in Business Bay along the Dubai Water Canal. This exclusive waterfront development covers 22,000 square meters and features a 19-story tower with 48 residences, offering two, three, four, and five- bedroom apartments. Each unit includes a private jacuzzi, while the penthouse levels boast individual swimming pools, providing unparalleled luxury. The Eywa project is designed with a focus on sustainable and health-centric living, aiming for LEED Platinum, Well Platinum, and WiredScore Platinum certifications. The lead concept and design architect is Open AD, with Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG) serving as the executive architect and lead design consultants. Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai has been appointed as the exclusive real estate broker for Eywa. Inspired by the sacred Tree of Life, Eywa’s architecture embodies a deep connection with nature. The design, featuring open round columns and intertwining branch and trunk elements, echoes the symbolism of the Banyan tree. By blending the ancient principles of Vastu Shastra with modern technologies, Eywa aligns the building’s energies to promote well-being and exemplifies the essence of contemporary living. Scheduled for completion by 2026, Eywa is poised to offer extraordinary lifestyle experiences in the heart of Dubai, setting a new standard for luxury living. Alex Zagrebelny Founder, Owner and Chairman of the Board R.Evolution Group Real estate 89 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 132ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13228/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 133 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Prominent Indian-Emirati businessman Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of one of the most significant conglomerates in the Middle East, embodied an entrepreneurial flair from a very young age. He commenced his professional journey at age 16 while studying in Mumbai, India, driven by the need to support his family following his father’s untimely death. His father’s colleagues offered him employment, and he managed both work and college. At age 18, Sajan accepted a job in Kuwait from his uncle, expanding the family’s build- ing materials business during the Gulf War. He later pursued his dream in Dubai, leveraging his business skills. Sajan sought opportunities in the building materials supply sector, creating valuable connections. By 1993, he had established Danube Building Materials, which was initially a modest venture but has transformed to become the largest supplier of building materials in the GCC region. Real estate boom Today, Danube Group is a diversified business conglomerate with interests that also encompass home décor and real estate development. By the time Sajan forayed into the UAE’s property sector with Danube Properties, there were already multiple big players established in the sector, but Sajan had a plan. Realising that 80 to 90 percent of expats were still renting, he aspired to convert them into buying their properties, allowing them to possess their own dream home and relish the luxuries this vibrant city has to offer. It was this belief that led to him devise the ‘one percent payment plan’. This meant, apart from a small down payment on an off-plan property, buyers had to make a monthly payment of one percent, and the balance was collected once the building was complete. As the building progressed to 60 percent completion, banks were willing to finance the remaining 40 percent of the property’s cost, even prior to the title deed transfer. This approach eliminated the need for customers to engage directly with banks, bypassing prolonged approval processes and the uncer tainties associated with interest rates. The one percent plan ultimately emerged as the foundational principle that shaped Danube Properties and fuelled its subsequent success, helping the company build more than 15,000 homes. For more than a decade, Danube Proper ties has delivered affordable luxury to thousands of families in the UAE. The company has come a long way in perfecting the science of developing homes with all the facilities, amenities, as well as quality finishings and delivering them on time; all at an affordable price. In 2023, Danube Properties partnered with luxury brands including Aston Martin, FashionTV and Tonino Lamborghini Casa to bring branded residences to their buyers who like a touch of class in their homes. Sajan continues to guide the trajectory of Danube. Since 2014, the company has launched 28 projects with a combined development value of almost $5bn. In January 2024, it announced its largest project to date, Bayz101, a 101-storey tower in Business Bay that will span almost 200,000 square metres and encompass 1,346 apartments. Rizwan Sajan Founder and Chairman Danube Group Real estate 90 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 133ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13328/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35134 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 In a city that gleams with luxury and innovation, few names stand out with the quiet yet impactful presence of Ashish Vijay, a leader who has not only shaped the gemstone and luxury jewelry industr y but also left an indelible mark through his philanthropic efforts. Recently named one of the 100 Most Inspiring Leaders in the UAE, his journey is one of humility, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to bettering the lives of others. Bor n and raised in India, he wa s introduced to the world of diamonds and gemstones at an early age, thanks to his family’s legacy in the trade. This early exposure sparked a deep passion for the industry, but it was his innate sense of responsibility and empathy that truly set him apart. Moving to Dubai, he brought with him not just the expertise of a seasoned jeweller but the heart of a philanthropist, determined to use his success to create meaningful change. At the helm of AV Group, he has overseen the company’s growth into a global powerhouse in the luxury jewellery market. Yet, despite his achievements, he remains deeply rooted in his values, which are reflected in every facet of his business. He believes that progress is meaningless without ethics, and this principle has guided AV Group’s operations, ensuring that every gemstone is ethically sourced and that every business practice upholds the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Philanthropic initiatives But it is his commitment to philanthropy that truly defines him as a leader. Through the Gems of Hope Initiative, a collaboration between the AV Group and Tata Memorial Hospital, he has focused his efforts on cancer research. He is deeply committed to children’s welfare initiatives, especially focusing on providing education to young girls. A percentage of profits from AV Group’s activities is dedicated to supporting these causes, reflecting his belief that wealth is not to be hoarded but shared in ways that uplift communities and improve lives. Humility is perhaps his most defining trait. Despite his immense success, he carries himself with a modesty that draws him to everyone he meets. His philosophy is simple yet profound: “Nothing is mine. Not before, not now, and not even 25 years from now. There’s nothing that is mine.” This awareness of the fleeting nature of material wealth shapes his actions, ensuring that his focus remains on the greater good rather than personal gain. His deep empathy enables him to connect with people from all walks of life, inspiring those around him to pursue a greater purpose. As one of the 100 Most Inspiring Leaders in the UAE, he serves as a reminder that true leadership is not about power or prestige, but about how one can positively impact the lives of others. His story is not just about business success; it is about a life lived with purpose, humility, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place. In a city known for its grandeur, his quiet yet powerful legacy of philanthropy and humility shines the brightest. Ashish Vijay Founder and Chairman AV Group Retail 91 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 134ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13428/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 135 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur Badr Jafar has many responsibilities beyond his day-to-day job. In addition to his multiple current roles, Jafar is also the president of Crescent Petroleum, the first inde- pendent and privately-owned petroleum company in the Middle East. He also serves as the chairman of Gulftainer, the largest privately-owned container port and logistics operator in the world, and chairman of Pearl Petroleum, the largest natural gas producer in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Today, Crescent Enterprises encompasses a diverse group of over 50 subsidiaries with operations in 15 countries across nine industry sectors, including ports and logistics, business aviation, power and engineering, healthcare, private equity, and more. The corporate structure now includes four platforms: CE-Operates, CE-Invests, CE-Ventures, and CE-Creates. Under CE-Operates, the focus is on smart infrastructure for economic development and growth, with key operating compa- nies like Gulftainer leading the ports and logistics business across strategic locations globally, including the UAE, KSA, Iraq, and the US. CE-Invests serves as the strategic investment platform supporting late-stage businesses in the MENA region. Investments include healthcare-focused fund TVM Capi- tal and private equity firm Growthgate Capital, spanning sectors such as green building materials, environmental services, and advanced biometrics. Humanitarian involvement Beyond business, Jafar is deeply involved in humanitarian initiatives, philanthropy, corpo- rate governance, and education and arts. He advises the UN Secretary General’s High-Level Panel on Humanitarian Financing, serves on UNESCO’s International Commission on the Futures of Education, and is part of boards including the International Rescue Committee and International Peace Institute. He also contributes his expertise to advisory commit- tees focusing on climate change and sustaina- bility. Noteworthy among his contributions is the founding of the Pearl Initiative, a non-profit organisation promoting transparency and accountability in the corporate sector in collaboration with the United Nations. He also co-founded Arab World Social Entrepreneurship Programme (ASEP) and is active in Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre and MIT Legatum Centre. Moreover, Jafar is a Cambridge Judge Business School Advisory Board member, on the American University of Beirut International Advisory Council, and Sharjah Business Advisory Council member, and founder of strategic philanthropy centres. Driven by a strong belief in the integral role of arts in innova- tion economies, Jafar established the Middle East Theatre Academy in 2011. In the same year, he co-founded the Global Gumbo Group with music producer Quincy Jones, in a bid to promote cross-cultural understanding through entertainment. He’s also a member of several arts-related advisory councils and circles, and a past recipient of the Gold Medal in the Arts by the Kennedy Centre International Committee on the Arts for his efforts to connect cultures through music and theatre. Jafar’s educational background boasts a Master of Engi- neering degree from the University of Cambridge, with addi- tional leadership and governance roles focusing on new econ- omy, society, and sustainability efforts at various global forums. His diverse contributions across business, philanthropy, educa- tion, and the arts underscore his commitment to driving posi- tive change and innovation in diverse sectors. Badr Jafar Managing Director Crescent Group CEO Crescent Enterprises Industry 92 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 135ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13528/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35136 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 For more than three decades, Renuka Jagtiani has helmed Landmark Group’s corporate strategy, and in doing so, has propelled the group to emerge as the foremost omnichannel retailer of trusted, locally established brands in the MENA region. Landmark Group has reshaped Dubai’s retail landscape, embarking on an extraordinary journey from a single store selling baby products in Bahrain in 1973, established by her husband, Micky Jagtiani. The store was called Mothercare, now known as Babyshop, a renowned brand across the region today. Expanding to four stores in Bahrain within a few years, the group entered the UAE market in 1990 with its second brand, Shoemart. This journey has since evolved into an extensive network of over 20 owned brands, 2,200 retail establishments across 21 countries, covering more than 2.7 million sq m, with around 50,000 employees. Retail heavyweight At the core of Landmark Group’s evolution is Jagtiani’s profound influence. In 1993, she catalysed the creation of the high-street fashion brand, Splash, which quickly gained prominence under her leadership. Beyond that, her approach led the group to invest in the MENA region’s largest privately- owned logistics and distribution hub. She also facilitated the group’s seamless entry into the realm of ecommerce over a decade ago. This strategic vision aimed to bring the group’s offerings to customers, regardless of their shopping preferences or locations. In her present role, she is concentrated on nurturing the group’s vision, shaping its strategy, and exploring emerging business opportunities. Moreover, in her capacity as the chair of the Landmark board, Jagtiani closely collaborates with leadership teams, contributing her insights to shape strategic decisions that guide the group’s direction. Her unwavering commitment and expertise have not only been the foundation of Landmark Group’s success but also symbolised its dedication to innovation and expansion. This success led Jagtiani to being inducted into the World Retail Congress Hall of Fame in 2017, and she has been the recipient of several accolades and awards over her esteemed career, including Entrepreneur of the World Year by World Entrepreneurship Forum, alongside her husband, in 2014. Beyond its commercial success, Landmark Group has also emerged as a champion for a diverse range of critical causes. For over 14 years, the group has ardently supported early diabetes detection, raised awareness about diabetes in the region, and enhanced care within UAE communities. By fostering awareness about diabetes risks and complications, the group promotes active lifestyles and encourages regular testing among residents. Giving back to the community The group’s philanthropic commitment extends beyond borders, collaborating with the Jagtiani Foundation and The LIFE Foundation. Through partnerships with reputed local non-profit organisations across India such as Apnalaya, Jan Sahas, Oscar Foundation, and SAVE, the group addresses vital issues like textile and garment worker rights and child labour eradication. Landmark Group, guided by the visionary leadership of Jagtiani, continues to redefine the retail realm through its transformative journey, enriching lives both within its business operations and its extensive philanthropic efforts. Renuka Jagtiani Chairwoman and CEO Landmark Group Retail 93 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 136ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13628/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 137 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Renowned as a visionary entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, Faizal Kottikollon is respected both for his business acumen and passion for giving back to society. His journey with KEF Holdings started in 1995, with the opening of Al Ahamadi General Trading in Ajman. Two years later, he set up one of the world’s three most technologically advanced foundries – the fully integrated valve casting firm Emirates Techno Casting (ETC). By 2012, ETC was sold to Tyco International for over $400m. With an educational background in engineering and management, Kottikollon then used the capital to create KEF Holdings, which today is a multi-billion-dollar DIFC-based conglomerate with operations in strategic investments, infrastructure manufacturing, and healthcare development across the Middle East, India, and Singapore. It specialises in offsite manufacturing technology in industries including healthcare, education, sports, and agriculture. Kottikollon’s vision was that KEF continuously look for ways to use technology to make a difference, reflected in the company’s statement of purpose: Be Different, Make a Difference. Under its banner, there are various verticals. KEF Infra was founded in 2014 as the world’s largest integrated offsite manufacturing facility and in 2018 merged with Katerra, the US-based construction technology company, to create a $3.75bn conglomerate with a $8.5bn order book at the time. In 2017, KEF Investments was founded and today has a large global investment portfolio capitalising on low-risk, high-income oppor tunities in growing markets. That same year, KEF Healthcare established its flagship hospital Meitra Hospital, in Calicut, a state-of-the-art prefabrication facility with a patient-centric, ethical healthcare model. Its wellness and health-focused services have been under significant development in 2024. Earlier this year, the company introduced the first project of KEF Hospitality, a new venture in the luxury hospitality market, with Tulåh Clinical Wellness, promising to provide holistic wellness and eco-conscious services to travellers with an outlet in Kerala, India, to open in 2024. Moreover, in February 2024, Kottikollon signed an MOU with Oman’s Future Health to collaborate on medical and digital technologies, as well as to support Neem Hospital set up and operate Integrated Clinical Wellness facilities, with a mission to further advance healthcare services in the Sultanate. Transforming lives Kottikollon’s wife, Shabana Faizal, has been an integral part of his endeavours and is the vice-chairperson of KEF Holdings. Their daughter, Sophiya Faizal, also heads up KEF Holdings corporate strategy function as the company’s director. Together, Kottikollon and Shabana co-founded in 2007 the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, of which Kottikollon is the chairman. Through this foundation, the businessman is focussed on giving back by creating sustainable initiatives to build a more equitable society. This has included providing a holistic development programme for eight villages in Krishnagiri that has impacted the lives of over 5,000 people, and transforming a 120-year-old school in Kerala that is now ranked among the top government schools in India. Furthermore, Kottikollon is a member of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s prestigious panel of Champions of Change for Infrastructure. Faizal Kottikollon Founder and Chairman KEF Holdings Industry 94 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 137ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13728/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35138 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 95 JS Anand prides himself on his people- centric and future-focused approach to business. Establishing LEVA Hotels in 2019, Anand has steered the brand to include nine hotels, spanning both domestic and inter national markets, including Dubai, Jeddah, Africa, and beyond. With an impressive career spanning 25 years, Anand’s expertise has been honed through senior roles at key establishments including Louvre Hotels and Holiday Inn in the region, as well as in Canada for Marriott International, Hilton, Delta Hotels, and more. His leadership expertise has been instrumental in steering LEVA Hotels as a trailblazing player in the hospitality landscape today. Anand created LEVA Hotels to cater to the discerning tastes of tech-savvy guests and offer a contemporary experience that caters to both business and leisure travellers. Positioned as a lifestyle hotel, LEVA Hotels is now setting its sights on an expansion strategy that extends into untapped markets across the Middle East and Africa. Among the strategic targets for this expansion are countries such as Morocco, Egypt, Sri Lanka, KSA, and Qatar. Capitalising on Dubai’s tourism boom LEVA’s hallmark property, LEVA Mazaya Centre, Dubai, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence. Within just three years of its inauguration, it had risen to occupy the prestigious top spot on TripAdvisor, reflecting the brand’s dedication to exceeding guest expectations. At the heart of LEVA’s charm is its trendy dining space, managed by Baker’s Kitchen, which aligns with LEVA’s overarching vision of crafting a contemporary hotel concept tailored to the modern traveller’s preferences. LEVA Hotels has firmly established its presence in KSA through two strategic hotel management agreements, namely, EKONO by Leva Al Shati and EKONO by Leva Jeddah Airport Hotel. Located within an hour’s drive from Mecca, these properties offer ideal accommodations for Umrah (pilgrimage) travellers seeking convenience and comfort. In Nigeria, LEVA Hotels assumes responsibility for overseeing the transformation and management of REIZ Continental Hotel by LEVA. In partnership with Kostarget Projects LTD and under the ownership of REIZ Continental Hotels LTD, this project is poised to evolve into an upscale five- star luxury lifestyle hotel. Ethiopia is also a prominent destination on LEVA Hotels’ expansion map, characterised by two strategic partnerships, as LEVA Afrotsion Semera Resort and the Harsade Harbour Resort by LEVA introduce hospitality experiences to the forefront. Moreover, LEVA Hotels has unveiled two forward- thinking projects in Zimbabwe as a collaborative venture with Troika Design Workshop (TDW), a leading consulting firm specialising in architecture, quantity sur veying, and engineering, and Turnbury Property Developers (TPD), a real estate development company dedicated to community shaping. While TDW and TPD lead the proper ty development efforts, LEVA will oversee the management of the 120-unit residential complex, LEVA Hotel Residences, and a four-star LEVA hotel featuring 180 rooms in the Mount Pleasant suburb. JS Anand Co-founder and CEO LEVA Hotels and Resorts Hospitality ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 138ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13828/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 139 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 96 Samia Bouazza oversees the strategic development of a diversified portfolio of businesses in her current role at Multiply Group, an Abu Dhabi-based holding company she founded and listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. She is committed to fostering growth by integrating technology, optimising efficiencies, promoting synergy, making acquisitions, and driving sustainable progress among the group’s subsidiaries to ensure optimal shareholder returns. Her central focus is to strike a balance between investing in the digital economy commerce, including telehealth, digi- tal media, and advertising and platforms, and establishing sustainable assets in established industries that are undergo- ing transformative changes across mobility, energy, and beauty. Bouazza champions mental and physical health and spearheaded the launch of the group’s health-tech startup, HealthierU, an online wellness and prevention platform. Under her guidance, Multiply Group also launched the Ma’ak initiative in 2023, providing staff with monthly confi- dential one-on-one virtual sessions with licensed psycholo- gists, combining counselling and coaching to enhance employee well-being. Her leadership ethos is backed by a culture based on trust building, intellectual advance- ment, and data-driven, technology-oriented solutions within her team. At the age of 22, she founded Multiply Marketing Consultancy (MMC), a local boutique agency, which she subsequently elevated into an acclaimed global firm. She successfully orchestrated an acquisition and merger with Viola Communi- cations before leading the listing of Multiply Group on the ADX in December 2021, becoming the first female CEO to take a company public on this exchange. Multiply Group reported high performance and signif- icant growth across its core verticals for Q2 2024, with a net profit of $270m due to consolidating new acquisitions. Bouazza has also declared 2024 as the Year of Efficiency at the group, as the team creates efficiencies and synergies to reduce operating costs and intro- duce digitalisation and AI initiatives across its portfolio companies. Strategic acquisitions Notably, in June 2024, Multiply Group’s Omorfia Group announced the acquisition of The Grooming Company Hold- ing (TGCH), a UAE provider of salon and beauty services, from private equity investor CedarBridge Capital Partners. This move solidifies Omorfia Group’s position as a leader in the GCC and MENA beauty sector, as the TGCH portfolio includes almost 50 owned and operated salons and 15 fran- chises, with brands such as N.BAR, 1847, and Sisters Beauty Lounge. Omorfia’s existing brands include Tips & Toes, Jazz Lounge Bar, and Bedashing Beauty Lounge. Bouazza is recognised as a business speaker and has authored and co-authored books. She holds board positions in companies across Switzerland, New York, and UAE, including with Viola Communications, the Middle East Public Relations Association, Selphagy Therapeutics, Inc., Arena Events Group Ltd, Emirates Driving Company, and TAQA Group. She is also part of the Young Presidents’ Organisation community and a keystone member of Friends of Abu Dhabi Art. Samia Bouazza Group CEO and Managing Director Multiply Group Investment ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 139ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 13928/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35Next >