As the Gulf continues to cement its position as a global hub of innovation and transformation, a new wave of visionary leaders is shaping industries, redefining business landscapes, and inspiring future generations. From cutting-edge technology to sustainable business models, these trailblazers are not just adapting to change—they are driving it.
In this exclusive feature, we spotlight ten dynamic leaders who are making a profound impact in their respective fields. Nisha Sanghani, a finance maven, is championing wealth empowerment and financial literacy. Steven Nasser is at the forefront of data-driven innovation, leveraging AI and analytics to transform business strategies. Yuvaraj Mogatala, with his deep-rooted expertise in IT and digital transformation, is redefining how organizations adapt to an increasingly digital world.
Entrepreneurial resilience and forward-thinking leadership shine through in Attila Pető, a powerhouse in the world of business expansion, and François-Xavier Depireux, whose strategic acumen is driving groundbreaking innovations. Meanwhile, Deepak Ramdas is revolutionizing the furniture industry with a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics, catering to evolving market demands.
Creativity and human-centric approaches are key drivers for Caroline Spinks, who is fostering an ecosystem where art meets technology, and Zaid Ameen, whose vision for the travel industry is rooted in personalization and immersive experiences. Angira Banerjee stands as a force in talent development, shaping the future of workforce dynamics, while Mohammad Danish is pioneering strategies that merge sustainability with business growth.
Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective, a bold vision, and an unwavering commitment to progress. Their journeys, insights, and innovations are not just shaping industries today but are paving the way for a transformative 2025. Dive into their stories and discover how they are redefining success in the Gulf and beyond.
Nisha Sanghani
Nisha Sanghani is a trailblazing leader in risk management, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance, with over two decades of consultancy and commercial experience. As a Partner and Head of Ashurst Risk Advisory Middle East, she is driving transformative change across the region, blending deep technical expertise with strategic leadership to shape the future of governance and business resilience.
Her career journey reflects an impressive array of leadership roles, where she has built a reputation for delivering complex business change programs and offering board-level advisory on governance and risk strategies. In October 2022, she joined Ashurst Risk Advisory UK as a founding partner, playing a key role in expanding the firm’s presence and building new client relationships. Before that, she co-founded Rosediem Consulting, a boutique firm that earned the title of Best Specialist Financial Regulatory Consulting Firm in the UK, and she was recognized as one of the UK’s Top 20 Dynamic CEOs. Her extensive career also includes executive roles at KPMG UK, a global investment bank, and a FTSE 250-listed wealth manager, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
Nisha’s recent move to the Middle East marks an exciting new phase in her career. She has spearheaded the launch of Ashurst Risk Advisory Middle East, introducing a pioneering consulting platform that complements the firm’s core legal services. This first-of-its-kind initiative in the region integrates legal and risk advisory expertise, providing organizations with a holistic approach to governance, risk management, and complex infrastructure projects. Her leadership is shaping a progressive corporate governance landscape, equipping businesses with the tools needed to navigate a fast-evolving economic environment.
A visionary in her field, Nisha is committed to transforming business performance through strategic governance frameworks that enhance resilience and sustainability. Her leadership extends beyond Ashurst, as she serves as a specialist advisor to the Corporate Governance Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants England & Wales (ICAEW), where she plays a pivotal role in shaping global best practices.
As she continues to expand Ashurst Risk Advisory’s footprint in the Middle East, Nisha’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and business transformation ensures that she remains at the forefront of the industry. Her influence is not only shaping the future of risk advisory and governance but also contributing to the broader economic growth and diversification of the region.
Steven Nasser
Steven Nasser is a visionary leader in technology and innovation, with over two decades of experience in strategic partnerships, business development, and industrial automation. As the Chief Technology Officer/Chief Information Officer at SABER Investment Company L.L.C., he plays a critical role in managing the company’s strategic growth, global partnerships, and IT infrastructure. His expertise spans cloud computing (first to implement Office 365 in the UAE, 2014’), SaaS-driven operations, and software automation (developed a dashboard platform-based application to automate operations), enabling SABER’s group of companies to expand into defense, aerospace, automation, and intelligent transportation sectors. Under his leadership, SABER has transformed a legacy manufacturing facility into the MENA region’s first advanced ‘machining-as-a-service’ platform, meeting Tier 1 global compliance standards.
A prominent figure in smart city development (camera-based parking solutions, smart gantries w/integrated weather monitoring), Steven has over 20 years of experience in integrating disruptive transformative technologies. His projects, which have generated revenues of up to $100 million per initiative, have significantly contributed to the advancement of smart transportation infrastructure. As Chairman of the IRF MENA Committee and Co-Chairman of the ITS Committee, he actively collaborates with private, public, and academic stakeholders to optimize road infrastructure and implement AI, cybersecurity, and connected transportation solutions. His work with leading government agencies has helped shape the future of intelligent mobility in the region.
He has been instrumental in digitizing manufacturing processes through integrated work cells and connected supply chain. His experience in defense technology has facilitated collaborations with industry giants such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, aligning advanced innovations with Abu Dhabi’s strategic defense roadmap. His efforts remain targeted at the multi-million-dollar contracts taking place in this vertical, reinforcing the region’s position as a leader in defense technology and manufacturing.
Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering from Boston University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Babson College. He has further honed his expertise with an executive certification in Strategy and Innovation from MIT Sloan School of Management. With a strong passion for data analytics, AI, and automation, he passionately believes that harnessing the right data is key to driving enterprise value. His forward-thinking approach continues to shape the Gulf’s industrial and technological evolution, making him a driving force in the region’s digital transformation. Back in 2014, he presented on the topic of Industry 4.0, at the Tawazun Economic Council. A technology framework leveraged today to enhance all sectors of industrial verticals.
Yuvaraj Mogatala
In the demanding world of petrochemicals, precision, efficiency, and problem-solving capabilities define industry leaders. Among them, Yuvaraj Mogatala stands out as an expert in onsite machining, prominent for tackling complex engineering challenges with unmatched technical skill and dedication.
Sponsored by one of the largest petrochemical complexes, Yuvaraj is recognized for his exceptional technical expertise and problem-solving approach. He prioritizes engineering challenges over financial incentives, earning global recognition for his innovative solutions. His work consistently delivers seamless operations, especially where traditional methods fall short.
When complex onsite machining issues arise, Yuvaraj is the specialist companies turn to. Known for his unwavering commitment and expertise, he has built a reputation for solving critical machining problems with innovative, cost-effective solutions. His approach, driven by technical excellence rather than commercial incentives, has earned him the trust of clients and competitors worldwide.
With over 25 years of experience across various industries, Yuvaraj has honed his expertise in onsite machining, critical in-place repairs, power generation machining, CAD/CAM, ASME pressure equipment, heat exchangers, and precision manufacturing. His ability to seamlessly integrate design and execution ensures streamlined operations.
Yuvaraj’s problem-solving ability is evident in a major petrochemical project where conventional service providers hesitated due to complexity. He assessed the challenge onsite and leveraged his global network to develop a precise, effective solution. His ability to assemble the right team and equipment highlights his value as a leader in the field.
Grounded in mechanical engineering and project management, Yuvaraj has built a career spanning petrochemical plants to power generation. He consistently focuses on understanding the nuances of each project, offering strategies that balance immediate and long-term needs to ensure solutions are tailored to client operations.
Yuvaraj is known for addressing complicated problems with tailored solutions. By streamlining operations, minimizing downtime, and reducing costs, he ensures projects maintain the highest standards of safety and quality. Leveraging global resources, he assembles the right teams and equipment to tackle even the most demanding tasks, ensuring effective and sustainable solutions.
Passionate about advancing onsite machining, Yuvaraj continuously adapts to industry advancements and evolving client needs. His proven track record of solving challenges makes him an invaluable partner for organizations seeking precision-driven solutions in the petrochemical and manufacturing sectors.
Attila Pető
Attila Pető is a seasoned leader in the bakery and food industry, with over two decades of expertise in premium bakery machinery and innovative solutions. His journey began in Europe, where he developed a deep understanding of client needs and mastered the art of tailoring solutions that deliver tangible results. Driven by a passion for innovation and excellence, he expanded FoodTech Group to the UAE and the Middle East, establishing a brand committed to bringing world-class equipment and customized solutions to a dynamic and evolving market. As CEO, Attila seamlessly combines technical expertise with a personal approach, ensuring that businesses not only streamline their operations but also enhance product quality and maximize their return on investment. His vision revolves around bridging technological advancements with practical applications, making automation more accessible to the industry.
FoodTech Group specializes in providing high-quality bakery and confectionery machinery across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider GCC region. With a strong foundation in European expertise, the company has positioned itself as a trusted partner for artisan and industrial bakeries, hotels, and restaurants. By offering cutting-edge solutions tailored to diverse operational needs, FoodTech Group ensures seamless installations and exceptional customer service. Its reputation for reliability and innovation has set it apart in an increasingly competitive market.
With ambitious growth plans, Attila envisions expanding FoodTech Group beyond bakery equipment to cater to broader food production needs over the next few years. The company is actively working to enhance its presence in the GCC by expanding showroom facilities and opening new locations. By maintaining the high standards that have defined its European counterpart, FoodTech Group aims to strengthen its foothold as a major industry player. The trust and confidence earned from partners and customers continue to fuel its expansion, further solidifying its market position.
Despite being a relatively young company in the region, FoodTech Group has already made a significant impact. Success at the GulFood Manufacturing exhibitions and strong client referrals have propelled the company beyond the Middle East, with customers as far as Singapore. Attila remains dedicated to continuous growth, embracing every challenge as an opportunity to move forward. His relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to hard work are the driving forces behind the company’s achievements. With this mindset, Attila continues to drive industry change, making a lasting impact on the food technology sector in the Gulf and beyond.
François-Xavier Depireux
François-Xavier Depireux is a seasoned business development specialist and the Founder & CEO of LD Export, a firm dedicated to facilitating European SMEs’ expansion into the Gulf region. With over 20 years of experience in international business development, he has been instrumental in helping companies establish a strong presence in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait. Through strategic market entry solutions and an extensive network of over 4,500 distributors and agents, François-Xavier has successfully guided more than 300 missions, enabling European enterprises to navigate the complexities of the Gulf markets.
Recognized as a Gulf market expert by multiple European institutions, François-Xavier is a sought-after speaker in export clubs and chambers of commerce. His deep understanding of local business dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and cultural nuances has made him a trusted advisor for companies seeking sustainable growth in the region. By leveraging his expertise in B2B sales, strategic partnerships, and franchise development, he has helped businesses secure ideal counterparts and accelerate revenue generation.
Under his leadership, LD Export has evolved into a multi-sector leader, offering tailored business development solutions that span various industries. His results-oriented approach ensures that clients not only establish a foothold in the Gulf but also thrive in these competitive markets. Beyond LD Export, François-Xavier also leads AliceGoods, an innovative e-commerce platform operating across Bahrain and Dubai. His entrepreneurial vision and ability to adapt to shifting market trends have been key to driving business success in the region.
François-Xavier holds a degree in International Business Affairs from HELMo Haute Ecole and has honed his expertise through years of hands-on experience in global trade and strategic expansion. Passionate about fostering cross-border business collaborations, he continues to empower European enterprises by providing them with the tools and networks necessary to unlock new opportunities in the Gulf. His dedication to bridging international markets makes him a vital figure in shaping the future of global business expansion.
Deepak Ramdas
Deepak Ramdas is a seasoned professional with over 23 years of experience in the furniture industry. His journey began in the UAE in 2002 as a showroom sales executive specializing in office furniture. Despite the competitive nature of the industry, his ability to connect with clients and keen attention to detail quickly earned him recognition. As he gained experience, he transitioned into the furniture rental sector, working with an American company to provide furniture packages for corporate housing, particularly for oil & gas firms and blue-chip companies.
Over time, Deepak identified a significant shift in consumer preferences, with more people looking to expand their living spaces outdoors. Recognizing a gap in the market for high-quality yet affordable outdoor furniture, he took a bold step and joined Parasol Furniture, a small retail store at the time. His vision was to transform the business by shifting its focus to a B2B model, targeting the hospitality sector, homeowners, and interior designers. Establishing relationships with the right factories in Asia, he ensured that Parasol could offer durable, stylish, and weather-resistant outdoor furniture without compromising quality.
Deepak’s expertise in customer service played a crucial role in Parasol’s growth. He prioritized personalized customer experiences, from tailored advice to seamless delivery and setup services. His commitment to quality and innovation set Parasol apart, integrating ergonomic designs, durable fabrics, and weather-resistant finishes into every product. Strong word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat business helped propel Parasol from a small local store to a recognized name in the outdoor furniture industry.
Today, Deepak is a stakeholder and Managing Partner at Parasol, leading the company’s expansion into global markets, with offices established in Saudi Arabia and the Maldives. Under his leadership, the company has also diversified into specialized departments such as Outdoor Fabrics, Upholstery, and Joinery, with further growth on the horizon. Despite his success, Deepak remains dedicated to continuous improvement, staying true to the values of exceptional service, quality products, and innovation that have guided him from the start. His journey exemplifies how determination, vision, and persistence can turn passion into a thriving business, serving as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the furniture industry.
Caroline Spinks
After over 30 years in the oil and gas industry, Caroline Spinks made a bold career shift, moving from energy to the world of art and technology. As the owner of Cristal Energy Consulting DMCC, a boutique firm specializing in strategic and financial solutions, she worked across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Yet, her passion for creativity and art's transformative power led her to explore new horizons in culture and innovation.
Today, Caroline represents both emerging and established artists through espace, a company blending art, design, and technology. At espace, the focus is on creating innovative ways to engage with art and imagine the future. As Jason Silva says, “Art is the language of the soul. It’s the way we make the invisible visible.” This philosophy drives espace, bringing unrealized ideas to life in groundbreaking ways.
Beyond espace, Caroline serves as an Advisory Board Member of Arts Thread, the world’s leading platform connecting emerging creatives with industry professionals. Over the past 15 years, Arts Thread has helped thousands of young artists and designers gain global visibility and invaluable networking opportunities.
Dubai’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, alongside the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, has made it the perfect setting for this new chapter. The city’s forward-thinking approach to business and the arts enabled Caroline to transition seamlessly into the art and technology space.
A major milestone in this journey was exhibiting at Forever is Now at the Pyramids of Giza for Art D'Egypte inaugural exhibition, where we commissioned a site-specific piece by Shuster + Moseley. espace exhibited at Art Dubai Digital in 2024, featuring the iconic Temple I by Stephan Breuer and Looking for Paradise, the first digitally archived work at The Louvre. We’re also excited to return to Art Dubai from 17-20 April 2025, showcasing works by artists Ralph Khoury and Philippe Cramer, continuing our exploration of art and technology, supported by Hybrid Xperience.
Through espace and Arts Thread, Caroline’s mission is to empower artists and creatives by providing them with the resources, networks, and platforms to thrive. It’s not just about showcasing work, it’s about enabling artists to challenge conventions and inspire change. Caroline is also creating espace Capital, an investment fund focused on art, technology, and innovation, and has invested in other visionary startups. The future is wide open, and Caroline is excited to continue bridging the worlds of art, technology, entrepreneurship, and investment in Dubai and beyond.
Zaid Ameen
Zaid Ameen’s vision for Go Kite Travel and Tours was born out of a passion for redefining how travelers connect with destinations. Recognizing a gap in the market for curated, immersive experiences, he sought to create journeys that go beyond sightseeing, fostering genuine connections with local cultures. Unlike traditional travel agencies focused on transactions, Go Kite blends human insight with smart technology, ensuring each trip is personalized and meaningful. By combining this expertise with a human-centered approach rather than relying on AI-driven tools, Go Kite ensures every itinerary is unique. More importantly, every journey contributes to the communities visited, reinforcing the belief that travel should leave a positive impact.
Scaling Go Kite’s success has been driven by a commitment to relationships over rapid expansion. With a strong presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, the company has now established itself in Oman and has ambitious plans to expand across the GCC. However, growth at Go Kite isn’t just about opening offices, it's about building trust. The company has evolved into a one-stop solution for travelers, offering not just vacation packages but also global visa services, corporate retreats, and document attestations. This multifaceted approach ensures that customers return for multiple services, deepening long-term relationships. A major strength of Go Kite lies in its people, empowered by a “think global, act local” philosophy. Every team member is a brand ambassador, equipped with real-time data tools and continuous training, allowing them to adapt quickly to changing traveler needs. By fostering a culture of innovation and autonomy, Go Kite thrives not as a rigid corporation but as a dynamic family of travel experts.
In an industry rapidly shifting toward automation, Zaid Ameen has chosen a different path—keeping human connection at the core of travel. While Go Kite leverages cutting-edge technology for efficiency, the company ensures that travelers always have a real person to guide them when needed. With over 350 dedicated team members worldwide and more than 10 million happy customers served, customer service remains a top priority. The company is introducing an automated booking system to streamline processes for flights, hotels, and visas, allowing agents to focus on personalized experiences. By balancing technology with the deep expertise of its team, Go Kite continues to innovate without losing the personal touch that sets it apart. Looking forward, the company is investing in intuitive tools, such as real-time visa updates and corporate booking dashboards, to enhance user experience. Yet, no algorithm can replace the warmth of a Go Kite agent who remembers a traveler’s window seat preference or dietary restrictions. For Zaid Ameen, true innovation isn’t about replacing people, it’s about giving them the tools to create unforgettable journeys.
Website: www.gokite.travel
Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/gokitetours/
https://www.facebook.com/gokitetravelandtours/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/gokitetravelandtours
Angira Banerjee
In the ever-evolving world of advertising and creative media, Angira Banerjee stands out as a visionary leader, seamlessly merging creativity with strategy to drive impactful campaigns. Her journey began in journalism at Zee News Network, where she excelled as a senior journalist and producer. However, her passion for storytelling extended beyond traditional news, leading her to venture into media advertising—a move that would redefine her career.
In 2013, she took her first step into the advertising world by joining a media agency in Doha. Even early on, her ability to blend traditional advertising with modern, data-driven strategies set her apart. She crafted campaigns that were not just visually compelling but also deeply resonated with audiences, delivering exceptional results. Her innovative approach and commitment to excellence consistently pushed industry boundaries, laying the foundation for her global success.
Seeking greater challenges and opportunities, Angira relocated to Dubai in 2015, embracing the city’s dynamic business environment. The move marked a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to engage with a diverse consumer market and stay ahead of evolving advertising trends. Her ability to navigate this ever-changing landscape with agility and foresight further solidified her reputation as an industry pioneer.
A defining moment in her journey came in 2018 with the launch of People Perfect Media. Under her leadership, the agency quickly became a driving force in the advertising industry, delivering innovative solutions for both local businesses and international brands. Her meticulous attention to detail and hands-on approach ensure that each campaign achieves both creative brilliance and strategic effectiveness. Her belief in leveraging data analytics to inform creative decisions has led to campaigns that are not only visually striking but also highly impactful.
Beyond her professional success, Angira is deeply committed to mentorship and industry development. She actively participates in forums and workshops, sharing her knowledge with aspiring marketers and entrepreneurs. Her dedication to nurturing talent stems from her belief that education and guidance are key to shaping the next generation of industry leaders.
As she continues to push the boundaries of advertising, Angira remains focused on innovation and excellence. Her journey from Delhi to Dubai is a testament to her resilience, ambition, and unwavering passion for storytelling. In an industry that constantly evolves, she stands as a beacon of creativity and strategic brilliance, inspiring others to dream big and make a lasting impact.
Mohammad Danish
Mohammad Danish, CEO and Founder of Branford Capital Ltd and Branford Real Estate Brokers LLC, is redefining the wealth advisory landscape in the UAE by offering highly specialized, independent financial services. With over 20 years of experience in multinational financial institutions like CitiBank, Standard Chartered Bank, and Credit Suisse Private Bank in the region, he identified a gap in the market for truly independent investment advisory.
Prior to that, he worked with leading multinational firms like ICICI Prudential Life and HDFC Bank in India. This realization led him to establish Branford Capital in 2020—an External Financial Advisory firm regulated by the DFSA, serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals through a multi-banking platform. His vision was clear: offer clients flexible, unbiased asset management solutions untied to the constraints of a single financial institution, allowing for customized, cost-effective investment strategies.
Branford Capital stands apart by prioritizing client-focused solutions. Rather than pushing pre-designed financial products, the firm tailors its offerings based on clients’ specific needs, ensuring better outcomes through personalized service. Danish emphasizes the importance of building relationships over transactions, believing that understanding investor preferences and providing strategic asset allocation advice is key to long-term success. His firm offers alternative investments, lending solutions, and structured financial products, providing a broader diversification strategy than traditional banks. Currently managing over half a billion USD in Assets Under Management (AUM), Branford Capital aims to surpass $1 billion within the next two years, with a remarkable 50% increase in client relationships.
A strong advocate for operational efficiency, Danish has instilled a culture of accountability and collaboration within his organization. Daily morning huddles ensure goal alignment, problem-solving, and progress tracking, fostering a high-performance environment. He also values leveraging individual strengths to optimize productivity, ensuring that every team member is positioned for success.
Danish sees the future of External Asset Management (EAM) and External Financial Advisory (EFA) evolving into multi-family offices, where independent advisors like Branford Capital will thrive by offering a unique mix of flexibility, independence, and client trust. He believes the ongoing restructuring within banking institutions, combined with increasing demand for bespoke investment solutions, creates a lucrative opportunity for firms like his. As Branford Capital continues to grow, its commitment to strategic, client-centric financial planning remains the driving force behind its success.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to 2025, the transformative influence of these visionary leaders is undeniable. Their relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and sustainability is not only shaping industries within the Gulf but also setting new benchmarks on a global scale. Whether in finance, technology, entrepreneurship, or talent development, each of these changemakers is redefining what it means to lead in an era of rapid evolution.
From Nisha Sanghani’s commitment to financial empowerment to Mohammad Danish’s vision for sustainable business growth, every leader featured in this edition is a testament to resilience and forward-thinking strategy. Their ability to anticipate trends, embrace disruption, and create lasting impact ensures that the Gulf remains a powerhouse of opportunity and progress.
As industries continue to evolve, it is leaders like these who will guide the region toward a future that is innovative, inclusive, and transformative. Their journeys inspire not just admiration but also action—encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses to think boldly and drive meaningful change. The Gulf’s future is in visionary hands, and the best is yet to come.
You may also like:-
