Middle East's Most Influential Women Leaders to watch in 2025

Bayan Rashed Alnwaimi

Bayan Rashed Alnwaimi is a seasoned leader in global procurement and business strategy, celebrated for her results-driven approach and exceptional ability to lead diverse teams toward achieving corporate objectives. Currently serving as the Global Procurement Senior Manager at PepsiCo, Bayan plays a pivotal role in managing direct and indirect materials, overseeing an annual operating budget exceeding $100 million. Her strategic initiatives in material sustainability, supplier management, and operational efficiency have significantly contributed to PepsiCo's competitive edge in the market.

With over a decade of experience in procurement and business development, Bayan has demonstrated an unparalleled expertise in navigating complex challenges. Her tenure at BAE Systems SDT showcased her adeptness in managing Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) bids, leading cost analyses, and ensuring the alignment of suppliers with stringent regulatory requirements. Prior to this, she honed her skills as Procurement Manager for Schneider Electric, where she spearheaded global negotiations, reduced waste through innovative strategies, and developed recycling initiatives to promote sustainability.

Bayan’s academic background is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She is currently studying doctorate's of business administration at Abertay University with the cooperation of Westford University , Scotland. She holds an MSc in Business and Management from the University of Essex, UK, and a BSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Effat University, where she graduated with first-class honors. Her commitment to lifelong learning is evident through her certifications from prestigious institutions, including Harvard Business School’s Sustainable Business Strategy program.

Beyond her professional life, Bayan is passionate about fostering change and driving innovation. As a Change Champion at PepsiCo, she leads organizational transformations, inspiring peers and guiding the implementation of impactful strategies. Her dedication to excellence has earned her recognition, including a win at the Toastmasters International Speech Contest in Saudi Arabia.

Bayan embodies the essence of a global leader, seamlessly blending cultural awareness, technical acumen, and visionary leadership to leave an indelible mark on every organization she serve.

Shir Sagie

Shir Sagie, a visionary entrepreneur and marketing specialist, is at the forefront of innovation in the Gulf with her groundbreaking Web4 startup, Gelicail – The Positive Web. At 43, this Jewish-Romanian leader is revolutionizing the digital landscape, boldly challenging the giants of Web2 and Web3 by introducing a fully decentralized web ecosystem.

What sets Gelicail apart is its focus on empowering Gen Z and Gen Alpha to take full ownership of their digital creations in a secure, user-centric environment. Unlike traditional blockchain-dependent systems, Sagie’s platform leverages encrypted smart objects and a decentralized IT infrastructure, providing a fresh approach to decentralization. This groundbreaking technology eliminates many persistent challenges of the current web, including endless usernames and passwords, fraud, and identity theft, offering a seamless and safer online experience.

Shir’s vision is brought to life by a diverse and talented team comprising German and Indian IT specialists and system engineers. Together, they are pushing the boundaries of digital innovation, laying the foundation for a new web paradigm. Sagie’s approach aligns with the European Union's Web4 vision, which integrates real-world and digital objects, setting the stage for a future where boundaries blur, and decentralization becomes the norm.

A former journalist and consultant to prominent figures in the Middle East, Sagie brings a wealth of experience and insight to her entrepreneurial journey. She holds dual master’s degrees in Conflict Resolution and Mass Communication, showcasing her multidisciplinary expertise. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a proud mother of three, demonstrating her ability to balance leadership and family life with grace and determination.

“Decentralization of the web is not just inevitable; it is necessary,” Sagie states. “We are leading this revolution from the Emirates, shaping the future of digital interaction and ownership.”

Shir Sagie’s innovative work with Gelicail is set to redefine the digital realm, making her one of the Middle East’s most influential women leaders to watch in 2025.

Dame Lady Linda Giangreco

Dame Lady Linda Giangreco is an inspirational force whose leadership and dedication to humanity have earned her widespread recognition. Honored with the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and the International Woman of Heart Award, Linda's contributions transcend boundaries, making a profound impact on individuals and communities worldwide. Her exceptional service has also been acknowledged through knighthood into the Royal Order of Constantine the Great and Saint Helen, a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and philanthropy.

Linda’s multifaceted career reflects her deep-seated passion for making a difference. As a philanthropist, lifestyle muse, and accomplished film producer, she blends creativity with purpose, using her platform to address critical societal issues. Her influence extends across diverse arenas, where she advocates for the empowerment of women, the nourishment of children, and the education of communities on essential topics such as nutrition and sustainable living. These efforts are rooted in her belief that self-sustaining practices can transform lives and create lasting change.

In addition to her philanthropic and creative endeavors, Linda is a sought-after speaker and panelist, known for her dynamic presence and visionary insights. She co-founded the Awakening Mastery Hub, a transformative platform dedicated to fostering growth and mastery in various aspects of life. Through this initiative, Linda inspires individuals to unlock their potential, embrace personal development, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Linda’s work embodies a unique blend of compassion, innovation, and leadership, making her a role model for aspiring changemakers. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, vision, and a genuine desire to uplift others. As she continues to champion causes close to her heart, Dame Lady Linda Giangreco remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

Dr. Carina Lanfredi

With an impressive career spanning over 24 years, Dr. Carina Lanfredi has emerged as a global leader renowned for her transformative impact on high-stakes international projects. She has successfully managed multi-billion-dollar initiatives in some of the most complex and politically sensitive environments, earning recognition for her ability to navigate diverse cultural, legal, and commercial landscapes. Her expertise in strategic business operations, dispute resolution, and operational excellence has solidified her reputation as a leader capable of driving change and delivering results. In 2024, her contributions were acknowledged when she was named one of the Top 15 Women Leaders in the Middle East, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in her field.

Dr. Lanfredi’s journey has now taken a bold turn as she assumes the role of Chief Operating Officer at the Saudi-Brazil Ventures Group (SBVG). This groundbreaking initiative reflects her vision of fostering innovative, cross-border partnerships between two powerhouse economies—Saudi Arabia and Brazil. SBVG is more than a business venture; it is a platform for creating transformative opportunities across fintech, food, sports, healthcare, and other industries critical to the future. By bridging these two vibrant economies, the company aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and global integration, positioning itself as a driving force for sustainable growth and innovation.

Under Dr. Lanfredi’s leadership, SBVG leverages her extensive networks and deep understanding of both markets to unlock meaningful opportunities that inspire progress. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a staunch advocate for empowering women in leadership. She believes in inspiring the next generation to take bold, visionary steps in shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s business landscape. Her ability to blend strategic foresight with cultural insight continues to redefine the role of women leaders in the region, making her a true beacon of innovation and progress.

Dr. Desziree Richardson

Her Excellency Dr. Desziree Richardson is a distinguished leader and pioneering force in women’s empowerment, renowned for her strategic advocacy and transformative approach to branding female role models. Dr. Richardson’s work is dedicated to elevating the representation of women on global platforms, inspiring a diverse range of individuals to realize their potential and achieve success in various arenas. Through her efforts, she fosters a powerful message of empowerment, inclusivity, and equality, advocating for a future where women’s voices are heard and celebrated.

As a vibratory voice healer and internationally recognized speaker, Dr. Richardson deeply connects with her audiences, delivering messages of love, positivity, and wisdom. Her approach to healing focuses on activating heart chakras, promoting personal growth, and facilitating transformative experiences. By guiding individuals on their journey to self-awareness, Dr. Richardson encourages a profound shift in perspective, fostering emotional intelligence, happiness, and a constructive mindset. Her initiatives, including the Face of Woha, Women of Heart Awards, Gentlemen of Heart Awards, and Spreading happiness across the world, have become influential platforms that promote a society grounded in love, unity, and the celebration of diversity.

Dr. Richardson’s overarching mission is to create a balanced and harmonious society, rooted in the values of love, equality, and acceptance. She envisions a future where resources are distributed equitably, ensuring the flourishing of all forms of life in harmony with the environment. Her work extends beyond individual empowerment to include planetary well-being, encouraging individuals to reconnect with their innate nature and prioritize their personal and environmental health.

Internationally recognized for her immense contributions, Dr. Richardson has been honored with prestigious awards from countries such as the UK, Dubai, the USA, Nepal, India, and Kenya. Her profound influence continues to inspire global change, making her one of the most influential women leaders to watch in 2025.

Annina Alexis Fedorkova

Annina Alexis Fedorkova is a multi-talented film director, writer, and actress based in Dubai. As the founder of The Palace Entertainment Group FZE, an international production company in the UAE, Annina has dedicated her career to creating films that inspire and reveal profound truths. With a master's degree in philosophy from a Slovak university and advanced training in acting for film at the New York Film Academy (NYFA) in New York and Los Angeles, she blends intellectual depth with artistic finesse in her craft.

Her work has garnered critical acclaim, with her documentaries "Corona & The Jewels," "Destruction of The Crown," and "Calling Hearts" receiving 37 awards across international film festivals, including Best Feature Documentary, Outstanding Cinematography, and Best Female Director. These films reflect her unwavering commitment to shedding light on impactful stories and inspiring global audiences. Annina's directorial debut, Corona & The Jewels, filmed during the world's first lockdown in April 2020, brought together the voices of twelve resilient women from around the world. The film, which captures the raw emotions of navigating isolation, won 12 international awards in categories such as Best Feature Documentary and Best Female Director.

Annina’s most recent documentary, Calling Hearts, delves into the lives of women and children refugees from Ukraine, showcasing the devastating consequences of conflict and the remarkable resilience of survivors. The film has been officially selected by the International Film Festival Capri, Hollywood, and Catania Film Festival. Additionally, it has received recognition as an Official Selection, Special Mention, and Finalist at the Bridge of Peace Film Festival. Through her lens, audiences witness the harrowing journeys of individuals forced to leave their homeland, navigating treacherous terrains and unimaginable challenges in pursuit of safety. The film highlights both the human toll of war and the strength of those who endure, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and global solidarity.

Guided by her mission to tell untold stories, Annina and The Palace Entertainment Group FZE focus on creating films that foster understanding, inspire change, and provoke meaningful discussions. “We are representing the truth,” she emphasizes. “We all look different, speak differently, but we are the same.” Through her storytelling, Annina Alexis Fedorkova continues to elevate cinema as a medium for truth, compassion, and unity.

Christina Eirini Karvouna

Christina Eirini Karvouna began her journey with a passion for bridging technical expertise with strategic thinking. With a strong foundation in engineering, business organization, and logistics, Christina developed a multidisciplinary approach to leadership that enabled her to excel in consulting roles for international companies and European financing programs. Her experiences in navigating complex business landscapes and fostering innovation inspired her to create a platform dedicated to empowering others to succeed.

This vision led to the birth of NEFINIA Academy, a transformative initiative designed to equip professionals and organizations with the resources needed to thrive in the competitive fields of EU funding and project management. Backed by long experience in creating and implementing EU projects through collaborations with various companies across Europe, and a proven track record in EU funding consultancy, project management, and strategic advisory services, NEFINIA Academy has supported countless organizations and professionals in navigating the complexities of European programs and funding opportunities. Building on this foundation, NEFINIA Academy is strategically expanding its operations to the Gulf Region. This move recognizes the eligibility of countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait to participate in specific EU funding opportunities. This expansion presents unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth, strengthening the Academy’s commitment to empowering organizations and professionals across diverse markets. NEFINIA Academy stands as a beacon of purposeful leadership, offering expert consultancy, customized training programs, and personalized coaching. The Academy emphasizes building leaders who are resilient, innovative, and committed to fostering diversity and inclusion.

At its core, NEFINIA Academy champions values that drive progress and sustainable success. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, the Academy empowers individuals to seize opportunities, tackle challenges, and create meaningful impact. Through its tailored approach, NEFINIA Academy is shaping a future where leadership reflects the richness of diverse perspectives and the power of strategic innovation.

To learn more about NEFINIA Academy’s services and join this transformative journey, visit www.nefinia.academy or www.nefinia.ae. You can also follow NEFINIA Academy on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest insights and opportunities.

Khadija Al Hammady

As the global landscape undergoes rapid transformation, Khadija Al Hammady stands out as a visionary leader who champions sustainability and innovation as cornerstones of modern business strategy. She recognizes a pivotal shift in how industries approach environmental responsibility—not as a mere regulatory necessity but as a defining value that drives growth, differentiation, and consumer trust. For Khadija, sustainability is more than a trend; it is a commitment to creating lasting positive impacts while fostering a culture that resonates deeply with today’s socially conscious consumers.

Khadija’s perspective on sustainability extends to its potential as a business enabler. By integrating eco-friendly practices into core operations, she believes organizations can unlock new opportunities, enhance brand reputation, and align with evolving global priorities. This proactive approach positions businesses to remain competitive in a world increasingly shaped by environmental awareness.

In addition to sustainability, Khadija emphasizes the pressing need for adaptability and technological integration in the business world. She underscores that digital transformation is no longer optional but a critical factor in ensuring organizational survival and relevance. Harnessing the power of data analytics and artificial intelligence, businesses can gain deeper insights into consumer behavior, allowing them to craft personalized offerings, optimize operations, and elevate customer experiences.

Khadija also stresses that the leaders of tomorrow must embrace this digital evolution with open arms, leveraging it not just to keep pace but to pioneer innovation in their industries. She envisions a future where sustainability and technology are seamlessly integrated, creating resilient organizations capable of thriving amidst challenges.

By blending a commitment to sustainability with a forward-thinking embrace of technology, Khadija Al Hammady exemplifies the qualities of an influential leader for 2025 and beyond. Her insights and leadership set the stage for a transformative approach to business, inspiring others to redefine success through innovation, responsibility, and adaptability.

Kawther Haciane

Kawther Haciane stands out as a trailblazer in the realms of digital risk, resilience, and emerging technologies. With an exceptional ability to simplify intricate challenges and inspire actionable solutions, Kawther has established herself as a thought leader in the Gulf region and beyond. Her career is a reflection of her steadfast commitment to guiding organizations through the complexities of digital transformation while maintaining a strong emphasis on ethics and innovation.

Specializing in cutting-edge domains such as artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cybersecurity, Kawther has consistently focused on fostering progress that balances opportunity and risk. Her strategic approach to designing frameworks for responsible AI governance and her efforts in enhancing organizational resilience against cyber threats have cemented her reputation as a trusted advisor. By bridging the gap between innovation and trust, Kawther has enabled businesses to confidently embrace digital transformation while safeguarding their future.

Kawther’s influence extends beyond boardrooms, as she is deeply invested in building societal awareness around digital risk. Her initiatives aim to educate and empower communities about the importance of cybersecurity and the responsible use of technology. Whether engaging with industry leaders or mentoring the next generation, Kawther remains a driving force in advancing conversations around ethical technology adoption.

Her unique ability to integrate forward-thinking strategies with practical solutions ensures her work not only addresses today’s challenges but also sets a robust foundation for future success. Through her unwavering dedication, Kawther Haciane continues to inspire organizations and individuals alike, championing a vision where innovation, ethics, and resilience coexist harmoniously in the digital age.

Annalena Rodrigues

Annalena Rodrigues is the visionary founder of Waymaker Marketing Service, a dynamic organization dedicated to creating opportunities and facilitating life-changing decisions for individuals and businesses alike. With a diverse portfolio that includes educational programs, career counseling, international admissions, visa assistance, and accommodation solutions, Waymaker Marketing Service is a one-stop destination for those striving to achieve their goals. Annalena’s dedication extends beyond professional services, encompassing a passion for helping individuals navigate legal challenges, secure accommodations, and unlock global opportunities.

Having lived and worked in the Middle East for over 25 years, Annalena has gained deep insights into the region's evolving needs and opportunities. Her extensive experience, coupled with her unwavering commitment to learning, has enabled her to develop innovative solutions that resonate with diverse communities. Traveling extensively and immersing herself in new cultures and languages, Annalena continues to bring a global perspective to her work, ensuring that every client receives personalized and impactful guidance.

Born and raised in India, Annalena credits her foundational education at St Ursula’s Church Park Madras, where she was inspired by the love and guidance of the nuns, for shaping her values and vision. Her career began in teaching, where she discovered her passion for nurturing young minds. Over time, her journey evolved into a remarkable blend of consulting, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Today, as the head of Waymaker Marketing Service, she collaborates with candidates, parents, institutions, and businesses to build a network that fulfills dreams and drives meaningful change.

Annalena attributes a significant part of her journey to the unwavering support and empowerment she received from Shaikha Moaza Obaid Suhail Al Maktoum, a member of the UAE's royal family. Describing her as a “golden treasure” and a true blessing in her life, Annalena reflects on how Shaikha Moaza’s presence provided her with courage, guidance, and an unshakeable foundation during her time in the Middle East. She humbly acknowledges that this support was divinely orchestrated, with Shaikha Moaza serving as an instrument of God’s grace. Annalena is deeply grateful for her role in shaping the person and leader she is today.

Annalena believes that success is not just about personal achievements but about creating opportunities for others and overcoming challenges together. At Waymaker Marketing Service, the guiding principle is simple yet profound: Your goals, your dreams, our way to make them happen. Through this unwavering commitment, Annalena and her team continue to empower individuals and businesses, shaping a future where aspirations turn into realities.

Conclusion

The impact of these ten visionary women extends far beyond their industries—it is felt in the lives they touch, the communities they uplift, and the future they help shape. Their collective achievements underscore a powerful truth: leadership is not just about reaching the top; it is about forging pathways for others to follow.

As we spotlight the Middle East’s most influential women leaders in 2025, their stories serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that resilience, innovation, and purpose are the cornerstones of meaningful success. From boardrooms and startups to digital frontiers and creative industries, these women continue to challenge norms, redefine excellence, and champion progress in ways that will be felt for generations to come.

The Middle East is witnessing a new era of leadership—one driven by women who dare to dream, disrupt, and drive change. Their stories are not just individual triumphs but collective milestones in the journey toward a more inclusive and empowered world. Here’s to the leaders of today shaping the future of tomorrow.

You may also like:- 

• Top Gulf Leaders Shaping Tomorrow with Beautiful Leadership
• Top inspiring Entrepreneur in the Gulf You Should Know About