Top 70 CEOS

Bassel Kakish has spent the last four years at the helm of Publicis Groupe Middle East and Turkey, overseeing more than 3,600 talents across marketing, communications, and digital transformation. A firm believer in a “talent-first” culture, Kakish has built his leadership philosophy around empathy, trust, and collaboration, values that he credits to his mother, who instilled in him the resilience and integrity that continue to shape his approach today.

Under his leadership, Publicis Groupe achieved a double-digit growth in net revenue in the first quarter of 2025. In March 2025, the group launched Ra’idah with the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, a year-long program focused on enabling women-led SMEs. For Kakish, leadership is less about authority and more about empowerment. “When you give people the space and support
to thrive, that’s where real leadership happens,” he says. Having progressed through multiple roles at the group since 2002 to the top rank, his advice to the aspiring leaders: “Remember where you came from—you’re still ‘Jenny from
the Block’. That mindset keeps you grounded.”

As AI reshapes the industry, he sees the CEO of the future not as a lone visionary, but the ultimate connector, connecting talent, technology, and purpose, or what he defines as an “intergalactic master of collaboration.”

Elda Choucair is the CEO of Omnicom Media Group MENA, where she leads the group’s strategic growth and innovation across the region. With nearly 20 years at Omnicom, she has built a reputation for empowering teams, driving transformation, and championing industry-leading culture and performance.
Under her guidance, the agency’s brands have developed pioneering solutions for modern marketers, earning top honors at Effies MENA, Dubai Lynx, and the MENA Digital Awards and gaining recognition from COMvergence as market leaders.

Choucair is a recognized voice in shaping the future of media and marketing, serving on the boards of the Advertising Business Group (ABG), Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), Endeavor, and the Unstereotype Alliance.
In 2024, she contributed to the launch of the Inclusive Media 3Bs Toolkit with UN Women and served as a Media Lions juror at Cannes Lions. Named one of Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Arab Businesswomen and featured on the Dubai 100 by Arabian Business, Choucair continues to inspire progress through innovation, equity, and purposeful leadership.

She is deeply committed to driving innovation, fostering inclusion, and empowering the next generation in media and communications.

From a young age in a region shaped by uncertainty, Ghassan Harfouche learned that “resilience, change and agility have always been key survival skills.” These principles became the bedrock of a visionary 35-year career, now culminating in his role steering over 4,000 professionals across MENAT and APAC for MCN and McCann Worldgroup, part of the Interpublic Group.

Harfouche is a serial entrepreneur and seasoned leader with over three decades of global and regional experience across marketing, communications and media. His career spans the full spectrum of the industry—client-side, agency leadership, and publishing—bringing a unique and multidimensional force to the marcomms landscape.

With a career spanning tech and media, he brings a 360° view to the business—connecting data, creativity, and savvy strategy in every move.

He earlier led De Beers’ marketing across the MENA region and played a key role in restructuring and managing a diversified media and publishing conglomerate in Saudi Arabia.

Since 2011, he has driven consistent double-digit growth, transforming MCN into an agile, future-fit partner.

But beyond metrics, his vision of success is cultural: creating an environment that “empowers, inspires innovation and progression, while giving a sense of belonging and wellbeing.”

A graduate of Syracuse University with a double major in Advertising and Marketing Management, Reda began his career as an Assistant Account Executive at Intermarkets Dubai. He assumed the role of CEO in 2015, overseeing hundreds of “Pirates” across MENA.

Reda’s guiding mission is to elevate the Middle East’s standing in the global advertising landscape, infusing the region’s work with fresh creativity, cultural nuance, and meaningful innovation. His leadership philosophy is as bold as his ambition: “Being a leader is charting a bold course, guided by a clear vision, and rallying every crewmember to sail it with you.”

He has propelled TBWA\RAAD to double-digit revenue growth, long-term client partnerships, and recognition as a Great Place to Work®, one of Fast Company Middle East’s Best Workplaces for Women, and Most Innovative Companies.

Born into advertising, Tarek Miknas’s playground was the FP7 agency his parents founded. This early immersion forged a leader who believes true success is measured not in awards, but in people’s growth.

His journey from an Art Director at McCann Erickson in New York to launching LOWE MENA culminated in his role as CEO of FP7 McCann MENAT.

At LOWE MENA, he and the team carved out a unique, relevant space in the market, winning nine Lynx Awards within their first 11 months of operation.

They grew from four people sitting on beanbags to 96 team members at its peak within four years, and expanded from Dubai into three new markets.

Under his 15-year leadership, the network became a global effectiveness leader, earning the title of Most Effective Agency in the world four times, an achievement born out of his belief that “ultimately, and at its simplest, being a leader is about delivering impact.”

FP7 McCann today is among the top three agencies in every market where it operates, and has been recognized as the second-best performing agency at the Cannes Lions in 2023 and 2024.

Miknas champions a culture built on love, integrity, and generosity, believing that “inclusion isn’t a policy; it’s a mindset.”

Appointed CEO of WPP Media MENA in 2023, Amer El Hajj brings over two decades of industry experience and a reputation as one of the region’s most influential media leaders.
Prior to this role, he spent 15 years as Chief Investment Officer at Publicis Media. Today, he oversees a team of more than 630 people across 11 markets. For Amer, leadership is rooted in transparency, integrity, and resilience. “Anyone can steer a ship on calm seas,” he says, “but leadership is truly tested when things get tough.”
Amer’s leadership style focuses on cultivating future-ready talent and a collaborative culture that promotes continuous learning.
With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, Amer regularly contributes to its development as a spokesperson and board member of the Advertising Business Group (ABG) and the International Advertising Association (IAA).
His parents have deeply influenced his leadership. He says watching how they conduct themselves in tough situations taught him that treating people with dignity and respect, being close to them and actively listening to their needs and demands always yields better results.
Success, in Amer’s view, is measured not just by financial results but by client trust and team growth.

When Tony Wazen took over as CEO of Publicis Media Middle East in May 2023, he stepped into the role with over 15 years of experience in shaping some of the Groupe’s most successful agencies in the region. A veteran of Publicis Groupe and a key figure in the Middle East’s marketing and media landscape, Wazen now oversees powerhouse brands including Starcom, Zenith, and Spark.

His journey in the Groupe began with Optimedia, the ROI agency, in 2008, where he transitioned into the role of Managing Director until 2019. Then he was appointed Chief Executive Officer at Digitas and launched the brand in the Middle East.

With the launch of Digitas, he played a pivotal role in its rapid growth, making it a key pillar agency for Publicis Groupe in the Middle East.

He is an elected Board member of the Advertising Business Group (ABG) and the International Advertising Association (IAA) UAE, as well as a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO).

For Wazen, leadership is about adaptability, tough decision-making, and the courage to take risks. “Empathy, accountability, and resilience” are the values he champions, guiding both his people and the business.

With more than 18 years of experience shaping marketing, advertising, and media across the MENA region, Saleh Ghazal has established himself as a forward-thinking leader committed to driving digital transformation, integrated marketing strategies, and sustainable business growth.

Throughout his career, he has consistently been at the forefront of the evolving media landscape, helping brands navigate the complexities of an increasingly connected world.

His journey began with a pivotal role in the 2006 launch of OMD Digital, where his visionary leadership helped the agency adapt to the rapid pace of change. Recognizing the convergence of online and offline worlds, he pioneered a hybrid planning approach, bridging the gap between digital and traditional strategies to deliver holistic, data-driven solutions for clients.

Now, as CEO of OMD MENA, Ghazal believes that “being a leader goes far beyond managing people or projects,” and is instead about “setting a vision, building the right culture, and taking decisions that would impact the lives of people.” Guided by core values of empathy, accountability, and curiosity, he fosters a positive and inclusive environment where he shows up “not as a CEO, but rather as a colleague.”

When Firas El Zein joined Zenith in 2008, he brought with him not just experience from both agency and publisher roles but also a deep conviction about the power of media to shape brands and culture.

By 2011, he was CEO of Zenith Middle East, guiding the agency through rapid transformation and turning it into an ROI-led powerhouse that fuses creativity, technology, data, and performance to unlock growth for clients.

With over 25 years in the region, his career has spanned agencies like D’Arcy, Optimedia, and Zenith, as well as publisher roles at Al Khaleejiah and SRPC Group.

That breadth of experience has helped him build strong and lasting partnerships with global icons such as BMW, Spotify, Red Bull, Disney+, and Saudia.

For Firas, leadership is less about hierarchy and more about creating space for others. “It’s not about having all the answers,” he says, “but about creating the space for the best thinking to come forward.” His philosophy is rooted in what he calls the “ABC” of leadership: Accountability, boldness, and clarity.

Nassib Boueri is the CEO of VML MENA and was appointed following the integration of Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R at the end of 2023. Overseeing a team of multi-disciplined experts across 10 markets, including creatives, data scientists, and technologists and team leads, Nassib works to inspire growth across all clients and partners in MENA.

His team’s work has been regularly recognized at top-tier award shows for its strategic innovation and ground-breaking best practices that deliver measurable growth for clients and their brands.

In his previous role as CEO of Wunderman Thompson MENA, Boueri demonstrated success in developing and growing relationships with international, regional, and local clients in the market.

He is skilled in all aspects of cross-functional marketing and communications, delivering fully integrated solutions. Boueri believes in the importance of giving back to the industry. He has served on the Board of the UAE Chapter of the IAA since 2006, and was elected president of the chapter in November 2023. He has also participated in the Dubai Chamber’s mentorship program.

For more than two decades, Dany Naaman has been at the forefront of the Middle East’s marketing and communications industry. Today, as CEO of Havas Middle East, he leads over 400+ professionals across creative, media, PR, and corporate communications, all unified under the Havas Village model.

By seamlessly integrating all agency disciplines – creative, media, and PR – under Havas Village, the agency has evolved into a fully integrated and customer-centric powerhouse.

Dany’s leadership is marked by a people-first philosophy. “Leadership involves creating an environment where others can thrive,” he says. For him, success is not just measured by business outcomes but by the strength of the organization’s culture. “Success is reflected in a culture where teams feel aligned, empowered, and capable of moving forward with clarity.”

Named Leader of the Year in 2015 and a board member of the International Advertising Association–UAE Chapter, Naaman is widely known for his people-first approach, and championing talent, creativity, and collaboration.

His values — trust, humility, accountability, and empathy — guide his approach and have fostered a workplace where purpose and performance align. As he often reminds his teams, “It is not volume or visibility, but clarity and consistency that leave a lasting impact.”

Ramzi Sleiman, a seasoned professional in communication and marketing, currently serves as CEO at Saatchi & Saatchi MEA.

With more than two decades of experience, he has built a strong reputation for driving growth, creative excellence, and impactful brand strategies across the region. Prior to taking the helm at Saatchi & Saatchi, Sleiman served as Regional Growth Director at Publicis Communications MEA and Regional Communication Director at Leo Burnett MEA, where he played a key role in expanding business operations and shaping strategic communications.

His career spans senior leadership roles across the advertising industry, giving him deep expertise in integrated communications, creative strategy, and agency transformation.

Sleiman believes the future of leadership depends on the courage to evolve. As he puts it:

“Future leaders must master the ability to unlearn. The world is changing faster than experience can catch up. Leaders who cling to old playbooks will become irrelevant. It takes humility to forget what worked, and the curiosity to find out what will.”

As the Media Practice President at Dentsu MENA, Ramzy Abouchacra leverages his extensive management and media experience to drive the agency’s growth across the region. As CEO from 2019 to 2024, he drove Carat’s ‘Redefining Media’ vision while putting consumers at the heart of client strategies in an interconnected world.

Prior to his time at Carat, Abouchacra held senior leadership roles at leading regional media powerhouses, most recently serving as Regional Managing Director at Initiative, bringing over 20 years of industry experience. He has worked with a diverse portfolio of international clients, including Philip Morris, P&G, General Motors, Johnson & Johnson, Nokia, Emirates, and Americana Group (KFC, Hardee’s), as well as major regional clients such as Etisalat in the UAE and Mobily in KSA.

When Abouchacra reflects on leadership, he often returns to one of the hardest tests of his career: guiding a company through the COVID-19 crisis. “It wasn’t just about operational survival – it was about navigating ambiguity, protecting people, and still believing in the long-term potential of the business,” he recalls. That moment crystallized his belief that leadership is less about control and more about trust, empathy, and resilience.

Tarek Daouk is the CEO of Dentsu MENAT (Middle East, North Africa & Turkey) and President of Merkle SEMENAT, having taken on the expanded regional leadership role in 2024.

Daouk has been at the centre of innovation in media, content, and digital media in the Middle East and North Africa for almost two decades. He built Starcom Mediavest Group into an early leader in the space, launched innovative new business models such as the content agency LiquidThread, and landed Cannes Lions and numerous other awards.

Throughout his career, he has amassed a wealth of industry experience, working with a number of blue-chip advertisers including GSK, GM, Mars, Mondelez, P&G, Samsung and Visa. Daouk joined Dentsu in 2018 and has since delivered strategic growth across MENA by leveraging Dentsu’s capabilities to design integrated solutions for clients that are focused on the seamless merging of technology, media, content and customer experience — with the ultimate aim of delivering better business and societal outcomes.

Tarek has since transformed Dentsu’s business and operations in MENA and built an ambitious leadership team. Today, Tarek is focused on helping advertisers thrive in the region by building a next-generation agency.

Nathalie Gevresse has spent nearly three decades navigating the fast-changing world of advertising and brand building, but she still defines leadership in deeply human terms. “Being a leader is not a title. It is not defined by years of experience. It is a mindset,” she says. As CEO of Publicis Communications UAE, Gevresse is responsible for more than 700 people across some of the region’s most iconic agencies, yet her focus remains simple: bringing out the best in others.

Her journey began in Paris at BBDO before spanning almost two decades at J. Walter Thompson, and later senior roles on the client side shaping destinations like The Dubai Mall and Dubai Parks & Resorts. Along the way, she learned that true success lies not just in growth or creative awards, but in culture. “We are a people business,” she explains. “We thrive on human intellect, imagination, and the value of unique talents.”

When she joined Publicis in 2022, her biggest challenge was uniting legacy agencies — Leo Burnett, Publicis, and Saatchi & Saatchi — under a shared vision while preserving their individuality. She approached it with listening, patience, and what she calls a “one team, one heart” mindset.

For Mounir Harfouche, leadership has never been about titles or corner offices, it has always started with people. “For me, leadership starts with humanity. It’s about putting people at the core of everything you do,” he says. Over more than three decades and 15 years as CEO of MullenLowe MENA, Mounir has built a reputation for bridging creative thinking, strategic leadership, and digital innovation to drive transformation across brands and businesses. Known for his ability to connect creative vision with commercial and brand strategy, Harfouche helps organizations navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities. His leadership philosophy centers on the belief that creativity — amplified by data, technology, and human insight — is a key driver to build brands with sustainable growth and differentiation. His journey has been shaped less by a single mentor and more by a mosaic of experiences, interactions, and lessons. “There isn’t one single person, it’s probably been thousands,” he says. This openness has helped him navigate industries in flux, embracing AI, digital innovation, and new models of creativity to keep his agency, and his clients, ahead of the curve.

Ghassan Kassabji is the CEO of Impact BBDO Dubai, one of the most awarded creative agencies, and the Chief Growth Officer for Impact BBDO Group MENA. With over 20 years of leadership experience across the U.S. and the Middle East, Kassabji has held diverse roles, from marketer and strategist to business builder and agency leader, across industries including advertising, automotive, F&B, retail, entertainment, and digital security. In his current role, he has guided turnarounds, rebuilt fragmented teams, and earned the trust of clients who wanted more than campaigns — they wanted ambition. Yet he insists leadership isn’t about having all the answers. “It’s about making the team feel safe enough to challenge, to push, to try. Not by having all the answers, but by asking the right questions.” The roots of this approach go back to his father, whose quiet discipline — showing up, working hard, never cutting corners — still guides him. For Kassabji, comfort is dangerous. “If it feels too safe, you’re probably playing it too small,” he says, with the conviction of someone who knows boldness is the only way forward.

When Mazen Jawad reflects on three decades in advertising, he often comes back to a single idea: progress is never finished. “If you can do it, do it at Horizon,” he says, summing up the ethos that has defined his journey from Beirut and Jeddah to Chicago, Athens, and, since 2001, Dubai. In Dubai, Jawad took on leadership of Horizon Holdings’ diverse portfolio — Horizon FCB MENA, BPN MENA, GolinMENA, Blue Barracuda, and FuelContent — guiding the group through years of transformation. His vision has paid off: Horizon FCB Dubai went on to win its first Cannes Lions, a milestone that placed the agency among the top three in the region and opened the door to further accolades at global creative festivals. What sets Jawad apart is not only his ability to anticipate shifts but also to act early. Long before “content” became a buzzword, he had already launched a digital agency and a production company, laying the groundwork for the future of brand storytelling. Outside the office, Jawad’s curiosity extends to the world itself. With 117 countries behind him, travel has become both a passion and a metaphor for his leadership: a constant search for new horizons, always moving forward.

When Ghassan Maraqa first joined Memac Ogilvy back in 2002, he could hardly have imagined that two decades later he’d be steering its vast Middle East and North Africa network as CEO. Yet the path feels almost inevitable in hindsight. Starting his career at Arthur Andersen in Saudi Arabia, he moved into Ogilvy’s orbit and steadily built a reputation for marrying sharp financial acumen with a rare sensitivity to the region’s cultural nuances. “I believe that true leadership is honoring your organization’s legacy while building for tomorrow,” Maraqa says, summing up a philosophy shaped by more than 23 years working across nearly every country in MENA. That duality — looking ahead without losing sight of roots — has guided him as he expanded operations into new markets, fostered multicultural teams, and pushed Ogilvy’s “borderless creativity” ethos to new heights. Under his watch, the agency has achieved record growth and won industry honors, from Fast Company Middle East naming it “Most Innovative Company” to a Grand Prix at Dubai Lynx. Yet, ask him what success looks like, and he won’t cite trophies. “It is about how you attract and retain talent, and seeing our people grow into leadership roles,” he says.

Ramez Zeineddine is the CEO of Starcom Middle East, a role he assumed in 2023 after returning to the Groupe, having previously spent a decade with Starcom ME until 2018. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in advertising and marketing, he has worked with large government, international and regional brands throughout the Middle East. Before assuming leadership at Starcom ME, Ramez was the Country Head of Amazon Ads Saudi Arabia, where he launched, grew, and scaled the ads business in alignment with regional objectives. Prior to that, he served as Managing Director at MediaCom Saudi Arabia, helping to transform the agency into a prominent player in its market. Earlier in his career, during his previous tenure with Starcom ME, he held the position of Group Media Director, where he led global technical and operational priorities including strategic media practices, global media channel strategy and implementation across online and offline, global media partner management, and account performance and optimization for key brands such as Samsung, Emirates, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and General Motors. In his current role, Zeineddine focuses on driving transformative growth, digital innovation, and sustainable strategies that deliver measurable outcomes for clients.

Mohamed Al-Khereiji is the Vice Chairman of Engineer Holding Group (EHG), a top media and investment organization operating in Saudi Arabia for more than four decades. The conglomerate has a vast footprint in sectors as varied as media, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, F&B, investment, and real estate. Its media companies include the Saudi Media Company (SMC) and Al Arabia OOH, the largest outdoor advertising company in the Kingdom.

Al-Khereiji graduated from Prince Sultan University in Riyadh with a bachelor’s degree in finance in 2006, and then an executive MBA from the London Business School (formerly Cass) in 2012. He began his career in 2006 as an associate at Deutsche Bank in London before joining the Abdulelah Alkhereiji Group, where he served as vice president, and later Al Arabia OOH as director of Development in 2009.

He was promoted to the post of deputy CEO of Al Arabia OOH in 2013 and became the CEO in 2016 and the Chairman in 2025. In 2017, he was appointed head of the advertising committee at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A year later, Al-Khereiji moved to the Saudi Media Company, and in 2020, he was named chairman of the board of MMS, the in-house commercial and advertising sales unit launched through a partnership between MBC Group and EHG.

Yousef Al-Obaidly is the group chief executive officer (CEO) of beIN Media Group, a leading global sports, entertainment, and media network operating in over 40 countries.

Born in Doha, Qatar, he graduated from Seattle University with a bachelor’s degree. Before his executive career, he represented the country in the Davis Cup as a professional tennis player.

Al-Obaidly played a foundational role in the 2003 launch of Al Jazeera Sport, the network that evolved into beIN Sports. In 2012, he led the rollout of beIN Sports in France, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific. He was promoted to the post of CEO of beIN Media Group in November 2018.

He played a key role in securing media rights for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, UEFA Euro 2020, the UEFA Champions League in addition to expanding beIN’s global footprint.

Al-Obaidly has also been a vocal advocate for issues of piracy, especially in relation to the beoutQ dispute. He serves on several boards, including Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, Premier Padel, Ooredoo Group and Qatar Tennis Federation.

Samia Bouazza is the chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director of Multiply Group, a role she has held since August 2021. Bouazza founded Multiply in 2003 as a marketing consultancy and later transformed it into a diversified, tech-focused holding company with a growing portfolio of high-return businesses. She has burnished her credentials as a business leader with a solid track record of driving sustainable growth.

During the last four years she has led the company to newer heights of growth besides overseeing growth in various subsidiaries. Beyond Multiply, she has contributed to the wider business ecosystem as a board member of several organizations, including TAQA (Abu Dhabi National Energy Company), Emirates Driving Company, Arena Events Group, and Viola Communications.

Bouazza holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and public administration from the American University of Beirut and has completed executive education in strategic intelligence at Harvard Business School and digital development at the University of Cambridge.

Fernando Eiroa is the chief executive officer (CEO) of Dubai Holding Entertainment, one of the largest and most diversified entertainment groups in the MENA region.

The company’s portfolio includes Dubai’s leading leisure attractions as well as media and entertainment platforms and venues such as Ain Dubai, Global Village, Motiongate, Bollywood, Legoland Parks, Lapita Hotel, ARN radio stations, Roxy Cinemas, Coca Cola arena, amongst others.

Eiroa brings over two decades of solid knowledge to the entertainment and leisure industry and a passion for positive change. He combines sound international leadership experience with being an accomplished team player. He served as the CEO in private equity owned CircusTrix Holdings (US), Palace Entertainment Inc (US), and Parques Reunidos (Spain) that he led to its initial public offering (IPO).

Eiroa has been a member of the board of trustees at Concordia University Irvine, the board of directors of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, the University of California Irvine Chief Executive Roundtable and chairman of the Parques Reunidos Foundation.

Jomana R. Alrashid is the chief executive officer (CEO) of SRMG, besides serving on its board of directors. Since her appointment in 2020, she has led a comprehensive digital transformation strategy that has reshaped and expanded the group’s diverse portfolio. Alrashid has also introduced a range of new SRMG business verticals, further fostering innovation and new growth opportunities.

In 2022, Alrashid was appointed the chairwoman of the Red Sea International Film Foundation, playing a pivotal role in overseeing the foundation’s strategy and overall direction. Alrashid’s appointment recognized her contribution to the regional media and film industry. Under her leadership, SRMG has vastly enhanced its portfolio by entering into new partnerships with major international media brands such as Bloomberg Media, Warner Bros., Discovery, the Independent, Billboard, and Shueisha.

In addition to holding senior positions, Alrashid is actively engaged as a member of the boards of Argaam Investment Company and King Saud University. She also serves on the board of trustees for the Diriyah Biennale Foundation and holds the position of chair at Thmanyah Publishing and Distribution. Alrashid figured in the top “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen 2023” by Forbes Middle East.

Pierre Choueiri is the chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Choueiri Group, the Middle East’s leading media representation and advertising network.

He graduated from the American University of Beirut with a bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1987. Choueiri began his media career in 1988 with Al-Ain Media Management, before holding positions at Tihama MEMS and Regie Vision. In 1994, he moved to Dubai to help establish the Choueiri Group’s Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) operations.

Pierre was appointed the CEO in 2007 and, following the passing of his father and company’s founder Antoine Choueiri in 2010, he assumed the combined role of the chairman and CEO. Under his leadership, the group launched its digital arm Digital Media Services (DMS) in 2011 and has branched out into television, print, radio, outdoor, digital platforms, and experiential media across the MENA region and beyond.

Choueiri has been widely recognized for his leadership, receiving the Advertising Person of the Year Award at Dubai Lynx in 2017, the Bunyan Award for Leadership and Entrepreneurship in 2022, and an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from the Lebanese American University in 2018.

HRH Princess Lamia bint Majid Saud Al Saud is a Saudi royal, philanthropist, and media advocate. She has served as Secretary General and Board Member at Alwaleed Philanthropies since April 2016. In 2024, she was appointed Group CEO of Rotana Media Group, further expanding her influence in media and entertainment. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing from Misr International University, Cairo, graduating in 2001.

Early in her career, she founded Sada Al Arab in 2003, a publishing company operating in Cairo, Beirut, and Dubai, which produced several magazines. Under her leadership at Alwaleed Philanthropies, Princess Lamia has championed initiatives spanning women’s empowerment, youth development, supporting interfaith and intercultural dialogue, education, and disaster relief, with programming in more than 125 countries.

She holds various roles in global advocacy, including serving as a UN-Habitat Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Arab States and as a Global Champion for Gender Equality with UN Women.

Ahmed Al-Sahhaf has served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MBC Media Solutions (MMS) since 2020, leading the company’s mission to transform advertising and commercial partnerships to boost the presence of one of the region’s most influential media groups.

Al-Sahhaf was elected President of the KSA Chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA) in 2024, and sits on the boards of SMC, Arabiya United Digital, and the Supervisory Board of Engineer Holding Group. Prior to his current position, Al-Sahhaf worked at Saudi Telecom Co. (STC) for more than 10 years as Marketing Communication Manager, Director of Marketing Communication, and General Manager of Consumer Marketing Communication.

Al-Sahhaf obtained a bachelor’s degree in marketing and management from the American University of Sharjah in 2005. He received e-training in financial essentials and crisis management from Harvard Business School in 2012, and completed a strategic marketing program and executive education at INSEAD in 2017. He also attended an authentic leadership development program at Harvard Business School in 2017.

Habib Wehbi is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of W Group, whose mission is to revolutionize the out-of-home media experience while expanding the company’s portfolio through its investment arm.

Wehbi’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in his commitment to change, innovation, and collaboration with key regional and global partners. On Dubai’s business landscape, Wehbi emerged as an entrepreneur in 1996, introducing trolley advertising in local supermarkets. Today, he leads W Ventures Holding, a conglomerate with a footprint in out-of-home (OOH) media experiences, technology, diversified investments, and financial portfolios.

Wehbi’s strategic long-term media collaborations with influential entities like Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority and Expo City Dubai have cemented W Group’s position as a trusted partner in the dynamic OOH sector. Furthermore, his partnerships with prominent mall developers such as Majid Al Futtaim, Aldar Properties, and Nakheel further exemplify the breadth and depth of W Group’s influential collaborations.

Imad Jomaa, an entrepreneur and investor, is the founder and president of JGroup Holding, a diversified business group with interests in media, advertising, and technology across the MENA region. Jomaa established JGroup in 2003, shortly after earning a master’s degree in financial economics and bachelor’s degrees in economics and chemistry from the American University of Beirut.

Since then, he has built a portfolio of subsidiaries across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America, positioning JGroup as a trusted partner for leading global tech and ad-tech players such as Google, TikTok, Snap, Amazon, and Channel Factory.

Guided by a forward-looking approach and deep regional expertise, Jomaa has led JGroup to become a catalyst for digital growth, fostering innovation and empowering businesses through strategic partnerships and proprietary technologies. Through his vision, JGroup continues to shape the future of the industry, fueling innovation and driving meaningful impact across the region. Jomaa has made several investments outside of JGroup over his career, most notably through Promo Properties, including an investment in Shazam.

Mike Sneesby is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MBC Group, the Middle East’s largest and most influential broadcaster, headquartered in Saudi Arabia.

A seasoned media executive, Sneesby brings extensive leadership experience in broadcasting, digital media, and telecommunications, with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation in global media markets. Before joining MBC, he was CEO of Nine Entertainment, one of Australia’s top media companies, overseeing a portfolio spanning television, publishing, and digital assets. He was also the founding CEO of Stan, Australia’s premier streaming service.

Earlier in his career, he held senior positions at ninemsn, Optus, and Intigral in Dubai, further deepening his international expertise. Sneesby is an alumnus of the University of Wollongong, holding an honours degree in electrical engineering and an MBA from Macquarie Graduate School of Management. He further deepened his connection to UOW by serving on its council.

Alexandre Hawari is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Akama Holding, a family office established in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2020, investing in media, data, and technology businesses across the Middle East and internationally.

Today, the Akama Group of Companies includes Mediaquest, NordStella, Memob, Neo Technology, Million, Special Edition, Spade Software, Difo Holding, Integrify and Evorra, and operates media brands and events such as Marie Claire, Haya, Buro, the MENA Effie Awards, the Youth Arabia Forum, and Trends. The group also spans data mining, ad exchange, a social media platform, and is highly invested in tech and new ventures.

Rashed Ali Al-Ameeri was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Al-Rai Media Group in June 2022. Having joined the group in April 2015, he gained broad experience across various positions before assuming the top role.

As CEO, Al-Ameeri is responsible for developing and implementing the group’s strategy across all operations and media platforms—print, digital, broadcasting, and emerging services. He has been acknowledged for keeping pace with industry trends and driving performance improvements across the organisation.

Under his leadership, the company aims to solidify its position in Kuwait’s media landscape and navigate the evolving challenges of digital transformation, content innovation, and audience engagement. Founded in 2002, Alrai Media Group is recognised as one of the country’s top media companies. Its portfolio includes the widely read Alrai daily newspaper and Alrai TV, the first private television channel in Kuwait, along with a growing slate of digital platforms and original content productions.

Mohammed Abdullatif Ibrahim Galadari is co-chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Galadari Brothers Group, one of the UAE’s well-established conglomerates with diversified interests across media, heavy equipment, food and beverage, motors, engineering, real estate, and hospitality.

Galadari oversees the conglomerate’s strategy, expansion, and modernisation, ensuring its continued contribution to the UAE’s business landscape and beyond. He holds a degree in finance from Suffolk University in Boston, USA. Under his leadership, Galadari Brothers Group has expanded into new geographies, introduced renowned international brands to the region, and implemented governance initiatives to strengthen efficiency and long-term growth across its portfolio.

Galadari also served as a managing associate at AIG, gaining valuable experience in global business and financial management. As the son of the late Abdul Latif Ibrahim Galadari, one of the founding leaders of the group, he continues to uphold the family legacy by driving innovation, sustainability, and growth.

Mahmoud Fathy is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-founder of ArabyAds. He is a physics graduate with a passion for revolutionising digital marketing in the Arab world.

Fathy founded ArabyAds in 2013 to fuel the growth of e-commerce in the MENA region. He pioneered the concept of performance advertising in the region and has been a strong advocate for boosting data and technology in the advertising industry.

Under his stewardship, ArabyAds has become the largest advertising and marketing intelligence platform in the MENA region in a short period. His vision of prioritising clients’ success and empowering advertisers with data, transparency, and precision has yielded significant results.

Fathy has led a series of acquisitions and partnerships, expanding the company’s technological capabilities and establishing it as the platform of choice for the industry in the Middle East. His commitment to providing simplified solutions and addressing clients’ real challenges has put ArabyAds at the forefront of the digital advertising and marketing sector in the region.

Ali Akawi is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ITP Media Group, one of the region’s largest media companies based in Dubai, UAE.

ITP publishes many of the Middle East’s most prominent titles, including Arabian Business, and operates across print, digital, and social platforms with a global reach.

Since taking on the role, Akawi has focused on building a content strategy that prioritises quality, credibility, and audience engagement. Looking to deliver journalism and storytelling that respect the time and attention of millions of users each month, Akawi has positioned ITP at the forefront of media innovation in the digital age.

With a background in business and media, including education at SBS Swiss Business School, Akawi combines a strategic vision for the future with hands-on industry expertise. Beyond his executive role, he contributes actively to regional thought leadership through writing, public commentary, and participation in discussions on media, business, and culture.

Rashed Humaid Al Qubaisi is the CEO of Abu Dhabi Media Network, one of the UAE’s leading multi-platform media companies. The media giant produces and distributes premium content across television, radio, print, and digital formats, with a strong focus on Emirati affairs, news, and entertainment.

Nasser bin Faisal bin Khalifa Al-Thani is the Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network, where he oversees the organization’s development and strengthens its position as a leading global media voice. He is committed to advancing media innovation and driving strategic initiatives across the network.

Mahmoud Al Rasheed is the General Manager of ARN, one of the UAE’s most dynamic multi-platform broadcasters and a key part of the Arab Media Group. He has focused on expanding ARN’s offerings and strengthening its position as a leading voice in the region.

Mohamed AlMulla is the CEO of Dubai Media Incorporated. His leadership focuses on innovation, capability building, and digital transformation, positioning the company for success in a rapidly evolving media landscape. He is also a strong advocate for leveraging media to support national initiatives.

Abdullatif bin Mohammed AlAbdullatif is the CEO of the General Authority of Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia, the national regulatory body responsible for overseeing the entire media sector. The authority’s mandate includes enhancing content quality, safeguarding national values, and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions.

Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani is the Director of the Government Communications Office in Qatar. In this role, he oversees the country’s strategic communications and has strengthened partnerships that reinforce Qatar’s position as a regional leader in innovation.

Eng. Jassim Al-Khori is the CEO of Media City Qatar, a global hub for media companies, entrepreneurs, innovators, and creative talent. Media City is designed to attract content creators, tech-driven production houses, and strategic investors aligned with Qatar’s knowledge-economy ambitions.

Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), has led the organization’s transformation into a customer-centric, investor-friendly hub. Under his leadership, RAKEZ has streamlined processes and expanded its reach across manufacturing, logistics, digital industries, and SME ecosystems.

Rashid Abdullah Al Obad is the Director-General of Sharjah Media City (Shams), the emirate’s dedicated media and creative industry free zone. Launched in 2017 by Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Shams today serves hundreds of companies from more than 160 countries.

Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President at TECOM Group, has guided the strategic vision and growth of Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, and Dubai Production City. These hubs, all part of TECOM Group, play a central role in cementing Dubai’s position as a global center for business and talent.

Mark Whitehead is the CEO of twofour54, Abu Dhabi’s premier media, entertainment, and gaming hub. The ecosystem is designed to attract global creators and cutting-edge studios, offering full-service infrastructure including licensing support, world-class production facilities, and a thriving creative community.

Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed is the Chairman of the UAE Media Council (UAEMC), the federal body responsible for coordinating media efforts across national and local entities. Under his leadership, the Council works to align media policies, strengthen national identity, and ensure cohesive communication across the UAE’s media landscape.

Khaled Zaki is the Executive Producer of Good People, where he has transformed a team of just 20 staffers into one of the MENA region’s gold-standard production houses over the past eight years.

Under Zaki’s leadership, Good People has become synonymous with boundary-pushing creativity and exceptional craftsmanship, consistently turning innovative ideas into award-winning work.

The company has produced major campaigns for global brands including Heineken, Diesel, and Lavazza, and has earned accolades at leading international festivals such as Cannes Lions, D&AD, The One Show Awards, Golden Drum, and CICLOPE.
Good People has also been named Dubai Lynx’s “Production House of the Year” five times in its eight-year history. Yet the company humbly notes: “Good People is the region’s most awarded production house, but deep down, we’re just a group of friends who love to do good work.”

Zaki holds a bachelor’s degree in performance and visual arts from the American University in Cairo. He previously worked with The Talkies and JWT.

Begad Omran, the founder of Bigfoot Films and its executive producer since August 2011, has led the company’s production of commercials, digital content, and films from Cairo, Egypt.

Omran also serves as a producer at Light House Film, a parallel role he has held since April 2010. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

He is known for his work on Girl Rising (2013) and Samsung Hope for Children Egypt (2012). And when Lays released a spot celebrating Iraq’s culinary heritage last year, it was Omran’s production expertise that helped bring to life a film directed by the Awkward Ads team.

Under Omran’s leadership, Bigfoot Films has worked with notable global brands, producing content with a strong creative edge across markets from the UK and Lithuania to South Africa, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Slovenia. The company has delivered a wide range of commercials, music videos, films, and impactful documentaries, and today operates offices in Cairo, Dubai, and Riyadh.

Manasvi Gosalia, known to many as Manu, launched Déjà Vu in Dubai in 2007 at the age of 23. His journey into filmmaking began in post-production, where he honed his skills as an editor before moving into production. What started as a small setup has since grown into a regional powerhouse, with offices across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and India.

Even as an executive, Gosalia remains deeply connected to the craft: “Leadership is about taking on the responsibility to inspire and influence a team over a single vision,” he says.

Déjà Vu has produced award-winning work for leading agencies and brands, earning recognition at Cannes Lions, D&AD, The One Show, London International Awards, Effies MENA, and Dubai Lynx.

Gosalia credits his parents for shaping his leadership values: “My father taught me to lead from the front and be relentless in the hard work you put in; my mother taught me to have integrity at the core and never let that principle go.” Guided by empathy, accountability, and transparency, he fosters a company culture where “positivity is everything in life, and if we don’t laugh at work, that’s not work anymore.”

Layal Moukahal is the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Film Pudding, based in Dubai. As a passionate production entrepreneur, she has grown the company into a production powerhouse with operations in Riyadh and Beirut, producing over 1,000 commercial films for global brands such as Netflix, Uber, and Coca-Cola.

Moukahal’s journey was not without challenges. After gaining experience at Grey Worldwide and Saatchi & Saatchi in Lebanon, she made a bold move to the Gulf region, building a network that now spans cities from Seattle to Tokyo and Helsinki to Marrakesh.

Her leadership philosophy has been shaped by observing poor leadership: “I was inspired by a lot of bad leaders, learning how not to lead through fear, toxicity, stress or suppression,” she admits.

This wisdom guided her launch of Très Content in 2021, which quickly secured campaigns for TikTok, Saudi Tourism, and Adidas. Managing teams across multiple markets, Moukahal lives by her motto: “Be fearless but not fierce, be open to change but don’t give up your identity.”

Sami Saleh is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Prodigious MEA, a production house delivering content across all channels. He began his career in advertising in 2003 at Leo Burnett’s Riyadh office, focusing on building robust operations and strong client relationships, which quickly led to greater responsibilities.

Saleh’s leadership qualities became evident, and in 2011 he was appointed Managing Director of Leo Burnett Qatar, a role he held for five years. During his tenure, he expanded the company from serving a single client to forging eight strategic partnerships, establishing the agency as a market leader. His achievements extended beyond numbers to include building lasting relationships and exceptional teams.

In 2016, Saleh’s expertise propelled him to the top role at Prodigious MEA, where he has established competitive production services across the region. Reflecting on leadership, he says: “A true leader wears one unwavering face: one of inspiration and steadiness, no matter the challenges ahead.”

Sibghat Shaikh is the Executive Producer of City Films and a founding partner of Karawood Film City, Pakistan’s largest film studio.

With a career spanning over a decade, Shaikh has earned a reputation for producing high-quality TV commercials, corporate films, and digital content across diverse industries. Based in Karachi, City Films is an independent production agency specializing in TV and digital commercials, corporate films, documentaries, and social media videos.

A short film produced and directed by Shaikh won “Best Film and Best Director” at the 48 Hour International Film Festival. He began his career as a graphic designer before moving into production and has since created commercials for leading brands including Bank Alfalah, JS Bank, Daraz, TUC, DayFresh, and CBM University.

Shady Abdelaziz co-founded Kay-Oh Productions, a film production house based in Cairo. He began his advertising career in 2009 as a young producer at JWT Cairo, unaware that he was laying the foundation for a production powerhouse.

A graduate of Modern Science and Arts University, with further training at Middlesex University, UK, Abdelaziz quickly developed a reputation for his eye for detail and instinct for storytelling. After honing his craft at Lighthouse Productions, he co-founded Kay-Oh Productions in 2017.

What started as a boutique idea has grown into an award-winning commercial and content company, recognized at D&AD, Effie Awards, and Dubai Lynx. Alongside global brands, Abdelaziz and his team bring ideas to life with precision and flair.

In 2024, he expanded his vision with Kay-Oh Pictures, venturing into feature films and TV series. As a co-founder of Ginger Talent Management Cairo, he is shaping the region’s creative future, both on-screen and behind it.

Shane Martin is the founder of Boomtown Productions, a leading creative company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) producing commercials, documentaries, branded content, and feature films.

After graduating from Trinity College Dublin, Martin, driven by a passion for storytelling, began his career as a director in London and at several regional production houses. In 1999, he founded Boomtown Productions in London, and just four years later, he expanded to Dubai, establishing a strong presence in the Middle East.

Along the way, Martin’s work has received international recognition, earning awards from Cannes Lions, The One Show, NY Festivals, London International Advertising Awards, and Cannes Dolphins.

Seen as both a pioneer and mentor, Martin has played a key role in shaping a professional production culture in the UAE. Today, Boomtown Productions stands as a beacon of creativity, blending innovation with storytelling that resonates across borders.

Massimiliano Bibbò is the Executive Creative Director at Filmworks Group in Dubai. He has emerged as one of the region’s leading advocates for the responsible integration of AI in film production, emphasizing that technology should amplify, not replace, human creativity.

With more than a decade of international experience, Bibbò continues to shape visual storytelling across the Middle East and beyond. After earning a degree in Digital Communication from the University of Udine, Italy, he carried not just academic credentials but a vision for how creativity and technology could converge.

Bibbò began his career at Leo Burnett Italia and DLV BBDO, before moving to the Middle East, where he spent five years as a Senior Creative at Leo Burnett MEA. By 2017, he became Creative Director at Filmmaster MEA, guiding campaigns that skillfully blended craft with cultural nuance.

Deziree Atallah is the Executive Producer at Wonderful Productions, a prominent production company with offices in Riyadh, Dubai, and Beirut, known for bringing together the top creative talent in the Middle East.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Film, Cinema, and Video Studies from the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) in 2004, Atallah began her career in production. Her keen eye for detail and deep understanding of the creative process quickly made her an asset in post-production, where she honed her skills in video editing, visual effects, and storytelling craftsmanship. For Atallah, film has always been more than a career—it is a lifelong calling.

From her base in Dubai, she manages projects that bridge artistry and precision, ensuring each campaign or film reflects both regional culture and global standards. Whether coordinating complex productions or refining the final cut, her guiding principle remains: to create visual stories that resonate long after the credits roll.

Alaa Yousef Fadan is the Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Chairman of Telfaz11, one of the most influential media and entertainment companies in the Middle East.

Since its launch as a YouTube network in Saudi Arabia, Telfaz11 has evolved into a regional powerhouse in digital content creation, commercial productions, and premium films. Under Fadan’s leadership, the company has become a key shaper of Saudi pop culture and a driver of the kingdom’s creative economy.

Described by Fast Company as among the “Most Creative People in Business,” Fadan has played a pivotal role in producing films that achieved both critical and commercial success, including Sattar—Saudi Arabia’s highest-grossing film—Raven Song, and AlKhallat+. Early this year, Netflix announced another film produced by Telfaz11 called The Matchmaker, an Arabic psychological thriller filmed entirely in AlUla, marking the first film to be shot completely at the UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia.

Fadan’s entrepreneurial vision has positioned Telfaz11 at the forefront of innovative, culturally resonant storytelling, earning the company a reputation for navigating the intersection of technology, business, and creativity.

Michel Abou Zeid is the Founding Partner and Executive Producer at Truffle Film, a production house established in Lebanon and later expanded to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Leading a team of dedicated producers, production managers, and post-production experts, Zeid has transformed this relatively young production house into a top firm in the region. Its client portfolio includes Saudi Tourism Authority, KFC, IKEA, Emirates, Aramco, STC, Canon, and Toyota.

Under his direction, Truffle Film has received numerous accolades, including Lories, The One Club for Creativity, Lia, Effies, and Lynx.

Zeid developed an interest in filmmaking from an early age and pursued formal training at ALBA, Academie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts, while simultaneously working on a freelance basis.

Alongside co-founder Cynthia Chammas, Zeid co-produced Six Kings Slam: Call of the Kings, an action-adventure spot that delivers a fresh and thrilling take on tennis promotion.

Eddy Rizk is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BIG KAHUNA FILMS, a leading creative production house in the Middle East. The company collaborates with a wide range of international and regional brands and agencies and is recognized for its commitment to high-quality productions.

A filmmaker from Lebanon, Rizk has spent 18 years demonstrating that leadership is more about mindset than titles. Since founding the company in 2007, he has transformed his creative vision into a respected production company with offices in Dubai, Riyadh, and Beirut.

Under Rizk’s leadership, BIG KAHUNA has won international awards at top advertising festivals, supported local creativity, and attracted talent from around the world. He also founded VIBE Content Creators to meet the growing demand for fast content production and started the Young Directors Competition nearly ten years ago to help emerging filmmakers in the region.

Rizk’s leadership philosophy, shaped by his father’s influence, emphasizes humility, consistency, and leading by example. He says, “You’re a leader when people aspire to be better because of you.”

His advice to future leaders reflects his unique approach: “Don’t try to imitate others. Focus on your own path and your own growth. That’s where real leadership starts.”

Rony Jazzar is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Imagic Group, a leading content creator and producer in the Arab world.

Jazzar holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Marketing from EDC Paris Business School. He served as Managing Director of Audio Visual Media from the mid-1980s until around 2004, when he founded Imagic Group.

The company’s client portfolio includes high-profile brands such as Netflix, MBC Group, and SRMG. Jazzar was also behind the popular television series “Stars of Science”, one of the region’s earliest reality programs, which has been recognized as an innovative and successful business concept. The series showcases young Arab innovators developing solutions to regional challenges in information technology, energy, environment, and health, with an expert panel of judges assessing and eliminating contestants competing for seed funding for their projects.

On guiding future innovators, Jazzar once told a group of students: “Be curious about everything. A good plan starts with knowledge – knowing the habits and behaviors of people before you can successfully deliver to them what they need.”

Imane Saad is the Executive Producer at Valkyries Productions in Morocco. She has dedicated over two decades to the world of TV, film, and advertising.

After a brief period in Switzerland, Saad returned to Morocco to co-found Valkyries Productions, bringing with her a clear vision: to create flexible, creative, world-class productions while never losing the human touch.

Saad’s path in production was deliberate—she learned from top professionals both in Morocco and abroad, immersing herself in every shoot, set, and challenge. Over her career, she has built an extraordinary portfolio of over 200 projects, including commercials, hit shows, feature films, and international series.

In the industry, she is known as a “warrior”—a title that reflects her approach: a producer who never gives up, finds solutions where others see roadblocks, and knows when to push harder and when to pull back.

Sana El Kilali is the Executive Producer of Jacaranda Productions, based in Marrakech. After completing her education in business management, she began her career as a production accountant, mastering the numbers behind the camera.

El Kilali’s passion for storytelling and the energy of the set soon drew her deeper into production. Through grit and persistence, she transitioned into a production manager, quickly earning a reputation as a trusted collaborator for US and UK filmmakers working in Morocco.

Her portfolio reads like a global blockbuster list: Kingdom of Heaven, John Wick: Chapter 3, Jack Ryan, Game of Thrones, and The Old Guard—as well as high-profile commercials for brands like BMW, Coca-Cola, and Visa.

El Kilali has won admiration for her courage, meticulous care, and ability to keep crews inspired, becoming the go-to line producer for some of Hollywood’s biggest production houses.

Rajeev Thottippully is the Founder and Director of The Company Films, a Dubai-based film production company. After graduating from the University of Madras, he relocated to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and founded The Company Films, where he steers projects with both heart and vision.

Thottippully is best known for his series The Other Side, including installments like Mountain Climber, Pehelwaan, and Mountaineer (2020), blending documentary impulse with narrative depth.

Over the years, his film series Otherside has been recognized among the “Top 20 Films of 2021” by Campaign Middle East for its emotional storytelling and cultural relevance.

Driven by empathy and exploration, Thottippully’s work resonates across borders, drawing audiences to experience unfamiliar landscapes and lives through his lens.

Gabriel Chamoun is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Talkies, a company he has transformed into one of the region’s most respected production houses, with a presence across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Morocco, and Lebanon. Under his nearly three decades of leadership, the company has earned a reputation for quality, reliability, and storytelling that resonates.

For Chamoun, leadership begins with clarity of purpose. “A leader is someone with a vision and a plan to implement this vision in an organization,” he says. His philosophy is rooted in action: “Leading by example. Whether it’s work ethics, behavior, or entrepreneurship, start with yourself.”

But his leadership journey has not been without challenges. Hiring—and especially unhiring—has been among his toughest decisions, where personal judgment, measurable criteria, and gut feeling intersect. Chamoun has also learned that not every opportunity is worth pursuing. As he puts it: “It’s better to pass on a great opportunity than to embark on a very uncertain adventure.”

Resilient and forward-looking, he defines success as “reaching set objectives more often than not” and building trust through open conversation and transparency. His advice to future leaders is succinct and powerful:
“Hire people that are better than you at what they do and you’ll grow together.”

Mofeed Abu Algebeen is the executive producer at Breakout Films, a boutique film production and advertising company with a tight-knit team of just 10 employees. When he took charge of the company three years ago, he quickly realized that leadership would be less about command and more about connection.

“Being a leader means guiding and supporting others toward a shared goal or vision,” he says. “It’s not just about giving directions—it’s about inspiring trust, setting an example, and creating an environment where people feel valued.”

Algebeen’s leadership philosophy is shaped deeply by the influence of his mentor Tim Smythe, whose “calm confidence, genuine humility, and deep respect” left a lasting impression. Drawing from these values, he built a leadership style grounded in integrity, respect, and accountability.

For Algebeen, success is collective, not individual. “If the people around me feel supported, motivated, and empowered to do their best work—and if we’re reaching our goals together—then I believe I’m succeeding.”

The journey, however, has come with lessons. Balancing transparency with direction has tested him, and he openly acknowledges one major mistake: “Trying to do too much myself instead of trusting and delegating.” Yet each setback has only strengthened his commitment to resilience and growth.

Rafic Tamba is the founder of VIP Films, a production company celebrated for its blend of creativity, precision, and cultural insight across Dubai, Riyadh, Lebanon, and the wider MENA region.

A cinematography graduate from École nationale supérieure Louis Lumière, Tamba has spent decades shaping the Middle East’s film production landscape, guided by a philosophy rooted in curiosity and adaptability.

Reflecting on VIP Films’ identity, he says: “We are experienced but fresh, productive but cost effective, serious but fun, and our answers are short but sweet.” He describes the company culture as one built on “gratitude for the magical aspect of what we are lucky to be doing,” with an emphasis on delivering joy to clients and viewers alike.

Always ready to embrace the next challenge, Tamba urges creatives to “Adapt, evolve and have fun doing so,” and calls the region his creative playground. “The world is our canvas and we are ready to paint.”

For Tamba, production is not just about storytelling—it’s about human experience, evolution, and the joy of creation.