Inc. Arabia Unveils Women Of Influence 2026 Honouring 60 Female Leaders Across MENA
Female leadership across the Middle East and North Africa continues to reach new heights, with women driving innovation, entrepreneurship and business transformation across a growing number of industries. Reflecting this momentum, Inc. Arabia has unveiled its Women Of Influence 2026 list, recognising 60 exceptional women leaders who are shaping the future of business across the MENA region.
The annual initiative celebrates influential founders, CEOs, executives and entrepreneurs whose leadership is creating meaningful impact across sectors including technology, finance, healthcare, retail, media, government and entrepreneurship.
Record Number of Applications
This year’s edition attracted more than 300 applications, marking a threefold increase compared to the previous year and highlighting the growing depth of female leadership across the region.
Following an extensive evaluation process, Inc. Arabia expanded the list from 30 honourees in previous editions to 60 leaders in 2026, recognising a broader range of inspiring women making a significant contribution to the region’s business landscape.
Celebrating Emirati Women’s Leadership
Released during Emirati Women’s Day, the special edition places additional focus on the achievements of Emirati women by featuring three prominent leaders on the magazine cover:
- H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa)
- Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of Government Communication, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
- Ousha Al Ahbabi, Founder and CEO, OBM Academy
Together with the 60 women recognised this year, they represent the ambition, resilience and innovation driving the next chapter of business across the region.
Recognising Business Leaders Across MENA
The Women Of Influence 2026 list features leaders from some of the region’s most recognised organisations, including Mubadala, Careem, talabat, American Hospital Dubai, Aramco, Network International, Technology Innovation Institute, Diageo MENA, Yango Group and Seagate Technology, among many others.
Commenting on the initiative, Anas Abbar, Group CEO of 7awi Media Group, said the overwhelming response reflects the extraordinary calibre of female leadership emerging across MENA and reinforces the importance of recognising women who continue to drive innovation and lasting change.
Through Women Of Influence 2026, Inc. Arabia continues its mission to celebrate outstanding women leaders while providing a platform for stories that inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, executives and change makers across the Middle East and North Africa.
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