The Middle East’s digital transformation is accelerating, driven by ambitious national visions and a surge in technological innovation. At the forefront of this revolution are a cohort of trailblazing women, whose leadership and vision are not only breaking barriers but actively architecting the region’s tech-driven future.
A recent list by Economy Middle East highlights 30 of these influential leaders, showcasing a diverse group of founders, executives, investors, and policymakers. These women are steering high-growth startups like Sarwa, leading regional operations for multinational giants, and shaping national AI strategies, collectively advancing the digital economy across the MENA region.
Catalysts of Economic Growth and Innovation
The economic contribution of these leaders is profound. Many have founded and scaled tech enterprises that create significant employment opportunities, attract substantial venture capital, and integrate cutting-edge solutions into national economies. Their ventures span high-impact sectors crucial to the region’s competitiveness, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, and e-commerce.
From Mona Ataya, who built Mumzworld into a regional e-commerce powerhouse, to Noor Sweid, whose firm Global Ventures funds the next generation of MENA startups, these women are proving that visionary leadership translates directly into economic growth and market disruption. Their work often involves introducing first-of-their-kind technologies and business models tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the Middle East.
Bridging Public and Private Sectors
Sustainable digital growth requires seamless collaboration between the public and private sectors, and many of the women on this list are pivotal figures in this relationship. They serve as key advisors on national digital strategies, contribute to landmark smart city initiatives, and work with regulatory bodies to create ecosystems where innovation can thrive.
Leaders such as H.E. Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, UAE’s Minister of Education, and Deemah Al Yahyah, Founding Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, exemplify this bridge. Their efforts in policy and international cooperation are instrumental in laying the groundwork for a resilient and inclusive digital future for the entire region.
The Vanguard of MENA’s Tech Leadership
The list features women from every corner of the tech ecosystem, reflecting the depth of female talent in the region. Among the recognized leaders are:
- Founders & VCs: Nadine Mezher (Co-founder, Sarwa), Sonia Weymuller (Co-founder, VentureSouq), and Elissa Freiha (Founder, Womena).
- Corporate Titans: Mirna Arif (General Manager, Microsoft), Ambareen Musa (CEO, Revolut GCC), and Saeeda Jaffar (SVP & Group Country Manager, Visa).
- AI & Deep Tech Pioneers: Ebtesam Almazrouei (Executive Director, The Office of AI, Abu Dhabi), Najwa Aaraj (CEO, Technology Innovation Institute), and Noha Al Harthi (Head of AI and Emerging Technologies, NEOM).
- Government & Policy Shapers: Al Johara Al Mogbel (Deputy Minister, Saudi Ministry of Tourism) and Latifa Al Shehhi (Chief AI officer, UAE Ministry of Investment).
About The 30 Women in Tech List
The “30 Women in Tech: Advancing the Middle East’s Digital Revolution” list by Economy Middle East recognizes some of the region’s most influential female leaders shaping the future of technology. Honorees were selected for their exceptional contributions across key pillars, including economic impact, innovation, revenue generation, government collaboration, and the scalability of their ventures. The list underscores the critical role these women play in building a more inclusive, competitive, and tech-driven economy across the MENA region.
Source: Economy Middle East
