50 Visionary Women: Her Excellency Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future

This article is a part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s Special Edition: 50 Visionary Women

Her Excellency Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi is the Minister of State for Government Development and the Future in the United Arab Emirates. This ministerial portfolio was created by the UAE government to advance government development and prepare for future planning for the government of the United Arab Emirates. H.E. Al Roumi is also the Chairwoman of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), the federal entity responsible for the growth and development of UAE federal government human resources. H.E. Al Roumi is Vice Chair of World Governments Summit Organization. She is also a member of the Emirates Competitiveness Council, a board member of the ‘Frontline Heroes Office’, and a member of the board of trustees of the Museum of the Future.

H.E. Al Roumi also oversees the Prime Minister’s Office of UAE and multiple strategic programs and initiatives that come beneath it, such as the development of the UAE Centennial 2071, the coordination and follow up on executing UAE Vision 2021. Her Excellency also oversees UAE government strategy and innovation, government development programs as well as Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Program, Government Performance Management System “Ada’a”, Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre For Government Innovation and the UAE Government Leaders Program. In 2016, H.E. Al Roumi held the position of Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, the first ministerial position of its kind in the world introduced by the UAE government. The United Nations Foundation appointed H.E. Al Roumi as member of the UN’s Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) in 2015, making her the first Arab member to hold that position.

She also made the Young Global Leaders (YGL) list with the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2012. H.E. was also listed among the World’s Greatest Leaders in 2017 by Fortune magazine in recognition of her accomplishments, making her the only Arab figure in the list. Prior to her role at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, H.E. Al Roumi held several leadership positions within the UAE federal government and the Government of Dubai.

She was the Director of Economic Policy at the Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President Prime Minister of UAE Ruler of Dubai, where she led several teams to develop multiple government-driven strategies, such as the Economic Sector Task Force for the Dubai Government’s as well as the Federal Government strategy. She was also the Director of Business Research at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. H.E. Al Roumi holds an Executive Master’s Degree in Business Administration (EMBA) from the University of Sharjah and a Bachelor’s in Economics from the College of Business and Economics, United Arab Emirates University. She is also a graduate from Mohammed Bin Rashid Program for Leadership Development.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Tony Jashanmal, President, Jashanmal Group

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Tony Jashanmal is a prominent businessman and the President of the Jashanmal Group, one of the UAE’s oldest and most respected retail and distribution companies. With a heritage spanning over a century, the Jashanmal Group has become synonymous with excellence in retailing, offering a diverse portfolio of premium brands across home goods, electronics, fashion, and lifestyle sectors.

Founded by his grandfather in 1919, the Jashanmal Group began as a small business in Basra, Iraq, before expanding to Kuwait and later the UAE. Under Tony Jashanmal’s modern and visionary leadership, the company has evolved into a market-leading conglomerate, operating in the UAE, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and beyond. His efforts have played a key role in the group’s diversification and its expansion into retail, distribution, and franchising. Jashanmal has been instrumental in bringing globally renowned brands to the Middle East, including Marks & Spencer, H&M, Tiffany & Co., and Lego, among others.

His innovative approach has kept the company at the forefront of the region’s retail industry, ensuring it remains competitive in a rapidly changing market. Recognizing the growing importance of technology, he has driven the adoption of e-commerce platforms and digital marketing strategies, blending traditional retailing with modern consumer trends. In addition to his business achievements, Jashanmal is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. The Jashanmal family has been actively involved in charitable initiatives, focusing on education, healthcare, and social welfare, reflecting the group’s dedication to giving back to the communities it serves. Jashanmal’s leadership, commitment to innovation, and dedication to preserving the family legacy have solidified his reputation as a key figure in the region’s retail and business landscape.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Sunny Varkey, Founder, GEMS Education Group

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Sunny Varkey has spearheaded the establishment of a worldwide educational group. Under his leadership, GEMS Education Group has expanded to own and manage over 60 schools in the MENA region alone. Currently, the group holds the distinction of being the largest non- governmental operator of private K-12 schools globally, catering to approximately 140,000 students from over 150 countries with 400,000 successful alumni placed throughout the world. Born in Kerala, India, Varkey’s family shifted base to Dubai in 1959 and after going abroad to attend a boarding school, he returned to Dubai in 1970. By then, his parents had already inaugurated the Our Own English High School in Dubai. Varkey took over the helm in 1980 and throughout his career trajectory, has witnessed advancement within the realms of education in the region. Notably, he established the Varkey Foundation, a key force behind the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize, an accolade widely acknowledged within the education sector.

The GEMS Education Group boasts a diverse and international presence, with operations spanning several countries across the globe, including but not limited to Singapore, Kenya, Uganda, Egypt, Libya, Jordan, the US, and Switzerland. This extensive network underscores the group’s commitment to delivering high-quality education across different cultural and geographic landscapes. In parallel to his significant contributions in the corporate realm, he is also the visionary behind the Varkey Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to improving the standards of education for underprivileged children around the world. This initiative reflects his deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education and his commitment to social responsibility. Further solidifying his dedication to philanthropy, Varkey has been honored with the designation of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, a role that recognizes his persistent efforts and contributions towards educational and charitable causes globally. His philanthropic journey is further highlighted by his commitment to The Giving Pledge, an initiative that sees him dedicating a considerable portion of his personal wealth to philanthropic activities. This pledge not only exemplifies his altruistic spirit but also sets a precedent for impactful charitable engagement, aiming to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by communities worldwide.

For over six decades, GEMS Education has consistently prioritized ‘Family First’ as a fundamental value in its educational approach. As the largest private education provider in the UAE, in February 2024, GEMS Education unveiled its intention to integrate this foundational principle into a new initiative aimed at fostering global change, aligning with the UAE leadership’s vision for social transformation. This ethos is in harmony with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which underscores ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation’ as a key theme, reflecting the key role of family in the fabric of society.

In 2024, GEMS Education plans to initiate Family First activities, which will encompass a comprehensive survey on family values, including a series of monthly discussions in the style of TED Talks focusing on various facets of family support. These discussions will be conducted by known global experts and advocates. All 44 GEMS schools in the UAE and Qatar are committed to embedding the significance of family values and the importance of family within their educational curriculum, starting from the kindergarten level and continuing throughout the students’ educational journey.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Sunil John. Senior Advisor (MENA), Stagwell

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Sunil John, a pioneer of the Middle East’s public relations industry, serves as the Senior Advisor for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) at Stagwell, the challenger network redefining marketing through its suite of digital-first and transformation-focused services. In his role, John leads Stagwell’s MENA operations with a focus on driving regional growth, executing strategic acquisitions, and fostering collaboration among local agencies and partners. With nearly 30 years of experience at the forefront of the region’s PR industry, John is best known as the founder of ASDA’A, which he established in 2000.

Under his leadership, ASDA’A grew into the benchmark public relations consultancy in the Arab world. In 2008, WPP Group acquired a majority stake in ASDA’A, with John retaining a significant share. In May 2023, WPP / Indian Visionaries completed its acquisition of his remaining stake, and John left the firm in December 2023. Since taking on his advisory role at Stagwell, John has demonstrated his characteristic energy and strategic insight. Additionally, he introduced Forsman & Bodenfors, a globally renowned creative advertising agency, into the MENA markets, securing key clients in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Under his guidance, Assembly Global, Stagwell’s omni-channel media agency, has achieved exceptional growth, with revenues increasing by nearly 50% in both 2023 and 2024.

John’s contributions to the PR industry have been widely acknowledged including, Outstanding Individual Achievement SABRE Award (EMEA) from Provoke (2014), Best PR Professional in the Middle East, PRWeek Global Awards (2020, 2023), MEPRA Fellowship Award (2018) and Chairman’s Award, Middle East PR Awards (2016). John has also been instrumental in driving thought leadership through the Arab Youth Survey, an initiative he launched in 2008. Today, this research remains one of the most widely cited sources of public opinion on the region, shaping discussions among policymakers and media globally. John’s unparalleled expertise and forward-thinking approach continue to influence the marketing and communications landscape in the MENA region. His new role at Stagwell reaffirms his commitment to innovation and excellence in shaping the future of the industry.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Bal Krishen, Chairman, The Century Group

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Some leaders build companies; others build legacies. Bal Krishen, the Chairman of The Century Group, has done both. From his modest beginnings as an industrial worker in the UAE to leading a multi-industry group, his journey is one of resilience, foresight, and unshakable belief in people and progress. Today, his leadership spans investment services, wealth management, banking, insurance, real estate, technology, and logistics, making Century Group a force to be reckoned with across global markets. Bal Krishen’s ascent began with Century Financial, the UAE’s premier investment services provider. Under his leadership, Century Financial evolved from a brokerage firm into a holistic financial powerhouse, providing cutting-edge trading solutions to retail and institutional investors alike. But he wasn’t content with just redefining investment services—his vision extended further. With the launch of Century Private Wealth, a DIFC domicile and DFSA-regulated firm, he introduced bespoke asset and wealth management solutions for high-net- worth individuals, offering exclusive fund strategies to prioritize long-term capital growth and alpha generation.

Not stopping there, he spearheaded Century Bank Brokers, a strategic player in banking solutions, bridging the gap between financial institutions and clients. His expansion into insurance through Savington International Insurance Broker brought tailored insurance solutions to individuals and corporations. The story of The Century Group isn’t just about business growth—it’s about revolutionizing industries. “We don’t just create opportunities; we create impact,” Krishen asserts. “Success is not measured by profit alone but by the value we bring to people’s lives.” Krishen’s leadership philosophy is anchored in three pillars: Sustainability, Simplicity, and Scalability. He believes in sustainable growth that withstands economic shifts, simplicity in execution to keep processes accessible, and scalability to build future-ready solutions. But beyond strategy, what truly differentiates him is his commitment to people. “We are not just a workforce; we are a force of change,” he often says, emphasizing the importance of fostering a dynamic, motivated, and engaged team.

Century Financial March 2025 has been recognized as one of the best workplaces, an accolade that reflects the company’s strong culture of trust, inclusivity, and innovation. His personal leadership style revolves around empowerment—enabling individuals to excel, take ownership, and drive the company forward. Whether mentoring young professionals or guiding seasoned executives, he believes leadership is about creating more leaders, not just followers. For Krishen, success is incomplete without giving back. A dedicated philanthropist, he actively supports initiatives that promote financial literacy, economic empowerment, and sustainability. His commitment extends to fostering education and skills development for underprivileged communities, ensuring that progress is inclusive and far- reaching.

What sets him apart from other industry leaders is his ability to foresee shifts in global markets and pivot strategically. His journey is proof that with vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in people, one can build not just a successful enterprise but an enduring legacy. As he continues to expand the Century Group’s reach across new markets and industries, one thing is certain: this is not just a leader building businesses. This is a visionary shaping the future of global enterprise. As he says :”Leadership is not about being the strongest in the room—it’s about making everyone else stronger.”

Indian Visionaries 2025: Ashish Mehta, Founder, Ashish Mehta Associates

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

As the founder and managing partner of a multi-jurisdictional law practice ASHISH MEHTA ASSOCIATES, the Dubai based international lawyer’s list of clients is both impressive and diverse. His firm operates in the UAE, India and UK and includes multinationals, regional and local corporates, ultra-high net worth individuals, amongst others. Mehta is the first licensed, independent Indian lawyer in Dubai. He is qualified to practice law in India since 1992 and the United Kingdom since 2000 (currently maintains a valid practicing certificate as a Solicitor from SRA), United Arab Emirates including before the Courts of Dubai International Financial Centre.

Mehta, who has been practicing legal professional for almost 30 years, provides analysis and counseling on complex legal documents and policies including but not limited to corporate matters, commercial transactions, banking and finance, securitization, property and construction, real estate acquisitions, mergers and acquisitions, financial restructuring for distressed assets, arbitration, mediation and litigation, intellectual property, advise and create offshore structures for wealth management, family matters, general crime and litigation issues. As part of corporate social responsibility, since many years the firm has provided pro bono (free) legal services to distress Indians residing in the UAE at the offices of the Consulate General of India in Dubai (Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra).

Indian Visionaries 2025: Gaurav Sinha, CEO, Insignia Worldwide

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Gaurav Sinha is the CEO of Insignia Worldwide, a destination design, development & experience company. He has been working in the industry for over three decades and is renowned for his strategic and creative acumen to make places and experiences distinct, meaningful and commercially viable.

Previously, he was the Area Director (Middle East & Asia Pacific) for Hilton Worldwide, overseeing the Waldorf Astoria, Conrad & Hilton brands. He has provided his services to some of the world’s most revered hospitality brands, real estate developers, tourism boards and sovereign funds. Sinha is also the author of Compassion Inc., a book about the power of empathy in life and business, published by Penguin Randomhouse UK, and critically acclaimed by Forbes and the Financial Times. He is an active philanthropist and established Harmony House, a day-shelter for over 1,200 destitute children in India.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Ravi Pillai, Founder and Chairman, RP Group

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Hailing from a family of farmers in Kerala, Dr. Pillai established RP Group in the 1970s after his small construction firm shut shop, prompting him to migrate to KSA. Between 1985 and 1990, the group expanded to 5,000 employees; procured business from a petrochemical major in KSA; and secured major contracts in Al Jubail. By the nineties, Pillai had expanded the business to other GCC countries and began construction for oil and gas as well as petrochemical and steel companies, emerging as a leading regional general contractor. And today, the group covers sectors including construction, infrastructure, retail, hospitality, and healthcare.

The group are a preferred partner for some of the largest companies in the world that are actively involved in developing the hydrocarbons industry across the Middle East. RP Group aims to strengthen its role as a leading diversified conglomerate, with ventures in construction, real estate, hospitality, healthcare, education, IT, and retail. Guided by principles of strategic significance, operational excellence, reliability, and community commitment, RP Group leverages its broad and service- focused business portfolio to position itself as a top global diversified entity.

With a firmly established foothold of over four decades in the Middle East region, across nine countries, extending in 20 cities, the group is well established across the hospitality sectors in both the UAE and India. Boasting over seven hotels in Kerala and the GCC region, Pillai has purchased two more properties in Pune, and are setting up a 200-villa luxury resort in the Maldives. The group’s successful subsidiary Taj RP International has completed the Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, with RP Global also developing two projects in Business Bay and on Sheikh Zayed Road, worth $1.5 billion. The RP Group has underlined its exceptional competency in hospitality services in the UAE and India. The Raviz Group is an ancillary of the RP Group of Companies, with a portfolio of resorts and hotels in the UAE and India.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Paras Shahdadpuri, Chairman, NIKAI Group of Companies

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

Paras Shahdadpuri, Chairman, NIKAI Group of Companies, is an ex-diplomat serving the Indian government. Today, a leading businessman who is affectionately known in business circles as a gentleman and a Statesman. He is also the winner of the prestigious Bharat Shiromani Award; owner of a superbrand; and above all a philanthropist who takes deep pride in serving the community.

Shahdadpuri has been honored with many accolades and titles for serving the business community. He received the ‘CEO International Achievement Award for 2012′ at power brands hall of fame and was hailed for his contribution to the Global Electronic Sector during the Middle East Business Leaders’ Summit in 2013. Forbes listed him as one of the top Indian leaders in UAE and he has been featured as 100 Most Influential Global Indians.

He started with trading in commodities in 1988 and chose Dubai to be the headquarters of his business activity and this laid the foundation of the NIKAI Group of Companies – a diversified business group which has forayed into Electronics, Home Appliances, IT, FMCG and Retail Food Chain.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder and President, Thumbay Group

This article is part of Entrepreneur Middle East’s special edition: 33 Indian Visionaries.

A man of vision and dynamism, with the determination to succeed, Dr. Thumbay Moideen is recognized in India and beyond for the various achievements to his credit. Born on 23rd March, 1957 in Mangalore (India), Dr. Thumbay Moideen was raised in a traditional family with a business background. Today, his name is synonymous with professionalism and positive approach. Taking to business at the tender age of 21 years, he demonstrated his business acumen from the very start.

Dr. Thumbay Moideen handled the mantle of the large business house established by his father Dr. Ahamed Hajee Mohiudeen. His father Dr. Ahamed Hajee Mohiudeen and grandfather Mr. Yenepoya Moideen Kunhi’s inspiration enabled him to grow and expand the business, taking it to new heights within a few years. During 1997, Dr. Thumbay Moideen established the THUMBAY Group in UAE. Under his dynamic leadership, the group went on to achieve tremendous growth, and in the process, provided a means of livelihood to hundreds of families over the last decade.

The Thumbay Group has over the years evolved as a diversified business group with operations across 20 sectors including Education, Healthcare, Medical Research, Diagnostics, Retail Pharmacy, Health Communications, Retail Optical, Wellness, Hospitality, Real Estate, Publishing, Technology, Media, Events, Medical Tourism, Trading and Marketing & Distribution.