Indian Visionaries 2025: Vivek Anand Oberoi, Managing Director and Co-Founder, BNW Developments

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

Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi is a serial entrepreneur, philanthropist and critically acclaimed actor. He is transforming the UAE’s real estate landscape with a fresh approach to luxury living and investments. Under his leadership, BNW Developments has evolved into an ultra-luxury real estate firm with approximately AED 19.4 billion in assets under development within five years. He also actively leads investments in a diverse portfolio of businesses, including edtech, fintech, agritech, media and entertainment, real estate, and sustainable luxury. His vision prioritizes both profitability and purpose.

As a committed advocate for ethical business practices, Dr. Oberoi focuses on creating social impact through his investments. He ensures that profitability is intertwined with sustainability and positive community outcomes. Whether investing in innovative startups, transformative technologies, or socially responsible ventures, he prioritizes businesses that empower marginalized communities, promote environmental sustainability, and uphold the highest ethical standards.

Deeply believing that business can be a powerful force for good, Dr. Oberoi continues to shape a future where profit and social responsibility thrive together. His leadership in both business and philanthropy reflects his dedication to making a lasting, positive impact on society, demonstrating that success can be achieved without compromising integrity. Dr. Oberoi is the only Indian actor to be recognized on the Forbes 40 Under 40 Heroes of Philanthropy list. He also actively spearheads numerous charitable initiatives that pursue scalable impact. Dr. Oberoi’s impact extends far beyond Bollywood, achieving global recognition as a visionary entrepreneur and a dedicated philanthropist.

His numerous accolades, including being named one of Asia’s Greatest Real Estate Leaders by Asia One, the UAE Ultimate Realty Awards 2024, and Elite’s Most Influential Indians Award, are a testament to his exceptional business acumen. Furthermore, his unwavering commitment to social causes, exemplified by the prestigious Mother Teresa International Award, Good Fellows Award, SWFI 2023, Prajyot Award 2024, and the Dada Vasu Shroff Award for Philanthropy 2024, solidifies his legacy as a true global citizen.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Faizal E. Kottikollon, Founder and Chairman, KEF Holdings

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

Faizal E. Kottikollon is the distinguished founder and chairman of KEF Holdings, a multinational conglomerate renowned for its innovation and impact across various sectors. With a solid educational background in engineering and management, Faizal embarked on a dynamic career that began in the United States and led to transformative ventures in India and the UAE. His entrepreneurial journey gained momentum when he established Al Ahamadi General Trading in Ajman in 1995.

Within two years, Faizal founded Emirates Techno Casting FZE (ETC) in Sharjah, which became a global leader in foundry manufacturing, particularly for the oil and gas industry. The strategic sale of ETC to Tyco International in 2012 marked a pivotal milestone, enabling Faizal to reshape KEF Holdings into a conglomerate focusing on infrastructure, investments, healthcare, and wellness.

Faizal’s vision extends beyond business, as evidenced by the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, founded with his wife, Shabana, in 2007. This philanthropic endeavour is committed to enhancing education, healthcare, and humanitarian assistance, positively impacting lives worldwide. Faizal’s life is characterized by a passion for sports, a commitment to family, and a legacy of leadership, innovation, and social responsibility.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Yogesh Mehta, Founder, Petrochem Middle East

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

Yogesh Mehta is a distinguished business leader and the visionary founder and CEO of Petrochem Middle East, a leading distributor of petrochemical products and industrial chemicals across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With over 30 years of expertise in the petrochemical industry, Mehta has been instrumental in transforming Petrochem Middle East into one of the region’s most successful and diversified supply chain enterprises.

Established in 1995, Petrochem Middle East specializes in the distribution, supply, and storage of a wide range of petrochemical products, including solvents, chemicals, and lubricants. Under Mehta’s leadership, the company has expanded its reach to over 50 countries, serving regional and international markets with a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. Petrochem caters to a broad spectrum of industries, including automotive, construction, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, establishing itself as a trusted partner in the global supply chain.

Mehta’s entrepreneurial acumen and deep industry knowledge have enabled Petrochem to thrive in a highly competitive and regulated market. His forward-thinking approach emphasizes the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable business practices, positioning Petrochem as a leader in the chemical distribution sector. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities and robust logistics network underscore its reputation for efficiency and reliability. Beyond his business achievements, Yogesh Mehta is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. He actively promotes ethical business practices, environmental stewardship, and community development through various philanthropic initiatives.

His leadership extends beyond the boardroom, inspiring industry peers and the next generation of entrepreneurs with his dedication to excellence and integrity. Mehta’s contributions to the petrochemical industry and his unwavering commitment to sustainability have earned him recognition as a pioneer in his field, making Petrochem Middle East a benchmark for success in the global market.

Indian Visionaries 2025: Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO, Dubai Islamic Bank

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

Dr. Adnan Chilwan stands as a towering figure in the Islamic Banking & Finance sector, known for his transformative contributions and visionary leadership. As a pioneer in the field, he has been instrumental in evolving Islamic finance into a globally recognized phenomenon. His career, which spans nearly three decades, showcases an exceptional blend of strategic insight and innovative foresight across both the conventional and Islamic banking sectors in the region.

Stepping into the role of Group Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Islamic Bank, Dr. Chilwan now oversees an impressive financial empire, the world’s first Sharia-compliant bank and the largest Islamic Bank in the UAE. He manages an organization with assets exceeding US$95+ billion, a market capitalization of over US$14+ billion, and a dynamic workforce of more than 10,000 employees. Under his guidance, the bank has not only expanded its reach across continents but also solidified its position as a leading entity in the world of Islamic finance.

Beyond managing a financial powerhouse, Dr. Chilwan’s impact extends to the global stage as he advocates for Islamic banking. He is celebrated globally for his pioneering efforts in reshaping the landscape of Islamic finance. He is a key spokesperson and thought leader, advocating for the integration of Islamic banking into the global finance mainstream. His unwavering dedication to this cause has transformed the industry, earning him recognition as a visionary and influential figure in the financial world. Beyond his role at Dubai Islamic Bank, Dr. Chilwan holds significant positions on the boards of various strategic investments, subsidiaries, and associates.

His influence extends to Noor Bank, Deyaar PJSC, Liquidity Management Centre, and the International Islamic Financial Market. He serves as Chairman of DIB Kenya’s Board of Directors. He is also known for his consultative role to governments and educational contributions, sharing his expertise at top universities and forums around the world. While his professional life is marked by numerous achievements, Dr. Chilwan also maintains a vibrant personal life, underscored by his passion for sports, particularly cricket. He has a strong academic foundation, holding a PhD and an MBA in Marketing, and is a Certified Islamic Banker (CeIB), all of which reflect his rich academic background. These academic and professional achievements stand as a testament to Dr. Chilwan’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the banking and financial industry.

Dubai Announces Remote Learning during Ramadan for Private Schools on Fridays

In line with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and as part of his commitment to strengthening family bonds during the Holy Month of Ramadan, private school students in the emirate will have the option of remote learning on Fridays throughout Ramadan.

Students with mandatory in-person examinations on Fridays are exempt from this arrangement.

Additionally, schools are encouraged to accommodate families for whom remote learning may not be suitable by allowing students to attend classes in person if needed.

The How-To: Building A Really Successful Fintech Solution

Fintech founders in MENA obsess over product, funding, and regulation. But most overlook the one thing that determines whether they scale or stall: trust. Without it, even the best fintech solutions struggle to gain traction. The problem? Trust isn’t automatic yet too many startups assume it is.

The Trust Deficit in Fintech
Fintech adoption in MENA is growing, but many SMEs and consumers remain cautious. They aren’t resisting innovation – they’re assessing risk. In finance, confidence is everything. A Mastercard study on digital trust in the Middle East and Africa highlights a disconnect: 60% of consumers would lose trust in a financial provider after a security or reliability issue. While 70% of businesses recognize reliability as critical, only 42% prioritize transparency in security and data privacy.

This gap reveals a core challenge: fintechs assume trust comes from technology and regulatory approval, but consumers judge it by how seamless, secure, and transparent their experience is. No matter how advanced the product, fintechs that fail to meet and communicate these expectations risk losing credibility.

Legacy Banks Have Built-In Credibility – Fintechs Don’t
Traditional banks don’t need to introduce themselves. Decades of handling salaries, home loans, and corporate financing have cemented their credibility. Regulation, physical branches, and longevity reinforce their stability. Even their digital products carry institutional trust.

Fintech startups, however, start from zero. They exist to solve problems that banks can’t – or won’t – address, offering agility and innovation where legacy institutions fall short. But success isn’t just about launching a better product; it’s about continually solving the problem. The fintechs that scale are the ones that evolve without losing sight of their core value proposition. No matter how advanced their technology or seamless their experience, customers still ask: Will this company still be here in five years? Can I trust them with my money and data? If something goes wrong, who do I call?

These are the trust barriers fintech founders must address head-on.

Regulation Doesn’t Equal Trust
Many fintechs assume a regulatory license or bank partnership validates their brand. It doesn’t.
Regulatory approval signals legitimacy to investors and industry players, but for consumers and small businesses, it’s largely invisible. Most don’t follow licensing updates or understand compliance structures. They trust what they can see, feel, and experience.

This is where many fintechs fall short. They focus on compliance checkboxes but neglect sustained perception-building. Being legally authorized to operate doesn’t automatically earn customer confidence. Trust is built through communication, consistency, and credibility..

Many startups fail, not because their tech is weak, but because their trust strategy is nonexistent.

How Fintechs Can Build Brand Trust
Startups that work to establish credibility from day one grow sustainably, while those that treat it as an afterthought face slow adoption and regulatory friction. But where should founders start? The first step is identifying the biggest trust barrier in their market – whether it’s consumer skepticism, lack of awareness, or regulatory uncertainty – and addressing it head-on. The fintechs that get this right focus on four key areas:

1. Clarity Over Complexity
Too many fintechs hide behind jargon, assuming technical superiority speaks for itself. It doesn’t. Trust starts with understanding. If customers can’t quickly grasp what you do and why it matters, hesitation sets in. The best fintech brands simplify their messaging, making it clear and compelling enough to fit in a tagline, not buried in a whitepaper.

2. Owning the Education Gap
Financial literacy in MENA is still evolving. Businesses and consumers need more than access to fintech – they need guidance on how to use it effectively. The most trusted brands bridge this gap by educating the market.

For B2B fintechs, this means providing clear, actionable insights on how embedded finance strengthens cash flow, digital payments improve efficiency, and BNPL benefits both businesses and consumers. On the B2C side, trust is built by demystifying financial products, making them accessible, and reinforcing transparency at every touchpoint. Fintechs that lead in education – drive adoption, establish authority, and build long-term credibility.

3. Borrowing Trust to Build Trust
Startup founders often say, “We’re doing great things, but no one knows.” The real challenge isn’t innovation – it’s visibility. Trust doesn’t have to be built from scratch; it can be accelerated through association. Strategic partnerships with banks, regulators, and established brands act as implicit endorsements, helping fintechs build credibility faster. But partnerships only work if they’re visible.

A fintech backed by a Tier 1 bank should showcase that credibility in onboarding flows, customer messaging, and PR efforts. Too many startups treat these milestones as checkboxes, announcing them in a press release and moving on – when they should be reinforcing them and their value at every touchpoint.

4. Controlling the Narrative
Trust isn’t built through one-off press releases – it’s built through consistent communication, strategic relationships, and ongoing engagement. The fintech brands that endure don’t wait for a funding round to gain visibility; they cultivate credibility daily.

Managing perception isn’t a one-time effort. The most successful fintechs anticipate concerns, shape conversations, and reinforce reliability at every opportunity. Yet many founders treat PR as a transactional exercise, failing to recognize that reputation is an asset that compounds over time. The fintechs that succeed invest in relationships, communicate with intention, and take control of their narrative before others define it for them.

Who’s Getting It Right?
Tabby is a case study in how to build trust in fintech. When they launched in 2019, BNPL was still a novel concept in MENA. As a first mover, they had the advantage of shaping consumer perception – but early adoption alone wasn’t enough. Tabby turned BNPL into a mainstream habit by making credibility the foundation of their growth strategy.

Rather than relying solely on their first-mover status, they aligned early with top-tier retailers and banks, embedding themselves within trusted ecosystems. Their messaging is refreshingly simple: Shop now, pay later, no hidden fees. Transparency is key – consumers know exactly what they’re getting, with no fine print to undermine confidence.

More importantly, Tabby didn’t just introduce a service; they reshaped consumer behavior. By partnering with household names, they made BNPL a trusted part of everyday shopping. Today, Tabby serves 12 million users and 40,000 brands. But beyond accessibility, they invested in financial literacy campaigns to educate consumers on responsible borrowing, credit health, and the advantages of BNPL as a smart financial tool rather than a debt-incurring trap. Additionally, they built a brand that is unapologetically aligned with the values of the consumers and market they serve.

The Real Competitive Edge in Fintech

MENA’s fintech landscape is crowded. The differentiator won’t be technology – it will be credibility. A great product isn’t enough. A regulatory license isn’t enough. The fintechs that scale will be the ones that build trust as intentionally as they build their tech.

Fintech founders need to ask themselves: Are we still solving the problem we set out to fix? Are we building trust and earning the confidence of our customers? They need to identify the biggest credibility gap and actively work to close it. Whether through education, visibility, or partnerships, fintechs that focus on trust from day one will define the future of financial services in MENA

The Beauty Sector’s Next Big Bang

The beauty industry is experiencing a seismic shift, not just in size but in substance. Projected to reach a staggering US$590 billion globally by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 6%, as per a study by McKinsey, the beauty market’s growth, particularly within the dynamic region of South Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa (SAPMENA), signals a profound transformation.

But this isn’t simply about market expansion; it’s about a fundamental change in consumer expectations, driven by a digitally native generation demanding personalized, sustainable, and technologically advanced beauty experiences.

This presents a unique opportunity for startups in the Middle East with disruptive innovation to drive the next big bang for the future of beauty. The convergence of beauty and technology has created a compelling investment opportunity– why?

There is immense growth potential in pushing beauty boundaries, with innovations in this industry serving as a springboard to other consumer sectors. In fact, the beauty and personal care market in the Middle East is expected to reach around $60 billion this year, up from $46 billion in 2024.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the rise of hyper-personalization.

No longer a niche trend, it’s becoming the new norm, reshaping every facet of the consumer experience. Consider the power of social commerce, where product discovery and purchase seamlessly integrate within platforms like TikTok and Instagram, driven by influencer recommendations and peer reviews.

Imagine effortlessly trying on makeup and hair colour virtually, eliminating the guesswork with augmented reality (AR) technology. Picture personalized skincare routines optimized by artificial intelligence (AI), analyzing your unique skin profile and health factors. This vision is now a reality thanks to strategic partnerships.

Take L’Oréal’s collaboration and subsequent acquisition of ModiFace for example. ModiFace’s AR-powered virtual try-on technology lets consumers explore countless makeup looks in minutes. Similarly, L’Oréal ‘s collaboration with Korean startup NanoEnTek led to Cell BioPrint, an innovative beauty tech that provides a personalized skin assessment in minutes, analyzing biological age, aging signs, and responsiveness to ingredients.

As personalized, tech-driven experiences become standard, consumers are quick to abandon brands that fall short of expectations. In fact, 74% would abandon a beauty purchase due to a subpar shopping experience.

The number of connected consumers is also projected to rise substantially, from 5.3 billion in 2023 to 7.5 billion in 2030, representing a significant opportunity for startups to capitalize on evolving digital needs and habits through beauty tech innovation.

Many people look to Silicon Valley for disruptive innovation, but there is a vibrant and rapidly expanding startup ecosystem in SAPMENA with over 40,000 startups. Hubs like the Middle East are perfectly positioned to unlock this golden opportunity. Investors too, are recognizing the potential for innovation across the broad retail sector.

In fact, funding for the retail sector in the Middle East was up by 98% while other sectors saw declines of up to 67% in the same period. SAPMENA is where the future of beauty can be written, and startups here hold the pen.

Collaborations fueling innovation to shape the future of beauty

The SAPMENA beauty market offers immense potential, but scaling across its diverse landscape presents a formidable challenge for startups. Even with a viable concept or product-market fit, the most promising startups may still struggle to successfully navigate the commercial routes.

Deloitte estimates that over 80% of startups fail to transition from emergent to mainstream products or services. Cultural nuances, regulatory complexities, and infrastructural scale are just a handful of examples that hinder broader market penetration, highlighting the crucial role of strategic partnerships.

Partnering with established industry leaders can help startups overcome these barriers, while creating a powerful value exchange. On one hand, industry leaders have the footprint that provides market access, industry expertise, and resources, and on the other, startups offer disruptive thinking, agility, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging niche expertise. This collaboration unlocks mutual growth and can fuel the beauty tech revolution.

This presents significant opportunities and there are multiple avenues for startups in the Middle East to tap into innovation partnerships. Incubators, accelerators, and corporate venture investments are some ways to access the ecosystem. L’Oréal’s Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program is a prime example of this collaborative approach.

Last year, our inaugural SAPMENA edition saw over 1,000 startups from across South Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and North Africa compete for the chance to secure pilot collaborations, mentorship from senior leadership, and the opportunity to unlock L’Oréal’s extensive network and resources, including exposure to our 37 international brands.

The beauty industry is in a constant state of evolution. Consumer preferences are shifting, technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and sustainability concerns are coming to the forefront. Startups, with their agility, innovative spirit, and eye on emerging trends, are uniquely positioned to navigate this dynamic landscape and shape the future of beauty.

If you’re a startup ready to disrupt a US$590 billion industry and make your mark, then join the next wave of innovators.

7 Management Unveils YUBI, the UAE’s First Homegrown Handroll Bar

UAE-based hospitality and management company 7 Management will launch YUBI, the UAE’s first homegrown handroll bar, in August 2025 at One Central’s 25 Jump Street, Dubai’s first licensed dining street and a vibrant hub of culinary innovation.

YUBI will redefine casual Japanese dining as guests will be able to engage directly with chefs at the interactive handroll bar.

Partnering with star Chef Reif Othman, YUBI’s menu highlights bold flavors and inventive techniques, offering a dynamic mix of traditional and unconventional handrolls, complemented by tempura, yakitori, sashimi, and more.

YUBI’s distinctive brand identity is the result of the collaborative efforts of a talented team of designers and creatives. The space, envisioned by the award-winning MARIAGROUP, masterfully plays with light, texture, and form to create a sensory-rich atmosphere. Adding a stylish touch, Lebanese designer Mira Mikati infuses modernity into the concept through bespoke uniforms and signature design elements, seamlessly blending fashion, fun, and function. Melissa Haddad, the talented designer behind YUBI’s branding and logo creation, has brought her vision to life with a bold, modern aesthetic that perfectly complements the dynamic energy of the handroll bar concept.

“Launching the first homegrown handroll bar in collaboration with top experts in culinary arts, design, and fashion, we’re proud to introduce a dining experience that embodies our passion for quality and creativity,” said Rabih Fakhreddine, founder and Group CEO of 7 Management.

Related: Setting The Trend: Rabih Fakhreddine, Founder And CEO, 7 Management

Nominations are Now Open for the E-Business Awards 2025, an Annual Celebration of the MENA’s Digital Innovators

Nominations are now open for the E-Business Awards 2025, an annual event staged by Entrepreneur Middle East to recognize and reward key players in the MENA region’s digital business landscape.

This annual event honors companies, startups, and leaders who have redefined the digital economy through excellence in e-commerce, fintech, digital transformation, SaaS, and online services.

From cutting-edge technology solutions to customer-centric platforms, the E-Business Awards 2025 shines a spotlight on the visionaries and disruptors shaping the future of online business. The awards bring together industry pioneers, investors, and decision-makers for an evening of recognition, networking, and inspiration.

The E-Business Awards 2025 be held on April 24, 2025 at Al Habtoor Palace in Dubai, with the gala ceremony set to bring together -and celebrate- the most prolific digital businesses, startups, and SMEs in the MENA region.

The deadline for nominations is April 14, 2025, and they can be submitted on the E-Business Awards website in the following categories:

For more information on the E-Business Awards 2024, please head to its official website by clicking here.

Related: The Recap: The E-Business Awards 2024

Future 100 Unveils the Prestigious Future 100 – List 2024 of the UAE’s Most Promising, Scalable, and Impactful Companies

The Future 100 initiative, a joint initiative between the Ministry of Economy and the Office of Government Development and the Future, announced the Future 100 – 2024, a list of the 100 best UAE-based startups and scaleups that contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the country’s future economy.

The list was announced in the presence of His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, Chairman of Investtopia, Her Excellency Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, and Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future.

The announcement was made during the fourth edition of Investopia in Abu Dhabi on February 26-27, 2025.

The Future 100 initiative also released the Future 100 – List 2024 report that was produced in cooperation with Entrepreneur Middle East. It can be downloaded on the Future 100 website.

H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Investopia, said, “Thanks to the directives of its wise leadership, the UAE has made great strides towards transforming into new economic sectors. Since its launch, Investopia has adopted a forward-looking vision to support the growth of innovative startup and scaleup businesses and encourage them to use modern technology applications in various vital economic sectors. Therefore, Investopia’s hosting of the Future100 companies initiative for the second year in a row confirms our national effort to enhance the competitiveness of the entrepreneurial environment in the country and consolidate the UAE’s position as an attractive destination for future projects, and a leading center for creativity and innovation.”

H.E. Al Marri added, “Through this initiative, we are keen to provide all the opportunities and capabilities that national talents and startup and scaleup companies need to develop more successful ideas and projects that will serve the community and support the country’s efforts to transform towards a new economic model based on knowledge and innovation.”

H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei said, “The Future100 companies initiative supports the UAE’s vision to make the national economy more dynamic and competitive at the global level, building a highly productive human capital base and creating an advanced and innovative environment that shapes future economic sectors.” Her Excellency explained that the initiative achieved an 11% increase in the total number of applications received during 2024 compared to 2023, and the majority of these applications were in financial technology, sustainability, and creative industries.

H.E. Al Mazrouei added, “The initiative contributes to opening new horizons for entrepreneurs and owners of small and medium enterprises to expand their ideas and projects in the sectors of the new and sustainable economy and allows them to communicate effectively with a wide network of investment funds and global investors, and to view the latest practices and trends related to financing mechanisms for small and medium enterprises.”

H.E. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, said, “The UAE adopts an integrated approach to shaping the future, based on enhancing the flexibility and readiness of various sectors, their proactivity in innovating solutions to challenges, adapting to unexpected changes, and reshaping sectors to keep pace with emerging and future trends.” She added, “The Future100 initiative embodies a company from the future, the leadership’s directions and visions, by stimulating and encouraging the development of future sectors, and enhancing the UAE’s position as an attractive destination and a stimulating environment for the prosperity and development of startups and scaleups in various future sectors.”

She pointed out that, since its launch in 2023, the initiative has contributed to supporting the country’s directions by attracting startups and scaleups across sectors, including space, cybersecurity, sustainability, financial technology, smart mobility, and others. She stressed the importance of the continuation of work to enhance the initiative’s momentum and build on its achievements, to be an important element in achieving the directions of the “We the Emirates 2031” vision, and a driving force to enhance the country’s efforts to develop a knowledge-based economy that is ready for the future, and an incubator and catalyst for the development of economic sectors and emerging industries.

The 2024 edition of the Future 100 companies is a collective effort of the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem as 38 partners have taken part in the process- most notably the strategic partner, the National Fund for Social Responsibility Majra, and the partners of the business accelerator Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Future District Fund, Emirates NBD, the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund, Investopia, Microsoft, MEVP, Careem, EY, Eurasia Capital, In5, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, FTI Consulting, and the Dubai International Financial Center Innovation Hub.

Related: Future 100 Unveils The Inaugural List Of 100 Companies That Are Shaping The Future Of The UAE