How Naser Taher Transformed MultiBank Group into a Global Financial Powerhouse

Trust is everything,” says Naser Taher, founder and Chairman, Multi Bank Group, one of the world’s largest and most regulated financial derivatives institutions. “People need to believe in the systems and institutions they engage with in this industry.”

Taher has certainly gained people’s trust- since launching MultiBank Group in 2005 in California, his brainchild has grown to serve over a million clients across 100 countries, with daily trading volumes exceeding USD$25.6 billion. “One aspect I am particularly proud of is our leadership in regulatory oversight,” Taher says. “In a time when trust in financial organizations is more important than ever, we have built a group regulated by over 16 authorities across five continents. This commitment to compliance has cemented our reputation as a trusted, client-focused organization.” If there is one feature that connects the dots of Taher’s 36-years-long career, it would be – in his own words – “a passion for progress.”

Early in his career, he leapt at every chance to achieve remarkable results. This includes leading a major infrastruc ture project where he oversaw the construction of a six-lane highway from Jordan to Iraq, or managing a fleet of 23 ships which allowed him to build his expertise in logistics and large-scale operations. Taking different routes at times also served him well- in the 1990s, he founded the first private airline company in Eastern Europe, and in parallel, played a key role in Ireland’s largest banking syndicate.

Over the years, Taher also worked with several prominent financial institutions, including BNP Paribas, Barclays, UBS, Merrill Lynch, and Credit Suisse. His genuine commitment to driving innovation in global markets led to a number of industry accolades – in 2010, Taher was appointed Senior Counsellor to the Chinese Government of Tianjin, and in 2016, he was honored to serve as Honorary Chief Financial Advisor to the Chinese Central Financial Government. In Hong Kong, he received the prestigious Le Fonti Award for CEO of the Year in the Hong Kong Financial Services sector in 2019. In the UAE, he was again recognized by Le Fonti as the Chairman of the Year awardee, and also named one of the Top 100 Leaders by Entrepreneur Middle East. Armed with knowledge and experience, Taher envisioned creating a space where traders of all levels could access fair, transparent, and secure financial markets, and MultiBank Group was born in California in 2005.

Source: BNC Publishing

“My vision was always to create an institution that empowers traders while contributing to the evolution of financial markets,” Taher explains. “The goal was simple but ambitious- building a platform that focuses on integrity and innovation, offering solutions that genuinely address clients’ needs. Finding the balance between maintaining trust and driving progress has been key to our success.”

Today, MultiBank Group is renowned for its innova tive trading solutions, robust regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service. With a dedicated team of 1,000 professionals across 25 global offices, who are supported by over 100 affiliates on five continents, the Group offers an array of brokerage services and asset management solutions. “At MultiBank Group, innovation and regulation go hand in hand. Instead of seeing compli ance as a constraint, we embrace it as a framework that fosters growth and drives progress,” Taher explains. “These guidelines continually inspire us to refine our products, systems, and internal processes.”

Proof of the success of Taher’s strategy is in the numbers- in 2023, the Group achieved notable financial growth, with revenue increasing by 10% from $279.5 million in 2022 to $306.6 million. Daily trading volumes hit $25.6 billion in 2024 which is a significant increase from the volumes in 2023. Over the past two decades, Taher has witnessed the derivatives landscape transforming significantly. “When we first entered the industry, the focus was on traditional assets such as stocks, bonds, and commodi ties, with limited access for retail traders,” he explains. “However, rapid progress introduced high-frequency trading, algorithmic strategies, and AI-powered systems, changing how transactions are executed. We embraced these innovations early, launching fully automated platforms to enhance client experiences.”

Source: BNC Publishing

As we start talking about the cutting-edge solutions tailored to traders and investors worldwide that the Group has released to date, Taher first mentions Forex Exchange Communication Network, which commenced operations in 2016 under the name MultiBank Exchange. “This step was undertaken by our board in support of the FX Global Code of Conduct which was decided by a panel of 21 central banks worldwide,” Taher explains.

More recently, the Group launched MEX Exchange which is the world’s first interbank trading exchange. As such, it revolutionizes the financial landscape by integrating an advanced matching engine, a cutting-edge prime brokerage settlement system, and the latest blockchain technology to meet banks’ and institutions’ requirements for transpar ency, reliability, and trust. “With its unique market position, technological advancements, and strategic location, MEX Exchange is a project of strategic impor tance, with the potential for significant global impact,” Taher explains. “It is poised not only to reshape institu tional trading worldwide but also to cement its host city’s position as a major international financial hub.”

Furthermore, the Group also launched the UAE Contracts for Difference (CFD) shares on its innovative MultiBank Plus App and MT5 platform, which enables traders to trade Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) shares and a wider range of products by using just one account on a single platform. Taher adds that one of the most notable industry shifts has been the rise of digital assets, particularly cryptocurrencies, which has brought new opportunities to the sector. “The surge in demand for crypto-based derivatives has attracted a younger, tech-savvy demographic, prompting us to introduce solutions like MultiBank.io Crypto Exchange App, designed to cater to their needs,” Taher says. “So, the industry itself has seen significant product innovation, from tradi tional instruments, like futures and options, to more complex offerings, such as tokenized assets and decentralized finance (DeFi) products. At MultiBank Group, we have embraced blockchain technol ogy, allowing traders to access real-world asset pairs and trade them through digital platforms.”

Going forward, Taher believes that digital assets and blockchain technology will continue to drive growth, driving a surge in crypto asset derivatives, tokenized instruments, and DeFi adoption. “I am confident that these innovations will become integral to most portfolios over the next decade, enabling new levels of efficiency and innovation,” he says. “As this shift unfolds, compliance and regulatory frameworks will increasingly focus on client protection, transparency, and risk management, particularly in retail trading,”

To that end, MultiBank Group launched MultiBank-AI, a division dedicated to integrating AI into their internal processes and client services to boost efficiency and enhance the customer experi ence. “Blockchain adds security and transparency, and we’re pioneering ways for clients to trade cryptocur rencies versus traditional assets combined with a state-of-the-art social copy trading platform, creating new opportunities in finance,” Taher explains.

Source: BNC Publishing

In addition to expanding their product portfolio, MultiBank Group has adopted a global expansion plan by establishing a strong presence in key hubs across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. With all this, Taher plans to keep MultiBank Group at the forefront of the financial services sector; however, in doing so, he remains unapologetic about upholding the highest industry standards. “Our legal, risk, and compliance teams work closely with product development to ensure that every new product or feature meets the necessary requirements. We adapt swiftly and maintain a competitive edge by maintaining open communication with govern ing bodies and staying updated on evolving policies. This proactive approach has allowed us to remain agile and consistently innovate in dynamic areas such as derivatives, digital assets, and advanced trading technologies.”

As we end our conversation, Taher reveals more details about the MultiBank Group Ecosystem, which is driven by three key pillars that support the Group’s token (MBG) and a multi-asset approach to business operations. “With a vision for a seamless trading experience, we are excited to launch the MultiBank-backed utility token,” Taher says. “This token will streamline internal transactions, offer staking opportu nities, and integrate DeFi solutions, further enhancing our financial ecosystem.”

The three pillars of the MultiBank Group Ecosystem include the Group’s traditional finance ecosystem that ensures stability and innovation within conventional financial markets. Secondly, there is MultiBank Exchange Institutional Electronic Communication Network (ECN), which is one of the Group’s most significant financial projects for 2025-2026, that is set to establish the first inter-bank trading platform in the GCC and emerging markets. And thirdly, MultiBank IO (Crypto Arm) is built on the latest technology to offer spot and derivatives trading and will be the first platform offering real world assets, including gold and silver traded against established crypto currencies, seamlessly bridging traditional markets with block chain and cryptocurrency opportunities.

‘Trep Talk: Naser Taher, founder and Chairman, MultiBank Group, Advises Entrepreneurs

Maintain trust “Make trust and transparency a top priority. In finance, if customers don’t have confidence in your business, you won’t make it. Ensure all your dealings—with customers, regulators, or partners—are clear and open. This focus builds long-term loyalty and sets your business apart.”

Stay agile “The sector evolves quickly, driven by tech, regulations, and market shifts. Being able to adapt is a must. Take on new ideas, keep up with the latest trends, and be ready to change your strategies when needed. For example, adopting blockchain and digital assets early on has allowed us to maintain a competitive edge.”

Invest in a strong team “A company is only as strong as the people behind it. Work with staff who believe in your goals and give them the resources and freedom to do their best. Creating a team that works well together and trusts each other matters as much as having a good business plan.”

Build a long-term vision “Focusing on quarterly results is tempting, but lasting success comes from creating a vision that spans ahead. Think about where your industry is heading and shape strategies accordingly. For example, we saw the promise of digital assets early on, so we invested in blockchain tech before many competitors did. A long-term vision gives your company purpose and direction, helping it navigate changes.”

Use technology to empower, not replace “AI and automation make a strong impact but don’t forget the human touch. Technology should enhance decision-making and improve user experience, not replace the intuition and fresh ideas that experts bring.”

RTA’s Fourth Generation Abras Could Revolutionize Daily Commutes in Dubai

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has introduced the fourth-generation traditional abras, in a bid to reiterate its commitment to upgrading Dubai’s marine transport network.

The move is designed to provide an improved commuting experience for daily riders while integrating marine transit with the wider public transport system.

It also aims to drive marine tourism and further enhance Dubai’s reputation as a world-class destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.

“This step reflects RTA’s commitment to enhancing service quality and improving the overall experience for marine transport users in line with its strategic goals,” Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said. “The newly redesigned abras now can accommodate up to 24 passengers (formerly 20 passengers), and fully adhere to the Dubai Universal Design Code, ensuring safety, accessibility, and comfort for all. The upgrades include enhanced seating, improved flooring, and a more efficient layout with dedicated spaces for people of determination.”

Bahrozyan also added that the department has implemented a range of technological enhancements, including advanced smart systems for public transport, real-time passenger information screens, and safety alerts. “For the first time, digital destination boards have been introduced, supporting RTA’s efforts to boost marine transport ridership and strengthen connectivity across Dubai’s public transport network,” he added.

In addition to design and technology improvements, the fourth-generation traditional abras include compliance with the highest standards of security, safety, and environmental sustainability in marine public transport. RTA has also secured certifications confirming adherence to the Gulf Standard Specifications for maritime safety regulations.

Blockchain Doesn’t Have to be Complicated. Just Ask Mintlayer Founder Enrico Rubboli.

For many, blockchain can seem like an intimidating concept filled with technical jargon, but Enrico Rubboli, founder of Mintlayer, believes it can be explained in the simplest way possible. Only an expert understands the importance of simplifying principles that are oftentimes perceived as daunting. The industry jargon and technical terms drive people away, making them fear blockchain rather than embracing it.

While most experts throw out highfalutin words to make themselves look credible, Enrico is the complete opposite. He deems it necessary to help people understand the space he thrives in. By providing explanations in a way that speaks to everyone, he ensures the majority of the public grasps what he does, and in turn, encourages them to welcome blockchain into their lives.

In his words, blockchain is like a highway—and understanding how it works is less complicated than expected.

Blockchain Is a Highway Where Digital Assets Travel

“Think of blockchain as a highway,” Enrico explains. “It’s a system that allows things to move from one point to another, just like cars traveling on a road,” he continues. “On the Bitcoin blockchain, the only cars allowed on the highway are Bitcoin cars. If I send you one Bitcoin, that’s like a car going from me to you,” he adds. “But what makes this highway unique is that no one controls it. It’s decentralized, meaning no single entity can interfere with how it operates,” he emphasizes.

One of the biggest reasons Bitcoin holds value is its limited supply. “Visualize if there were only 21 Ferraris in the world. They would be incredibly rare and valuable, right?” he says. “Bitcoin is the same way. There will only ever be 21 million Bitcoins, which is why they hold their worth.”

Mintlayer Builds a Highway With More Lanes and More Cars

Enrico and his team at Mintlayer have taken this further by expanding blockchain’s capabilities. “What we do is like adding more lanes to the highway,” he expounds. “Bitcoin only permits Bitcoin cars, but with us, you can have different kinds of cars running, just like how real highways have everything from Fiats to Ferraris. This means you can move other types of assets—not just Bitcoin—on the blockchain, creating new possibilities.”

Swapping Cars on the Road With Atomic Swaps

One of the most remarkably innovative features of such a technology is atomic swaps, which allow users to exchange assets without needing a middleman. Enrico simplifies it: “Imagine you’re driving down the highway in one car, and halfway through, you switch to another. That’s what an atomic swap does. It lets two people exchange assets directly, safely, and instantly.”

At its core, blockchain is reliable and resistant to alteration—similar to gold. “Just like you can’t easily change the properties of gold, you can’t alter Bitcoin’s structure,” he says. “It’s been tested and proven secure for over 15 years, and that’s why it remains a trusted digital asset.”

For Enrico, making blockchain more accessible is key to its adoption. “At the end of the day, it’s just a highway for digital assets. The better we make it, the more people will use it.” His mission is to build a future where blockchain is as familiar and essential as the roads we drive on every day.

Top 100 Best Workplaces in UAE Revealed

Global research and consultancy firm Great Place to Work has revealed its annual list of 100 best workplaces in the UAE. In 2025, it recognized 25 large, 35 medium, and 40 small-sized companies that demonstrated the power of positive company culture.

The Top 100 Best Workplaces in UAE list emphasizes the significance of workplace culture in driving business success. Companies from various industries are recognized for their exceptional employee engagement, inclusivity, and innovation.

The full list can be seen here.

Mona Kattan’s Kayalı Splits from Huda Beauty

Huda Beauty has announced that it will sell its ownership in KAYALI, the fragrance business founded by Huda and Mona Kattan in 2018. The separation comes after years of developing the brand in Dubai, and establishing it as a globally renowned Middle Eastern brand.

KAYALI’s face and the driving force behind its growth, Mona Kattan, will now partner with General Atlantic, a leading global growth equity firm, to jointly own KAYALI post-sale and to support the brand’s expansion plans.

With General Atlantic’s investment, KAYALI will now operate as an independent company, marking a significant step forward in its journey.

Founded by Huda and Mona Kattan in 2018 under the umbrella of parent company Huda Beauty, KAYALI has rapidly become a disruptive force in the fragrance industry. Under the creative vision of Mona Kattan, the brand quickly evolved into a powerhouse, gaining global recognition for its unique approach to modern perfumery.

KAYALI’s partnership with General Atlantic will provide the necessary resources and expertise to accelerate the brand’s evolution while maintaining its authenticity, creativity, and deep connection with its community.

Mona Kattan will continue her role as KAYALI’s CEO, leading the brand into its next phase of growth and transformation.

Additionally, Huda Beauty will fully redeem the ownership interest that TSG Consumer has held in it since 2017. With this move, Huda Beauty is making history as one of the few established beauty brands to return to full founder ownership.

Huda Kattan will continue to lead Huda Beauty, independently in a bid to continue driving the brand to new heights as a global beauty powerhouse.

“This is such a pivotal moment for KAYALI, and we are very excited for the next chapter of Mona and KAYALI’s journey,” Huda Kattan, founder and CEO of Huda Beauty, said. “It’s been such an amazing experience working so closely with Mona over the years – I have loved every minute of it, and I’m also so excited to see what the future holds as KAYALI continues to grow. I’m so unbelievably proud of Mona’s success and I’ll always be cheering her on!”

“From day one, my mission has been to create a fragrance brand that inspires confidence, creativity, and self-expression,” Mona Kattan said. “As we transition into an independent company, our partnership with General Atlantic will unlock new opportunities, expand our global presence, and continue disrupting the fragrance industry with bold innovation.”

Melis Kahya Akar, Managing Director and Head of Consumer for EMEA at General Atlantic, added: “Fragrance is one of the fastest growing segments in the beauty industry, and KAYALI has redefined the sector through its imagination, authenticity, and emotional connection to consumers around the world. Mona has built something truly special – a brand that resonates across generations and cultures, enabling personalization and attracting both fragrance enthusiasts and newcomers to the category alike. We see immense opportunity for KAYALI to continue its growth journey as the brand expands its global community, unveils new products, and continues to push the boundaries of scent storytelling. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Mona and her team on this next chapter as they bring these ambitions to life.”

Goldman Sachs International served as Huda Beauty’s financial advisor, and Gibson Dunn served as its legal advisor. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom served as Mona Kattan’s legal advisor. Raymond James served as General Atlantic’s financial advisor, and Latham & Watkins served as its legal advisor. This transaction is subject to regulatory approval.

UAE Changes Rules for Indians, Makes It Easier to Enter

The United Arab Emirates has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme for Indian nationals to include those with valid visas, residence permits or Green Cards from six new countries.

Starting 13th February 2025, Indian citizens holding ordinary passports and valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from the following new countries; Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, will be granted visas upon arrival at all UAE entry points. These are in addition to the previously eligible nations, namely the United States, European Union, United Kingdom.

This came in a statement by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports, Security, highlighting the strong relationship between the UAE and India.

This initiative aims to boost tourism, attract top talent, skilled workers and entrepreneurs, and further solidify the UAE’s position as a leading global hub.

A six-month passport validity and payment of prescribed fees are required in accordance with the applicable regulations.

Bank of Sharjah Acts as Lead Arranger for New Daewoo Deal

Bank of Sharjah, one of the leading commercial banks in the UAE, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its footprint in local, regional and, international markets. Accordingly, the Bank has acted as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner for a USD$155 million Club Loan Facility for Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co Ltd., one of Korea’s leading construction companies with a significant global presence. The three-year facility, arranged in collaboration with other regional banks, will be used for general corporate purposes, supporting Daewoo’s working capital requirements for ongoing projects globally.

Following the successful completion of the transaction, Mohamed Khadiri, CEO of Bank of Sharjah stated: “Weare delighted to have played a pivotal role in arranging this club loan for Daewoo Engineering & Construction. This achievement reflects Bank of Sharjah’s strategic vision of supporting large international contractors by providing tailored financing solutions beyond their domestic borders.”

Khadiri added, “While Daewoo E&C has regularly tapped the syndicated loan markets in the past, this transaction represents another important milestone in expanding its banking relationships in the region. Our participation in this facility aligns with our mission to provide innovative financing solutions to global conglomerates while enhancing Bank of Sharjah’s international market presence.”

Haisam Mustafa, Head of International & Financial Institutions, commented, “This transaction further strengthens our track record of providing financial and advisory services to major multinational corporates worldwide. As we continue to pursue our strategic objectives, we remain committed to reinforcing our position as a premier banking institution in the Emirate of Sharjah and a leading bank in the region. We will continue to deliver bespoke funding solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

Sheikh Hamdan and Elon Musk Announce the Dubai Loop Project

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has announced a collaboration with Elon Musk on the new underground Dubai Loop project.

The partnership, which was announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, aims to revolutionize transportation in the city.

Under an MoU signed between RTA and The Boring Company, Dubai will explore the development of the 17-kilometre project. With 11 stations and a capacity to transport over 20,000 passengers per hour, the project reflects Dubai’s commitment to advancing new cutting-edge mobility solutions.

The Dubai Loop is set to cover the city’s most populated areas and help transport people underground in a seamless manner, said H.E Omar Sultan AlOlama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.

Al Olama was speaking with Musk via video link, at the summit.

“It’s going to be like a wormhole, you will wormhole from one part of the city and then, boom, you are out on another part of the city,” said Musk.

Boris Johnson Takes Top Honors at Legends of Entrepreneurship Dubai Gala Dinner

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been recognized for “Outstanding Contribution” at the Legends of Entrepreneurship Awards gala dinner in Dubai.

Johnson received the award from Entrepreneur Middle East, presented by CEO Wissam Younane, Managing Director Rabih Najm and Editor in Chief Anil Bhoyrul.

The event, held at Sofitel Dubai the Palm, also featured a keynote speech from Johnson, reflecting on his time in office as UK Prime Minister.

A total of 14 entrepreneurs recognized as “Legends”

Full List of winners:

Mohammed Mortada Al Dandashi

Prateek Suri

Talal Alajami

Farah Zafar

Ashish Vijay

Sultan Salim Al Owais

Shadman Sakib

Amin Moradi

Ebraheem Al Samadi

Oweis Zahran

Sheeraz Hasan

in5

Sean Killa

Joelle Mardinian

Boris Johnson

The Recap: Legends of Entrepreneurship Awards

On February 13, 2025 at Sofitel Dubai the Palm, Entrepreneur Middle East held the “Legends of Entrepreneurship Awards” gala dinner to honor the region’s most successful entrepreneurs.

“Outstanding Contribution” Award – Boris Johnson, former UK Prime Minister
During Johnson’s spell for eight years as Mayor of London: Crime fell by 25%. Delivered 100,000 affordable homes. Created 31 new housing zones. 303,100 apprenticeships created. Number of people in work rose by 20%. And of course, delivered the incredible 2012 London Olympics.

Wissam Younane, CEO of BNC Publishing, Rabih Najm, Managing Director of BNC Publishing, and Anil Bhoyrul, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur Middle East, welcoming Boris Johnson at the event.

Boris Johnson delivering a keynote speech at the Legends of Entrepreneurship gala dinner in Dubai.

Boris Johnson and Wissam Younane, CEO of BNC Publishing.

Shamsa Al Jasmi, the first ever female Emirati Oud player, performing at the event.

Yigit Sezgin, founder of Cle & Partners, addressing the audience.

Legends of Entrepreneurship Awardees:

Mohammed Mortada Al Dandashi, Group Managing Director, Al Ramz
Al Dandashi first came to the UAE in 1994 with no job but a lot of dreams. Starting out as a broker in the currency markets, in 1997 he formed his own company, Al Ramz. By 1999 it was already of the largest brokerage firms in the UAE. Today it is one of the biggest financial institutions in the region, while his own interests have expanded to real estate and health.

Prateek Suri
At the age of 36, Suri is already holding the title of Africa’s richest Indian, worth nearly USD$2 billion. It was only 13 years ago that he founded the Maser Group, which has not only transformed the consumer electronics market in Africa with his Smart TVs, but turned int a diversified group with holdings across also across the Middle East and Latin America.

Tala Al-Ajmi
A graduate of the University of Philadelphia, in 2010 Al-Ajmi created VI Markets in Kuwait. His mission was to educate fellow Kuwaitis in the world of online trading, and manage their portfolios. With over 220 products, it has developed one of the Arab world’s most successful ever trading platforms. He is also one of the region’s most prominent watch collectors.

Farah Zafar
After a long an distinguished career in law, working for the ruling families in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, she decided just four years ago to create her own social networking platform Lyvely. It has taken the world by storm, already valued in the billions and totally changing the way social media is monetized.

Ashish Vijay
Born and raised in India to a family of jewellers, Vijay decided to make the move to Dubai and branch out on his own. What a great decision that was. He launched his own brand Tiara, and along the way created the AV Private Collection, a collection of the world’s rarest diamonds and gemstones. Also a great philanthropist his Gems of Hope initiative is revolutionizing cancer care and research back in India.

Sultan Salim Al Owais
Al Owais is a man credited for creating the Uber for recycling – a world first app that connects people moving recyclable and waste material. As a result, it has totally transformed the way items are disposed in the UAE, making a hugely positive impact on the environment. Based out of Sharjah, his company Re.Life has transformed the logistics world.

Shadman Sakib
Still in his mid-twenties, five years ago, working out of his bedroom, Sakib created his company Vurse. Using early day AI technologies, the plan was to give users exactly the type of content they want. Since then, the growth of AI and the metaverse has resulted in Vurse becoming worth several billion dollars, and one of the world’s fastest growth tech companies.

Armin Moradi
Moradi is a man who already had an impressive track record in the corporate world, working with giants such as Oracle. His skills gained in fintech led him to create Qashio, with a new generation software that has completely transformed the way company and employee expenses are managed, and tracked in real time. From an nitial seed finding of just USD$2.5 million, it has grown into an industry giant with multiple products and offices right across the Middle East.

Ebraheem Al Samadi
Al Samadi is one of the lead characters in the hit Netflix show Dubai Bling. We recognized him for his entrepreneurial journey, which began at the age of just 14 by selling clothes on ebay from his mother’s apartment. His first deal was selling a pair of Levi jeans for USD$20, which he had bought for USD$10. Fast foreword to 2025 and his business empire spans multiple home-grown brands led by Forever Rose, and a market value of several hundred millions of dollars.

Oweis Zahran
Zahran is an American born entrepreneur who moved to the UAE with a simple a dream – to become a global business mogul. His automotive venture OWS Automotives is active across 14 countries, his OWS Capital active in fitness and entertainment, and his partnership with Hollywood icon Steve Harvey has helped launch some of the biggest A list events ever seen in the UAE.

Sheeraz Hasan
Hasan is credited with launching the careers of superstars such as Kim Kardashian, Logan Paul and Zendaya. Along the way, he has become a star himself with his company FAME become the leading celebrity agency in the world, while his other ventures including the launch of Hollywood.AI and Bollywood.AI, have helped create an entertainment empire valued at several hundred millions dollars.

Shaun Killa
Killa is one of the world’s most famous and accomplished architects, with nearly 30 years in the industry. He first rose to prominence with his work on the Dubai Opera House. Ten years ago he established Killa Design, which has since gone of to design not just the leading projects in the region, but anywhere in the world – Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort and the Office of the Future, the first ever occupied printed building in the world. Along the way, he has created one of the world’s most valuable businesses.

Joelle Mardinian
Mardinian is a beauty icon, a major television presenter and personality, and a hugely successful entrepreneur in her own right. Established in 2008 her company Maison de Joelle has used cutting edge technologies that has revolutionized the world of beauty and wellness. With branches in seven countries, it has become a huge beauty empire valued at several hundred million dollars.

Special recognition

in5
in5 has become Dubai’s leading start up hub for innovators and entrepreneurs. Since 2013, it has helped launch over 1,000 startups. From design labs to green rooms and recording studios, it has also helped companies raise over AED8 billion.