DUBAI — The banking, finance, and investment landscape in the Arab world is undergoing a significant transformation, with women increasingly assuming leadership positions and driving positive change.
The “Notable Arab Women Shaping Banking, Finance, and Investments” list, compiled by TRENDS, recognizes the achievements of five remarkable Arab women who have made groundbreaking contributions in these sectors, inspiring countless individuals and paving the way for future generations.
These women have navigated a traditionally male-dominated industry and thrived, breaking down barriers and setting new standards. They are accomplished professionals and strong advocates for education and entrepreneurship development.
Their stories serve as a source of inspiration not only for women pursuing careers in finance but also for individuals navigating various industries. Let’s delve deeper into the inspiring journeys and groundbreaking contributions of each of these exceptional women who are actively shaping the future of banking, finance, and investments in the Arab world.
Notable Arab Women in Banking, Finance, Investments
Lubna S. Olayan
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Lubna Suliman Olayan is a prominent Saudi businesswoman, former CEO, and Deputy Chairman of Olayan Financing Company. With extensive experience in board positions for companies like WPP and Alawwal Bank, she oversaw the growth of The Olayan Group.
Her leadership led to significant investments and market presence in Saudi Arabia and beyond, amassing a fortune exceeding US$ 10 billion. As the Chairwoman of the Saudi British Bank, she made history as the first Saudi woman to head a bank, solidifying her legacy in the financial sector.
Maha Al Ghunaim
Nationality: Kuwaiti
Maha Al-Ghunaim, a Kuwaiti businesswoman, was the chair and managing director at GIH (Global Investment House). With a background in asset management at the Kuwait Investment Company, she co-founded GIH in 1998, leading it to a listing on the London Stock Exchange in 2008. Under her leadership, GIH managed US$ 7 billion in assets, expanding into global markets like India, China, and Turkey. Al-Ghunaim also played a pivotal role in aiding ventures like Lebanese telecom Investcom’s establishment. She heads the Kuwaiti chapter of Young Arab Leaders, focusing on education and entrepreneurship development.
Shaikha Al Bahar
Nationality: Kuwaiti
Shaikha Al-Bahar is the Deputy Group CEO of the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK). With her substantial executive background, she has significantly contributed to the growth of NBK, having previously held the position of CEO of NBK-Kuwait. Al-Bahar’s influence in Kuwait’s financial sphere is evident through her directorships at Mobile Telecommunications Company KSC and Watani Investment Company KSCC, among others.
Elham Mahfouz
Nationality: Egyptian
Elham Mahfouz, CEO of The Commercial Bank of Kuwait (Al-Tijari), brings 37 years of industry expertise to her role, which she assumed in 2014. Under her leadership, Al-Tijari achieved notable financial milestones, with $179 million in net profit in 2021. Introducing innovative payment solutions like Garmin Pay and SwatchPAY, Mahfouz spearheaded Al-Tijari’s embrace of contactless banking. She also contributes to educational development as a member of the American University of Kuwait’s supervisory board.
Hana Al Rostamani
Nationality: Emirati
Hana Al Rostamani, appointed as Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank in January 2021, boasts over 22 years of financial services experience. Under her leadership, FAB recorded a net profit of US$ 2.9 billion in 2020. Transitioning from her role as FAB’s deputy CEO and group head of personal banking, Al Rostamani plays pivotal roles on various boards, including AW Rostamani Group and FAB Private Bank Suisse, and contributes as a MasterCard Advisory member.