Two GCC Finance Leaders Make Fortune 2025 100 Most Powerful Women in Business List - Middle East Business News and Information
NEW YORK, May 20, 2025—Two of the GCC's most influential banking executives are featured in Fortune's 2025 edition of the Most Powerful Women in Business list.
The 28th edition of the list honors 100 female leaders from the global business landscape—spotlighting those who hold power now and those on the rise to even greater influence.
This year's iteration features 52 women from the U.S. and 48 from other countries—8 from China; 7 each from France and the U.K.; 3 each from Germany, Singapore, and Brazil; and 2 each from Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Spain, and one each from Kuwait and United Arab Emirates.
Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO at First Abu Dhabi Bank, and Shaikha Al-Bahar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer at National Bank of Kuwait, are ranked 76th and 92nd, respectively.
As the Group CEO of the UAE's largest lender – a bank with roughly $330 billion in assets – Al Rostamani is currently the only female chief executive of a publicly listed corporation in the Emirates. She serves on several boards, including the Institute of International Finance, the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council, and Buna, the Arab Monetary Fund's cross-border payment system.
Al-Bahar was named Deputy Group CEO of the National Bank of Kuwait in 2014 after joining the institution in 1977. She is chair of the National Bank of Kuwait-France and the National Bank of Kuwait-Egypt as well as a board member with National Bank of Kuwait (International), the bank's UK subsidiary.
Al-Bahar is credited with launching NBK RISE, a program designed to empower women leaders and prepare them for senior leadership roles. With over $135 billion in total assets at the end of March 2025, the National Bank of Kuwait is one of the largest financial institutions in the country and one of the leading banks in the region. In fiscal 2024, the bank's net profit rose 7% year-over-year to $1.9 billion while net operating income grew 7.2% to $4.1 billion.
The list, compiled by Fortune editors is based on company size and health, as well as an executive's career trajectory, influence, innovation, and efforts to make business better. More than 50 women currently lead Fortune 500 companies, yet only 20 made this year's list—a testament to how increasingly competitive the ranking has become.
'In its 28th year, this iconic list of powerful women includes almost half from outside of the U.S., reminding us that the impact of women is being seen globally,' said Alyson Shontell, Fortune Editor in Chief and Chief Content Officer. 'These are women transforming business today and preparing for a future during a time of tumult and uncertainty.'
There are 16 newcomers, including Costco's chief operator and merchant Claudine Adamo (No. 43), helping millions of Americans navigate inflation by keeping prices low on essentials, and next-gen execs such as Julie Gao, CFO of ByteDance (No. 81), steering the TikTok owner's finances through its tangles with the U.S. government.
The top 10 Most Powerful Women in Business 2025 are: Mary Barra, Chair and CEO, GM (U.S.) Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture (U.S.) Jane Fraser, CEO, Citigroup (U.S.) Lisa Su, Chair and CEO, AMD (U.S.) Ana Botín, Executive Chairman, Banco Santander (Spain) Tan Su Shan, Deputy CEO and Group Head of Institutional Banking, DBS Group (Singapore) Thasunda Brown Duckett, President and CEO, TIAA (U.S.) Marta Ortega, Chairperson, Inditex (Spain) Abigail Johnson, Chairman and CEO, Fidelity Investments (U.S.) Meng Wanzhou, Deputy Chairwoman, Rotating Chairwoman, and CFO, Huawei (China)
'This definitive ranking of the women at the top of the global business world…tells us both who wields power today and who is poised to climb even higher tomorrow,' writes Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune senior writer, author of Most Powerful Women Daily newsletter, and editor of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Business list of 2025.
Today's MPW 100 list debut coincides with the inaugural Fortune Most Powerful Women International Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Fortune's first international summit in the region.
About Fortune:
Fortune is a global multi-platform media company built on a legacy of trusted, award-winning reporting and information for those who want to make business better. Independently owned, Fortune tells the stories of the world's biggest companies and their leaders as well as a new generation of innovators who are moving business forward. Digitally and in print, Fortune measures corporate performance through rigorous benchmarks, and holds companies accountable, in regions around the world. Its iconic rankings include Fortune 500, Fortune Global 500, Most Powerful Women, and World's Most Admired Companies. Fortune builds world-class communities by convening industry thought leaders for exclusive summits and conferences, including the Fortune Global Forum and Brainstorm Tech.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
bnok24
a day ago
- bnok24
FABMISR Delivers Operational Excellence with 12% Core Growth in H1 2025 Net Profits After Neutralizing FX Impact
FABMISR First Abu Dhabi Bank Misr (FABMISR), one of the largest banks operating in Egypt, announced its H1 2025 financial results, delivering strong performance across key business areas. The bank achieved 12% growth in core business performance in Net Profits after neutralizing the FX impact, compared to the same period last year—demonstrating strong operational efficiency, strategic execution across all business segments, and sustainable value creation from its core operations According to the financial results, the bank achieved a significant increase in total assets, reaching EGP 461 billion, reflecting a growth rate of 12%. Its lending capabilities continued to strengthen, with net loans and advances growing 13% to EGP 160 billion, reflecting the bank's pivotal role in financing Egypt's economic growth. Simultaneously, customer deposits increased by 11% to EGP 288.5 billion, demonstrating sustained client confidence and the bank's ability to attract and retain deposits in an increasingly competitive banking landscape On the profitability front, the bank reported a net profit of EGP 8.6 billion for the first half of 2025. Its financial foundation remained solid, with shareholders' equity advancing 10% to EGP 66.6 billion—providing a strong capital base to support future growth initiatives In parallel with this growth, the bank maintained operational efficiency, with net interest income reaching EGP 14.6 billion, while net fee and commission income increased by 7% to EGP 1.4 billion—demonstrating a balanced strategy to diversify revenue streams Mr. Mohamed Abbas Fayed, CEO and Managing Director of FABMISR, commented on the results 'Achieving 12% core growth in net profits after neutralizing the impact of exchange rate fluctuations, while expanding the asset base to EGP 461 billion—reflecting our steadfast commitment to a disciplined approach to value creation and reinforcing our market leadership. These results are a testament to the hard work of our team and the strength of our strategy—one that goes beyond profitability to focus on building long-term, sustainable value for our customers and shareholders. Our performance across all business segments demonstrates our ability to navigate complex market dynamics with agility and resilience. We remain committed to strengthening our position as a cornerstone of Egypt's financial ecosystem, driving growth that delivers meaningful impact for all stakeholders FABMISR's H1 2025 performance reinforces its position as a reliable financial partner, combining international banking expertise with deep local market insight. The bank continues to invest in digital transformation and enhance its service offerings to meet evolving customer expectations, while maintaining its commitment to supporting Egypt's economic progress Google News تابعونا على تابعونا على تطبيق نبض جاري التحميل ...
bnok24
21-07-2025
- bnok24
FABMISR Named "Best Egyptian Bank in Overall Performance Indicators for 2025" by the World Union of Arab Bankers
First Abu Dhabi Bank Misr (FABMISR), one of the largest banks operating in Egypt, has been awarded the prestigious title of 'Top Egyptian Bank in Overall Performance Indicators for 2025' by the World Union of Arab Bankers (WUAB). This accolade reflects the strength of FABMISR's business model and the thoughtful execution of its strategy, which centers on innovation and delivering real value to clients The bank has continued to achieve strong performance, driven by high operational efficiency and adaptability in responding to economic changes. This growth not only reflects the strength of FABMISR's financial performance but also affirms its ability to continue delivering integrated banking solutions that meet the needs of both individuals and businesses, supporting their financial and investment goals FABMISR continues to play a pivotal role in supporting Egypt's economy through the financing of strategic projects and the expansion of financial inclusion. The bank remains committed to staying ahead of market trends and meeting customer needs through advanced digital solutions and long-term partnerships that drive inclusive growth and national development Through its strong global presence as part of the First Abu Dhabi Bank Group, FABMISR also facilitates access to international markets for Egyptian businesses, enabling trade and foreign direct investment opportunities that foster sustainable economic growth The WUAB's awards ceremony is one of the most prestigious events in the Arab banking community, honoring outstanding achievements of banks, bankers, ministers, and governors. Receiving this award reaffirms FABMISR's standing as a trusted banking partner and a benchmark for excellence in the industry Google News تابعونا على تابعونا على تطبيق نبض جاري التحميل ...
Mid East Info
25-06-2025
- Mid East Info
Etihad Credit Insurance announces AED 174 million funding raised for SME growth in partnership with four leading banks
Etihad Credit Insurance ECI, the UAE's federal export credit company, announced the impact of its 'Xport Xponential' programme, which has helped raise AED 174 million in funding to support the growth of SMEs, during the closing ceremony of the programme. The working capital was raised with the support of four of ECI's banking partners: First Abu Dhabi Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Ajman Bank, and Al Maryah Community Bank. ECI also remains committed to securing similar funding and capital for SMEs in collaboration with its other banking partners. The programme's closing ceremony was held under the patronage of H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Etihad Credit Insurance. The event aligns with the Ministry's mission to develop a flexible future economy and robust entrepreneurial ecosystem by facilitating investment and talent attraction. H.E. Bin Touq stated: 'The 'Xport Xponential' programme plays a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's ongoing efforts to increase the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises to the country's non-oil GDP. It also directly supports the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' national strategy, which aims to increase non-oil exports to AED 800 billion and expand foreign trade volume to AED 4 trillion by the next decade. Moreover, with export and re-export activities between the UAE and countries with which we have Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA), already exceeding AED 390.5 billion, the initiative leverages existing trade momentum to help SMEs unlock the untapped potential of these markets, particularly as the UAE continues to expand its economic and trade partnerships with key strategic markets worldwide.' On her part, H.E. Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance, highlighted ECI's role in empowering UAE-based businesses to compete on a global level. Her Excellency stated that 'Xport Xponential' serves as a dynamic platform for local businesses and potential importers to connect. H.E. Al Mazrouei further stated that the programme identifies high-potential export markets for a wide range of products, allowing small businesses to expand globally with greater ease and confidence. Her Excellency added: 'ECI's 'Xport Xponential' programme aligns with the UAE's strategic vision to diversify its revenue sources away from oil. It offers integrated financial and insurance solutions, particularly to SMEs, enabling them to scale internationally, while mitigating major export-related risks.' Futoon Hamdan AlMazrouei, Group Head of Personal, Business, Wealth and Privileged Client Banking Group at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) said: 'First Abu Dhabi Bank is pleased to be a banking partner of 'ECI's Xport Xponential programme', an initiative that reflects the UAE's strategic vision for economic diversification and sustainable growth. We are strongly aligned with the Ministry of Economy's mission to foster a flexible, future-ready economy and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by enabling investment and attracting top talent. By empowering SMEs with access to working capital and innovative trade finance solutions, we are unlocking new opportunities for global growth. The programme strengthens the UAE's competitiveness and supports its ambition to expand trade across strategic international markets.' On the collaboration, Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of Commercial Bank of Dubai, stated: 'Commercial Bank of Dubai is proud to be a foundational partner in ECI's Xport Xponential programme. With a legacy of over five decades in backing the growth of the UAE, we continue to demonstrate our commitment today by empowering the nation's vibrant SME sector and creating tangible impact that supports the economic diversification and global competitiveness of the UAE. We look forward to continuing our work with ECI to unlock even greater opportunities for businesses across the Emirates, building on the significant momentum already achieved.' Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, said: 'We are proud to be part of the 'Xport Xponential' programme in collaboration with Etihad Credit Insurance, which represents a significant milestone in empowering SMEs to access new growth frontiers. Our participation reflects Ajman Bank's unwavering commitment to supporting the UAE's national agenda, particularly Ajman Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031, by providing Sharia-compliant financing solutions that enable local businesses to scale internationally. The AED 174 million in funding collectively raised through this initiative is a powerful testament to the strength of public-private sector collaboration. We will continue to build on this momentum by enabling innovative trade finance and expanding our role as a catalyst for sustainable economic development.' Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Community Bank, commented: 'We are proud to partner with Etihad Credit Insurance on the 'Xport Xponential' programme, which represents a significant milestone in empowering the UAE's SMEs to access global markets with confidence. At Al Maryah Community Bank, we are committed to offering fully digital, fast, and innovative financing solutions that simplify exporters' daily operations and enhance their global competitiveness. This initiative not only aligns with the UAE's vision to diversify its economy and boost non-oil exports but also opens new opportunities for local businesses in vital sectors to thrive internationally. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ECI to ensure that manufacturers and exporters are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and capital they need to scale beyond borders.' The 'Xport Xponential' programme was launched to fulfil the dual objectives of catalysing SMEs' global expansion and driving SME financing with the help of partner banks. It was introduced during the third edition of 'Make It in the Emirates' (MIITE), held in May 2024, with the aim of accelerating the global expansion of UAE-based SMEs by offering financial support and ensuring their export readiness through innovative trade finance and credit insurance solutions. As many as 42 companies applied for the programme, out of which 10 were shortlisted based on rigorous evaluation criteria. These companies have collectively generated AED 2.1 billion in turnover to date and are now targeting expansion into four key markets—Indonesia, India, Saudi Arabia, and Oman—with a combined export potential of AED 31.3 billion over the next four years across ten vital sectors. Implemented in collaboration with 19 strategic partners, the programme exemplifies ECI's role in driving sustainable economic growth by connecting businesses with international opportunities and tailored trade finance solutions. Since the programme's inception, ECI's partnerships with government entities and banks have increased by 27 per cent, reflecting its role in nurturing a robust export-enablement ecosystem that connects the public and private sectors under a unified vision. Partnerships with leading financial institutions have helped facilitate consistent, reliable support and access to growth-oriented funding for UAE SMEs. ECI also hosted a workshop in January 2025 to offer the selected companies' essential tools and resources, further supporting their export growth journey. In addition, these companies belong to diverse economic sectors, showcasing the program's wide-reaching impact across key industries. Xport Xponential's vast partner list features 19 key strategic partners, including both federal and local entities, which are: the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ajman Department of Economic Development, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones, as well as Fujairah Department of Industry and Economy. Its financial and banking partners include Emirates Development Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Ajman Bank, RAKBANK, National Bank of Fujairah, International Development Bank, Wio Bank, Al Maryah Community Bank and Reem Finance. It is also worth noting that since its inception, ECI has insured AED 21 billion in support of local exports and completed underwriting for premiums totalling AED 447 million.
