Dubai, UAE— Inc. Arabia, the Middle East edition of the global brand Inc. has unveiled its highly anticipated Women Of Influence 2026 list, recognizing 60 exceptional female leaders who are driving innovation, shaping industries, and redefining the future of business across the MENA region.
The annual showcase celebrates the achievements of female trailblazers who are making a significant impact across entrepreneurship, technology, finance, healthcare, media, retail, government, and other key industries. The 2026 edition highlights the remarkable depth and diversity of female leadership across the Middle East and North Africa, showcasing women whose vision, resilience, and accomplishments continue to inspire change.
When Inc. Arabia opened applications for the 2026 edition of Women Of Influence, the response exceeded expectations. The annual initiative, which previously celebrated female leaders through its 2025 and 2024 editions, received more than 300 applications this year, a threefold increase compared to the previous edition.
Beyond the significant growth in participation, the quality and impact of the nominations demonstrated the extraordinary level of female talent and leadership shaping the region’s business landscape. Following an extensive review process, Inc. Arabia expanded the list from 30 honorees in previous editions to 60 women leaders in 2026, ensuring more inspiring stories could be recognized and celebrated.
Selecting the final list was a challenging process, with many outstanding candidates demonstrating exceptional achievements and contributions within their respective fields. While no recognition can fully capture the breadth of inspiring women driving progress across MENA, the Women Of Influence 2026 list aims to spotlight a selection of leaders whose stories represent the ambition, innovation, and impact of women across the region.
This special edition of Inc. Arabia also arrives during Emirati Women’s Day in August, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the UAE. As part of this celebration, Inc. Arabia proudly features three exceptional Emirati women on its cover:
- HE Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa)
- Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of Government Communication, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)
- Ousha Al Ahbabi, Founder and CEO, OBM Academy
Together with the 60 women featured in this year’s Women Of Influence, their stories reflect the remarkable strength of female leadership across the MENA region and highlight the women who are creating meaningful impact across industries.
“Women Of Influence is more than a recognition platform; it is a celebration of the women who are shaping the future of business across MENA,” said Anas Abbar, Group CEO of 7awi Media Group, the media house behind Inc. Arabia. “The overwhelming response to this year’s edition reflects the incredible depth of female talent in the region. These leaders represent innovation, resilience, and a commitment to creating lasting change.”
The Inc. Arabia Women Of Influence 2026 honorees include founders, CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders from leading organizations across the region and beyond. Their achievements demonstrate the growing influence of women in business and their essential role in driving economic growth and transformation.
Featured leaders include executives from organizations such as Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, Technology Innovation Institute, Mubadala, Network International, Snoonu, Careem, talabat, American Hospital Dubai, Aramco, Seagate Technology, Diageo MENA, Yango Group, and many more.
Through Women Of Influence 2026, Inc. Arabia continues its mission to recognize outstanding leaders, amplify women’s achievements, and provide a platform for the stories of those shaping the future of business in the MENA region.
SOURCE: MEDIA RELEASE / SUPPLIED CONTENT WITH IMAGE
