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These influential women—from board members and managing directors to innovative entrepreneurs—drive transformative change in sectors spanning luxury real estate, facilities management, community development, and interior design. Their impressive careers, marked by decades of experience and breakthrough achievements, showcase their commitment to sustainability, digital innovation, and operational excellence.
Each profile highlights how these leaders are not only setting new benchmarks but are also fostering inclusive cultures and empowering the next generation. From pioneering sustainable projects and smart building solutions to delivering superior customer experiences and strategic growth, they are shaping urban landscapes that balance functionality with elegance.
Sofia Abdellatif Lasky – Board Member, International Holding Company
Since joining IHC in April 2020, Sofia Abdellatif Lasky has been instrumental in steering asset management, M&A, private equity, and corporate structuring. With 16 years of experience at Royal Group, she has overseen multiple acquisitions across real estate, contracting, food processing, preventive healthcare, and capital investments. Sofia’s strategic vision has also led her to serve on the boards of companies such as Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC and Macquarie Capital Middle East LLC. Her expertise in portfolio management and valuation continues to drive growth at IHC. A graduate in Management Information Technology from the UK, Sofia’s leadership is a key asset in shaping sustainable corporate strategies.
Maitha Al Dossari – Head of Central Functions, Emaar Group
Since 2018, Maitha Al Dossari has been at the helm of Emaar Group’s corporate functions, guiding high-level strategic initiatives in customer excellence, brand growth, procurement, and cost management. In 2022, she successfully acquired Emaar Community Management, aligning customer lifestyle experiences across Emaar’s vertical and horizontal communities. With over 23 years of operational leadership, Maitha’s record includes transformative roles such as CEO of Emaar Entertainment (2011–2017) and CEO of Strategic Projects in 2018. Recognized consecutively as one of the Middle East’s Most Powerful and Influential Businesswomen from 2015 to 2020, she also actively supports women’s and children’s rights across multiple regions, reflecting her commitment to both corporate success and social impact.
Amira Sajwani – Managing Director, Sales & Development, DAMAC Properties; Founder & CEO, PRYPCO
Amira Sajwani stands as a leading force in Dubai’s property market, blending extensive sales and development expertise with proptech innovation. As Managing Director at DAMAC Properties, one of the region’s largest private real estate developers, she drives strategic initiatives that enhance market penetration and elevate luxury living. Additionally, as Founder and CEO of PRYPCO, her revolutionary proptech platform is transforming how buyers and investors engage with real estate. Amira’s vision has been pivotal in shaping a more efficient and customer-centric industry. Her dynamic leadership continues to attract high-net-worth individuals, setting new benchmarks in luxury real estate and positioning her as a trailblazer in digital innovation within the built environment.
Raja Al Gurg – Managing Director, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group
Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg leads the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group with a multifaceted portfolio spanning retail, construction, industrial products, and real estate. Under her guidance, the group has developed prestigious office properties in Deira Creek and Bur Dubai and a diverse residential portfolio including luxurious villas in Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim. A staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, Raja also serves as President of the Dubai Business Women Council, championing gender equality across the corporate sphere. Her strategic acumen and commitment to excellence have earned her numerous accolades, making her a revered figure in the Middle East’s corporate landscape and a role model for aspiring business leaders.
Aishwarya Ranjith, Head of Marketing, Berkeley Services, UAE
Aishwarya Ranjith leads the strategic direction of Berkeley Services UAE’s marketing division, enhancing the company’s presence in the facilities management industry through innovation, creativity, and community impact.
Q. What inspired your career path, and what challenges have you overcome?
From an early stage, I believed that change is the only constant. Even before making career decisions, I was eager to gain hands-on experience across different fields. A mentor once advised , ‘
This is the time to explore—don’t limit yourself to one path.’ Taking that to heart, I pursued internships in HR, finance, marketing, and operations during my university days, which shaped my perspective on adaptability and opportunity. After completing my master’s in marketing and international business, I unexpectedly stepped into FM operations—a world I knew little about (back then, the only “FM” I was familiar with was FM radio!). But in hindsight, it was the best starting point. It gave me a ground-up understanding of the industry and a deep appreciation for the dedication of those who keep things running seamlessly.
That experience led me to business development and eventually to marketing—a field I’ve always found dynamic and ever-evolving. Stepping into the role of Head of Marketing at Berkeley, with its 40-year legacy, multinational presence, and 9,000+ workforce, wasn’t just a responsibility—it was an opportunity to drive change, elevate the brand, and strengthen its influence while staying true to its essence.
Q. What leadership lessons have shaped your success?
Leadership, to me, is about adaptability, collaboration, and continuous learning. I work with creative, passionate individuals, and I firmly believe success is a team effort. The power of collaboration—aligning diverse ideas toward a shared vision— turns great ideas into results. Clear, open communication is key. In a fast-evolving industry, we must not only adapt but also anticipate and innovate, pushing beyond conventional limits to create meaningful impact.
Q. How do you see the role of women evolving in your industry?
The facilities management industry has traditionally been maledominated, but that is changing. More women are now stepping into leadership roles, driving innovation, and reshaping the industry. Companies increasingly value diverse perspectives, and women are contributing fresh approaches to problem-solving and strategic thinking. While progress is ongoing, the rise of women across operations, technology, sustainability, and leadership is undeniable. The future is about inclusivity—where talent and merit outweigh stereotypes—and this shift is both inspiring and transformative.
Q. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Embrace your journey with confidence. Leadership is rarely straightforward, but every challenge and small win molds you into the leader you are meant to be. Trust your voice, share your ideas, and recognize that leadership is about learning, adapting, and being authentic. Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you, and don’t hesitate to take up space in decisionmaking arenas. Most importantly, pay it forward by mentoring and supporting other women. When we lift each other up, we create lasting change.
Q. What is the one change you’d like to see for women in business today?
I would love to see confidence nurtured as much as competence. Women possess remarkable skills, creativity, and resilience, yet we often feel compelled to prove ourselves in ways our male counterparts do not. I envision a world where women confidently pursue leadership roles, voice their ideas, and negotiate their worth without self-doubt. More inclusive workplaces, robust mentorship networks, and recognition based on talent—not gender—will foster an environment where women can thrive and drive transformative change.
Q. What is a quote that inspires you?
“Give your best, embrace the journey with positivity, and trust that every step forward brings you closer to where you're meant to be.” This quote reminds me that life is not a race to the finish. Success comes from patience, consistent effort, and resilience. My family, mentors, and the support of those around me have reinforced that every step—even the uncertain ones—contributes to a larger purpose.
Ultimately, success is measured not only by what we achieve, but also by the belief we carry within and the impact we make along the way.
Fatma Hussain – Chief People Officer, Dubai Holding
Fatma Hussain leads human capital strategy at Dubai Holding, fostering a people-driven culture that prioritizes talent development, leadership growth, and employee engagement. With over 20 years of experience across private and semi-government sectors, she previously served as Chief Human Capital Officer at Dubai Holding Asset Management and held key roles at JAFZA and Gerab National Enterprise. As an active board member for TECOM Group and Memaar Building Systems, Fatma also chairs the Board at Takaful Emarat Insurance PSC. A Wharton Leadership Programme alumna with an MBA from the University of Dubai, her strategic vision in HR continues to drive operational excellence and sustainable organizational growth.
Jyotsna Hegde – President, Sobha Realty
Jyotsna Hegde, president of Sobha Realty, has risen from humble beginnings to become an influential leader in the real estate sector. Joining the company in 2004 as secretary to the founder, she has since overseen strategic initiatives across Sobha Realty’s subsidiaries, including Sobha Hartland Contracting and PNC Architects. Jyotsna is credited with driving operational excellence and strengthening corporate relations across the group. Passionate about promoting female leadership, she emphasizes the importance of visibility and mentorship for emerging professionals. Her extensive experience and dedication have been pivotal in shaping Sobha Realty’s legacy as a leader in luxury real estate, inspiring countless women to aim for leadership roles in the industry.
Tatiana Tonu – Managing Director, Object1
Tatiana Tonu joined Object1 as a sales manager two years ago and quickly became an integral part of the team. As Managing Director, she oversees Object1’s expansion in key Dubai and Abu Dhabi markets, steering projects that emphasize sustainability, modern architecture, and vibrant community living. Under her leadership, Object1 is executing a portfolio of over 10 high-profile developments, solidifying its reputation for innovation and quality. Tatiana’s strategic vision and commitment to operational excellence have contributed to significant market growth, making her a rising star in the built environment. Her dynamic approach continues to attract global investors and drive the evolution of luxury real estate in the region.
Nadia Zaal – Co-Founder and CEO, Zaya
Nadia Zaal has emerged as one of Dubai’s foremost innovators in luxury real estate through her role as Co-Founder and CEO of Zaya. Instrumental in launching high-profile residential projects like Zaya Nurai Island and Zaya Hameni, Nadia has positioned Zaya as a key player in the ultra-luxury market. Her visionary leadership has transformed conventional property development, blending bespoke design with modern amenities to create exclusive living experiences. As a prominent Emirati woman in real estate, Nadia’s influence extends beyond her projects, inspiring a new wave of industry innovation and redefining luxury in the GCC. Her achievements continue to drive global recognition for quality and elegance in property development.
Fatma Ahli – CFO, Imdaad
In the dynamic world of finance, where the constant pursuit of excellence is a given, Fatma Mohammad Ahli, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Imdaad, stands out not just for her expertise but for her unwavering commitment to fostering positive change and promoting gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Ms. Ahli's journey in finance was inspired by her desire to drive meaningful change within organizations.
Her role at Imdaad is underscored by her dedication to continuous improvement and innovation — principles that have guided her through numerous challenges and led to her success in the industry. As an Emirati woman, Ms. Ahli is not only breaking barriers within her field but also setting a powerful example for her community. Her ambition and growth mindset push her to achieve more, reflecting her belief that the race for excellence indeed has no finish line.
Navigating through a sector filled with highly qualified professionals from diverse backgrounds, she has faced her share of challenges. Competing in such an environment has fueled her determination to excel and continuously improve. One of the significant barriers she has overcome is making her mark in the finance industry, which has historically been male-dominated. The leadership lessons she has embraced over her career are foundational to her success. She believes in honesty, responsibility, and setting a high standard for her team. Her strategic thinking and openness to learning from failures have helped her navigate complex challenges, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. This mindset, coupled with a relentless pursuit of her goals, showcases her commitment and perseverance — qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to her success.
Discussing the evolving role of women in finance, Ms. Ahli points out the significant progress in recent years. More women are now in senior leadership roles, such as CFOs, CEOs, and board members, bringing diverse perspectives essential for innovative decision-making.
However, despite these advancements, she acknowledges the ongoing need for initiatives that close the gender gap, such as leadership development programs and mentorship opportunities. At Imdaad, she is proud of the supportive environment that helps women thrive in finance, bolstered by policies like mentorship, flexible work arrangements, and leadership training.
For the next generation of female leaders, Ms. Ahli offers this advice: believe in yourself, embrace continuous learning, and lead with empathy and integrity. These principles are vital for anyone aspiring to make an impact in their field.
She is particularly passionate about increasing female representation in executive leadership and boardroom positions. She advocates for more significant investments in mentorship and leadership opportunities for women, believing that these efforts will not only help close the existing gender gap but also enhance the overall financial performance and corporate culture.
Living by the mantra that "The race for Excellence has no finish line," Ms. Ahli continues to inspire and lead at Imdaad, championing changes that not only propel the organization forward but also foster a more inclusive and equitable industry. Her leadership is a beacon for many, guiding the next wave of professionals in their quest for excellence and equality.
Zeina Khoury – President, Zed Capital Real Estate
Lebanese-born Zeina Khoury, renowned as the “Queen of Versace” from her starring role on Netflix’s Dubai Bling, now leads Zed Capital Real Estate as its President. With a remarkable track record in luxury property brokerage, Zeina has transitioned from her previous role as CEO of High Mark Real Estate Brokers to founding her own firm. Under her leadership, Zed Capital offers bespoke real estate services that blend fashion, luxury, and innovation. A graduate of The London Business School, Zeina’s influential social media presence and industry expertise have cemented her reputation as a key player in the Middle East’s high-end property market, driving both local success and global investor interest.
Nancy Younes – CEO and Partner, Nationwide Middle East Properties
Nancy Younes has become a dynamic force in property consulting, steering Nationwide Middle East Properties to over AED 1 billion in sales in Ras Al Khaimah alone. With more than a decade of experience in market analysis and investment strategy, Nancy’s visionary leadership has positioned her firm as a trusted partner for high-net-worth investors and first-time homebuyers alike. Known for her customer-centric approach, she drives innovation through tailored investment opportunities and strategic market insights. Nancy’s commitment to mentoring future leaders further amplifies her influence in the industry, ensuring sustainable growth and fostering long-term relationships within the competitive Middle Eastern real estate landscape.
Maria Morris – Founder & CEO, Maria Morris Real Estate
Maria Morris is a trailblazer in the luxury property market, distinguished as the first expat woman to fully own a real estate brokerage in Dubai. With over two decades of experience and a successful tenure as Partner – Head of Residential at Knight Frank Middle East, Maria has represented prime and super-prime properties across global markets. A prominent speaker and thought leader, her insights have been featured in top-tier publications such as Forbes, Financial Times, and Mansion Global. The launch of Maria Morris Real Estate marks her bold move into entrepreneurship, driven by a passion for empowering women and redefining property marketing. Her innovative strategies continue to reshape Dubai’s luxury real estate landscape.
Dr. Suma Velekat – CEO, Azzurro FM
Dr. Suma Velekat leads Azzurro FM as CEO, championing innovative facilities management solutions that merge technology with sustainability. With a strong background in driving operational efficiency, she has positioned Azzurro FM as a key player in delivering smart, sustainable services in the built environment. Dr. Velekat’s strategic initiatives have improved asset performance and streamlined facility operations, ensuring that properties not only meet but exceed global standards. A respected thought leader, she actively participates in industry forums to promote sustainable practices and technological integration. Her leadership at Azzurro FM reinforces a commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence, setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Sam Emery – CFO, Emrill
Since 2019, Sam Emery has been instrumental in driving Emrill’s financial stability and growth as Chief Financial Officer. Recognising the evolving market landscape, Sam introduced a collaborative relationship model built on shared responsibility, strengthening resilience and ensuring long-term financial sustainability. Passionate about employee development, Sam champions a workplace culture that values innovation, diversity, and inclusivity. Beyond finance, her leadership drives Emrill’s investment in advanced technologies, spearheading digital transformation initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and innovation.
Through strategic foresight and progressive leadership, Sam has reinforced Emrill’s financial performance while positioning the company at the forefront of industry advancements, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the facilities management sector.
Q. What inspired your career path, and what challenges have you overcome?
I have always wanted a career that creates meaningful change and positively impacts people’s lives. While I started in telecommunications, I was drawn to facilities management for its role in shaping the built environment and enhancing the spaces where people live, work, and connect. This sector offers the opportunity to drive real change by creating sustainable, efficient, and well-maintained environments that improve quality of life.
A key challenge was entering a traditionally male-dominated industry. Instead of seeing it as a barrier, I embraced it as a chance to challenge perceptions, break stereotypes, and inspire more women to pursue leadership roles and make their mark in the industry. By leading confidently and demonstrating the value of diversity, I aim to open doors for more women to thrive and shape the future of FM.
Q. What leadership lessons have shaped your success?
One of the most valuable leadership lessons I’ve learned is that people are always an organisation’s greatest asset. At Emrill, we prioritise talent development and collaboration, which aligns with my leadership philosophy. Leadership is about empowerment—creating opportunities, building confidence, and equipping teams for success. Transparency, inclusivity, and continuous improvement have been key to my journey, and I believe leading with purpose and investing in people drive lasting success in any organisation.
Q. How do you see the role of women evolving in your industry?
The facilities management sector is becoming more inclusive, but increasing female representation remains a priority. At Emrill, with 50% of our leadership team being women, we prove that gender is no barrier to success. Women bring valuable strengths—attention to detail, strong communication, and collaboration—that drive operational excellence.
As more women take on leadership roles, they set new benchmarks and open doors for others. To sustain this progress, the industry must continue fostering equal opportunities, mentorship, and career development initiatives.
Q. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Seize every opportunity to showcase your skills and capabilities— confidence, collaboration, and continuous learning are key to success.
Challenge the status quo, speak up, and advocate for yourself and others. As facilities management evolves, there is room for strong women to make an impact. Find mentors, invest in personal growth, and embrace the power of teamwork.
Q. What’s the one change you’d like to see for women in business today?
Driving real change starts with acceptance. Businesses should prioritise hiring and promoting women into senior roles, ensuring leadership reflects the diversity of talent available. Elevating more women to senior positions creates visible role models, inspiring future generations and proving that success in business is driven by talent, not gender.
Q. What is the one quote that you live by or inspires you?
“Believe in what you can do”. Having confidence in your abilities, both personally and professionally, will drive you to grow. When you trust yourself, you push boundaries, embrace challenges, and will inspire others to do the same.
Javeria Aijaz – Managing Director, HITEK Services, Farnek Group
Javeria Ejaz, Managing Director of HITEK Services under the Farnek Group, has spearheaded the digital transformation of FM services in the UAE. Since joining Farnek in 2011 as an ICT manager, she has led the integration of ERP and CAFM solutions, revolutionizing remote monitoring and building management. Now as MD, Javeria drives strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and tenant satisfaction, expanding HITEK’s reach across Africa and KSA. Her expertise in AI, IoT, and smart technology has set new industry standards, ensuring sustainable, cost-effective solutions. With over 21 years in the industry, Javeria remains a trailblazer, continually pushing the boundaries of smart FM and building solutions.
Rima Nassair – Director of Owners Association, Provis Estate Management
Rima Nassair serves as the Director of Owners Association at Provis Estate Management, the region's largest real estate services company. In 2022, she was honored with the "Women in Leadership of the Year" award at the Smart Built Environment Awards in Dubai, recognizing her exceptional leadership and significant contributions to the industry. Overseeing a team of more than 142 employees across 73 communities in the UAE, Rima has been instrumental in fostering community-building initiatives with a strong social responsibility focus. Within a year, she successfully implemented over 30 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, connecting members of smaller gated communities with larger ones sharing similar values and aspirations. Her strategic vision and dedication continue to enhance resident experiences and set new benchmarks in community management.
Jennifer Andal – General Manager, Better Communities Owner Association Management
Jennifer Andal, with over a decade of experience in property portfolio management, currently leads Better Communities Owner Association Management as General Manager. Recently appointed to the board of the Community Associations Institute Middle East for 2025, Jennifer will serve as the new Treasurer. Her international credentials include multiple certifications—PCAM®, AMS®, and CMCA®—and her involvement with CAMICB’s exam development committee underscores her expertise. Jennifer is dedicated to bringing global best practices to the Middle East’s community management sector. Her leadership focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring sustainable, community-centric property management that benefits residents and investors alike.
Lindsay Bell, Director of Growth &, Development, Urban Surveys
Lindsay Bell plays a pivotal role in advancing the company’s mission to revolutionize the built environment through cuttingedge geospatial technology. Her leadership has contributed to Urban Surveys becoming a trusted name in laser scanning and 3D modelling solutions, helping clients unlock the full potential of their projects.
Q. What inspired your career path, and what challenges have you overcome?
My career path began in real estate, where I gained a strong understanding of the built environment.
Over time, I saw how technology could transform the industry and when the opportunity to join Urban Surveys arose, it felt like the perfect next step. Here, I found the ideal platform to combine innovation with practical solutions. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been promoting change and helping industries that have historically been slower to adapt. Through persistence, we’ve successfully demonstrated how digital surveying and 3D Modelling can drive greater accuracy, efficiency and sustainability
Q. What leadership lessons have shaped your success?
At Urban Surveys, I’ve learned that leadership is about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration and adaptability. Leading with empathy and resilience has been essential, especially as the industry evolves so rapidly. I try to focus on empowering our team to take initiative and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Staying ahead of the curve, encouraging continuous learning and celebrating wins (both big and small) are all part of building a team that is dynamic, successful and always moving forward.
Q. How do you see the role of women evolving in your industry?
The role of women in our industry is evolving towards greater visibility and influence. There’s a growing recognition of the value that diversity brings to leadership and I’m optimistic that more women will take on decision-making roles, driving innovation within the industry. I truly believe that diverse perspectives enhance creativity and problem-solving.
Q. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Stay bold, curious and never stop learning. Be sure to embrace challenges with a positive attitude, a willingness to adapt and trust in your abilities. Also, surround yourself with mentors and peers who will support your growth. Remember, every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to success. At Urban Surveys we actively encourage a mindset of continuous improvement and that’s the key to unlocking leadership potential.
Q. What’s the one change you’d like to see for women in business today?
I would love to see an increase in mentorship programs aimed at supporting women, particularly in tech fields. Access to experienced leaders who can provide guidance and advice is invaluable. These programs will help build more confident, wellequipped female leaders for the future. Achieving true equality requires the involvement of both women and men. Male leaders who actively engage in mentorship and champion gender equality play a critical role in shaping a more inclusive, balanced business world.
Q. What is the one quote that you live by or inspires you?
“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” Self-belief is the first step in any endeavour. If you believe in your abilities and the impact you can make, you're already on the right path.
Women's Day women in built environment equity gender equality real estate FM community management
