What defines leadership in the GCC’s fast-evolving banking sector? In an era shaped by tighter regulation, digital disruptions and ambitious national visions, the region’s most influential banking executives are navigating a new kind of complexity – where growth must be balanced with resilience, innovation with regulation and performance with purpose.
Across the GCC, banks are not only outperforming many global peers, but are also serving as strategic enablers of broader economic transformation – from Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to the UAE’s AI-driven digital economy.

These institutions require bold, future-ready leadership. The 2025 Top Banking Leaders – GCC Edition celebrates the most influential CEOs, Group Executives and Banking Chairs driving this change. From legacy institutions to agile digital challengers, this list recognises leaders who are redefining what it means to lead a bank in today’s Middle East, leveraging technology, managing risk and delivering returns in an increasingly competitive and high-stakes environment.

METHODOLOGY

To identify the 2025 Top Banking Leaders, we conducted a multi-layered evaluation of senior banking executives across the GCC. The editorial and research team applied a hybrid methodology that combined peer voting, proprietary performance data and industry interviews. Leaders were assessed across five key pillars:

1. Strategic Impact: Influence on the bank’s direction, market position and long-term vision.
2. Performance: Financial performance metrics, return on equity and growth over the last 12 months.
3. Innovation & Transformation: Investment in digital banking, fintech partnerships and operational innovation.
4. Leadership & Reputation: Industry reputation, team leadership and executive tenure.
5. Contribution to National Agendas: Role in supporting economic diversification, ESG priorities and public sector collaboration.

Candidates included CEOs, Deputy CEOs, Chairpersons and heads of regional operations from both conventional and Islamic banks. The final selection represents a cross-section of the most forward-thinking and results-driven leaders in Gulf banking today.

Top GCC Banking Leaders 2025

Jump to:

Mohammed Mortada Al Dandashi
Group Managing Director
Al Ramz

With over 25 years in the financial industry, Mohammed Mortada Al Dandashi has led Al Ramz’s evolution from a fledgling firm into a publicly listed financial powerhouse. Under his leadership, the group has become a regional leader in asset management, brokerage, corporate finance and market making. Al Dandashi has played a central role in shaping GCC capital markets, driving strategic M&A activity and advancing quantitative research capabilities. Known for his strategic vision and integrity, he continues to steer Al Ramz’s growth and innovation across the financial services spectrum.

Abdullah Ali Al Khalifa
CEO
Alinma Bank

Since joining Alinma Bank as CEO in January 2021, Abdullah Ali Al Khalifa has used his extensive expertise in the sector to steer the bank through significant post-pandemic growth. He draws on previous leadership roles at major Saudi banks, including CFO at Al Rajhi Bank, CFO at Arab National Bank and CEO at Banque Saudi Fransi. At Alinma Bank, his achievements include overseeing a major 35.6% year-on-year increase in net profit during Q1 2024, reaching an impressive $350.6 million. Notably, Al Khalifa led the acquisition of a 5.75% stake in Arabian Shield Cooperative Insurance Co., expanding the bank’s portfolio diversification strategy. He is a true leader in the banking.

Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Fahad Al-Thani
Group CEO
Doha Bank

With over 15 years of experience in Qatar’s banking sector, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Fahad
Al-Thani brings significant expertise in retail, corporate banking and international relations. Previously holding leadership roles at Dukhan Bank and Qatar International Islamic Bank, he now drives Doha Bank’s strategic direction. Under his leadership, the bank achieved $118.8 million in net profits and $29.1 billion in assets in H1 2024. He spearheaded the development of a mobile banking app, enabling 89% of transactions digitally. His leadership facilitated a 10.3% year-on-year rise in net profit to QAR 432 million ($118.5 million), attributed to increased loans and advances.

Ahmed Abdelaal
Group CEO
Mashreq

Ahmed Abdelaal has transformed Mashreq into one of the UAE’s leading banks since stepping into his role as Group CEO. Joining Mashreq in 2017 as Group Head of Corporate and Investment Banking, Abdelaal swiftly moved up to CEO in 2019. Under his guidance, Mashreq’s profitability surged remarkably, elevating from a net profit of AED 11 billion ($2.99 billion) in 2019 to AED 30.5 billion ($8.3 billion) in 2023, positioning it as the third most profitable bank in the UAE. He spearheaded the creation and expansion of the Mashreq NEO family, launching sub-brands like Mashreq NEOBIZ and NEOPAY. Abdelaal’s strategic vision has also led to Mashreq NEO’s entrance into new markets, including Egypt and Pakistan, positioning the bank for further global expansion.

Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi
CEO
Emirates Development Bank

Since assuming leadership in 2021, Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi has played a pivotal role in redefining the Emirates Development Bank’s role in supporting the UAE’s economic diversification. By offering customised financing solutions to startups, SMEs and large firms, EDB has prioritised sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, food security and technology. Under Al Naqbi’s direction, EDB aims to facilitate AED 30 billion ($8.16 billion) in financing for 13,500 companies by 2026. Al Naqbi’s 17 years of experience encompass roles in retail, corporate and investment banking, including strategic positions at the National Bank of Abu Dhabi and First Abu Dhabi Bank. He is recognised for championing innovation and digital transformation, significantly impacting the bank’s strategic trajectory.

Ala’a Eraiqat
Group CEO
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank

Ala’a Eraiqat has led ADCB since February 2009, significantly transforming the bank’s stature in the banking sector. Under his leadership, ADCB expanded its footprint into the Saudi market and climbed to the position of the UAE’s third-largest bank by assets. His successful integration and management of the Union National Bank and Al Hilal Bank in 2019 underscored his strategic acumen. Previously, Eraiqat held esteemed positions at Citibank and Standard Chartered Bank, honing keen insight into global financial strategies. As Chairman of multiple institutions, including Al Hilal Bank and Abu Dhabi Commercial Properties, he plays a pivotal role in fostering collaborations and initiatives that strengthen regional financial ecosystems. Eraiqat’s guidance cements his reputation as a financial leader.

Bassel Gamal
Group CEO
Qatar Islamic Bank

Since assuming the role of Group CEO at Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) in 2013, Bassel Gamal has been instrumental in steering the bank towards substantial growth. With a background at the Commercial International Bank in Egypt and later as CEO at Ahli Bank in Qatar, Gamal brought a wealth of experience to QIB. Over his tenure, QIB has seen its net profit surge from QAR 1.34 billion in 2013 to QAR 4.31 billion in 2023, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12%. His strategic emphasis on robust financial practices has strengthened the bank’s market position. Additionally, Gamal holds leadership roles as Chairman of QIB-UK and Board Member of QInvest, demonstrating his comprehensive influence in the financial sector.

Dr Bernd van Linder
CEO
Commercial Bank of Dubai

Dr Bernd van Linder was appointed as the CEO of the Commercial Bank of Dubai in 2017. He has adeptly steered the bank towards digital transformation and enhanced profitability. His leadership credentials are underscored by his previous role as CEO of Saudi Hollandi Bank, where he doubled the bank’s size and profitability over seven years. At CBD, van Linder orchestrated strategic initiatives that drove a remarkable 30.2% year-on-year increase in net profit to AED 1.452 billion ($395.32 billion) in the first half of 2024. His academic background, including a PhD in artificial intelligence from Utrecht University, informs his data-driven approach to banking and fortifies CBD’s position as a potential leader in digital banking transformation.

Elham Yousry Mahfouz
CEO
Commercial Bank of Kuwait

Elham Yousry Mahfouz has been instrumental in steering the Commercial Bank of Kuwait since her appointment as CEO in 2014. With a tenure beginning in 2000, she has been pivotal in expanding and strengthening the bank’s international presence. As Manager of International Banking and later General Manager of the New York Branch, she played a key role in the bank’s global outreach and portfolio diversification. Under her leadership, the bank has enhanced its financial solutions, focusing on innovation and customer-centric services. Her strategic initiatives in risk management and digital transformation have significantly improved the bank’s operational efficiency. She is regarded as one of the most influential Arab businesswomen thanks to her substantial mark on the banking industry in Kuwait.

Fahad Al Khalifa
Group CEO
AlRayan Bank

Fahad Al Khalifa ascended to the role of Group CEO of AlRayan Bank in 2021, following his successful tenure as Group CEO of Al Khalij Commercial Bank, where he spearheaded the merger with AlRayan Bank. This strategic move established one of the region’s largest Shariah-compliant banks. Al Khalifa’s extensive experience in Qatar’s financial sector, including roles at Qatar Central Bank and Qatar National Bank, has bolstered the institution’s growth and resilience. Under his leadership, AlRayan achieved a net profit of QAR 789 million ($215.99 million) in H1 2024, with total assets reaching QAR 162 billion ($44.38 billion), demonstrating his strategic impact on maintaining robust financial health.

Hana Al Rostamani
Group CEO
First Abu Dhabi Bank

Hana Al Rostamani is at the helm of First Abu Dhabi Bank, managing over $300 billion in total assets. She became FAB’s Group CEO in January 2021. Under her leadership, the Group revenue hit AED 27.65 billion, with net profit over AED 16 billion, up 16% and 24% year-on-year, respectively, in the first nine months of 2025. With more than 23 years in financial services, she has held prominent roles such as Independent Director of Emirates Integrated Telecommunication Company (du) and Vice Chairperson of Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Services. As the first female CEO of a UAE-based bank, she also serves on the boards of AW Rostamani Group and chairs FAB Private Bank Suisse. Her strategic focus extends to global sustainability efforts and emphasise Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. She is committed to financial success and environmental stewardship.

Isam Jasem Al-Sager
Group CEO and Vice Chairman
National Bank of Kuwait

Isam Jasem Al-Sager has been at the helm of the National Bank of Kuwait for over a decade, steering the bank towards significant growth and profitability. Under his leadership, NBK reported a net profit of KWD 292.4 million ($953.6 million) for the first half of 2024, reflecting his capability in driving financial success. Al-Sager started his banking career at NBK in 1978, advancing through roles such as Head of Domestic Credit and Marketing, and General Manager of Retail and Wholesale Banking Group. As the Chairman of NBK Egypt and a Board Member of Mastercard, he plays a crucial role in strategic decision-making. His leadership has been pivotal in positioning NBK as a prominent banking institution in the region.

Jayesh Patel
CEO
Wio

Jayesh Patel has been the CEO of Wio since 2022. He brings over 18 years of expertise in consumer-focused innovation across multiple industries. As a prominent figure in the MENA fintech and angel investment landscape, Patel previously spearheaded the launch of Liv., the GCC’s first digital-only lifestyle bank for millennials and Gen Z under Emirates NBD. As Head of Retail Strategy at Emirates NBD, he strategically advanced retail and innovation initiatives. Patel significantly boosted customer engagement and digital adoption. He was previously a management consultant at Deloitte in the US, bridging business and technology. Patel’s strategic insights and dedication to digital transformation make him a key leader in modernising financial services across the region.

Mohamed Abdelbary
Acting Group CEO
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank

Appointed as Acting Group CEO in March 2024, Mohamed Abdelbary has steered ADIB to notable financial and strategic achievements. Previously serving as Group CFO since 2020, Abdelbary’s leadership has been instrumental in the bank’s 30% net profit growth in the first half of 2024. With over three decades of experience in international banking entities like Standard Chartered, Citibank and Barclays, he has facilitated innovative product launches, including a 100% salary cash-back campaign and the Electric Vehicle Finance initiative. Under his guidance, ADIB pioneered instant account opening for SMEs using Emirates Face Recognition technology and launched Istikrar, the UAE’s first long-term, fixed-rate home finance, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to innovation.

Mustafa Al Khalfawi
CEO
Ajman Bank

Mustafa Al Khalfawi was appointed CEO of Ajman Bank in 2023. He leverages over two decades of experience in the UAE’s banking sector. His tenure includes significant roles at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), such as Head of Global Banking UAE and CEO of FAB ADGM. At FAB, he also contributed as a board member for FAB Islamic and Magnati, influencing strategic decisions. At Ajman Bank, Al Khalfawi is committed to amplifying shareholder value through comprehensive digital transformation and fortified Shariah-compliant financial solutions. Under his leadership, the bank has expanded its client base and prioritised investment in human capital. This demonstrates his strategic acumen and impactful presence in the finance industry.

Nadir Al-Koraya
President and CEO
Riyad Bank

Nadir Al-Koraya has significantly shaped Riyad Bank’s strategic direction and growth trajectory. Under his leadership, Riyad Bank has become the fifth largest bank in the GCC, boasting assets exceeding $100 billion. Al-Koraya previously excelled as Chief Treasury and Investment Officer. He transformed the bank’s funding and investment functions. His influence extends to fintech, serving as Board Chairman of Jeel Innovation Digital Company and 1957 Ventures Fintech. Al-Koraya’s adept leadership contributed to a remarkable 10% increase in Riyad Bank’s net profit for the first half of 2024, reaching SAR 4.41 billion ($1.17 billion). With a 20-year tenure at SAMBA Financial Group before joining Riyad Bank in 2014, he continues to have a major influence over the region’s finance sector.

Obaid Alrasheed
Managing Director and CEO
Arab National Bank

Obaid Alrasheed, with 35 years at Arab National Bank, became CEO in 2021. He spearheads improvements in operations, resource management, competitiveness and digitisation. Prior to his role as CEO, he served as Deputy CEO for a decade, driving the bank’s transformation initiatives. Under his leadership, anb has embraced technology to enhance customer engagement and process efficiency, positioning itself as a leader in the banking sector. Alrasheed is a key figure in industry circles, holding positions such as Member of the Board of Directors at the Saudi British Joint Business Council and Vice Chairman of the EXCOM at Saudi Chemical Company. His strategic insights continue to shape the bank’s growth trajectory and industry reputation.

Sael Al Waary
Group CEO
Bank ABC

With over 35 years of experience, Sael Al Waary oversees Bank ABC’s operations across 15 countries on five continents. Beyond his role as Group CEO, he chairs Bank ABC Jordan and Arab Financial Services, while serving as Vice-Chairman of Bank ABC Egypt. Notably, he is the Founder and Chairman of ila Bank, Bahrain’s first digital mobile-only bank, launched in 2019. Al Waary is a key voice at global industry platforms such as the Singapore Fintech Festival and the Middle East FinTech Forum, where he champions digital transformation and fintech innovation. His founding of the MEA Fintech Forum underscores his commitment to fostering dialogue on evolving industry challenges and trends. Al Waary’s leadership continues to drive major progress in banking.

Shamsa Al-Falasi
CEO (Interim)
Citibank N.A. UAE Onshore

Shamsa Al-Falasi is a distinguished leader with nearly 20 years of tenure at Citi, a testament to her resilience and expertise in banking. Starting with the bank in 2004, Al-Falasi’s experience spans multiple global locations, including Dublin, London and Sao Paulo. In 2015, she spearheaded the Global Subsidiaries Group for the UAE and Iraq, significantly expanding her influence. By 2018, her role encompassed the broader GCC region. Since early 2023, she has served as interim CEO and Country Officer for Citibank’s UAE Onshore Branch, making her the first Emirati woman to lead this entity. Al-Falasi plays an instrumental role in steering Citi’s regional operations, particularly enhancing institutional banking and wealth management services. Her leadership underscores her significance in advancing financial services within the region.

Shayne Nelson
Group CEO
Emirates NBD

Shayne Nelson’s leadership at Emirates NBD has marked impressive growth and strategic expansion. During his eight-year tenure as Group CEO, the bank’s assets expanded from AED 308 billion ($83.86 billion) to AED 700 billion ($190.58 billion). Notably, Nelson orchestrated the $2.7 billion acquisition of Türkiye’s DenizBank, strengthening Emirates NBD’s international footprint. His previous roles include CEO of Standard Chartered Private Bank in Singapore, Regional CEO of Standard Chartered Bank MENA and various chairmanships, demonstrating his expertise in global banking strategies. A proactive leader, Nelson is on the Board of Directors for Emirates Islamic, Emirates NBD Capital Ltd. and others, influencing crucial financial decisions. His strategic impact profoundly shaped Emirates NBD’s resilience and growth in the competitive banking sector.

Sheikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar
CEO
Bank Muscat

Sheikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar has been at the helm of Bank Muscat, Oman’s largest financial institution by assets, since 2019. As CEO, he has successfully steered the bank through economic challenges, leading to a 7.5% increase in net profits to OMR 112.12 million ($291 million) in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. His strategic acumen extends beyond banking: he serves on the Board of Directors for the Oman Center for Governance and Sustainability, The College of Banking and Financial Studies and the Oman Banks Association. Al Hashar’s prior roles in Petroleum Development Oman and HSBC Middle East bolster his extensive expertise and position him as a formidable leader in the financial sector.

Tareq Abdulrahman Al Sadhan
CEO
Saudi National Bank

Tareq Abdulrahman Al Sadhan stepped into the role of CEO at Saudi National Bank in May 2024, bringing with him an impressive track record of leadership in the banking sector. Previously, he served as President and CEO of Riyad Bank. Al Sadhan’s career foundation was laid during his 18-year tenure at KPMG Saudi Arabia, where he became one of the youngest partners, highlighting his extensive expertise in finance and auditing. Within the public sector, he held notable roles such as Chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development and Deputy Governor for Supervision at the Saudi Central Bank. His strategic initiatives contributed to SNB’s 2.3% increase in annual net profits. They reached SAR 10.3 billion in the first half of 2024.

Tony Cripps
Managing Director and CEO
Saudi Awwal Bank

Tony Cripps became CEO of Saudi Awwal Bank in 2023, following its merger with Al-Awwal Bank, which he expertly spearheaded. With over 40 years in the banking sector, Cripps has built a formidable career exemplified by strategic leadership roles, including his tenure as CEO of the Saudi British Bank and HSBC in Singapore, Australia and the Philippines. Beginning his career at HSBC in 1986 as a floor trader, he advanced to high-level positions. During the early 1990s, Cripps collaborated with Sydney University on predictive neural network programmes, marking an early AI effort that was ultimately commercialised, with findings published by the London School of Economics. Cripps stands out for his strategic vision and ability to drive significant institutional changes effectively.

Waleed Abdullah Al-Mogbel
CEO
Al Rajhi Bank

Waleed Abdullah Al-Mogbel has been instrumental in steering Al Rajhi Bank through transformative times since becoming CEO in 2020. Under his tenure, the bank reported a 9.74% increase in net profits, reaching SAR 9.10 billion ($2.42 billion) in H1 2024. With a robust 25-year career in finance, Al-Mogbel has previously excelled as Deputy CEO, COO, CIO and CFO at Al Rajhi Bank. His academic and consulting background includes roles as an Assistant Professor at King Saud University and Senior Consultant at Westminster International Consulting Firm. Al-Mogbel’s strategic insights, bolstered by his PhD in Accounting and Auditing, have significantly impacted Al Rajhi Bank’s growth trajectory and market strength during challenging economic conditions.

Waleed Mandani
Acting CEO
Gulf Bank

Waleed Mandani has emerged as a financial leader at Gulf Bank since 2021, leveraging over 25 years of experience in banking and finance. Prior to his current role, Mandani was pivotal as the Group Chief Retail & Private Banking Officer at Kuwait Finance House (KFH), focusing on extensive retail and wealth management. His career began at the National Bank of Kuwait in 1993 as a Treasury Corporate Officer, followed by senior positions at National Investments Co., Ahli United Bank and BNP Paribas. At KFH, he drove growth as General Manager for Private Banking. Mandani’s strategic leadership contributed to Gulf Bank’s 5% rise in operating income to KWD 96.9 million ($314.3 million) in the first half of 2024, underscoring his impactful leadership.

Rashid Bashir
CEO and Partner
Deloitte Middle East

Rashid Bashir previously led Deloitte Middle East’s Consulting practice, managing a diverse team across 15 countries, composed of 105 nationalities. For over two decades, he has addressed complex government policy challenges and socioeconomic development issues in the Middle East and UK. As a board member and Chief Strategy Officer, Bashir has played a pivotal role in shaping Deloitte’s strategic direction. Under his leadership, the firm has become the preferred partner for accelerated transformations. His vision is to establish Deloitte as a destination for top talent and a market leader in the region. Bashir is committed to sustainable development and socio-economic transformations that make an impactful contribution to the communities Deloitte serves.

Adnan Chilwan
Group CEO
Dubai Islamic Bank

Adnan Chilwan was appointed as Group CEO in 2013. He has guided Dubai Islamic Bank through a transformative era sparked by a strategic blueprint he crafted in 2009. Initially, he executed a consolidation phase – de-risking, deleveraging and diversifying. This laid a robust financial foundation for expansion, growing DIB’s consumer finance from 14% to 44% and its customer base from 850,000 to 1.4 million. He expanded the UAE branch network from 30 to 90. His strategic foresight steered the bank through economic downturns, positioning it as a core industry player. Under his leadership, DIB’s stock price has more than doubled and he successfully acquired Tamweel, revitalising the mortgage sector. Driven by strong fundamentals, his growth strategy targets emerging markets including the GCC, Far East and East Africa.

Raheel Ahmed
Group CEO
RAKBANK

Raheel Ahmed, as Group CEO of RAKBANK, has successfully propelled the institution into an era of remarkable growth and innovation. Under his stewardship, the bank achieved record net profits in FY 2024, with sustained momentum into H1 2025, underscoring his strategic impact. Ahmed’s initiatives have led to a 90% digital adoption rate, highlighting the bank’s commitment to technological advancement. Through the launch of the UAE’s pioneering embedded finance platform, he has democratised financial services accessibility for freelancers and micro-businesses. Furthermore, Ahmed spearheaded one of the region’s first regulated cryptocurrency offerings from a conventional bank. His leadership emphasises safety, compliance and strategic foresight, and solidifies RAKBANK’s position as a leader in financial innovation.

Khaled El Dabag
Co-CEO, Head of Investment Banking Middle East
Barclays

Khaled El Dabag brings over 25 years of investment banking experience across Dubai and New York to his role of Co-CEO and Head of Investment Banking for Barclays’ Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Since joining Barclays in 2014, El Dabag has played a vital role in enhancing the bank’s strategic presence in the region. Under his leadership, Barclays has strengthened its market share through innovative financial solutions and strategic partnerships. El Dabag’s initiatives in digital banking services have driven higher client engagement and operational efficiencies. His leadership extends to major cross-border transactions that have added substantial value to the bank’s portfolio. His deep understanding of regional dynamics makes him a pivotal financial leader to steering growth.

Walid Mezher
Co-CEO Middle East
Barclays

With a comprehensive career spanning 19 years at Barclays, Walid Mezher has been instrumental in shaping the bank’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). As Co-CEO for the region, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership overseeing Sales and Origination activities across MENA. His tenure as Head of Markets highlighted his adeptness at steering Institutional Sales and orchestrating complex Risk Solutions and Debt Capital Market strategies. Mezher’s collaboration with stakeholders and clients has fortified Barclays’ market position, fostering trust and delivering significant financial growth. His strategic initiatives have streamlined operations, nurtured client relations and maximised regional market potential. These moves cement his position as an influential leader.

Selim Kervanci
CEO, Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye
HSBC

Selim Kervanci has been instrumental in steering HSBC’s operations in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye regions since assuming his role as CEO. Joining HSBC Türkiye in 1996, Kervanci has amassed extensive experience across investment banking and client coverage, eventually leading him to his current executive position. Under his leadership, HSBC has expanded its international connectivity, resulting in significant growth and increased client engagement. His leadership has been key to the bank’s stability and innovation in an increasingly competitive market, making substantial strides in establishing HSBC as a leading financial institution in the region. Kervanci emphasises trust and teamwork, ensuring a cohesive corporate environment.

Rola Abu Manneh
CEO, UAE, Middle East and Pakistan
Standard Chartered

Rola Abu Manneh is a prominent figure in the banking sector, being the first Emirati woman to helm an international bank in the UAE and the region. As CEO of Standard Chartered, she has transformed the UAE operation into a leading market for the group. Her leadership extends to board roles in Standard Chartered’s subsidiaries in Pakistan and Uganda, as well as digital ventures MyZoi and Appro through SC Ventures. She advocates for female empowerment and youth education, aligning with global initiatives for Gender Equality. Abu Manneh is considered to be one of the top business figures in the MENA region, cementing her influence across various prestigious lists and councils globally.

Jonathan Atlani
CEO, Middle East
Edmond de Rothschild

Jonathan Atlani assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer for Edmond de Rothschild’s Middle East operations on August 18, 2025. Based in Dubai, he is responsible for steering the bank’s strategic client initiatives across the region. Prior to this, Atlani excelled as Chief Operating Officer of the external asset manager desk, where he streamlined operations and enhanced service efficiencies. His tenure is marked by a commitment to fostering strong client relationships and expanding market presence. By driving innovative financial solutions tailored to the Middle Eastern clientele, Atlani has reinforced the bank’s position in the private banking sector. As CEO, he continues to focus on strategic growth and operational excellence.

Mohamed Khadiri
CEO
Bank of Sharjah

Mohamed Khadiri has over 24 years of experience in international banking. He has made substantial contributions across the US, North Africa and the Middle East. At Bank of Sharjah, he is recognised for his strategic formulation and effective implementation, steering diverse teams toward success. Under his leadership, the bank has expanded its portfolio by introducing innovative banking products, penetrating new markets and enhancing customer experience. Khadiri’s adeptness in commercial and investment banking is matched by his ability to forge lasting relationships with regulators, corporate entities and peer banks. Through his efforts, the bank has improved efficiency, increased market share and successfully navigated unsettled financial landscapes.

Christoph Koster
CEO
ruya

Christoph Koster has significantly influenced the financial landscape in the Middle East through his leadership at ruya, the UAE’s first digital-first, Shariah-compliant bank. Since its inception in 2024, ruya has set new standards for Islamic banking. Under Koster’s guidance, the bank rapidly onboarded over 60,000 customers and managed transactions exceeding AED 2.2 billion in its first year. The bank’s app saw over 240,000 downloads, maintaining a high 4.7-star rating on Google. Notably, ruya became the first Islamic bank globally to introduce in-app virtual asset trading, enabling cryptocurrency transactions like Bitcoin in a Shariah-compliant manner. Koster’s strategic vision underscores ruya’s innovative approach and commitment to integrating modern technology in accordance with Islamic finance principles.

Usman Ahmed
Group CEO
National Bank of Bahrain

Usman Ahmed, with over 30 years of banking experience, serves as the Group CEO of the National Bank of Bahrain and Vice Chairman of Bahrain Islamic Bank. His career spans the EMEA and Asia Pacific regions, holding senior leadership roles as Executive Chairman, Managing Director and Board Member in both global and regional banks. Ahmed’s expertise covers corporate and investment banking, capital markets and Islamic banking, developed through roles stationed in financial hubs like London, Hong Kong and Dubai. As CEO of Citi Malaysia, he led a workforce of over 5,200 employees and at Barclays, he managed corporate, commercial and transaction banking across 14 countries. Ahmed continues to influence banking as a Board Member of several financial institutions.

Khaled AlShamlan
Group CEO
Kuwait Finance House

Khaled AlShamlan serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer at Kuwait Finance House (KFH), emphasising the institution’s commitment to promoting national leadership. With over 27 years in the banking sector, he played a crucial role in KFH’s strategic priorities, particularly in digital transformation and performance excellence. Notably, AlShamlan managed the merger process and digital enhancements that significantly boosted KFH’s market position within Kuwait. He was pivotal in the acquisition and conversion of Ahli United Bank to comply with Shariah principles. AlShamlan’s leadership experience spans roles, including Group Chief Retail and Private Banking Officer, which underscore his impact on KFH’s expansion across 12 countries over his career.

Bader Alsalloom
CEO
Banque Saudi Fransi

Bader Alsalloom brings significant leadership and strategic insight to Banque Saudi Fransi, having assumed the role of CEO in September 2022. With nearly two decades of banking experience, he has made substantial inroads in wholesale banking within leading Saudi banks. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from King Fahd University for Petroleum and Minerals, he commenced his career at the Saudi British Bank in 2004. Alsalloom excelled in corporate banking and global markets during his 15-year tenure, holding the position of Deputy General Manager of Commercial Banking. His subsequent role as Deputy General Manager of Corporate Banking at the Saudi Investment Bank fortified his expertise. Currently, he leads BSF with a focus on innovation and strategic growth, while also serving as Vice Chairman of BSF Capital and Allianz Saudi Fransi.

Ahmed Hashem
Acting CEO
Dukhan Bank

Ahmed Hashem is currently serving as Acting CEO of Dukhan Bank. He boasts over two decades of banking experience, making him a prominent figure in the financial sector. His career is marked by achievements in wholesale banking, including his tenure as Assistant General Manager for Wholesale Banking at Dukhan Bank. Notably, Hashem played a pivotal role at the International Bank of Qatar (IBQ) during its merger with Barwa Bank, which formed Dukhan Bank. Educated at Georgetown University with an executive Master’s degree in leadership, and possessing a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from Qatar University, he is also an alumnus of the Qatar Leadership Centre. His strategic influence and industry expertise are instrumental in driving Dukhan Bank’s continued success.

Faisal Abdullah Al-Omran
CEO
The Saudi Investment Bank

Faisal Abdullah Al-Omran commenced his role as CEO at The Saudi Investment Bank in 2023, bringing extensive experience since joining the bank in 2007. Previously, he served as Deputy CEO, Bank Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer. Under his leadership, SAIB has seen strategic growth, emphasising robust risk management and innovative financial solutions. Al-Omran holds a Bachelor’s degree with Honours in Finance and Accounting from Northeastern University and has honed his executive skills through programmes at the London Business School and INSEAD. His strategic oversight has been critical in executing major projects involving digital banking advancements and increasing shareholder value, reinforcing SAIB’s position in the competitive banking landscape.

Abdullah Zahran Al Hinai
CEO
National Bank of Oman

Abdullah Zahran Al Hinai leads the National Bank of Oman as CEO, bringing over 20 years of banking experience. He previously served as Chief Wholesale Banking and Strategic Growth Officer, where he was pivotal in establishing strategic growth initiatives and orchestrating innovative transactions. Under his leadership, the bank has enhanced its digital capabilities and expanded its service offerings, aligning with market demands and improving financial performances. Al Hinai is a Board Member of Oman Banks Association and various companies and funds, reflecting his influence across multiple sectors. His diverse educational background includes an Executive MBA from IMD, a Chartered Financial Analyst designation and advanced programmes from Harvard and INSEAD, all of which underscore his strategic acumen and comprehensive industry knowledge.

Naif Al AbdulKareem
CEO
Bank Aljazira

Naif Al AbdulKareem, an MBA graduate from the University of Illinois in Chicago, steers Bank Aljazira with over two decades of banking sector expertise. As CEO, he has driven significant strategic initiatives, enhancing the bank’s technological infrastructure and expanding digital offerings to improve customer experiences. His tenure includes leadership in Board roles. He has served as Chairman of SIMAH since 2023 and contributed to pivotal regulatory developments in the Saudi credit system. Under his guidance, Bank Aljazira has also seen increased profitability and market share. Al AbdulKareem’s impact extends to stewardship roles at AlJazira Takaful and AlJazira Capital, where his strategic insights have reinforced financial growth and innovation. His comprehensive experience marks him as a vital leader.

Abdulaziz Al-Onaizan
CEO and Director
Bank Albilad

Abdulaziz Al-Onaizan has been pivotal to Bank Albilad’s robust growth, leading the institution with a strategic focus on innovation and financial stability. With previous leadership roles at Alinma Investing Company, Arab National Bank and SAMBA Financial Group, Al-Onaizan’s industry expertise is extensive. Under his direction, Bank Albilad’s strategic initiatives have driven a 15% year-over-year increase in net profits for the first half of 2024. Al-Onaizan plays a critical role in shaping the financial landscape through his positions on various boards, including Albilad Investing Company, Bayan Credit Bureau, Enjaz Payment Services Company and as Saudi Arabia’s representative on the Board of Buna. His leadership has cemented Bank Albilad’s strong position in the region.