Bazaar Arabia Celebrates The 2025 Women Of The Year
Meet the women of the year who are changing the narrative across borders and industries
Reflecting on 2025, this year has been shaped by women across the Arab world and beyond, who are redefining leadership, creativity, and provoking impact through their achievements. From education and health, to diplomacy and the arts, these trailblazers continue to transform industries and inspire change on a global scale.
Here, Bazaar Arabia honours this remarkable group of women, whose vision and legacy have left a lasting mark on this year…
Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar
Comitted to expanding access to quality education across the Arab world, Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar, CEO of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, has led initiatives focused on digital learning, youth upskilling, and future-ready education aligned with workforce needs this year. Through strategic partnerships with global institutions, her work has empowered many learners and strengthened education systems, earning her widespread recognition for leadership in educational innovation and social impact.
Jomana Karadsheh
Jomana Karadsheh, CNN international correspondent, is renowned for her in-depth reporting on major global and regional issues. In 2025, she was honoured as Journalist of the Year by the Association for International Broadcasting, recognising her excellence in international journalism. Her compelling storytelling, journalistic integrity, and worldwide impact continue to set her apart.
H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak
H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak is the Managing Director of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and a global leader in environmental conservation. She also serves as President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and was appointed UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28, playing a key role in advancing global climate action. In 2025, her leadership continued to shape international conservation policy and sustainability initiatives.
H.E. Dr. Mariam Matar
H.E. Dr. Mariam Matar is the Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association, recognised for her pioneering contributions to genetic research and public health in the UAE. She is also the founding Managing Director of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, reflecting her enduring commitment to both health and environmental well-being.
Hana Al Rostamani
Hana Al Rostamani is the Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and the first woman to lead the institution. With over 25 years of experience in financial services, she has played a pivotal role in driving strategic growth, digital transformation, and sustainable finance initiatives.
Naeema Ahli
Naeema Ahli, CEO of the Dubai Women Establishment, has advanced Emirati women in the workforce by creating opportunities for professional growth and leadership. Under her guidance, programmes promoting skills development, entrepreneurship, and cultural engagement have flourished, and her leadership continues to inspire women across the UAE.
Amnah Ajmal
Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President of Market Development for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, is a leading fintech role model. She is acclaimed for advancing financial inclusion and implementing digital payment solutions across more than 80 countries. Through her leadership, she has empowered businesses and individuals to access modern financial services, driving innovation and economic growth across diverse regions.
H.E. Reem Al Hashimy
H.E. Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, is a pioneering leader in diplomacy and development. She became the first female Emirati politician to speak at the United Nations General Assembly and chairs the UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals. Through her work, she continues to advance global partnerships and sustainable development.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Patron of Dubai Design Week 2025 and Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, is an innovative leader in the UAE’s cultural scene. In 2025, she was awarded the Diamond Award for Excellence in Culture while leading the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, promoting arts, innovation, and cultural development.
Huda Kattan
Huda Kattan, Founder and CEO of Huda Beauty, is celebrated for her entrepreneurial success and transformative leadership in the beauty industry. In 2025, she restructured and expanded her beauty empire, further cementing its position as a global brand.
Faiza Bouguessa
Fashion designer, Faiza Bouguessa, had a breakout year in 2025, marked by global expansion and high-profile collaborations. Her work has classified Bouguessa as a definitive reference for modern Arab style, seamlessly blending contemporary design with cultural heritage.
Salma Abu Deif
Salma Abu Deif, actor and Loewe’s first Arab brand ambassador, has become a prominent figure representing Arab beauty and style on the global stage. Bridging fashion and culture, her work showcases the influence and talent of Arab women internationally.
Elyanna
Bazaar Arabia’s January 2025 cover star and Palestinian singer, Elyanna, has become a defining voice for Arab youth culture. Her music and visual identity have shaped a new global narrative, blending modern beats with cultural storytelling.
H.R.H. Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud
H.R.H. Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud is Saudi Arabia’s first female ambassador to the United States and a pioneering diplomat and advocate. She is also a founding member of the Zahra Breast Cancer Awareness Association, promoting women’s health and empowerment.
Cherien Dabis
Cherien Dabis, director, screenwriter, and actor, was honoured with the Variety International Vanguard Director Award at the 2025 Red Sea International Film Festival. Her work continues to bring nuanced stories from the Arab world to global audiences, blending powerful narratives with cinematic artistry.
Haifa Dia Al-Attia
Haifa Dia Al-Attia, CEO of the Queen Rania Foundation, was honoured with the Arab Women of the Year Award for Achievement in Educational Development in 2025. Through her leadership, initiatives seeking to improve education quality and accessibility have empowered teachers and students across the region, advancing learning opportunities.
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