What do a fintech pioneer, a climate strategist, and a museum talent hunter have in common? They’re all reshaping the future of Qatar—one idea, one policy, one project at a time.
In a country rapidly emerging as a hub for innovation and influence, the people on this list aren’t just participating in change—they’re defining it. Whether you’re tracking trends in AI, investing in startups, or seeking leadership inspiration, these are the Top Voices You Should Follow in Qatar to stay ahead in 2025.
Highlights
Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul
A global healthcare strategist, Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul serves as CEO of The View Hospital in partnership with Cedars-Sinai. Moreover, he has been recognized by Forbes and Newsweek among the world’s top healthcare leaders.
Starting from bedside care to executive leadership, Dr. Gul blends clinical insight with operational excellence. He previously led the region’s first LEED-certified university hospital and pioneered rural health initiatives. Furthermore, he’s the host of The Chief Healthcare Officer podcast and an advocate for ESG, CSR, and healthcare sustainability.
Sheikh Dr. Soud Al-Thani
Dr. Soud Al-Thani is a champion of sustainable development, currently steering climate strategy as Director of Climate Change and Carbon Management at Qatar Foundation’s Earthna. Previously, he directed green development at Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
With more than a decade at ASTAD, he played a central role in shaping Qatar’s urban sustainability blueprint. Notably, Dr. Al-Thani is influencing both local and global low-carbon economic frameworks.
Shyam Krishna
With over 20 years in HR, Shyam Krishna leads talent acquisition at Qatar Museums and is a recognized voice on AI in HR. His transformative work has redefined how culture-sector institutions in Qatar hire for impact.
Furthermore, his insights on Lean HR and digital transformation have earned him recognition as a Top LinkedIn Creator in the country. Shyam’s blend of human-centric leadership and technological foresight sets him apart in the evolving world of work.
He is also an active contributor to regional HR innovation, advocating for the integration of AI in talent acquisition and development, and for building agile talent strategies aligned with long-term institutional growth.
Sheikha Mayes H. Al Thani
As Group CEO of M Power Investment Group and Managing Director of the US-Qatar Business Council, Sheikha Mayes Al Thani exemplifies bold, strategic leadership. Her accolades include the Women of Change Business Leader Award (2022) and being the first female YPO Qatar Chapter Chair.
Beyond business, she is a keynote advocate for gender equity and international diplomacy, making her a multifaceted force across sectors.
Maha Al-Saadi
Maha Al-Saadi, Head of Regulatory Affairs at Qatar Financial Centre, is driving conversations on digital assets, CBDCs, and blockchain regulation. Additionally, she represents Qatar as an Ambassador for the Global Blockchain Business Council.
Her thought leadership is shaping Qatar’s place in the future of finance, ensuring it stays competitive and compliant on the global stage.
Rafia Al-Jassim
Rafia Al-Jassim is a rising leader in sustainable innovation and investment. As COO of AlgaQ and a specialist at Invest Qatar, she is spearheading algae-based climate technologies while advancing national investment strategies.
Moreover, she has been recognized as the World Economic Forum Future50 Leader and is a vocal advocate within the Global Shapers and Young AI Leaders communities. With her multidisciplinary background spanning policy, analytics, and entrepreneurship, she is driving transformative solutions for a more resilient and sustainable future.
John Mankarios
Named among the World CIO 200 and Qatar’s CSO30, John Mankarios is revolutionizing IT at QInvest as Deputy Head of IT. He drives digital transformation, cybersecurity, and AI adoption in the financial sector.
With an MBA in International Management, John’s work fuses strategy with secure innovation. Furthermore, he is a keynote speaker and advisor shaping Qatar’s digital resilience.
Nikita Gordeev
As CTO of Snoonu, Nikita Gordeev is one of Qatar’s top voices in AI and software innovation. Honored by Fast Company as a Top 50 AI Leader in MENA, he blends deep tech expertise with leadership in ecommerce, logistics, and app development.
Furthermore, his academic foundation from MIT and HEC Paris fuels his vision to build Qatar’s next tech unicorn.
Sharifa AlBarami
Sharifa AlBarami is a digital strategist and angel investor shaping the GCC’s startup landscape. Currently leading digital content at Visit Qatar, she creates compelling campaigns that position Qatar as a global destination.
Additionally, her executive MBA and 20+ years in scaling startups make her a sought-after mentor and ecosystem builder in the region.
Georges Fouad Salem
Georges Fouad Salem has quietly shaped some of Qatar’s most influential FinTech and startup initiatives over the past decade.
As a founding figure behind the Qatar FinTech Hub and a former senior advisor at Qatar Development Bank, he has played a central role in nurturing a resilient innovation ecosystem—backing 140+ startups with over $20M in pre-seed capital and enabling $46M+ in follow-on funding.
Beyond his public sector contributions, Georges currently advises several FinTech platforms and serves on the boards of companies at the intersection of digital payments, lending, and SME finance. Through LEVERA, his international advisory firm, he now helps European technology firms bridge into the MENA region.
Power Players Ahead: Why These Voices Deserve Your Feed
Each of these individuals represents a powerful intersection of innovation, leadership, and societal impact.
By following the Top Voices You Should Follow in Qatar, you gain insights into emerging trends, strategic leadership, and the heartbeat of regional transformation. Whether it’s shaping sustainable policy, scaling startups, or reimagining digital finance, these voices aren’t just influencing change—they’re leading it.
As 2025 unfolds, their influence will continue to define Qatar’s position on the global stage. Follow them, learn from them, and let their journeys inspire your own.
Highlights
Read the Chinese article here, or listen to the podcast here.
