Forbes Middle East recently unveiled its inaugural list of the “Top 20 Arab Women in Government” for 2025, and leading the pack is none other than Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani!

From culture to education: Sheikha Al Mayassa is leaving an unforgettable mark on Qatar’s landscape!

Her dedication to culture, education, leadership and philanthropy has not only helped expand Qatar’s cultural influence worldwide, but she has also been instrumental in preserving and promoting heritage across the globe.

 

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• Leading Qatar Museums: Sheikha Al Mayassa has turned Qatar Museums into a global cultural hub, boosting Qatar’s art scene with incredible museums and exhibitions.

• Founder of Doha Film Institute: She’s behind the Doha Film Institute, supporting independent filmmakers and bringing Middle Eastern cinema to the world.

• Building Global Partnerships: Sheikha Al Mayassa has built key partnerships with cultural giants like the Aga Khan Trust, pushing for heritage conservation and cultural exchange.

• Championing Qatar’s Cultural Presence: From major art collections to world-class exhibitions, she’s put Qatar on the map as a cultural powerhouse.

• Investing in Education: Through her work with institutions like the Qatar Leadership Centre, she’s shaping the future of young leaders in Qatar and beyond.

• Cultural Diplomat: Representing Qatar internationally, she’s shared the country’s rich culture on the global stage, making a mark in cultural diplomacy.

• Creating Public Art: Sheikha Al Mayassa has helped make Qatar an open-air art gallery with installations by renowned artists.

• Global Year of Culture & Reach Out to Asia: She led Qatar’s Year of Culture initiatives, promoting cross-cultural exchanges, and is a key player in Reach Out to Asia, helping to improve education across the region.

• Expanding Qatar Museums: Under her leadership, Qatar Museums has grown, with iconic places like the Museum of Islamic Art and National Museum of Qatar.

But that’s not all!

Five inspiring Qatar-based women make it to Forbes Middle East’s “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen 2025” list – talk about making an impact!

In another major highlight, Forbes Middle East’s “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen 2025” list features five incredible women from Qatar who are shaking up industries and making a lasting impact. From banking and healthcare to education and tech, these trailblazers are setting the bar high and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

 

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Let’s take a look at the other Qatar-based women making waves on this prestigious list:

– Mira Al Attiyah (#32)

CEO of QNB Capital, driving the company’s success in investment banking and managing over $50 billion in offerings.

– Iyabo Tinubu-Karch (#59)

CEO of Sidra Medicine, leading groundbreaking work in healthcare and launching Qatar’s first cord blood bank.

– Lana Khalaf (#66)

GM of Microsoft Qatar, transforming sectors with AI-driven innovations.

– Leonie Ruth Lethbridge (#74)

COO & Executive GM of Commercial Bank, delivering strong financial results and empowering SMEs.

– Sheikha Anwar bint Nawaf Al Thani (#77)

CEO of Al Faleh Educational Holding, leading successful listings and advancing education.

These women are redefining what’s possible and shaping Qatar’s future, both locally and internationally. Here’s to their amazing achievements and their continuous inspiration!