The Market Makers in MEA with Abrar Hussain

Abrar Hussain
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The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region greatly interests the global business community. The region provides a growth market for global companies and opportunities for new ventures. These companies can, in turn, help the region create employment, develop talent, help develop a start-up ecosystem and contribute to economic growth.As a personal initiative following a motto of 'Business as a force for good", I will soon release 20+ Video Podcast where I will talk to CEOs, business leaders & policymakers about the opportunities, potential, challenges, and ways to scale up businesses in MEA region allowing the whole ecosystem to flourish. We will also touch base on ESG and how businesses can drive sustainability.It’s an important region that represents a cluster of 65+ countries, 20% of the world’s population, with attractive demographics and nominal GDP of $7+ trillion that is growing at 4% per year. The venture investment is growing, with $6+ billion raised in 2021 across 1200+ deals.

  1. #43: AI for a Smarter Future: Responsible Innovation & Industry Transformation with Andrew Jackson

    07/19/2025

    #43: AI for a Smarter Future: Responsible Innovation & Industry Transformation with Andrew Jackson

    🚀 Episode 43: Building Responsible, Sovereign AI with Andrew Jackson, Ex CEO of Inception (a G42 company), and Group Chief AI Officer at G42. Honored to host Andrew Jackson, a trailblazer in AI and technology leadership, on the latest episode of The Market Makers in MEA Podcast! 🎙️ Join us as we dive into:  🧠 Andrew’s journey—using AI for high-frequency trading and leading AI innovation across finance, healthcare, and national security. 🌍 G42’s vision to commercialize AI research and build domain-specific, sovereign AI models tailored to the UAE’s language and culture. 🗣️ How Inception is developing Arabic, Hindi, and Kazakh language models for a truly inclusive AI future. 🇦🇪 UAE’s rise as a global AI hub—fueled by government support, ecosystem innovation, and world-class research. 🎓 Qudra Tech—Inception’s initiative to upskill Emiratis in AI and empower the next generation of talent. ⚖️ The role of Responsible AI—governing powerful models with ethics and transparency. Andrew shares powerful insights on building AI for impact, commercialization, and the ethical responsibilities that come with scale—a must-listen for every business leader, technologist, and policymaker. 🚀 🎧 Watch & listen to the full episode of @The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa Video Podcast on: • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yourlink • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU • Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999  #ArtificialIntelligence #ResponsibleAI #SovereignAI #UAEInnovation #G42 #InceptionAI #AILeadership #MarketMakersMEA #AndrewJackson ** This podcast is a Personal Initiative **

    31 min
  2. #42: Reimagining Retail, Real Estate & E-commerce with Binoo Joseph, Group Chief Digital Officer at Cenomi

    05/27/2025

    #42: Reimagining Retail, Real Estate & E-commerce with Binoo Joseph, Group Chief Digital Officer at Cenomi

    Episode 42: Reimagining Retail, Real Estate & E-commerce with Binoo Joseph, Group Chief Digital Officer at Cenomi Honored to host Binoo Joseph, a visionary tech leader with 20+ years of experience, on the latest episode of The Market Makers in MEA podcast. 🎙️🇸🇦 We dive deep into Cenomi’s bold digital transformation journey—at the intersection of retail, real estate, and e-commerce—covering: 🧠 Binoo’s path to leading large-scale digital transformation across industries and regions. 🏙️ How Cenomi is blending physical and digital environments to redefine the shopping mall of the future. 📊 Using advanced data analytics to optimize real estate portfolios, elevate customer engagement, and streamline operations. 🤖 The role of AI, smart technologies, and IoT in delivering seamless, personalized, omnichannel experiences. 🔐 Cenomi’s strategic approach to cybersecurity and data protection across its platforms. 🚚 Tackling last-mile delivery challenges to ensure faster, more efficient e-commerce fulfillment. 🌱 How tech and sustainability go hand-in-hand—from energy-efficient malls to eco-conscious retail practices. 💡 Key lessons learned from Cenomi’s transformation playbook—and what’s next in its 5–10 year vision. Binoo shares practical insights and bold ideas for the future of customer-centric, tech-enabled commerce in the MEA region. 🎧 Watch & listen to the full episode of The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa on: •YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yourlink •Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/yourlink • Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/yourlink #RetailInnovation #SmartRealEstate #EcommerceTransformation #Cenomi #DigitalLeadership #CustomerExperience #MarketMakersMEA #BinooJoseph #SmartMalls #DataDrivenRetail #SustainabilityInRetail ** This podcast is a Personal Initiative **

    32 min
  3. #41: Insights from Haisam Odeimeh on Innovation, Sustainability, and Security at Al Ramz

    03/23/2025

    #41: Insights from Haisam Odeimeh on Innovation, Sustainability, and Security at Al Ramz

    Episode 41: Transforming Financial Services with Haisam Odeimeh, Group CEO of Financial Services at Al Ramz Honored to host Haisam Odeimeh, Group CEO of Financial Services at Al Ramz, on the latest episode of The Market Makers in MEA Podcast! 🎙️ Join us as we explore: 📈 Haisam’s journey and key milestones in leading Al Ramz’s financial services division. 🌍 Vision for the future of Al Ramz in the evolving financial sector. 💡 Innovation & AI—how Al Ramz is leveraging technology to reshape financial services. 🔐 Cybersecurity & risk management in financial transactions. ♻️ Sustainability in finance—Al Ramz’s approach to responsible investing. 📊 Growth opportunities in the Middle East’s financial landscape. Haisam shares deep insights on strategic partnerships, digital transformation, and overcoming industry challenges—a must-listen for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and finance professionals! 🚀 🎧 Watch & listen to the full episode of @The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa Video Podcast on: YouTube: https://youtu.be/26KvMdiCwAM?si=MatzY3zwTPaZ8SWhSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5csIXsTJfShvhs1H08Imnh Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/39-financial-leadership-and-sustainability-strategies/id1674391999?i=1000688452217  #FinancialServices #DigitalTransformation #FinTech #Sustainability #AIinFinance #Cybersecurity #MarketMakersMEA #HaisamOdeimeh #AlRamz   ** This podcast is a Personal Initiative **

    23 min
  4. #40: Insights from Bashar Kilani on AI, Innovation, and Value Creation in the Middle East

    03/23/2025

    #40: Insights from Bashar Kilani on AI, Innovation, and Value Creation in the Middle East

    Episode 40: Honored to have an insightful conversation with Bashar Kilani, Founder & Managing Director of AI360 Innovations, on the latest episode of The Market Makers in MEA Podcast. 🚀 Join us as we explore: 🤖 The AI Revolution – How AI360 Innovations is driving AI-powered digital transformation in the UAE and MEA. 🏛️ AI & Government Transformation – How AI is reshaping public services in Dubai with real-world impact. 📊 Challenges in AI Adoption – Key obstacles businesses and governments face in implementing AI—and how to solve them. 🌍 Future of AI in Dubai – Where AI will have the biggest influence over the next decade. 🤝 Global AI Collaboration – How international partnerships are fueling AI success in the region. 🎓 AI Talent Development – Nurturing the next generation of AI leaders and innovators. 📖 AI’s Role in the Digital Economy – How AI is redefining business models and value creation in the Middle East. With his expertise in AI, innovation, and leadership—including his role as a Managing Partner at Boyden—Bashar shares game-changing strategies shaping AI’s future in the MEA region. 🚀 🎧 Watch & listen to the full episode of @The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa Video Podcast on: YouTube: https://youtu.be/CkmFNDdWsT8?si=cvty-LWGXKi9YMaWSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5csIXsTJfShvhs1H08Imnh Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/39-financial-leadership-and-sustainability-strategies/id1674391999?i=1000688452217  #AIInnovation #DigitalTransformation #MarketMakersMEA #FutureOfAI #BasharKilani #AI360Innovations #ArtificialIntelligence #MiddleEastTech   ** This podcast is a Personal Initiative **

    25 min
  5. #39: Financial Leadership and Sustainability Strategies: A Conversation with Rajesh Garg, CFO of Landmark Group

    02/03/2025

    #39: Financial Leadership and Sustainability Strategies: A Conversation with Rajesh Garg, CFO of Landmark Group

    Episode 39: Honored to have an insightful conversation with Rajesh Garg, Group Chief Financial Officer & Chief Sustainability Officer at Landmark Group, on the latest episode of “The Market Makers in MEA” Podcast. 🌍 We explored: 💼 Rajesh’s journey in driving financial strategies and sustainability initiatives at Landmark Group, one of the largest retail businesses in MEA. 🌱 How Landmark Group is leading the way in the fashion industry by prioritizing sustainability in its business practices. 📊 Balancing short-term financial goals with long-term sustainability commitments and using key metrics to measure success. 🤖 The transformative role of technology and AI in retail, financial management, and sustainability efforts. 🌍 Landmark Group’s strategies for reducing their carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability across the Middle East. 💡 Rajesh also highlighted key insights from his book, “Vicks, Vitamin and Vitality,” a must-read for business leaders looking to embrace and implement sustainability in their organizations and drive value creation. 📚 With past senior roles, including Board of Director at Cipla and leadership positions in global MNCs, Rajesh brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. Tune in as we explore how technology, innovation, and sustainability are transforming the retail sector, and what the future holds for Landmark Group in the MEA region. 🚀 #SustainabilityLeadership #RetailInnovation #LandmarkGroup #FinancialStrategies #DigitalTransformation #MarketMakersMEA #SustainabilityInBusiness #RajeshGarg   ** This podcast is a Personal Initiative **

    42 min
  6. #38: Future-Ready Leadership: Insights from Ziad Chalhoub on Transforming Majid Al Futtaim

    01/05/2025

    #38: Future-Ready Leadership: Insights from Ziad Chalhoub on Transforming Majid Al Futtaim

    Episode 38: Thrilled to share an insightful conversation with Ziad Chalhoub, Chief Financial Officer at Majid Al Futtaim Holding, one of the largest and prominent company in retail, malls, fashion and real estate in Middle East.🎥🌍 Join us as we explore Ziad’s inspiring journey and dive into how Majid Al Futtaim is transforming the future of retail, real estate, and corporate finance. In this episode, we discuss: 🔑 Ziad’s story and his role in driving Majid Al Futtaim’s financial strategy across diverse sectors. 💡 Navigating global economic challenges and leveraging emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency. 🌍 The future of retail and real estate in the Middle East and how Majid Al Futtaim is shaping the region’s business landscape. ♻️ Balancing profitability with sustainability while adopting innovative practices. 📊 The significance of data as the new oil in fueling strategic growth and the future economy. 🚀 The evolving role of the CFO—not just about accounting, but about value creation, becoming an engine of growth, and driving governance to sustain long-term success. Gain unparalleled insights into how Majid Al Futtaim is redefining industries, championing sustainability, and leveraging digital innovation to stay ahead in a competitive market. 🎧✨ Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yNaFqknjUFg?si=3yY4HHxXRyqqqCzvSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999 #Leadership #CorporateFinance #Sustainability #FutureEconomy #DataIsTheNewOil #Innovation #MEARegion #ValueCreation   *This podcast is a Personal Initiative *

    33 min
  7. #37: Thrilled to share an engaging conversation with Shant Oknayan, VP at ByteDance and TikTok Global Business Solutions!

    01/05/2025

    #37: Thrilled to share an engaging conversation with Shant Oknayan, VP at ByteDance and TikTok Global Business Solutions!

    Episode 37: Thrilled to share an engaging conversation with Shant Oknayan, VP at ByteDance and TikTok Global Business Solutions! 🎥🌍 Join us as we dive into TikTok’s groundbreaking expansion across the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. In this episode, we discuss:  🔑 Shant’s journey leading TikTok’s rapid growth and navigating diverse, dynamic markets.  💡 How TikTok tailors its content to resonate with the unique cultures and preferences of the MEA region.  🚀 The significant role of emerging technologies and AI in enhancing user experience and content discovery.  🔒 TikTok’s robust approach to cybersecurity and data protection.  📈 The strategic importance of the MEA region and TikTok’s contributions to the digital economy by fostering online communities. 🌟  Shant’s perspective as a Board Member at MMA APAC on the future of mobile marketing and digital content. Tune in to this compelling episode to gain valuable insights into how TikTok is shaping digital content and the future of social media in MEA and beyond. 🎧✨ #DigitalInnovation #TikTok #MarketMakersMEA #AIinMedia #Cybersecurity #Leadership #MEARegion Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gSeywnSB43E?si=76qJXBejC96EtppO Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3jdBX5O448JQJryxUexTv4 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/33-transforming-transactions-exploring-noqodis-impact/id1674391999?i=1000667617764 #Fintech #DigitalPayments #Noqodi #MarketMakersMEA #Leadership #Innovation #Sustainability #AI #Blockchain #SMEs #MENAeconomy *This podcast is a Personal Initiative *

    34 min
  8. #36: Revolutionizing Real Estate: A Deep Dive into Marketing Strategies with Sevgi Gur, CMO at Property Finder

    11/10/2024

    #36: Revolutionizing Real Estate: A Deep Dive into Marketing Strategies with Sevgi Gur, CMO at Property Finder

    Episode 36: Engaged in an insightful discussion with Sevgi Gur, Chief Marketing Officer at Property Finder, exploring the dynamic realm of real estate marketing. 🚀 Here’s what we covered: 📈 Key marketing strategies that have propelled Property Finder to its current market position, navigating through digital transformation’s impact on the real estate industry. 💡 Impactful campaigns at Property Finder, their significance, and the results achieved. 🚀 Balancing innovation with consistent brand messaging, leveraging data analytics, and integrating customer feedback into marketing decisions. 🔮 The evolving role of AI and machine learning in real estate marketing and the challenges faced in marketing properties across the diverse Middle East and Africa region. 🌐 Adapting marketing approaches during the pandemic and forecasting future trends in real estate marketing. 💼 Strategies for staying ahead of competition in the rapidly evolving digital landscape and fostering a creative environment within the marketing department. 🚀 Future marketing innovations and initiatives envisioned for Property Finder.    Join us for a deep dive into real estate marketing insights with Sevgi Gur on the “Unveiling Real Estate Dynamics” Podcast! Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qV0xcNfa4hQ?si=bU5MeVuEjs9h5Yi2Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999  🏡 #RealEstateMarketing #PropertyFinder #MarketMakersMEA #DigitalTransformation #InnovationLeadership #MarketingStrategies

    25 min
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About

The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region greatly interests the global business community. The region provides a growth market for global companies and opportunities for new ventures. These companies can, in turn, help the region create employment, develop talent, help develop a start-up ecosystem and contribute to economic growth.As a personal initiative following a motto of 'Business as a force for good", I will soon release 20+ Video Podcast where I will talk to CEOs, business leaders & policymakers about the opportunities, potential, challenges, and ways to scale up businesses in MEA region allowing the whole ecosystem to flourish. We will also touch base on ESG and how businesses can drive sustainability.It’s an important region that represents a cluster of 65+ countries, 20% of the world’s population, with attractive demographics and nominal GDP of $7+ trillion that is growing at 4% per year. The venture investment is growing, with $6+ billion raised in 2021 across 1200+ deals.

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