The Most Influential Indian Leaders Across the Middle East, 2025

April, 2025 Shilpa Mehra Independent Consultant The Most INFLUENTIAL Across the Middle East, 2025

"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower."

Shaping the Future: Indian Leadership and Inuence in the Middle East, 2025 A s India continues to expand its global footprint, its leadership in the Middle East has grown more influential than ever before. In 2025, Indian leaders, both political and economic, are carving new paths of collaboration, strengthening ties that have long been rooted in history but are now evolving in exciting ways. The Middle East, with its strategic importance, vast energy resources, and geopolitical complexities, stands as a key partner for India in its quest for regional stability, economic growth, and cultural exchange. Indian leaders are now seen not just as diplomatic representatives but as key players in shaping the Middle Eastern landscape. Their influence spans diverse areas—from energy and trade to education and defense. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic outreach, building strong bilateral relations with countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, has been crucial in fostering economic partnerships and encouraging people-to-people ties. India’s ability to navigate complex relationships in this region, balancing its ties with the Gulf States, Israel, and Iran, highlights its diplomatic acumen and strategic vision. Additionally, Indian business tycoons and entrepreneurs are playing a significant role in Middle Eastern economic development. By spearheading investments in infrastructure, technology, and industry, they are not only strengthening the economic fabric of the region but also positioning India as a leading global player. This compilation highlights those whose efforts have not only shaped the political and economic trajectory of India-Middle East relations but also impacted the broader global narrative. These leaders stand as testament to the enduring power of diplomacy, vision, and cooperation in a rapidly changing world. Preston B. Ed?ors’s Desk

Cover story 08 C O N T E N T S Navigating the Legal Landscape: Journey, Challenges, and Vision for the Future Articles Pioneering Strategies How Indian Leaders are Redefining Business Innova?on 16 Leading Change How Global Leaders are Shaping Tomorrow's World 20

Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editors Preston B. Jenny F. Michael W. Art & Design Director Associate Designer Visualizer David King Rosy Scott Angela Ruskin Senior Sales Managers Business Development Manager Brain Moody, Jack McDowell Mark Hassan Marketing Manager Sales Executives James M. Max Floyd Technical Head Business Development Executives Company Name Featured Person Brief Jacob Smile Simon, Tom Deepak Renganathan is the Vice President of Digital at DAMAC Properties, overseeing digital transformation and strategic innovation initiatives. Deepak Renganathan Vice President Digital DAMAC Properties damacproperties.com Technical Specialist Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T. Irvin Wilson Prashant Chacko is the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Godrej Consumer Products Limited. With extensive experience in brand management, he leads strategic marketing initiatives to drive growth and innovation. Godrej Consumer Products Limited godrejcp.com Prashant Chacko CMO Research Analyst SME-SMO Executive Frank Adams Steve Rodrigues Rohitash Bhaskar is the Head of International Infrastructure at Batelco. He oversees the company's global infrastructure strategy, focusing on expanding its international operations and ensuring the growth of telecom services worldwide. Rohitash Bhaskar Head - International Infrastructure Batelco batelco.com Database Management Technology Consultant Circulation Manager Stella Andrew David Stokes Robert Brown Sandeep Maru is the Global Sales Director at Ooredoo Group. He is responsible for driving the company's sales strategy, fostering international business growth, and enhancing customer relationships across global markets. sales@thedubaileaders.com April, 2025 Sandeep Maru Global Sales Director Ooredoo Group ooredoo.com Shilpa Bhasin Mehra is an experienced lawyer based in the UAE and an independent consultant. She specializes in legal advisory, business strategy, and providing expert guidance on complex legal matters. Shilpa Bhasin Mehra Experienced Lawyer in UAE Independent Consultant N/A www.linkedin.com/company/the-dubai-leaders/ Follow us on : www.facebook.com/thedubaileaders/ We are also available on : Copyright © 2025 The Dubai Leaders, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The Dubai Leaders. Reprint rights remain solely with The Dubai Leaders.

C O V E R S T O R Y Navigating the Legal Landscape: Journey, Challenges, and Vision for the Future Adaptability is key in an ever-evolving field. Communication skills remain paramount, as effective legal practice hinges on the ability to articulate arguments, negotiate settlements, and engage with clients empathetically. Shilpa Bhasin Mehra Independent Legal Consultant

The Most Influential Indian Leaders Across the Middle East, 2025 S hilpa Bhasin Mehra’s journey in the legal field is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of justice. As a fourth-generation lawyer, she was immersed in the world of law from an early age, captivated by the discipline, rigor, and impact of legal practice. Inspired by the unwavering commitment of her father, Dr. Lalit Bhasin, she seamlessly stepped into the profession, carrying forward a legacy of excellence. Over the years, she has carved out her own path, balancing ethical obligations, client advocacy, and legal advancements with a forward- thinking approach. Challenges as a Woman in Law Women in the legal profession face numerous challenges, particularly because of the number of hats they wear. . For Shilpa, the most demanding phase was returning to work after taking a break for motherhood. “Law firms often favour male lawyers due to the multiple responsibilities’ women juggle. However, I credit my husband, Vijay Mehra, for being a strong support system, allowing me to manage both my professional and personal responsibilities.” She emphasizes the importance of having a reliable network to navigate such challenges successfully. Shilpa gives full credit to her sisters, Sonia, Divvya and Priya, besides her father and husband, for standing by her side during her critical illness in the year 2003, chronicled in her first book, “All Battles aren’t Legal”. “I could not have bounced back to life and normalcy without their unwavering support.” Her philosophy in the legal profession reflects her intrinsic values—client-centered service, honesty, and a preference for negotiation over litigation. As a woman in a demanding profession, she has navigated challenges with grace, leveraging support systems and personal tenacity to overcome barriers. In this discussion, Shilpa shares insights into her career, the evolving legal landscape, and her commitment to mentorship, social responsibility, and the integration of technology in law. A Memorable Case Among her most rewarding experiences, Shilpa recalls a case where she successfully negotiated a settlement for a client who was sued for AED 10 million. Through careful mediation, she facilitated an agreement that was fair to both parties, ultimately leading to the case being dropped against her client. The resolution of this matter reaffirmed her belief in alternative dispute resolution and the power of dialogue over prolonged litigation. Today, the opposing parties have transformed into allies, emphasising the effectiveness of amicable legal solutions. Inspiration for a Legal Career Shilpa’s decision to pursue law was not marked by a singular defining moment but rather a lifelong exposure to the legal world. “Growing up in a family of lawyers, I was constantly surrounded by legal discussions,attending legal conferences, and the whole legal ecosystem. The black coats, voluminous files, and the intellectual rigor of the profession fascinated me. The deep respect commanded by legal professionals and the decisive impact of their work further solidified my interest.” Inspired by her father, Dr. Lalit Bhasin, she embraced the field with a clear understanding of the responsibility and dedication it required. AI streamlines research, automates documentation, and accelerates case assessments, ultimately saving time for legal professionals. However, technology should be viewed as an asset rather than a threat. Lawyers must harness AI’s capabilities while ensuring human judgment, ethical considerations, and emotional intelligence remain central to legal practice Work-Life Balance in the Legal Profession Balancing a demanding legal career with personal life is a challenge many professionals face, and Shilpa is no exception. She acknowledges that the legal field is highly demanding, often requiring long hours and unwavering dedication. However, she emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being. Approach to Legal Practice Shilpa’s legal philosophy is deeply rooted in client advocacy and ethical decision-making. “I prioritize long- term relationships with my clients, ensuring that my legal counsel is aligned with their best interests.” Litigation is always her last resort—she believes in exhausting all avenues of negotiation and mediation before pursuing court battles. Transparency and honest communication form the foundation of her practice, empowering clients with clear choices while fostering trust and fairness in every case. For Shilpa, the key to maintaining equilibrium lies in time management and having a strong support system. She credits her family, particularly her husband, for helping her navigate the challenges of juggling work and family responsibilities. She also believes that legal professionals, especially women, should not hesitate to seek help when needed. Instead of striving for perfection in every aspect, she advocates for a balanced approach where both personal and professional growth are nurtured.

She also highlights the need for law firms to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women. “Flexible work policies, mentorship programs, and structured career progression can help female lawyers sustain long-term careers without feeling compelled to choose between family and profession. I believe that with the right structures in place, women can excel in law without compromising on their personal lives.” unchecked AI use. Instances where AI-generated false precedents have been submitted to courts highlight the need for regulation. She advocates for a structured framework to ensure that AI enhances legal practice without compromising professional diligence and public trust in the system. Contributions Beyond Law The Role of Women in Leadership Positions in Law Beyond her practice, Shilpa is deeply involved in mentorship, legal activism, social advocacy, and charities. She actively engages with young lawyers and law students, sharing insights and guidance to shape the next generation of legal professionals. Her writings and public engagements focus on raising awareness about crucial societal issues, amplifying voices that often go unheard. She believes in leveraging her legal expertise to drive meaningful change, whether through policy advocacy, education, or community engagement. “Women have made significant strides in the legal profession, but challenges persist, particularly in leadership roles. I believe that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in ensuring equal representation at senior levels.” says Shilpa. She emphasizes that leadership in law should be based on merit and capability rather than gender. She acknowledges the biases that often prevent women from climbing the ranks at the same pace as their male counterparts. Shilpa strongly advocates for mentorship and sponsorship programs that help women gain visibility and access to leadership opportunities. Technology’s Role in Law Shilpa acknowledges the rapid rise of AI-driven legal solutions and their undeniable efficiency. “AI streamlines research, automates documentation, and accelerates case assessments, ultimately saving time for legal professionals. Technology should be viewed as an asset rather than a threat. Lawyers must harness AI’s capabilities while ensuring human judgment, ethical considerations, and emotional intelligence remain central to legal practice.” By integrating AI effectively, legal professionals can focus on strategic thinking and complex decision-making, thereby enhancing the quality of legal services. She believes that having more women in leadership roles brings a fresh perspective to legal practice. Women tend to approach issues with a problem-solving bent of mind coupled with empathy and holistic thinking, which can be invaluable in negotiations and dispute resolution. By supporting and empowering women in law, the profession can benefit from a more diverse and inclusive approach to justice. Navigating Ethical Dilemmas Ethical integrity is at the core of Shilpa’s practice. She adheres to a straightforward principle—advising clients based on the true merits of their cases. Whether a case is strong or weak, she lays out all options honestly, ensuring clients make informed decisions. She firmly believes that maintaining this level of transparency fosters long-term trust, leading to professional credibility and repeat clientele. Women have made significant strides in the legal profession, but challenges persist, particularly in leadership roles. I believe that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in ensuring equal representation at senior levels. Changes in the Legal Landscape The legal profession has undergone significant transformation, with the advent of AI and legal tech playing a pivotal role. A decade ago, technology had a minimal presence in legal practice, but today, AI is an integral tool in research, case analysis, and document drafting. However, Shilpa raises concerns about the risks associated with

Future Endeavors Law firms often favour male lawyers due to the multiple responsibilities’ women juggle. However, I credit my husband, Vijay, for being a strong support system, allowing me to manage both my professional and personal responsibilities. Looking ahead, Shilpa Mehra continues to blend her legal expertise with her passion for writing. In February 2025, she participated in the Law and Literature Festival in Delhi, VidhiUtsav where she unveiled her upcoming book, Unfiltered and Unapologetic. This book is a compilation of her articles that serves as a resource for readers seeking legal insights and social commentary. She remains committed to using her voice for advocacy, addressing pressing global issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainability. Her philosophy extends beyond professional success—she believes in contributing to societal well-being through what she terms “Professional Social Responsibility” (PSR). Advice for Aspiring Lawyers For those entering the legal profession, Shilpa advises cultivating a dynamic mindset—or as she terms it, “mind flow.” “Adaptability is key in an ever-evolving field. Communication skills remain paramount, as effective legal practice hinges on the ability to articulate arguments, negotiate settlements, and engage with clients empathetically.” With AI handling many technical tasks, the human element—understanding emotions, cultural contexts, and ethical nuances—becomes even more crucial. Aspiring lawyers should focus on honing these interpersonal skills while staying updated with technological advancements. As she continues her journey, Shilpa Bhasin Mehra remains dedicated to upholding justice, mentoring the next generation, and embracing innovation while preserving the ethical foundations of the legal profession. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring legal professionals, reinforcing the belief that law is not just a career but a lifelong commitment to fairness, integrity, and social impact.

Pioneering Strategies HowIndian Leadersare RedeningBusiness Innovation n an era where technological advancements are reshaping industries I traditional business models. From revolutionizing agriculture to enhancing healthcare and education, Indian leaders are embracing technology to drive sustainable business practices and positive social impact. This article offers insights on how Indian Leaders are leveraging cutting-edge tools such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and cloud computing to create more agile, customer-centric, and efficient operations. globally, Indian business leaders are emerging as key drivers of innovation, harnessing the power of technology to redefine Embracing Technology and Digital Transformation: Technology has emerged as a cornerstone of business innovation, and Indian leaders are embracing it to transform traditional sectors, streamline operations, and enhance customer experiences. The advent of the internet, mobile technology, and cloud computing has paved the way for business models that were once considered impossible. Entrepreneurs and leaders in India are leveraging these technologies to disrupt traditional business practices, making them more agile and customer- centric. The rise of digital platforms in various industries has allowed businesses to cater to a broader audience, making products and services accessible at a much faster rate. One of the most significant areas where Indian leaders are driving business innovation is fintech. India has witnessed a major transformation in the way people manage their finances, thanks to visionary leaders who have developed groundbreaking digital payment systems, mobile wallets, and online banking solutions. Indian leaders are also embracing cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to drive automation, improve decision- making, and enhance business efficiency. AI is being increasingly used across industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and customer service, providing businesses with the tools to streamline operations and create personalized experiences for consumers. The shift to cloud computing is another critical area where Indian leaders are driving business innovation. By adopting cloud solutions, Indian 16 17 THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 | THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 |

Sustainability and Social Impact: companies are enabling businesses to scale rapidly, reduce operational costs, and improve flexibility. The cloud-first approach has allowed Indian businesses to expand their operations quickly without the heavy infrastructure costs associated with traditional on-premise IT solutions. One of the most notable ways Indian leaders are integrating sustainability into their business models is through green technologies and renewable energy solutions. With India’s growing energy demand and the global push to combat climate change, leaders in the energy sector are spearheading innovations that not only provide cleaner energy but also contribute to reducing India’s carbon footprint. Another area where Indian leaders are integrating sustainability is the concept of the circular economy. The circular economy aims to minimize waste, maximize the use of resources, and reduce environmental harm by rethinking traditional production and consumption patterns. Indian businesses are leading the charge in creating more sustainable supply chains and reducing waste. Rethinking Traditional Sectors: Agriculture, which is the backbone of India’s economy, has traditionally relied on age-old practices that have not always been sustainable or efficient. However, Indian leaders in the agritech sector are revolutionizing this industry by introducing technology-driven solutions that improve productivity, reduce wastage, and ensure better livelihoods for farmers. Leaders like Ramanathan V. of AgroStar and Shravan Shroff of Farmizen have created digital platforms that offer farmers access to real-time data, expert advice, and high-quality agricultural inputs. The healthcare sector in India has long been plagued by inefficiencies, lack of accessibility in rural areas, and the high cost of treatment. However, Indian leaders are rethinking healthcare by integrating technology to enhance accessibility, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes. Indian leaders are also redefining business innovation by focusing on social entrepreneurship—creating ventures that tackle both environmental and social issues. These leaders are not just driven by the goal of profits; they are deeply committed to making a positive difference in society, especially for marginalized communities. Narayana Health, founded by Dr. Devi Shetty, is an example of a healthcare business that combines innovation with a social mission. One of the key areas where Indian leaders are making a difference is in the area of telemedicine and health-tech. One of the key areas where Indian leaders are making a difference is in the area of telemedicine and health-tech. Practo, founded by Shashank ND and Abhinav Lal, is a leading example of how technology is transforming healthcare. Practo offers a platform that allows patients to consult doctors online, book appointments, and access medical records, significantly reducing wait times and making healthcare more accessible, especially in remote areas. In India, business leaders are increasingly incorporating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into their business strategies. Rather than viewing CSR as an afterthought or a mere marketing tool, many Indian entrepreneurs are using it as a core component of their business operations, driving real change in areas such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. For instance, Tata Group, under the leadership of N. Chandrasekaran, has long been at the forefront of CSR initiatives, focusing on projects that have a tangible social impact. The traditional education system in India has long been characterized by a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach that does not always meet the diverse needs of students. Today, however, Indian leaders are transforming the education sector by embracing technology and redefining how education is delivered and consumed. BYJU’S, founded by Byju Raveendran, has become a global leader in online education, offering personalized learning experiences for students from K-12 to competitive exams like the IIT-JEE and GRE. The company’s interactive video lessons, adaptive learning algorithms, and real-time feedback systems have made learning more engaging and accessible to millions of students, both in urban and rural areas. Conclusion Indian leaders are proving that the integration of technology, sustainability, and social impact can transform business innovation into a powerful force for good. Whether it’s through digital solutions in healthcare, green energy initiatives, or education reform, these leaders are not only modernizing traditional industries but also contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future. As India continues to rise as a global economic powerhouse, the innovative approaches adopted by its business leaders serve as a blueprint for others worldwide, demonstrating that technology can indeed be harnessed for both profit and purpose. Subscribe to The Dubai Leaders Your Gateway to a world of Knowledge and Creativity! 18 THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 |

Leading Change How Global Leaders are Shaping Tomorrow's World ith the current era of historic challenges and W to business, and environmental stewardship, their actions, decisions, and vision are mapping the future for tomorrow's world. Global leadership is a broad concept that entails diplomacy, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. As nations and people are becoming increasingly globalized, the importance of such leaders is greater than ever before. This article discusses how global leadership is determining the future and the revolutionary influence of their works. opportunities, global leaders are leading the way in charting the course of tomorrow's world. From politics The Power of Visionary Leadership One of the fundamental pillars of world leadership is having the capacity to see the future and devise strategies to bring that future into being. Visionary leaders are aware of how global challenges are interlinked, including climate change, technological innovations, and geopolitics tensions. Their capacity for foreseeing the future trends and responding pre-emptively is essential in managing complicated challenges. For instance, visionary leaders such as Angela Merkel and Barack Obama have exercised global leadership through an emphasis on multilateralism and reinforcing international cooperation. Their vision for a world based on common prosperity and peace has been instrumental in establishing robust international partnerships and shaping global development agendas. Visionary leadership is fundamental to not just reacting to crises but also in building a future that works for everyone. Innovation and Technological Advancements In the modern age, technology innovation is among the most 20 21 THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 | THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 |

effective drivers of change. World leaders, especially in the business and governmental arenas, play key roles in deciding how emerging technologies will be put into use for the good of society. From renewable energy to artificial intelligence, the choices they make impact the speed and nature of innovation. is the common good of humanity. Effective diplomacy allows nations to collaborate with each other and resolve issues no individual nation can address on its own. The Social Responsibility and Ethical Leadership Role Global leadership is not merely a matter of political or economic dominance; it is also a strong sense of responsibility to tackle social problems. Today's leaders are called upon to place human rights, equality, and social justice at the top of their agenda. Their capacity to mobilize movements that encourage inclusivity, diversity, and ethical behavior is the foundation of contemporary leadership. Technological leadership around the world is not merely developing new things, but to make them accessible, ethical, and sustainable. People like Elon Musk, who advance the use of electric automobiles and green energy, and governments that emphasize digital infrastructure, play a crucial role in defining how technology affects the world. Addressing Global Challenges: Climate Change and Sustainability Leaders such as Jacinda Ardern, the New Zealand Prime Minister, have been the epitome of this kind of leadership, especially with her reaction to the Christchurch shootings and during the COVID-19 crisis. In showing empathy and taking firm action to safeguard people, she presented an example of the way global leadership can cut across political ideologies to prioritize the well-being of humanity. Perhaps the most urgent challenge that global leadership needs to face is climate change. The world is experiencing an environmental crisis, and if it does not get addressed by leaders from all over the world with concerted, vigorous efforts, the implications could be catastrophic. Global leadership here implies taking drastic measures to cut down carbon emissions, transition to renewable energy, and encourage sustainable development. Conclusion Looking ahead, it is certain that the choices made by world leaders today will have a great impact on the world of tomorrow. Leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President, have led with great global leadership through efforts like the European Green Deal, which seeks to transform Europe into the world's first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Such leadership has the power to inspire other countries to emulate it, creating a chain effect that demands a global commitment to sustainability. Through visionary leadership, technological breakthroughs, sustainability initiatives, or diplomatic actions, world leadership is defining the course of world progress. Leaders who take responsibility, promote cooperation, and make a positive difference are not only solving the problems of today—but they are building the foundations for a better, more just world. By continuing to place collective action and shared values at the forefront, global leaders will make tomorrow's world one that is the best of humanity's potential. Ultimately, the task of global leadership is one of great responsibility, but also one of limitless possibility. Tomorrow's leaders must step up to the challenge, understanding that their actions today will determine the world for generations to come. Diplomacy and Global Cooperation Diplomacy continues to be at the center of world leadership. With increasing complexities in international relations, it is the diplomatic prowess of leaders that makes collaboration across borders possible. Problems such as trade, security, and human rights need an international solution that goes beyond individual national interests. Effective global leaders understand how to handle such sensitive situations, establishing consensus and creating cooperation. The current initiatives of international leaders to conduct trade negotiations, deal with global conflicts, and address global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, highlight the necessity of diplomatic leadership. In all these instances, global leadership transcends national interest but 22 THE DUBAI LEADERS | April 2025 |

The Most Influential Indian Leaders Across the Middle East, 2025

The Most Influential Indian Leaders Across the Middle East, 2025

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