Dubai played host to a remarkable evening of recognition and inspiration as the UAE’s Next MasterMind Awards 2025 gathered some of the world’s most influential thought leaders.
Held at the iconic Al Habtoor Palace, the event celebrated excellence across industries, reaffirming the UAE’s dedication to innovation, leadership empowerment, and global progress.
VIPs converge
The evening was honored by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Kayed Al Qasimi, chairman of the Department of Economic Development in Ras Al Khaimah, and H.E. Sheikh Dr. Salem BalRakkad Alameri, chairman of the board of directors of the Emirates Cancer Society. They were joined by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Naeemat, chairman of AD Box Events.
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Big name speakers
A series of compelling keynote addresses opened the evening, setting the tone for celebration and dialogue. Among the speakers were influential figures such as Dr. Navana Kundu, Dr. Shaikha Almazrouei, futurist Philippe Gerwill, Kafeel Ahmed Gudekar, founder of Al Maghribi Perfumes, and Gabriel Reifinger, founder of PowerFitness Coaching.
Each speaker shared insights aligned with the UAE’s aspirations for global leadership in sustainability, innovation, and human capital development.
Award for global sustainability
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the ‘Emerging Emirati Leader in Global Sustainability’ award to Hind Sulaiman Al Fahim of Sulaiman Al Fahim Holding, recognizing her rising impact in sustainable leadership.
She was accompanied by her father, prominent entrepreneur Sulaiman Al Fahim, further underscoring the family’s enduring influence on the UAE’s business and philanthropic landscape.
Honoring excellence
Dozens of other prominent individuals were honored for their contributions across business, health, education, media, and leadership.
Honorees included Dr. Dana Alrahbi, Dr. Shatha Alghazali, Meshal Al Marzooqi, Dr. Rikhsibay Tursunov, Hemant Bajaj, Nisha Shoukath, Eiman Alkatheeri, Salma Yasmeen, Dr. Osama Regaah, May Al Buainain, Badreya Rashed, Razan Al Fahoum, Mary Saliba, Asma Zainal, Lorena Pineda, Sabir Shaikh, Prof. Sherley Louis, Dr. Samah Mohamed Al Thehli, Yuvraj Bahl, Doaa Sheikhani, Sara Kwaider, Dr. Helal Al-Helal, Neetu Choudhary, Shaakira Ally, Neha Patel, Salman Thakur, Dr. Manoj Kurup, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla Xec, Eiman Ghanim Salem Bakheet Alkatheeri, Geetha Narayanan Nair, Dr. Krishna Priya, and Sohaib Irfan.
Dr. Mansoor Al Obeidli, founder of the MasterMind Awards, reflected on the evolution of the platform: “Over the years, the Next MasterMind Awards has grown into a premier platform that celebrates the achievements of global changemakers and innovators, in line with the UAE’s vision of fostering sustainable economic development. Events like this serve as powerful catalysts for regional transformation – motivating both emerging and established entrepreneurs to pursue excellence. We will continue to advance impactful leadership, nurture creative thinking, and build bridges across borders to drive inclusive growth and long-term progress for communities around the world.”
The event also featured immersive brand partnerships. Al Maghribi Perfumes, known for its signature oriental fragrances, elevated the atmosphere as the Fragrance Partner, offering attendees a unique sensory journey.
The Emirates Entrepreneurship Association (EEA) served as the Strategic Partner, reinforcing the event’s strong alignment with regional entrepreneurship initiatives.
Meanwhile, DXB News Network covered the event as the Official Media Partner, and HR Connex supported operations as the Staffing Partner.
Founded by Dr. Mansoor Al Obeidli and co-founded by Dr. Navana Kundu, the MasterMind Awards has, for over 13 years, recognized outstanding leaders from around the globe.
The 2025 edition maintained this legacy, spotlighting trailblazers across business, coaching, corporate leadership, authorship, and thought leadership, redefining influence for the modern world.
Future expansion
Looking ahead, the platform is set to expand even further. Two upcoming sector-focused editions have been announced:
- UAE’s Next MasterMind Awards 2025 – World Beauty, Fashion, and Lifestyle, to be held on 20 September 2025
- UAE’s Next MasterMind Awards – Healthcare | Aesthetics | Wellness | Digital Transformation, scheduled for 22 November 2025
These editions aim to deepen the impact of the awards by showcasing innovation in specialized fields and strengthening the UAE’s role as a hub for cross-sector global excellence.
The UAE’s Next MasterMind Awards 2025 was more than a celebration; it was a declaration of intent to lead, inspire, and innovate on a global scale.
