The food and beverage industry in the Middle East is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by visionary leaders who are redefining standards, innovating products, and expanding global footprints. Here are ten entrepreneurs and executives making waves in 2025—leaders whose strategies and achievements are shaping the future of food and beverage.
Top 10 Food & Beverage Business Leaders
1. Hussein Samhan—Chairman and CEO, Il Forno
With over two decades at the helm of Il Forno, Hussein Samhan has built the brand into a household name in the UAE’s Italian dining scene. His leadership since 2000 has been marked by consistent growth, a focus on authentic culinary experiences, and a commitment to quality, making Il Forno a standout in a competitive market.
Learn more about Hussein Samhan
2. Dr. Ahmed El Tigani—CEO, Al Rawabi Dairy Company
A pioneer in the region’s dairy industry, Dr. Ahmed El Tigani turned a bold vision—building a dairy farm in the desert—into a $250 million enterprise. Under his stewardship, Al Rawabi has grown from 500 to 15,000 cows and introduced numerous industry firsts, including functional dairy products and innovative packaging, all while championing health and nutrition in the GCC.
Read the full story on Dr. Ahmed El Tigani
3. Filippo Sgattoni—CEO, Alamar Foods
With 20 years of international experience, Filippo Sgattoni leads Alamar Foods, a regional powerhouse operating major franchises such as Domino’s and Dunkin’. His expertise in business management and innovation has driven Alamar’s expansion and operational excellence across multiple markets, positioning the company for further growth in 2025.
Explore the journey of Filippo Sgattoni
4. Iqbal Hamzah—CEO, National Food Products Company (NFPC)
Iqbal Hamzah heads NFPC, one of the UAE’s largest food and beverage conglomerates. His strategic vision and operational leadership have ensured NFPC’s continued prominence, overseeing a diverse portfolio that serves millions across the region.
Discover more about Iqbal Hamzah
5. Alan Smith—CEO, Agthia Group
Alan Smith brings deep industry knowledge and regional expertise to Agthia Group, a leading food and beverage company based in Abu Dhabi. Since taking over as CEO in 2020, Smith has been instrumental in driving innovation, expanding product lines, and strengthening Agthia’s market position across the Middle East.
Discover more about Alan Smith
6. Mutlaq Al-Zayed—CEO, Kuwait Flour Mills & Bakeries
Mutlaq Al-Zayed leads one of the Middle East’s most established food manufacturing companies. Under his guidance, Kuwait Flour Mills & Bakeries has maintained its industry leadership, continuously modernizing operations and introducing new products to meet evolving consumer needs.
Learn more about Mutlaq Al-Zayed
7. Sharad Anand—CEO, Delta Food Industries FZC
Sharad Anand’s entrepreneurial spirit and decisive leadership have propelled Delta Food Industries into a key player in the UAE’s food manufacturing sector. With a focus on quality and innovation, Anand has expanded the company’s reach and product offerings, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and growth.
Read more about Sharad Anand
8. Abdullah Albader—CEO, Almarai Company
Since 2021, Abdullah Albader has led Almarai, the region’s largest dairy and food producer, through a period of strategic expansion and product diversification. With a background in executive leadership and a focus on operational excellence, Albader is steering Almarai towards new markets and innovative product segments.
Know more about Abdullah Albader
9. Faisal Shaker—CEO, Modern Food Company (MFC)
Faisal Shaker is the driving force behind MFC, which operates some of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious international dining franchises. His leadership extends beyond hospitality, with board roles in major public companies and a track record of strategic investments and governance in the region’s food and beverage landscape.
Read more about Faisal Shaker
10. Nuwaid Pocker—Founder and CEO, Dieture
Nuwaid Pocker is a pioneer in the healthy eating and meal delivery sector. With over 17 years of entrepreneurial experience, he has positioned Dieture as a leading provider of diet-centric meal plans in Qatar, leveraging technology and nutrition science to meet the growing demand for wellness-focused food solutions.
Explore more about Nuwaid Pocker
These ten leaders exemplify the innovation, resilience, and strategic vision required to thrive in the dynamic food and beverage industry. As they continue to break new ground in 2025, their influence will shape the region’s culinary landscape for years to come.
Ayesha Ahmed
