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Inside The Life of Qatar’s Richest Wives
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00:00Behind the glitz and glam of Qatar's elite, a new breed of trailblazers is redefining wealth
00:05and influence, the powerhouse wives of the country's billionaires. These women are not
00:09just sipping chai in their designer heels, they're reshaping entire industries. From
00:13steering multi-million dollar investments in tech startups to revolutionizing real estate
00:18with avant-garde developments, their impact is as vast as their closets. And did we mention
00:22their foray into education? Think top-tier schools with waiting lists longer than luxury
00:27car deliveries, dive into a world where ambition meets opulence and business acumen sparkles
00:32brighter than their diamond collections.
00:34Sheikha Anwar Bint Nawaf Althani We are starting off strong with a woman who
00:38had her eyes set on the education sector, making sure the children of Qatar had access to wholesome
00:44education right from the foundation. In the world of education, few names resonate as powerfully
00:49as Sheikha Anwar Bint Nawaf Althani. As the Chief Executive Officer of Alfale Educational Holdings,
00:55she stands at the helm of an organization that is redefining educational excellence. Her
01:00leadership is not just about steering a company, it is about crafting a legacy of innovation
01:04and impact. From a young age, Sheikha Anwar was immersed in an environment that valued education
01:09and innovation, setting the stage for her future endeavors. Her academic journey is marked
01:14by excellence, having pursued studies at some of the world's most prestigious institutions.
01:19According to her profile on the Alfale Board of Directors page, Sheikha Anwar is a graduate
01:24of the University of Minnesota, where she bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Management.
01:29Her academic excellence saw her named on the Dean's List at the University from 2016 to
01:332018. Anwar, who also completed her MBA at the University of Aberdeen, is the founder of
01:39Little Panda's Kindergarten, juggling her role as CEO with her role as a wife. Under her competent
01:44partnership, Alfale has recorded astounding success, including becoming the first public
01:48company in the Qatar Stock Exchange to break into the main market with a female head. The
01:53company records an annual $12 million net income. In February 2024, Sheikha Anwar made
01:59it to Forbes Middle East 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen, occupying the 74th position. Coming after
02:04her is another woman of substance defying the odds in the Mina.
02:07Sheikha al-Mayasah bint Hamad al-Thani In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, a cultural
02:13revolution is quietly unfolding, led by none other than Sheikha al-Mayasah bint Hamad al-Thani.
02:19Born in the early 1980s, she is the daughter of Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the former
02:24Emir of Qatar, and Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, a prominent advocate for education and social reform.
02:29Growing up in a family that valued intellectual curiosity and cultural appreciation, Sheikha al-Mayasah
02:34was exposed to a world of ideas and traditions from a young age. Education played a pivotal
02:40role in shaping Sheikha al-Mayasah's worldview. She pursued her higher education at Duke University
02:46in the United States, where she graduated with a degree in political science and literature
02:50in 2005. During her studies, Sheikha al-Mayasah had the opportunity to travel extensively, immersing
02:56herself in different cultures and artistic traditions. These experiences enriched her understanding
03:01of the universal language of art and its ability to foster dialogue and mutual understanding.
03:07These formative experiences laid the groundwork for Sheikha al-Mayasah's future endeavors
03:11in the arts and cultural preservation. Her deep appreciation for the arts, coupled with
03:15her understanding of their role in bridging cultural divides, set her on a path to becoming
03:20a leading figure in the global art scene. As the chairperson of Qatar Museums, Sheikha al-Mayasah
03:24bint Hamad al-Thani has been a driving force behind Qatar's emergence as a global cultural
03:30powerhouse. Her tenure has been marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements and initiatives
03:35that have not only transformed the cultural landscape of Qatar, but have also left an indelible
03:40mark on the international art scene. One of Sheikha al-Mayasah's most notable accomplishments
03:44is her strategic acquisition of iconic artworks that have captured the attention of the global
03:49art community. Under her leadership, Qatar Museums has amassed an impressive collection of
03:54masterpieces, including works by renowned artists such as Paul Cézanne, Mark Rothko and Damien
03:59Hurst. These acquisitions have not only elevated Qatar's status in the art world, but have also
04:05positioned the nation as a key player in the global art market. The purchase of Cézanne's
04:09The Card Players for a staggering $250 million in 2012, for instance, sent shockwaves through
04:16the art world and underscored Qatar's commitment to cultural excellence. Like many powerful women
04:21across the world, Al-Mayasah has been recognized for her great works. She was listed on the top
04:26100 most powerful Arabs list from 2014 to 2017, and also in 2021 by Gulf Business. According to
04:33Bloomberg, her acquisition budget for Qatar Museums is estimated at $1 billion. The following entry
04:38features a tech unicorn pulling her weight in this fast-paced internet world. Lana Calaf. Lana Calaf's
04:45journey into the tech world is a fascinating tale of ambition and determination, beginning long before she set
04:50foot in the corridors of Microsoft Qatar. Born and raised in the vibrant and culturally rich
04:55Middle East, Calaf's early life was steeped in an environment that valued education and innovation.
05:00Her fascination with technology was evident from a young age, as she often found herself captivated
05:05by the possibilities that computers and digital solutions could offer. Calaf's academic journey
05:10was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. She pursued a degree in computer science. Her time
05:16at university was not just about acquiring knowledge, it was about laying the groundwork
05:20for a future that she envisioned would be intertwined with technological advancement. Calaf's academic
05:25achievements were nothing short of stellar, earning her accolades and recognition from both peers and
05:30professors alike. Calaf's ability to navigate complex technological challenges and her knack for strategic
05:36thinking quickly set her apart from her contemporaries. Her reputation as a rising star in the tech industry
05:41began to grow and it wasn't long before she caught the attention of Microsoft, a company renowned for its
05:47commitment to innovation and excellence. The opportunity to join Microsoft was a dream come true for Calaf, as it
05:53aligned perfectly with her aspirations to be at the forefront of technological advancement. Her entry into Microsoft
05:59marked a significant turning point in her career. Calaf was initially brought on board to work on projects that
06:04focused on digital transformation, a field that was gaining significant traction as businesses sought to
06:09modernize their operations. Her role involved developing and implementing cloud-based solutions that would
06:14enable companies to transition to more efficient and scalable digital infrastructures. Lana Calaf's
06:20tenure at Microsoft Qatar is marked by a series of significant achievements and contributions that have not
06:25only propelled her career, but also played a crucial role in shaping the company's trajectory. Her rise to
06:31leadership within the organization is a testament to her exceptional skills, strategic vision and
06:36unwavering commitment to innovation. One of Calaf's most notable achievements at Microsoft was her
06:41instrumental role in advancing the company's cloud computing initiatives. As businesses around the globe
06:47began to recognize the transformative potential of cloud technology, Calaf was at the forefront,
06:52driving Microsoft's efforts to become a leader in this burgeoning field. Beyond the tech industry,
06:57Calaf enjoys displaying her exquisite taste in luxury. In 2018, she tied the knot with her husband,
07:02Loai, in a lavish ceremony with the right amount of affluence and sparkle. Right after her, we have
07:07another crowned queen consort thriving in philanthropy and the finance sphere. Sheikha Hanadi
07:13In the world of business and philanthropy, few names command as much respect and admiration as Sheikha
07:18Hanadi Bint Nasser Althani. Born into the illustrious Althani family, her journey from a promising
07:24student to a powerhouse entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up in such an influential family,
07:30Sheikha Hanadi was exposed to the intricacies of leadership and governance from an early age,
07:35which undoubtedly shaped her future ambitions. Armed with a robust educational background,
07:40Sheikha Hanadi embarked on her career with a clear vision and determination. Her first major venture
07:45was the founding of Alwab City, a groundbreaking real estate project that aimed to redefine urban
07:50living in Qatar. This ambitious project was not just about constructing buildings, it was about
07:55creating a community that embodied modernity, sustainability and luxury. Alwab City quickly
08:01became a symbol of Qatar's rapid urban development and Sheikha Hanadi's visionary leadership. Her
08:06success with Alwab City catapulted her into the limelight, establishing her as a formidable force in
08:11the real estate sector. However, Sheikha Hanadi's ambitions extended beyond real estate. She took on the
08:17role of CEO at Nasser Bin Khalid Al Thani and Sons Group, a conglomerate with diverse business interests.
08:22Under her leadership, the group expanded its portfolio, venturing into sectors such as automotive,
08:27luxury goods and construction. Her strategic vision and business acumen were instrumental in
08:32driving the group's growth and diversification. Sheikha Hanadi's career development is characterized by
08:38her ability to identify opportunities and leverage them to create value. Her approach to business is not
08:43just about profit, it is about creating sustainable and impactful ventures that contribute to the
08:48broader economic landscape. Sheikha Hanadi Bint Nasser Al Thani's net worth is a subject of intrigue
08:54and admiration, reflecting her successful ventures and strategic investments across various sectors.
09:00While exact figures remain undisclosed, it is widely speculated that her wealth reaches over
09:0515 billion dollars. Her financial success is not merely a result of her family background,
09:09but rather a product of her own strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit. While her business
09:14achievements are impressive, it is Sheikha Hanadi's philanthropic endeavors that truly set her apart.
09:19She is deeply committed to giving back to society and has been involved in numerous charitable
09:24initiatives both in Qatar and internationally. Her philanthropic efforts are guided by a belief in the
09:29power of education, healthcare and women's empowerment to transform lives and communities. Next up is yet
09:35another rare boss lady who was the pace-setter in Qatari healthcare.
09:39Hanan Mohamed Al-Khwari
09:41Hanan Mohamed Al-Khwari stands as a significant figure in healthcare. Serving as Qatar's Minister of
09:46Public Health, her career reflects dedicated leadership and commitment to healthcare improvement.
09:50Beginning her journey at the Hamad Medical Corporation, she played a crucial role in advancing
09:55Qatar's healthcare policies. Her efforts have contributed to enhancing the public health system in
09:59Qatar. She pursued her academic interests with a focus on healthcare management, earning a Bachelor of
10:05Science in Healthcare Management from the University of Qatar. Her thirst for knowledge and a deeper
10:10understanding of healthcare systems led her to the University of Wales, where she obtained a Master
10:14of Science in Healthcare Management. Her career took a pivotal turn in the early 1990s when she joined
10:20the Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar's leading healthcare provider. At that time, the corporation was
10:25in a phase of transformation, aiming to expand its services and improve the quality of healthcare delivery
10:31across the nation. Al-Khwari's entry into the organization marked the beginning of a remarkable
10:36ascent through its ranks, driven by her strategic vision and leadership capabilities. As she progressed
10:41within the organization, Al-Khwari took on increasingly significant roles, each with its own set of
10:46challenges and opportunities. Her leadership style, characterized by a collaborative approach,
10:51resonated with her colleagues and superiors alike. She was instrumental in spearheading initiatives that
10:56aimed to modernize the corporation's infrastructure and expand its reach to underserved areas of Qatar.
11:02One of the key milestones in her career at Hamad Medical Corporation was her appointment as
11:07managing director in 2007. This role placed her at the helm of the organization, where she was
11:12responsible for overseeing its strategic direction and ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare
11:18services. Her efforts contributed to the expansion of the corporation's network of hospitals and clinics,
11:23ensuring that more Qataris had access to essential healthcare services. Additionally,
11:28she championed the adoption of cutting-edge medical technologies, positioning Hamad Medical Corporation
11:33as a leader in healthcare innovation. Throughout her rise within the organization, Al-Khwari remained
11:38committed to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. She prioritized the
11:43professional development of healthcare professionals, recognizing that a skilled and motivated workforce
11:48was essential to achieving the corporation's goals. Her leadership style emphasized collaboration
11:53and empowerment, encouraging her team to embrace new ideas and approaches to healthcare delivery.
11:58Hanan Mohamed Al-Khwari's early career and rise within the Hamad Medical Corporation set the stage
12:04for her subsequent achievements as Qatar's Minister of Public Health. Up next is a technology giant that
12:10found the intersection of tech and medicine.
12:12Iyabo Tinubu Karch is a distinguished leader in the healthcare industry, currently serving as the CEO of
12:19Sidra Medicine, a premier medical and research center in Qatar. Her career in healthcare is characterized by
12:25her dedication to enhancing medical services and her strategic vision for the future of healthcare delivery.
12:30With a strong foundation in medicine and public health, Iyabo has consistently demonstrated her ability to lead
12:36complex healthcare organizations toward achieving excellence. At Sidra Medicine, she has been
12:41instrumental in implementing innovative healthcare solutions and fostering a culture of collaboration
12:46and inclusivity. Iyabo's educational journey commenced with her enrollment in a prestigious medical school,
12:52where she honed her skills and deepened her understanding of the complexities of human health.
12:56This knowledge would prove invaluable as she embarked on her professional career, allowing her to approach
13:01healthcare challenges with a holistic perspective. Iyabo's early career in healthcare was marked by
13:06a series of strategic roles that allowed her to make significant contributions to the field.
13:11She began her professional journey in the early 1990s, a time when the healthcare industry was
13:16undergoing significant transformations. Her initial roles were characterized by a focus on improving
13:21healthcare delivery and patient outcomes, as she worked tirelessly to implement innovative solutions
13:26and drive positive change. One of Iyabo's early contributions to the field was her involvement in
13:31initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare access and equity. Iyabo Tinubu Karch's
13:36ascent to the position of CEO at Sidra Medicine is a story of visionary leadership and relentless
13:41pursuit of excellence. Her journey to the top of this prestigious institution was marked by her
13:46strategic acumen and her ability to inspire transformative change. As she took the helm at
13:50Sidra Medicine, Iyabo brought with her a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future of healthcare.
13:56Another computer whiz comes right up bearing staggering beauty and good tidings in technology.
14:01Noor Al Sulaiti Step into the captivating world of Noor Al Sulaiti, a trailblazer in computer science
14:08and the dynamic CEO of Uradu. Her remarkable journey from a tech enthusiast to a leading figure
14:13in telecommunications is a story of ambition, innovation, and leadership. Noor's early career
14:18in computer science was characterized by a series of strategic moves that showcased her ability to
14:24adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Her first professional role was with a tech startup,
14:29where she was tasked with developing software solutions that addressed complex business challenges.
14:35Noor's innovative approach and technical acumen quickly set her apart, earning her recognition as
14:40a rising star in the tech community. Her work at the startup not only provided her with invaluable
14:45experience, but also solidified her reputation as a problem solver and a visionary thinker.
14:50Noor's ability to anticipate industry trends and her knack for leveraging technology to drive
14:55business success caught the attention of larger corporations paving the way for her next career
15:00move. It was during this period that Noor Al Sulaiti's path intersected with Uradu, a leading
15:05telecommunications company with a global presence. Recognizing her potential, Uradu offered Noor a
15:10position in their IT department, where she was tasked with spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing
15:15the company's technological infrastructure. This role marked a significant turning point in Noor's career,
15:20as it provided her with a platform to showcase her leadership skills and her ability to drive
15:25innovation on a larger scale. At Uradu, Noor quickly established herself as a key player in the company's
15:30digital transformation efforts. Her contributions were instrumental in the successful implementation
15:35of several high-impact projects that not only improved operational efficiency, but also enhanced
15:40customer experience. Noor's strategic vision and her commitment to embracing new technologies
15:45positioned her as a valuable asset to the company, leading to her rapid ascent through the ranks.
15:50The next entry presents an ambitious go-getter in the business sphere.
15:54Alanoud Bint Hamad Al Thani Alanoud Bint Hamad Al Thani's presence in the business world is a
15:59captivating story of ambition and determination set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving global
16:05economy. From the outset, Alanoud demonstrated a keen interest in business, driven by a desire to make
16:10her mark in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her early education laid the groundwork for her
16:16future endeavors as she pursued studies in business administration and finance. These early experiences
16:21were instrumental in shaping her understanding of business operations and strategy. Working alongside
16:26seasoned professionals, she gained invaluable insights into the dynamics of running successful
16:31businesses, learning the importance of strategic planning, risk management, and innovation.
16:35One of the pivotal moments in Alanoud's early career was her decision to venture beyond the confines of
16:41family enterprises and explore opportunities in the broader business landscape. This bold move was
16:46driven by her desire to expand her horizons and challenge herself in new and exciting ways. Her
16:51foray into the world of independent business ventures was met with both challenges and triumphs,
16:56as she navigated the complexities of establishing and growing her own enterprises. Her investments in
17:01technology and real estate in particular showcased her strategic acumen and her willingness to take
17:06calculated risks in pursuit of success. Throughout her early career, Alanoud was guided by a set of
17:12core principles that have continued to define her approach to business. In addition to her business
17:17ventures, Alanoud has been a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and economic inclusion. She has
17:22used her platform to champion initiatives that support female entrepreneurs and promote gender equality in the
17:28workplace. Her efforts in this regard have been widely recognized, earning her accolades and awards from
17:33various international organizations. We have a visionary in Qatari literacy right after her.
17:38Aisha Bint Falei Althani Aisha Bint Falei Althani, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence,
17:44stands at the forefront of educational reform. As the founder and chairperson of Al-Falei Educational
17:49Holding, she embarked on a mission to revolutionize learning, driven by her unwavering belief in the
17:54transformative power of education. Aisha Bint Falei Althani's is born into the esteemed Althani family. This
18:00family is not only known for its historical significance, but also for its pivotal role in
18:04the development of Qatar as a nation. Recognizing the importance of a global perspective, Aisha
18:10pursued advanced studies abroad. This decision proved to be transformative, as it exposed her to
18:15diverse cultures, ideas and educational systems. She returned to Qatar armed with new insights and a
18:21renewed commitment to effecting change in her homeland. Her involvement in these projects allowed her to
18:26gain valuable experience and build a network of like-minded individuals who share her passion
18:30for educational reform. A pivotal moment in Aisha's career came when she decided to establish
18:36Al-Falei Educational Holding. This bold move is driven by her desire to create an organization that
18:41not only provides quality education, but also fosters a culture of innovation and critical thinking.
18:46As the founder and chairperson, Aisha sets out to redefine the educational landscape in Qatar,
18:52guided by her belief in the transformative power of education, to create an environment where
18:57students are encouraged to think independently, explore their interests and develop the skills
19:01necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing world. She implements strategies prioritizing student-centric
19:07learning, integrating technology and modern pedagogical methods to enhance the educational
19:12experience. Up next is one of the country's forerunning finance experts.
19:16Boutena Al-Ansari. Renowned as one of Qatar's leading businesswomen, Boutena's career displays
19:22her unwavering determination and visionary leadership. From her early days at the Qatar
19:26Foundation to founding Qatari at T&D, she has consistently broken barriers and championed the
19:31cause of women's empowerment. Her journey is not just a personal triumph, but a movement that has
19:36reshaped the corporate world in Qatar. With a background in English literature and a master's in
19:40business administration, Boutena has seamlessly blended her academic prowess with her passion for
19:45fostering change. Her story is one of resilience, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence,
19:51making her a true trailblazer in the realm of business. Boutena's contributions to the Qatar
19:55Foundation were nothing short of transformative. She implemented strategic initiatives aimed at
20:00enhancing employee engagement and productivity, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged
20:05collaboration and innovation. During her tenure at the Qatar Foundation, Boutena began to realize
20:10the potential for women to play a more significant role in Qatar's business community.
20:15She observed the untapped talent and ambition among Qatari women and felt a strong desire to create
20:20opportunities for them to thrive. Boutena's impact on women's empowerment did not go unnoticed.
20:25Her pioneering work and dedication to advancing women's roles in business earned her widespread
20:30recognition and accolades. She was celebrated as a leader who not only broke barriers herself,
20:35but also paved the way for others to follow. Owing to her outstanding achievement, Boutena has been
20:40ranked 19th in the Arabian Business Magazine list of the most powerful women in the Middle East.
20:45The A-list businesswoman credits her supportive family for her success. She is a wife and a mother
20:51of four. Right after her is another stunning queen who juggles her royal duties and exceptional fashion
20:56taste without faltering.
20:57Sheikha Jawahar bint Hamad al-Thani
21:01Talk about a queen that owns royalty in its full glory, and Sheikha Jawahar bint Hamas al-Thani
21:06takes center stage. The first wife and consort of the Emir of Qatar is recognized for her many good
21:11works as much as she is known for her taste as a style icon. Whether attending to her tasks of being
21:17at the helm of affairs or visiting the sovereigns of other countries, Sheikha Jawahar stays at the top
21:21of her style game. This queen is as influential as she is wealthy. She spends a good part of her
21:26time prioritizing and supporting educational excellence, as well as exceptional talents across
21:32the nation. Jawahar wears many hats, including displaying her capabilities as the queen consort
21:37and honoring diplomatic travels alongside her husband, Sheikha Tamin bin Hamas al-Thani.
21:42Sheikha Jawahar's biggest fans also live for her passion for fashion. She is famously known to be
21:47a Dior enthusiast. During a royal visit to the Netherlands, Jawahar gained global attention for
21:52her all-dipper ensemble, which spoke volumes about her taste in luxury. Over the years,
21:56she gained a reputation that certified her as one of the best-dressed Arab royals in the Middle East.
22:01And finally, on the list, we have the moneybag herself, dubbed the richest Middle Eastern queen
22:05with billions of dollars in her coffers. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser al-Thani
22:10When you think of royalty, you might picture grand palaces and diamond tiaras,
22:14but Sheikha Moza bint Nasser al-Thani isn't just any queen. With her commanding presence and a
22:19fortune that could make even the richest of tycoons blink twice, she's not just a figurehead,
22:24she's an icon. As one of the wealthiest women in the world, her assets range from luxurious
22:28estates and a private jet to an impressive collection of art and philanthropic ventures
22:33that redefine what it means to live lavishly. Move over, fairy tales. This queen's wealth is as real as
22:38it gets. Sheikha Moza's rise to prominence began with her marriage to Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani
22:44in 1977. As the wife of the then crown prince, she was thrust into the public eye,
22:49where she quickly became known for her intelligence, poise and dedication to public service.
22:54Her role as a royal consort was not merely ceremonial. She actively engaged in initiatives
22:59that sought to improve Qatari citizens' lives, particularly in education and social welfare.
23:04In the early years of her public life, Sheikha Moza focused on addressing the educational needs of
23:09Qatar. She recognized that education was the cornerstone of national development and was
23:14determined to transform Qatar into a knowledge-based society. Her vision led to the establishment of
23:18the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development in 1995. As the chairperson
23:25of the foundation, Sheikha Moza spearheaded efforts to create a world-class educational ecosystem in Qatar,
23:31attracting prestigious international universities and fostering a culture of research and innovation.
23:36She was also a vocal advocate for social reform and women's empowerment. In a region where
23:41traditional gender roles often limit women's opportunities, Sheikha Moza championed initiatives
23:46that promoted gender equality and women's participation in all aspects of society. Her efforts
23:51contributed to significant advancements in women's rights in Qatar, paving the way for future
23:56generations of women to pursue their ambitions without constraint. Click any of the cards that appear on your
24:01screen to see more updates on the inspiring stories of Middle Eastern excellence. Bye for now.
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