Forbes recognises Lubna and Al Gurg

The 'Women to Watch' list, which also includes Raja Easa Al Gurg, president of the business women council UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry Business Women's Committee, showcases emerging female leaders across the Middle East. Forbes has compiled the feature as part of a wider study to find the most powerful women from around the world.

Shaikha Lubna’s inclusion as one of the Middle East’s women to watch is recognition of a pioneering political career, in which she has already brought significant economic advancement to the UAE.

Shaikha Lubna became the UAE’s first ever female minister when she was appointed Minister of Economy and Planning in November 2004. Since then she has held key talks with the US and Australia over free trade agreements, promoted her country’s tourism and financial services on a tough tour of Asia, and driving strategic changes in UAE laws companies.

“I hope my inclusion on the 'Women to Watch' list provides encouragement and inspiration for women across the UAE who are considering a professional career,” said Shaikha Lubna on hearing of her inclusion in the 'Women to Watch' list.

“The UAE is currently undergoing incredible economic growth, and the region offers fantastic opportunities for local and multinational businesses," she added.

“I have been privileged to preside over this growth as an economic minister, and intend to use my inclusion in the Forbes list as a springboard for further progress,” Lubna continued.

In addition to her political success, Shaikha Lubna has played a key role at Tejari, the Middle East’s online marketplace. Having founded Tejari in 2000, Lubna has overseen numerous key innovations as the company’s CEO, such as the introduction of a strategic procurement facility, a unique reverse auction process and a text message service for customers.

Shaikha Lubna’s unstinting, innovative efforts gave a new a standard for businesses across the UAE. She proved what an ambitious local woman could achieve through careful planning and a constant search for improvement.

Her pioneering work as a minister makes her an obvious candidate for this list. She combined her public and private roles with great success, a testament to her intelligence and determination.