Sushmita Bose
Chief Brand Officer
“WBD’s ‘Leadership in Auto & Mobility’ Roundtable Explored How Are Women Driving the Future In The Region”
The Middle East’s auto and mobility sector is shifting gears—from oil-powered engines to electric, autonomous, and AI-driven transportation. At the heart of this transformation are women leaders, whose collaborative leadership, creative problem-solving, and customer-centric vision are reshaping the industry’s future.
A New Leadership Model: Collaboration Over Hierarchy :
Women Board of Directors’ ‘Leadership in Auto & Mobility’ roundtable, held on 22 April, at Mausam, Dubai Mall, saw senior executives from the sector congregate to discuss how, unlike traditional top-down approaches, women in the Middle East’s auto sector are championing inclusive decision-making, bridging gaps between engineers, designers, and end-users. Leaders like Sanaa Ouahmane, CEO of AW Rostamani Mobility & Trading, who is also WBD’s Mobility Ambassador, exemplify this shift — prioritizing team-based innovation over rigid corporate structures. Their focus on empathy and adaptability has proven critical in navigating supply chain disruptions and evolving consumer demands.
Innovation Led by Women:
From EVs to AI :
The next session was on how woman are spearheading the region’s most cutting-edge mobility advancements. Takeaways included:
Electric & Software-Defined Vehicles: Female engineers and executives are ensuring EVs cater to regional needs (e.g., heat-resistant batteries, Arabic-language AI interfaces).
Autonomous Tech: Women-led teams are addressing ethical and cultural considerations for driverless cars in GCC cities.
Green Mobility: From hydrogen fuel infrastructure to solar-powered charging stations, sustainability initiatives are being driven by women policymakers and entrepreneurs.
Digital Integration: Apps like Uber’s “Women Rider Preference” and Careem’s female-friendly features highlight how women leaders prioritize safety and accessibility.
STEM, Education, and Social Impact
Finally, it was surmised that the rise of women in auto leadership is fuelling educational outreach. Major milestones in this area have been:
- Saudi Arabia’s lifting of the driving ban in 2018 sparked a surge in female driving instructors and motorsport trainees.
- UAE initiatives like the Women in Automotive Forum mentor young talent in EV engineering and AI mobility.
- Women-led ventures are redesigning transit for safety and affordability, proving mobility is a tool for equity.
The Road Ahead
The Middle East’s auto revolution needs diverse perspectives to succeed. Women leaders are proving that inclusivity isn’t just ethical—it’s competitive. Their blend of creativity, collaboration, and customer focus is the key to building mobility systems that serve all communities.
As the region accelerates toward a tech-driven future, one truth is clear: When women lead, the entire industry moves faster—and smarter.