Doha, Qatar: Forbes Middle East has unveiled its inaugural list of the 'Top 20 Arab Women in Government' for 2025, featuring the exceptional women spearheading change across the Arab world’s public institutions.
This pioneering ranking highlights influential female leaders who are driving policy and innovation within government organizations, excluding ministerial and parliamentary positions. These remarkable women are shaping key sectors such as diplomacy, culture, technology, media, and the environment while representing their countries on the global stage.
Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani secured the No. 1 spot in the prestigious top 20 list. As Chairperson of Qatar Museums, the Doha Film Institute, Reach Out to Asia, and the Qatar Leadership Centre, HE Sheikha Mayassa has played a pivotal role in expanding Qatar’s cultural influence worldwide.
Forbes recognizes Her Excellency as a leader deeply involved in the fields of culture, education, leadership, and philanthropy. She founded the Doha Film Institute, which in 2024 celebrated the 11th edition of the Ajyal Film Festival, supporting independent filmmakers from the region.
In her role at Qatar Museums, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa has been instrumental in building the nation’s dynamic network of museums, heritage sites, festivals, creative hubs, and public art installations. Under her leadership, the institution has also expanded its international outreach.
In November 2024, Qatar Museums and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture inked a landmark cooperation agreement to mutually advance heritage conservation, arts education, and urban regeneration, while preserving and celebrating cultural heritage both in Qatar and globally.
HE Sheikha Al Mayassa is the only Qatari representative on this distinguished list, with Emirati women claiming 11 spots, followed by Saudi women with four, and three Egyptians.
The ranking takes into account several key factors: the impact of each leader’s role, other positions they hold, their tenure in the position, and the significant initiatives they have championed in 2024.
