Magnus Olsson is the co-founder and Chief Product Architect of Careem, representing entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and resilience. From his roots as a teenage business owner in Sweden to his professional journey crossing continents, Olsson has transformed ride-hailing in the Middle East. Hands-on, customer-focused, and dedicated to solving real-life problems, he has been the force behind the growth of Careem from a scrappy start up to a billion-dollar brand. At Careem, one can often see Olsson personally engaging with captains or listening to customer feedback—an attitude that reflects his passion for making lives simpler and better.

Magnus Olsson’s entrepreneurial journey began at the young age of 15 when he started his first business in Sweden. Given the fact that he has always had an aptitude towards technology and innovation, Olsson opted for computer engineering studies to form a base in the future aspects of product development and leadership in business. Moving to the Middle East in 2006, Olsson had first-hand exposure to transport and mobility gaps and subsequently set up Careem along with Mudassir Sheikha in 2012. Careem was not just a ride-hailing service but a platform that could improve the quality of life for millions across the region.

Under Magnus Olsson’s stewardship, Careem exploded from relatively small beginnings to expanding services into more than 100 cities across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. One of the important aspects of Careem’s success has been the approach hyper-localized -tailoring solutions for a unique need in each market. In that regard, it included the possibility of cash payments in areas of very low banking penetration. Moreover, it came up with the ride options within multiple budget ranges.

Olsson has always believed in a customer-first philosophy. He believes in listening to users and incorporating their feedback into Careem’s product development. Whether chatting with captains or personally responding to customer queries, Olsson ensures that the company’s services are continually improving.

Magnus Olsson’s role as Chief Product Architect has allowed him to shape Careem’s innovative services. In addition to ride-hailing, Careem has diversified into food delivery, payments, and logistics as it looks to become the region’s leading “super app.” This vision was made possible by Olsson’s deep understanding of technology and his ability to adjust with the changing market dynamics. In 2020, Careem was acquired by Uber for $3.1 billion, which happened to be one of the largest tech deals in the Middle East. Despite this, Olsson has managed to stay cantered on sustaining Careem’s different identity while continuing to innovate under the new ownership.

In his entrepreneurial experience, Magnus Olsson encountered a tough battle. Not only would he have to deal with fierce competition but also complex environments of regulations that came with careem’s growth. The humbleness, empathy, and eagerness to roll up their sleeves that marked Olsson’s leadership made Careem’s team stand for quality.

Magnus Olsson sits on several boards, among them being Swvl and Ifrågasätt. He is an active angel investor, who supports innovative startups in any industry. This passion of mentoring young entrepreneurs shows a commitment to developing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

Yu Tao is more than a name in the construction industry; he is a trailblazer shaping the skylines of the Middle East. In this role as the President and CEO of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East), Tao has headed several of the region’s biggest icons in infrastructure projects since 2004. Over decades, the continents have provided him with in-depth technical knowledge as well as leadership towards transforming the UAE and other Gulf states’ urban sceneries. Under his leadership, the company not only delivered landmark projects but also proved itself a global construction power.

Yu Tao, President and CEO of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East), has been the most iconic leader on the region’s transformative infrastructure boom for nearly two decades. Since taking the helm in 2004, Tao has led the company’s operations across the UAE and other Gulf states, solidifying its reputation as a leader in large-scale construction projects. One of the most influential figures in the construction industry, Tao’s leadership is marked by his ability to deliver on ambitious projects that redefine urban landscapes. His team has worked on developments such as the new headquarters for the Central Bank of Kuwait, and Al-Hikma Tower in the UAE. These projects give testimony not only to the technical competencies of the company but also to its drive toward innovation in design and engineering.

Tao’s initial professional training was in civil engineering at the Chongqing Civil Engineering Institute. Recognizing the need to develop his leadership and project management skills, he went on to pursue a master’s degree in science and project management at the National University of Singapore. This foundation set the stage for a career that would span continents and industries. Between 2003 and 2004, he served in Singapore as a Deputy Managing Director of China Construction (South Pacific) Development Company. In Singapore, Tao handled high profile construction projects, which exposed him to broader perspectives and insight about different markets.

Tao served between 2007 and 2010 as Vice-President for Overseas Operations at China State Construction Engineering. This made his expertise comprehensive in international project management and exposed him to the intricate operation of cross-border operations.

Under the leadership of Yu Tao, China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East) has established itself as a major player in the construction sector in the Gulf. It is strategic vision that has allowed the company to win and implement some of the most demanding projects in the region toward the modernization of the infrastructure of cities.

The headquarters of the Central Bank of Kuwait is a testament to the engineering prowess of the company, while projects like Al-Hikma Tower highlight its ability to deliver architectural marvels. Beyond these flagship developments, Tao’s team has been instrumental in executing numerous residential, commercial, and industrial projects, reinforcing the company’s diversified portfolio.

Yu Tao’s leadership is defined by his focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. He is keen on incorporating current technologies and techniques to maintain a leap over the trend. Cultivating an environment of constant improvement and collaboration, Tao created an environment that thrives on complexity and solutions. Tao believes in sustainability by aligning the operations with practices that are not detrimental to the environment, making operations sustainable and consistent with efforts in green construction across the globe.

Tao has extensive international experience, which gives him a unique perspective on the construction industry. He has been able to navigate the diverse and dynamic Gulf region effectively by combining global best practices with an understanding of local markets. His ability to adapt to varying cultural, economic, and regulatory landscapes has been a key factor in the company’s success.

Leadership in the financial world calls for vision, resilience, and a knack for innovation, all traits that Peter England, chief executive of RAKBANK since November 2013, possesses. With an experience of several decades within the banking sector, he has not only rewritten RAKBANK’s strategies but also reinforced its position in the country’s financial landscape. His vast experience in the retail banking business, married with a forward-looking approach, have catalysed transformative change that will forever leave his imprint on the bank as well as the broader financial eco-system.

Peter England began his leadership journey at CIMB Bank Berhad, ASEAN’s largest bank for seven years as Head of Retail Banking. He led initiatives intended to serve individual and small enterprise customers. His portfolio was a mix of conventional and Islamic banking products and services, an approach that exemplified his adaptability to a different culture. It played a great role for him as he could serve diversified market requirements and further groom himself to provide innovative solutions in the financial world.

RAKBANK had become a significant player in the United Arab Emirates, with England at the helm. However, the rapidly changing financial environment called for new ideas and solid strategies. Under his leadership, the bank adopted a customer-centric approach, leveraging cutting-edge technology to meet the dynamic needs of retail and business clients. His focus on digital transformation enabled RAKBANK to introduce seamless, tech-driven solutions-from mobile banking platforms to innovative lending products.

One of the key strengths Peter England has brought to RAKBANK is his ability to drive growth while maintaining sustainability. Diversifying the bank’s portfolio helped keep the institution resilient against market fluctuations. His work in promoting small-to-medium enterprise lending has been especially impactful, providing a boost to a segment crucial to the UAE’s economy. It is in line with the overall vision of the country for the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation as part of its economic diversification.

It has gone beyond mere financial growth; the institution has also had strides in community engagement and corporate social responsibility. Recognizing that the role of the UAE’s contribution to societal goals must be accomplished, England championed more than just banking. He has been focusing on financial literacy, environmental sustainability, and community welfare through such programs that define the bank today, thus reflecting his approach towards a holistic concept of leadership.

What makes Peter England different is his ability to adapt to challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, was a test of the resilience of financial institutions around the world. Under his leadership, RAKBANK responded quickly, providing relief measures to individuals and businesses while maintaining operational stability. England’s focus on maintaining a personal touch, even in a digital-first environment, has ensured that RAKBANK remains a trusted partner for its customers.

England’s success is testimony to his ability to read and act on emerging trends. Years at CIMB Bank in Malaysia prepared him for a diversified market, while his years at RAKBANK have cemented his status as a visionary leader. Today, RAKBANK is not just a financial institution; it is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and customer-focused growth, thanks to Peter England’s strategic vision.

Peter England’s legacy is already visible in its sustained success. His leadership style, characterized by empathy, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders across industries.