Chairman, The Kanoo Group

Mr. Mishal Kanoo is one of the most iconic business figures in the Middle East and has a reputation as a futurist and strategist with a strong track record in forecasting economic developments in the region. Mr. Kanoo currently serves as the Chairman of The Kanoo Group, one of the largest, longest running and independent family-owned groups of companies in the Gulf region. Furthermore, he is a professional and motivational speaker, writes articles for local and regional media, is published in business journals on a regular basis, and holds chief positions as Chairman/Director of various reputable companies, including AXA Insurance Gulf, Gulf Capital, KHK & Partners Limited, Dalma Capital, Johnson Arabia LLC and KAAF Investments.

Mishal Kanoo tries to help people reach their professional dreams. The excitement of helping others achieve their goals, both big or small, is what drives him. Playing a role in bettering people's lives is a great instigator for doing what he does. Kanoo has been investing on a personal and company level since 1991.

Mishal Kanoo adheres to family values and ideals in pursuit of quality and excellence. Over the years, the Kanoo family has always been associated with the progress and development of the entire region combined with a sense of philanthropy.

Mishal grew up in the United Arab Emirates and finished his early schooling in Dubai. Thereafter he obtained two MBAs, one in finance from the University of St. Thomas, in Texas, and one from the American University of Sharjah. He began his professional career within the family business before going to university to get his first Master’s Degree. He then worked as an auditor outside his family business with Arthur Andersen in Dubai, before Re-joining The Kanoo Group in 1997 as the Deputy Chairman.