UAE Hosts TIME100 Impact Awards Honouring Global Leaders

The first edition of the TIME100 Impact Awards was held in Abu Dhabi to recognise global leaders who have made significant contributions to their industries, companies, and communities. The event took place on Saadiyat Island in the presence of Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, TIME CEO Jessica Sibley, and other industry experts. The four winners were Alexis Ohanian, co-Founder of Reddit and Founder of Seven Seven Six and Athlos; Jamie Salter, Founder and CEO of Authentic Brands Group (ABG); Kate Kallot, Founder & CEO of Amini Tech; and Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi praised the winners for their achievements, noting that their work reflects the dynamic world of technology, business, science, and social progress. He highlighted the UAE as an ideal venue to showcase innovations that combine economic growth with opportunities for all citizens and residents. The winners shared insights about the challenges of leadership, the role of innovation, and the importance of determination and resilience in achieving success.

Alexis Ohanian emphasised spotting new opportunities, particularly in women’s sports, which he considers the next big business frontier. Kate Kallot spoke about building an AI ecosystem to support smallholder farmers and the Global South. Zak Brown discussed assembling teams capable of excelling in Formula One, and Jamie Salter highlighted risk-taking as key to building a $32 billion global brand. Each winner thanked TIME, event sponsors Capital.com and NMDC Group, and the UAE for supporting their vision and achievements.

The event was backed by Capital.com, a leading e-trading platform expanding in the UAE, and NMDC Group, an energy, marine, and engineering company with a wide international presence. Both organisations stressed the importance of leadership, innovation, and social impact in creating a future-ready society. The awards highlighted how ambition, collaboration, and determination can turn ideas into real change, reflecting the UAE’s role in supporting global progress and innovation.