First Gulf Bank’s Head of Distribution recognised as the UAE’s second most powerful Arab businesswoman

First Gulf Banks’ (FGB) Executive Vice President of Branch Distribution, Huda Abdulla, has recently been named as the UAE’s second most powerful Arab businesswoman in Forbes Middle East’s “Top 100 Most Powerful Arab Business Women in Listed Companies” list. Huda Abdulla was also ranked as the 23^rd most powerful woman in the Middle East. This recognition underscores FGB’s firm belief in the success and development of its UAE national employees.

This is the first time that Forbes Middle East has released a list of this kind, highlighting the most powerful Arab businesswomen in listed companies. The publication’s research team evaluated the market standing of the companies where the businesswomen were employed, and the importance of the role performed by the candidates. They also took into consideration factors including their media presence and positions held in other family-owned or private companies.

Commenting on her ranking Huda Abdulla said: “It is very satisfying to be featured amongst prominent females in the region. I am proud to see that Arab women are proving themselves in the corporate world and are bringing substantial value to the organizations they are employed at.”

Huda Abudulla further added: “My time at First Gulf Bank so far has been one of growth and development, and I continue to learn something new every day. I was provided with support and guidance every step of the way, to help me in determining my career path, and in achieving my professional goals.”

Andre Sayegh, CEO of FGB stated: “Attracting, retaining and developing Emirati talent is an important component of our overall strategy. We have a nurturing culture and we provide the right kind of training so that UAE Nationals can excel in their positions and develop a solid career path in the financial sector. It makes us very proud to see Huda Abdulla in the Forbes Middle East list. She is an outstanding professional, and a wonderful role model, not just for Emiratis but for all of our employees”.

Huda Abdulla had previously received the award for the most “Distinguished Woman in the Banking & Finance Sector 2011” from the Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Studies. The award was presented by H.H Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and Ruler of Sharjah, during the 13^th National Career Fair for Banking and Financial sectors at Sharjah Expo.