The GCC's Tech Vanguard: Zealous' Maryam Hassani
The co-founder and CEO of Zealous was one of the 30 innovators celebrated in Inc. Arabia's December 2024 special feature, The GCC's Tech Vanguard.
Maryam Hassani’s commitment to leveling the playing field in technology was the primary incentive for her to build Zealous, an artificial intelligence (AI)-native framework that is designed to automate code generation and testing.
As the co-founder and CEO of the UAE-based startup, she channels her passion into developing innovative tech solutions that tackle inefficiencies in software development, particularly in the MENA.
Zealous, which aims to accelerate software development and make it cheaper and more reliable through the use of self-learning and reusable functions, has already developed a minimum viable product (MVP) framework and created two market-tested products.
“We have a fully functional MVP, and we are currently pursuing a pilot with a leading regional e-commerce platform that manages over 20,000 e-commerce sites,” Hassani says. “This pilot will allow us to showcase the scalability of our AI testing solution while addressing the unique challenges of large-scale e-commerce operations. The results will help us refine our product and demonstrate its value to potential customers and investors.”
Commenting on the ecosystem at large, Hassani underscores the GCC’s rapid and remarkable progress in building a vibrant tech ecosystem but points to how issues like software bugs, slow testing, and resource-heavy development processes continue to hinder small teams.
“I became interested in the tech solutions we’re building at Zealous after witnessing how many opportunities are lost due to inefficiencies in software development, particularly in regions like the MENA,” she says. “Software bugs, slow testing, and resource-intensive development processes create significant hurdles for startups and small teams, often blocking innovation before it starts.”
She adds, “What excites me most is how AI is fundamentally shifting the economics of software development. AI-driven tools like code generation and testing are removing barriers to entry, enabling smaller teams — even those with limited technical expertise and funding — to build and launch products faster and more cost-effectively. For economies like the MENA, where digital adoption is rapidly increasing and e-commerce is projected to reach US$57 billion by 2026, these technologies can foster a wave of innovation, level the playing field, and empower more diverse entrepreneurs to bring ideas to life.”
Looking forward, Hassani envisions technologies like Zealous supporting the region’s digital transformation. “We envision a future where AI-native frameworks like ours become the backbone of software development and quality assurance, enabling faster, error-free product launches at scale,” she states. “By addressing the region’s growing demand for digital transformation, Zealous aims to become a foundational player in the GCC’s shift toward autonomous AI software development.”
A Playbook For Success: Maryam Hassani
Given the investment that GCC countries are putting into tech, what role do you think the region will play in the global landscape for it in the future?
“The GCC is becoming a global hub for tech innovation, fueled by significant investments in AI, digital transformation, and infrastructure. With countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia nearing 100 percent internet penetration, and the region’s e-commerce market growing at double-digit rates, the foundation for a thriving digital economy is already in place.
Beyond adoption, GCC countries are actively shaping the future of technology by creating supportive ecosystems for startups and investing in smart cities and AI-driven solutions. This strategic focus positions the region as both a testbed for emerging technologies and a launchpad for global solutions. I see the GCC playing a pivotal role in driving innovation, particularly in areas like fintech, e-commerce, and AI, while fostering collaboration between global and regional tech ecosystems."
What advice would you give to young people/new businesses looking to start/grow in your field/industry? Any specific advice you’d give women embarking on this field?
“For anyone starting out in tech, my advice is simple: focus on solving real problems and build with purpose. Validate your ideas early, be open to pivoting, and surround yourself with people who can support and challenge you. Building a network of mentors, peers, and early adopters can make all the difference.
For women, especially in MENA, my advice is to embrace your unique perspective — it’s often what industries need most. The fact that women-founded startups received less than 3 percent of venture capital funding in the region is a challenge, but it’s also a reminder that we need more diverse voices driving innovation. Leverage communities, seek out allies, and don’t hesitate to ask for the support you need. Tools like AI-driven software solutions can help bridge gaps, making it easier to bootstrap and build without needing massive resources.
The field is challenging, but the opportunities are enormous — and it’s the perfect time to take that leap.”
Zealous' Maryam Hassani was one of the 30 innovators celebrated in Inc. Arabia's December 2024 special feature, The GCC's Tech Vanguard. For the full list of The GCC's Tech Vanguard, please click here.
