Women Of Influence 2025: American University Of Sharjah's Alanood Aldhaher

As the Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at the American University of Sharjah, Alanood Aldhaher manages the UAE university’s brand strategy, media relations, digital communications, events, and marketing.

According to Aldhaher, who has over a decade of experience working in the region’s communications and public affairs domain, the presence of women has transformed this particular field, not only by increasing representation, but also by reshaping how leadership is expressed.

“In my own career, I’ve seen how women leaders bring an innate strength in empathy, storytelling, and community building; qualities that are critical in strategic communications,” Aldhaher says. “Women are no longer adapting to fit into existing leadership models; they’re actively redefining them. From global campaigns to government strategy and now in academia, I’ve witnessed how the presence of women at the table elevates the tone and depth of conversations—it’s not only about inclusion, but also about innovation and impact. And the business ecosystem is responding, We’re seeing more women in C-level roles and on boards, but more importantly, we’re seeing women being heard and followed for their expertise, not just their presence.”

And the ripple effect these women in leadership have is undeniable, Aldhaher says.

“When I was coming up in the field, there were few visible examples of Arab women leading major campaigns or shaping national narratives,” she points out. “Today, when younger women see us in those roles, whether launching global brands, or shaping strategic visions for a city or university, they see what’s possible. And that’s not just inspiring; it’s catalytic.”

Lessons Learned: Q&A With Alia Al Mur

Looking back on your journey, if there is one piece of advice you’d give yourself before you embarked on your career, what would that be? Additionally, if you could go back in time and tell yourself something that you should avoid or simply not do, what would that be? 

If I could give myself one piece of advice before starting out, it would be: let go, let God. I’ve learned that you can prepare, plan, and give everything your best, but at some point, you have to surrender the outcome and trust the process. That mindset brought me peace in high-pressure environments and clarity in moments of uncertainty. It reminded me that what’s meant for you won’t pass you, and what passes you was never meant to stay. 

If there’s one thing I’d caution myself against, it’s this: don’t be swayed by the noise. I was always told that a tsunami could pass beside me and I wouldn’t flinch. That stillness has served me well. Not every opinion needs to be absorbed. Not every reaction needs a response. When you trust your values, your vision, and your purpose, the noise fades. Stay anchored in that. 

For women following a similar path: calm is not weakness. Grace under pressure is not invisibility. Your ability to hold steady is one of your greatest strengths—protect it. 

Pictured in the lead image is Alanood Aldhaher, Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at the American University of Sharjah. Courtesy of the American University of Sharjah.

Alanood Aldhaher was one of Inc. Arabia's Women of Influence 2025, a showcase of 30 women rewriting the rules of business in the MENA region. For the full list, please click here.