Women Of Influence 2025: Museum Of The Future's Azza Al Nuaimi

For Azza Al Nuaimi, Director of Project Management at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, “future-focused” is more than just a buzzword; it’s the core of what she does.

Tasked with bringing to life the museum’s ambitious, futuristic ideas, she takes a hands-on approach at the future-focused organization that has become a defining feature of Dubai and the UAE. As it so happens, the city and the nation have also had a part to play in Al Nuaimi’s own career.

“One of the most important decisions I’ve made in my professional journey was choosing to lead with a ‘customer-first, UAE-aligned, Dubai-driven’ mindset,” she reveals. “Early on, I recognized that to make a real impact in my role, I had to ground every decision in the local context, understanding our audiences deeply, being responsive to the UAE’s national ambitions, and aligning with the unique pace and vision of Dubai as a global innovation hub and as a leading city of the future. That perspective became a guiding principle in how I shaped strategy, delivered projects and built relationships.”

Another pivotal moment, Al Nuaimi shares, was when she had to choose between remaining behind the scenes at the museum, or stepping fully into the operational front line. “I chose to be on the ground, to immerse myself in the real-time challenges, rhythms, and dynamics of the teams, the visitors, and the space itself,” she recalls. “That decision changed everything. It gave me sharper insight, faster feedback loops, and, most importantly, it kept me close to the people we’re here to serve. It wasn’t the easier path, but it’s the one that’s made all the difference in how I lead, build trust, and drive results.”

Lessons Learned: Q&A With Azza Al Nuaimi

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 my career, it would be to listen before you speak. You don’t need to have all the answers right away. There is so much to learn from the people around you, no matter their role or experience. Listening helps you understand situations better, build trust, and grow into a more thoughtful leader. Plus, if I could go back and tell myself what to avoid, it would be to stop doubting yourself. It’s easy to question your abilities, especially in new or challenging environments. Doubt holds you back more than anything else. Believe in your ideas, your instincts, and your place in the room. For any woman walking a similar path, remember this: you don’t have to be perfect, but you do have to be present. Listen, learn, and trust yourself. That’s where real growth begins.

Pictured in the lead image is Azza Al Nuaimi, Director of Project Management, Museum of the Future. Image courtesy Museum of the Future.

Azza Al Nuaimi 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.