Women Of Influence 2025: Technology Innovation Institute's Dr. Najwa Aaraj
The CEO of Technology Innovation Institute has been named one of Inc. Arabia’s Women of Influence 2025, which showcases 30 women rewriting the rules of business in the MENA region.
When talking about female role models in the Middle East’s science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) landscape, Dr. Najwa Aaraj’s name inevitably comes up. As the CEO of the UAE’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Dr. Aaraj sits at the helm of a multidisciplinary research ecosystem that is at the forefront of deep tech development. Her strategic vision has positioned TII, and by extension, the UAE, as a global player in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, cryptography, autonomous robotics, and sustainable systems.
A scientist herself, Dr. Aaraj has led TII to launch several groundbreaking innovations, including a platform for next-generation swarm systems, an advanced synthetic aperture radar solution, as well as the open-source large language model (LLM) Falcon H1, which topped international AI benchmarks upon its release. In addition, Dr. Aaraj has also overseen the development of the UAE’s national cryptographic and post-quantum cryptographic libraries, besides several other privacy-enhancing technologies and next-generation autonomous systems.
Reflecting on her leadership ethos at TII, Dr. Aaraj describes it as one that combines empathy with accountability, with the goal of fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture that drives innovation aligned with both national priorities and global impact. But for Dr. Aaraj, her leadership of TII is not confined to organizational outcomes—she knows that it also carries a responsibility to shift perceptions in the field that she operates in.
“In my view, women in positions of influence not only challenge traditional paradigms, but also serve as powerful catalysts for change by opening doors for others to follow,” Dr. Aaraj says. “I’m noting a noticeable shift in the ecosystem: more organizations are recognizing the value of diversity and investing in equitable structures. The presence of women in top roles inspires emerging talent, and it reinforces the idea that innovation and leadership transcend gender.”
This ripple effect is particularly evident in the STEM arena, where role models like Dr. Aaraj demonstrate what is possible for future generations. Looking back on her own trajectory though, when reflecting on advice she’d give her younger self, Dr. Aaraj highlights the importance of embracing the journey one is on without striving for constant perfection. “While technical mastery is essential, so too is the patience to allow growth, the resilience to navigate detours, and the wisdom to accept imperfection as part of innovation,” she explains. “One thing I would caution against is the tendency to approach every challenge with urgency and flawless execution. Over time, I have learned that progress often emerges from imperfect trials, and that humility, reflection, and persistence are just as important as expertise.”
Pictured in the lead image is Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Image courtesy Technology Innovation Institute (TII).
Dr. Najwa Aaraj 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.
