Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim is the vice chairman and chief executive officer for Wasl Asset Management Group and is responsible for leading the organisation’s transformation into a world-class asset management company. He is also the vice chairman and managing director of Emirates NBD Bank PJSC, the chairman of Emirates Islamic Bank PJSC, one of the leading Islamic banks in the region, and Emirates NBD Egypt – both of which are subsidiaries of Emirates NBD PJSC.

Al Qassim’s leadership role at Wasl has seen him spearhead asset management, real estate, hospitality and project development. This portfolio of achievement, combined with a wealth of financial sector experience from over 19 years in the banking industry, makes him one of the most experienced CEOs in the region.

I have to work. I have the passion for it, I love what I do. I have never taken a sick day in my life”

Under his stewardship, Wasl has managed to achieve remarkable success in the management and ownership of large-scale real estate projects undertaken for the government of Dubai. He was responsible for restructuring and developing a clear mechanism for the group’s provision of high quality services, which included operating three key subsidiaries: Wasl Properties, Wasl Hospitality and Leisure and Dubai Golf.

Wasl properties is a leading real estate company and now manages over 35,000 units across Dubai. Wasl Hospitality and Leisure owns and manages several international five-star hotel chains in Dubai, while Dubai Golf is home to two world-ranked golf courses across the emirate. This portfolio expansion was achieved in the face of the toughest global economic conditions.

Al Qassim is also a very strong advocate for the importance of recognising and developing local talent. This commitment to nurturing home-grown skills and abilities has led him to become one of the founders of the Young Arab Leaders organisation. Additionally, he remains a board member of the National Human Resources Development Committee in the banking and financial sector.