Mishal Hamed Kanoo

Renowned business magnate, Mishal Hamed Kanoo is at the forefront of the shipping industry as the Chairman of The Kanoo Group. One of the most influential businessmen in the Middle East and beyond, Mishal’s extensive contributions across senior roles have changed the regions’ business landscape. With an established reputation in economic forecasting, future-proofed strategies, and social influence in the Middle East, Mishal is highly sought after to share his expertise as a keynote speaker.

As the Chairman of The Kanoo Group since 1997, Mishal has spearheaded the family business to exponential success in the shipping industry. Operating in 20 countries, including the entire Arabian Peninsula, Mishal is an expert in international business and logistics, a topic he widely applies to corporate clients of his speaking engagements. For his leadership of The Kanoo Group for over two decades, Mishal has been named amongst the Top 100 Powerful Arabs in 2013 and the year prior secured his name in the Top 15 Wealthiest Arab Businessmen in the World, a testament to his unparallel achievements. Whilst financial dominance has put Mishal on the map, he remains a philanthropy focused leader, contributing to the community through business.

With an international reputation, Mishal has spoken considerably across the globe for a range of industry events, corporate clients and relevant conferences. Known to discuss all aspects of his impressive career, Mishal has kept family values at the core of his work, and emphasizes the importance of doing the same to his audiences, for business longevity. From Forbes’ Middle East Forum to the World Summit of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Mishal’s experience and knowledge has already proven influential to an array of audience demographics, and he continues to provide transformational talks for individuals and groups.

Backed by his professional experience at Arthur Andersen, Freightworks and NextStage, Mishal is currently acting as a Chairman and Board Member for the likes of AXA Insurance Gulf, Gulf Capital and KAAF Investments. Additionally, he is dedicated to sharing his wealth of knowledge as both a lecturer at the American University and a regular contributor to Money Works Magazine and Gulf Business. Mishal continues to pioneer the groups’ diversification and has led the giant to infiltrate oil, travel and engineering markets.