The Gulf region continues to be a hub of innovation and leadership; driven by exceptional women whose impact extends across industries. These inspiring figures are not only leading change but are actively shaping the future. Among these pioneering women is Dr. Summia Zaher, CEO of the Women & Children’s Care Cluster at M42, which includes Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children and HealthPlus Fertility Centers.
With over 20 years of clinical and leadership experience, Dr. Zaher has established herself as a force in healthcare transformation. Her vision combines clinical excellence with patient-centric care and sustainable healthcare systems. Her work has redefined how women and children's health is delivered in the region, placing empathy and empowerment at the core of every interaction.
Under Dr. Zaher’s leadership, Danat Al Emarat Hospital has broadened its specialized services, introducing centers of excellence in areas such as endometriosis, menopause care, continence and pelvic floor health, pediatric neurorehabilitation, and scoliosis surgery. Her focus on holistic care ensures that emotional, psychological and physical well-being are all addressed in the patient's journey.
She has also spearheaded groundbreaking patient-first initiatives, including the creation of a Patient Advisory Group and the integration of patient voices into research and clinical governance. By championing midwifery-led labor and informed birthing choices, Dr. Zaher has set new standards in maternal care across the UAE.
Beyond clinical services, Dr. Zaher is committed to developing the next generation of Emirati healthcare professionals. She has been instrumental in launching residency programs in obstetrics and pediatrics, embedding a culture of compassionate care and academic excellence within the hospital.
Her leadership on the hospital’s Research and Development Committee has yielded significant contributions to international medical literature, earning recognition at global platforms such as the RCOG Congress. At the operational level, she has implemented global best practices to streamline processes, improve outcomes and elevate the overall patient experience.
Dr. Zaher’s legacy is one of empowerment, inclusion and excellence. Her strategic leadership and tireless advocacy continue to uplift the standard of care not only within Danat Al Emarat Hospital but across the wider healthcare sector in the Gulf. Her inclusion in the "Top 20 Empowering Women Leaders to Follow in 2025" reflects her enduring influence and the promise of what is yet to come.