Raising the standard of corporate governace in the Middle East
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The Impact of Corporate Governance on Investor Success
For investors, good corporate governance is vital in giving them oversight of a company's internal policies, control mechanisms, and decision making.
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How Corporate Governance Protects Family Businesses and Preserves Family Values
The family-owned business has long formed the bedrock of the Middle Eastern economy, constituting as much as 90% of all companies and contributing around 60% of GDP in the region.
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How Executives Can Leverage Their Knowledge of CG For Greater Success
Executives who invest time in developing their knowledge of corporate governance can add greater value to any organization that they are a part of.
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Corporate Governance: The True Value for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs in the Middle East looking to establish credibility within the market, confidence among potential investors or creditors, and opportunities for expansion should consider the implementation of corporate governance as a key part of their strategy.
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The Impact of Corporate Governance on Investor Success
For investors, good corporate governance is vital in giving them oversight of a company's internal policies, control mechanisms, and decision making.
Learn MoreHow Corporate Governance Protects Family Businesses and Preserves Family Values
The family-owned business has long formed the bedrock of the Middle Eastern economy, constituting as much as 90% of all companies and contributing around 60% of GDP in the region.
Learn MoreHow Executives Can Leverage Their Knowledge of CG For Greater Success
Executives who invest time in developing their knowledge of corporate governance can add greater value to any organization that they are a part of.
Learn MoreCorporate Governance: The True Value for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs in the Middle East looking to establish credibility within the market, confidence among potential investors or creditors, and opportunities for expansion should consider the implementation of corporate governance as a key part of their strategy.
Learn More
Take our quick Corporate Governance Quiz
Find out whether you know the basics of corporate governance.
Director Nomination
We work with organizations to nominate Qualified Directors with relevant experience. We leverage our extensive network of Qualified Directors to recruit individuals who have the specific backgrounds and skillsets needed to enhance and improve the corporate governance function of your business. Learn More
Upcoming Trainings
We offer a range of capacity-building programs to advance understanding of corporate governance and demonstrate its value.
Corporate Directors Program
Start Date : Sep 16, 2025Designed for current board chairs and members, directors, senior officers, and senior executives, and individuals interested in these positions.***
Program Fee: US$
4,750
Discounted Price: US$ 4,250
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Shareholder Activism in the Middle East
Start Date : Jun 01, 2025Shareholder activism is rapidly reshaping corporate governance in the Middle East, driven by ESG priorities, economic diversification, and growing foreign investor influence. This MEIoD Governance Conversation examines how boards and executives can proactively engage with activist investors, align stakeholder expectations, and turn potential conflicts into opportunities for sustainable value creation. Join regional experts to explore actionable strategies for navigating activism in the GCC’s evolving regulatory and cultural landscape.
Time: 06:00 PM (UAE Time)
MEIoD Governance Conversation Subscription
Governance is at the heart of organizational success. Through this subscription, we are creating an institutionalized platform for professionals like you to engage in frank, challenging, and real-life governance discussions while expanding your network within a community of like-minded peers. The subscription is centered around the 90-minute monthly MEIoD Governance Conversation sessions. For each MEIoD Governance Conversation session, we will present a case study relevant to the topic at hand. The case studies are then discussed in groups and an “ideal” scenario is presented highlighting best practices and how to overcome real-life challenges that may be faced. Content and material for each session will be shared with the attendees. The presentation of the case study and the best practices will be recorded and shared with the members in case they are unable to attend the sessions.
Program Fee: US$ 600
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Corporate Governance for investments and IPOs
Start Date : Mar 21, 2025The upcoming MEIoD Governance Conversation is geared towards addressing critical governance challenges faced by companies transitioning to public markets or attracting new investors. Directors attending this event can expect discussions on balancing family control with public company requirements, determining governance structures that align with both family and public interests, maintaining cultural values while meeting international standards, managing resistance during the transition period, implementing necessary support systems, identifying key governance risks during an IPO, safeguarding family interests, and establishing appropriate risk management controls.
Time: 04:00 PM (UAE Time)
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Audit Committee and New Arising Risks
Start Date : Apr 28, 2025This timely MEIoD Governance Conversation addresses critical challenges faced by Audit Committees as they navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape. As corporate environments evolve rapidly, Audit Committees must adapt their oversight approaches to maintain effective governance. Best practices for balancing traditional financial oversight with emerging risk domains Strategies for effective communication between the Audit Committee and the full board Approaches to oversight of complex issues including cybersecurity, ESG reporting, and post-acquisition integration Techniques for prioritizing committee agendas and optimizing limited meeting time Methods for evaluating committee composition to ensure appropriate expertise for evolving risks Frameworks for clear delineation of responsibilities between the Audit Committee, other committees, and management
Time: 06:00 PM (UAE Time)
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Boardroom Dilemma, Social and political issues—to engage or not to engage?
Start Date : Feb 12, 2025Join us for the MEIoD Governance Conversation as we explore the topic of "Social and political issues - to engage or not to engage?” This session offers a deep dive into the intricate balance between corporate interests and social responsibility, providing leaders with practical tools to lead with integrity in challenging geopolitical landscapes.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Corporate Governance for Start-Ups
Start Date : Nov 17, 2025Designed for founders and owners of high-growth businesses, as well as high-level executives working within those organizations.
Program Fee: US$
2,500
Discounted Price: US$ 2,250
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Leading with Diplomacy/Tackling Difficult Boardroom Conversations
Start Date : Jan 21, 2025Join us for the MEIoD Governance Conversation as we delve into the complexities of effective board governance under the theme "Leading with Diplomacy." In this interactive session, we will explore the nuances of navigating competing interests and managing strong personalities within the boardroom. Through a case study analysis we will address key challenges such as valuation disagreements, integration hurdles, potential layoffs, and governance structure concerns. Participants will gain insights into resolution strategies and maintaining clear communication channels.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Corporate Governance for Family Businesses
Start Date : Jun 18, 2025 & Sep 17, 2025Designed for family members, and those individuals working in executive or secretarial roles within a family business.
Program Fee: US$
3,000
Discounted Price: US$ 2,500
MEIoD Governance Conversation - Enhancing Board Governance through Authentic Evaluations
Start Date : Nov 04, 2024Join us for the MEIoD Governance Conversation as we explore the critical topic of enhancing board governance through authentic evaluations. This session will address significant challenges such as encouraging open feedback, ensuring confidentiality, and balancing constructive criticism. Participants will engage in practical discussions to analyze past evaluations, identify barriers to implementation, and ensure future success. We'll debate a variety of issues with the goal of enabling the use of board evaluations to lead to genuine improvements and actionable changes, equipping board members and governance professionals with the knowledge needed to drive real change.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Board Ready Program
Start Date : May 14, 2025 & Aug 13, 2025For curious, conscious, courageous & capable professionals seeking an accelerated pathway to a value-aligned board role.
Program Fee: US$
2,500
Discounted Price: US$ 2,250
MEIoD Governance Conversation - Linking board remuneration with performance and particularly ESG performance
Start Date : Sep 19, 2024Join us on August 29th for a transformative exchange of ideas, strategies, and best practices designed to link board remuneration with performance, particularly in the realm of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). Participate in insightful discussions, interactive case studies, and network with peers in the field. Whether you're grappling with integrating ESG metrics into compensation packages, seeking to align remuneration with sustainable performance, or aiming to enhance accountability and transparency, the MEIoD Governance Conversation is the event that promises to tackle these issues head-on. Don't miss out on the opportunity to reshape the future of corporate governance. Reserve your spot now and be part of the conversation that will set new benchmarks for board remuneration and ESG performance in boardrooms across the Middle East and beyond.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
ESG in the Boardroom
Start Date : May 21, 2025 & Dec 15, 2025Designed for board members, executives, corporate secretaries, in-house counsel, and sustainability/CSR/ESG officers.
Program Fee: US$
3,000
Discounted Price: US$ 2,500
MEIoD Governance Conversation - Board Remuneration
Start Date : Jul 30, 2024MEIoD Governance Conversation: Boardroom Potential with the right Board Remuneration Join us on July 30th for an engaging exchange of ideas, strategies, and best practices designed to refine your board's compensation approach. Participate in insightful discussions, interactive case studies, and network with peers in the field. Whether you’re grappling with designing competitive packages, seeking to align remuneration with performance, or aiming to enhance transparency and accountability, the MEIoD Governance Conversation is the event that promises to tackle these issues head-on. Don't miss out on the opportunity to reshape the future of corporate governance. Reserve your spot now and be part of the conversation that will set new benchmarks for board remuneration in boardrooms across the Middle East and beyond.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Board Simulation
We have created a Board Simulation program to increase your exposure to opportunities and prepare executives to take their first company board position by immersing them into a virtual boardroom scenario.
Program Fee: US$
1,500
Discounted Price: US$ 1,250
Masterclass: Prepare Your Board for AI Strategy
Are you poised to steer your organization through the AI revolution? In today's AI-driven business landscape, a critical gap is emerging. While 100% of CEOs are investing in Generative AI, recognizing its transformative potential, a stark reality looms: 89% of AI projects fail to scale. This chasm between ambition and achievement represents not just missed opportunities, but a critical threat to your organization's future competitiveness. As a board member, you stand at the crossroads of this AI revolution, uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between executive enthusiasm and successful implementation. The session will take place from 10am till 1pm UAE time.
Program Fee: US$ 350
Masterclass: Empowering Business through Advisory Boards
Discover the transformative power of advisory boards and more formal boards of directors in our upcoming masterclass, hosted by the Middle East Institute of Directors (MEIoD) in association with Accelerated Value Generation AVG LTD represented by Enrico Baldassarri. The session will take place from 10am till 1pm UAE time.
Program Fee: US$ 350
Diversified Leadership
This program is focused on empowering participants to embrace diversity, challenge unconscious biases, and develop strategies for change.
Program Fee: US$
2,000
Discounted Price: US$ 1,750
Corporate Secretary Course
Designed for individuals new to the role of Corporate Secretary, and those looking to refresh and update their knowledge after a period of service.
Program Fee: US$
3,000
Discounted Price: US$ 2,500
Online Intro to ESG
This half day program is designed to provide guidance and information to board members on how best to manage Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) as a key part of their strategy.
Program Fee: US$
250
Discounted Price: US$ 200
Online Intro to Corporate Governance
This half day program is designed to provide a big picture overview of the role of boards covering aspects of decision making, recruitment and implementing effective governance.
Program Fee: US$
250
Discounted Price: US$ 200
Recorded Webinar: Green and Sustainable Finance in the Boardroom
Start Date : Aug 16, 2021Green and sustainable finance has increased substantially in the past few years. This is leading to innovation and change in market practices, regulation, reporting and risk management.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Strategic Importance of HR in Boardroom
Start Date : Feb 22, 2022The scope of this session is to address: The strategic role of HR in the boardroom The HR’s role in the boardroom in terms of challenging the strategy and the implementation of it against the HR structure The HR directors role as a proactive partner The HR director with solutions
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
How the role of the CFO is transforming in the board room
Start Date : May 15, 2022Tune in to our next webinar with Antonio Chedrawy to understand the important role of CFOs in the boardroom.
Time: 05:00 PM (UAE Time)
Recorded Webinar: Board CV
Start Date : Dec 07, 2021Board CVs are a unique format focused on individuals value proposition and the value that they can bring into any given boardroom. This is a webinar to assist individuals put together and prepare their Board CVs.
Time: 05:00 PM (UAE Time)
Governance Conversation - Role of the board in ESG
Start Date : Feb 01, 2024A virtual networking event to take place on February 1, 2024 for existing directors and potential directors to network, it will be a speed networking event allowing you to have 1 to 1 meetings with like minded people to build strategic and value added relationships.
Time: 11:00 AM (UAE Time)
Governance Conversation - Digitalization
Start Date : Feb 15, 2024A virtual networking event to take place on February 15, 2024 for existing directors and potential directors to network, it will be a speed networking event allowing you to have 1 to 1 meetings with like minded people to build strategic and value added relationships.
Time: 11:00 AM (UAE Time)
Governance Conversation - AGM
Start Date : Mar 27, 2024This Virtual Networking Event taking place on March 27, 2024 is designed for current and aspiring directors to engage in value added conversations, fostering strategic relationships. Topic for March is the Annual General Assembly Meeting, opening discussions on associated challenges, stakeholder management, and governance trends. MEIoD Alumni can attend for free.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
MEIoD Governance Conversation: Mastering the Art of Director On-boarding
Start Date : May 29, 2024With the business landscape evolving at an unprecedented pace, the effectiveness of a company's board of directors is more critical than ever. In this governance conversation, we highlight the best practices and nuances of on-boarding new directors, tailored to their unique skills and backgrounds. Our aim is to attract C-suite executives, board members, and corporate governance professionals interested in optimizing board composition and performance through strategic on-boarding.
Time: 11:00 AM (UAE Time)
MEIoD Governance Conversation on Board Working Procedures
Start Date : Jul 03, 2024Dive into boardroom excellence with the MEIoD Governance Conversation on Working Procedures. Join us on June 25, 2024, for a dynamic exchange of ideas, strategies, and best practices tailored to elevate governance standards. Engage in thought-provoking discussions, interactive case studies, and connect with peers in the field. Whether you're grappling with decision-making inefficiencies, seeking to optimize meeting structures, or aiming to enhance accountability within your board, the MEIoD Governance Conversation is the event that promises to address these challenges head-on. Don't miss out on the opportunity to reshape the future of corporate governance. Reserve your spot now and be part of the conversation that will set new benchmarks for working procedures in boardrooms across the Middle East and beyond.
Time: 12:00 AM (UAE Time)
Governance Conversation - Nomination Committee
Start Date : Apr 30, 2024Join us for a 90-minute pivotal Governance Conversation focusing on the Nomination Committee – a virtual networking event hosted by MEIoD that promises to delve into the intricacies and impact of the nomination committee on board composition and performance.
Time: 11:00 AM (UAE Time)
If you have any questions or would like to reach out to us on the programs, please email: Events@MEIoD.org
The Importance of Effective Corporate Governance and a Diverse Board of Directors
Governance refers to the set of rules and practices that guide a companys board of directors in ensuring accountability, fairness and transparency in their relationship, with stakeholders. One key aspect of governance is the composition of the board, which involves bringing together individuals with skills, experiences and perspectives. It has been observed that having a board composition, combined with governance practices leads to improved decision making and overall corporate governance quality especially within the GCC region.
The board of directors serves as the driving force behind governance. Their responsibilities encompass areas such as selecting and evaluating the CEO reviewing financial decisions and ensuring the long term sustainability of the company while addressing significant risks and challenges. They are ultimately accountable to stakeholders.
Effective governance practices have consistently shown correlations with performance across sectors. This trend holds true in the Middle East well. In this article we will delve into the intricacies of board composition and its impact on governance within the GCC region - Board Composition Trends in the GCC.
The Role of Board Composition in Corporate Governance
The structure of a companys board plays a role, in governance.
An ideal composition of a board comprises a group of individuals, with varying skills, experiences and perspectives. A study conducted on 143 companies listed in the GCC region revealed that the common size of a board was seven members with an average age of 52.8 years. Interestingly, the majority of female directors are within the age group of 45-54 (62.6%) - Board Composition Trends in the GCC.
However there is still room for improvement in terms of gender diversity within boards. On average there was one woman for every four board members. Nevertheless the increasing presence of female directors indicates a trend towards greater diversity in board composition. This diversity is crucial as it promotes a range of ideas and leads to robust decision making processes. Having a range of individuals, on the board is crucial as it encourages a spectrum of ideas leading to stronger decision making processes.
The Importance of Independent Directors and Fair Compensation Independent directors, who are not involved in day to day operations offer oversight. Contribute to fair decision making processes. In the GCC region there is a correlation between board independence and remuneration. Independent directors receive compensation with a remuneration of USD 113K for board members in this region. - Board Composition Trends in the GCC.
The Role and Significance of Board Committeees
Many corporate boards establish committees to manage areas of responsibility. These committees play a role, in maintaining checks and balances within the organization while enhancing corporate governance standardsDepending on the industry additional committees such, as the Risk Committee, Digital Transformation Committee or Cybersecurity Committee may also be relevant.
The Unique Role of the Board Chairperson
The board chairperson has responsibilities leading the board setting its agenda and ensuring its functioning. They also serve as the point of contact between the board and the CEO fostering communication and fostering positive relationships.
The Impact of Effective Governance on Performance
Implementing governance practices including having an diverse board instills market confidence. This has been proven to result in improved performance and increased value for shareholders. For example a study conducted by the Hawkamah Institute for Corporate Governance discovered that companies in the United Arab Emirates with corporate governance rankings outperformed the market by 4.8% in 2018 . Likewise according to data from the International Finance Corporation Egyptian companies with corporate governance practices recorded profits that were 25% higher than their counterparts.
The Significance of Good Governance
Essentially adopting governance practices driven by a structured and diverse board can significantly enhance a companys performance. In Eastern markets where there is a growing trend, towards more independent board compositions businesses have an opportunity to leverage these practices for their advantage.