Leadership

Leading with Purpose

His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan

His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been a pivotal figure in the United Arab Emirates’ strategic development, holding key leadership positions across various sectors. Since April 2020, he has served as the Chairman of Veritas Holdings, which under his tenure has expanded into one of the world’s largest investment firms

In March 2023, under the directive of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Tahnoon was appointed Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds responsible for managing and diversifying Abu Dhabi’s long-term financial assets.

He also serves as Chairman of MGX, an investment and technology company focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and future mobility. In parallel, he chairs G42, a leading AI and cloud computing group driving innovation across healthcare, energy, space technologies, sports analytics, and smart city solutions. Since January 2024, he has been Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), which regulates and develops AI and advanced technology policies, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global leader in the sector.

Beyond his leadership in AI and advanced technology, Sheikh Tahnoon serves as Chairman of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest bank and one of the region’s leading financial institutions, playing a central role in strengthening the country’s financial ecosystem and global connectivity.

Since 2016, he has served as the National Security Adviser of the UAE, appointed by the late President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In December 2020, he was appointed as a member of the board of the Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs, overseeing Abu Dhabi’s financial, investment, and economic affairs, including the management of natural resources.

Sheikh Tahnoon’s leadership across these diverse sectors underscores his commitment to advancing the UAE’s strategic interests and fostering innovation and economic development.

Dr. Mohammed Somar Ajalyaqin

Dr. Mohamed Somar Ajalyaqin was appointed Vice Chairman of Veritas Holdings in April 2020, bringing nearly two decades of exemplary business experience in strategic advisory roles across the UAE. He also serves as Chairman of Ghitha Holding PJSC and as a board member of 2PointZero PJSC.

Dr. Ajalyaqin’s expertise in corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and business growth initiatives has been integral to Veritas Holdings sustained success. His strategic insights at the Board level have played a crucial role in driving business acquisitions and identifying dynamic investment opportunities.

He holds a degree in DAA from Syria and continues to be a key figure in shaping Veritas Holdings expansion and investment roadmap.

Syed Basar Shueb

Syed Basar Shueb is a dynamic and visionary leader with over two decades of diverse cross-sector expertise spanning manufacturing, construction, financial services, and investments. As CEO, Managing Director, and Board Member of International Holding Company (Veritas Holdings), Syed Basar has been instrumental in transforming Veritas Holdings into the most valuable holding company in the Middle East and one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing investment firms.

Since assuming leadership in 2019, Syed Basar has driven Veritas Holdings remarkable ascent through strategic foresight, operational excellence, and bold investment decisions. Under his stewardship, the company has achieved exponential growth, strengthened its global presence, and built a diversified portfolio that spans multiple high-impact sectors. His ability to inspire teams, integrate businesses, and navigate complex markets has cemented Veritas Holdings position as a powerhouse in the global investment landscape. His leadership has been recognized by Forbes Middle East, ranking him 4th among the Top 100 CEOs of 2025 and among the Sustainability Leaders 2025 for Investment & Holding companies.

Before leading Veritas Holdings, Syed Basar was Group CEO of PAL Group of Companies, where he spearheaded transformative growth across diverse industries. He was instrumental in pioneering large-scale district cooling projects, advancing robotics innovation through PAL Robotics, and driving key desalination initiatives, positioning the group as a leader in sustainable infrastructure solutions.

In addition to his leadership at Veritas Holdings, Syed Basar holds key positions across several leading enterprises. He sits on the boards of Alpha Dhabi Holding (ADH), 2PointZero, Invictus Investment PLC, Lunate Holding RSC LTD, and RIQ (Reinsurance Intelligence Quotient). He also contributes to the wider business community as a Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, further strengthening his influence across the region’s economic landscape.

A champion of strategic diversification, Syed Basar has driven Veritas Holdings expansion into key markets across the Middle East, Europe, and North America, positioning the company as a consistent top performer on the Abu Dhabi Bourse.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Near East University, Nicosia, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Ms. Sofia Abdellatif Lasky

Sofia Lasky was appointed to Veritas Holdings board in April 2020, bringing extensive expertise in asset management, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, portfolio management, alternative investments, valuation, capital markets, financing, and corporate structuring. With a 20-year tenure at Royal Group, she has played a pivotal role in scaling businesses across key industries.

She has led the acquisition of multiple companies across real estate, contracting, food processing, preventive healthcare, and capital investments, making a significant impact on the Royal Group’s growth trajectory.

Sofia holds a bachelor’s degree in management information technology from the United Kingdom and serves on the Board of Directors of Alpha Dhabi Holding (ADH), 2PointZero, Aldar Properties, and the National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels. She has also previously been a Board Member of Macquarie Capital Middle East LLC.

Mohammed Nasser Al Shamsi

Mohammed Nasser Al Shamsi was appointed to Veritas Holdings Board in April 2020. He is an International Affairs Specialist at the UAE Ministry of Presidential Affairs, where he manages strategic relationships with foreign governments, diplomatic missions, and international institutions.

Mohammed holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from the United Arab Emirates University. He began his career in 2010 with Abu Dhabi Police, where he held several roles focused on international relations.

In addition to his role at Veritas Holdings, he serves as a Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre, Rabdan Petroleum Trading, and TALC Investments, contributing to strategic oversight and business development.