Egyptian talent continues to lead the regional conversation as Forbes Middle East unveils its 30 Under 30 list for 2025. With the highest number of honourees on the list, Egypt’s young leaders are shaping the future of business, culture, technology, and social impact across the Middle East. From cultural entrepreneurship and sustainability to venture capital, gaming, and scientific research, this year’s Egyptian honourees reflect a generation redefining influence and innovation.

Sarah Abouelkhair and Abdelrahman Selim

Sarah Abouelkhair and Abdelrahman Selim were recognised as the co-founders of 2oolameme, a social gaming brand that transformed Arabic humour and everyday cultural references into a widely successful card game. Selling over one million copies across several countries, 2oolameme demonstrates how local culture, when thoughtfully packaged, can resonate regionally and globally. Their work captures a new form of cultural entrepreneurship rooted in relatability and shared identity.

Malak Elleithy

Malak Elleithy earned her place on the list as the founder of YOUTH, a platform that supports students and young professionals through mentorship, career access, and community engagement. By addressing the gap between education and employment, Elleithy’s work focuses on long-term impact rather than short-term growth, positioning her as a key figure in youth empowerment and professional development in Egypt.

Layla Ghaleb

Layla Ghaleb was recognised for her work as a director and choreographer whose performances blend movement, narrative, and visual storytelling. With projects showcased on international stages, Ghaleb represents a contemporary wave of Egyptian creatives pushing artistic boundaries and redefining how stories can be told through the body and space.

Laura Ayoub

Laura Ayoub, one half of the internationally acclaimed Ayoub Sisters, was honoured for her contribution to music and cultural expression. Blending classical foundations with modern influences, Ayoub has helped make orchestral music more accessible to younger audiences worldwide, positioning Egyptian musicians firmly within the global cultural landscape.

Nuhayr Zein

Nuhayr Zein was recognised as the founder of Leukeather, a startup developing plant-based leather alternatives to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion and design industries. Her work reflects a growing focus on sustainability and ethical production, while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality and innovation within the luxury and design sectors.

Amr Salem and Khaled Salem

Amr Salem and Khaled Salem earned recognition for their work with Salem Pack, reflecting the growing influence of Egyptian-founded businesses in regional commerce. Their inclusion highlights the role of family-led and partnership-driven enterprises in building scalable, resilient business models across the Middle East.

Hossam Shafick

Hossam Shafick was named for his role as Investment Director for Egypt and North Africa at Silicon Badia. His work places him at the centre of the region’s venture capital ecosystem, supporting startups, driving investment into high-growth businesses, and strengthening Egypt’s position as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Mahmoud Abdelmaksoud

Mahmoud Abdelmaksoud was recognised as the co-founder and co-CEO of Nawy Unlocked, a proptech venture rethinking real estate investment through data-driven platforms and flexible ownership models. His work reflects the digital transformation of one of Egypt’s most traditional sectors.

Nour Tawfig and Nur Magid

Nour Tawfig and Nur Magid were honoured in the commerce and finance category, representing a collaborative approach to entrepreneurship. Their recognition reflects the increasing diversity of business models emerging from Egypt and the growing role of partnership-led ventures in shaping the regional economy.

Youssef Sakr

Youssef Sakr earned his place on the list for his contributions to business and commerce, representing Egypt’s expanding footprint in regional markets. His inclusion highlights the breadth of entrepreneurial activity emerging from the country, beyond headline-grabbing startups.

Zeyad Zein

Zeyad Zein was recognised as the founder and CEO of LAYN, a construction technology startup exploring advanced building methods, including innovative approaches to sustainability and efficiency. His work positions Egypt within the future of construction and urban development.

Omar Ghanem and Mostafa Hossameldin

Omar Ghanem and Mostafa Hossameldin were honoured as the co-founders of GAM3S.GG, a gaming and esports platform serving a rapidly growing digital community across the Middle East. Their success reflects the rising influence of gaming, content creation and online communities in shaping modern culture and business.

Mahmoud Zidan and Bassel Enab

Mahmoud Zidan and Bassel Enab were recognised for their work through Kord Agency, which produces electronic music events and cultural experiences across Egypt and beyond. Their work highlights how entertainment and collective experiences can serve as powerful tools for cultural connection and social impact.

Kerolos Yousef

Kerolos Yousef was honoured in the Science and Technology category for his work in applied physics and advanced research. His recognition underscores Egypt’s growing presence in global scientific and technological innovation, extending the country’s influence beyond business and culture.

Together, these Egyptian honourees represent a generation that is not only achieving personal success, but actively reshaping industries, narratives and opportunities across the region. Their presence on the Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list for 2025 reinforces Egypt’s role as a leading source of talent, creativity and forward-thinking leadership in the Middle East.