Deemah AlYahya: Championing Global Digital Cooperation and Inclusive Innovation

Digital transformation has become one of the defining forces shaping economies and societies worldwide. At the forefront of this movement is Deemah AlYahya, a globally recognized technology leader, digital diplomat, and innovation advocate whose work has helped expand digital opportunities across nations while advancing the vision of an inclusive digital economy.

Leading Global Digital Cooperation

As the Founding Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), Deemah AlYahya has led the growth of the multilateral organization into a global platform representing 16 member states, more than 800 million people, and a combined GDP exceeding USD 3.5 trillion. Under her leadership, the DCO has earned United Nations Observer Status while fostering international collaboration to advance digital prosperity for all.

Working alongside governments, international organizations, and industry leaders, she has helped launch initiatives that have supported more than 480 startups, established four innovation centers, raised USD 21 million to support entrepreneurship, and trained over 5,000 women-led businesses, strengthening digital inclusion and economic participation worldwide.

A Career Dedicated to Digital Transformation

Before founding the DCO, Deemah served as Secretary General and CEO of Saudi Arabia’s National Digital Transformation Unit, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the Kingdom’s digital strategy, developing transformation frameworks across key sectors, and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s digital economy agenda within the G20.

Her leadership journey also includes senior roles at Microsoft, where she helped grow the regional developer ecosystem and champion digital innovation, as well as leadership positions at Tadawul and Samba Financial Group, building a strong foundation in technology, digital services, and innovation.

Empowering Women and Future Innovators

Driven by a passion for creating opportunities, Deemah founded WomenSpark, Saudi Arabia’s first female angel investment group, dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs and investors. Since its establishment, the initiative has trained more than 26,000 women, helping expand female participation in entrepreneurship and the digital economy.

Beyond her executive responsibilities, she serves on the boards of several prominent organizations, including The Saudi National Bank (SNB), Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP), The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and Richard Attias & Associates, while also contributing to the World Economic Forum’s EDISON Alliance and the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development.

Recognized Global Leadership

Throughout her distinguished career, Deemah has received numerous prestigious recognitions, including The Best Digital CEO of the Year, the Tech Diplomacy Award, and being named among the 100 Most Creative People in Business in the Middle East. Her leadership reflects a commitment to leveraging technology not only for economic growth but also for social impact, inclusion, and sustainable development.

Recognition by CEO Network

CEO Network proudly recognizes Deemah AlYahya for her exceptional contributions to digital transformation, international cooperation, and innovation leadership. Through her visionary work in connecting nations, empowering entrepreneurs, and advancing digital inclusion, she continues to shape a future where technology creates opportunities and prosperity for people, businesses, and communities across the globe.

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