Hatem Dowidar: From Humble Beginnings to Leading a Digital Giant

Every great leader has a story of perseverance, vision, and relentless drive. This is the story of Hatem Dowidar— a man whose journey from dedicated professional to Group Chief Executive Officer of e& (Etisalat), one of the world’s leading telecommunications giants, epitomizes modern leadership and transformative innovation.

Early Career and Educational Foundations

Hatem Dowidar’s professional journey is anchored in a strong academic foundation. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Alexandria, Egypt, and later expanded his expertise by attaining an MBA from the American University in Cairo. These formative years equipped him with the technical knowledge and strategic mindset necessary to navigate the complex, rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Before joining e&, Dowidar amassed invaluable experience at global firms such as Vodafone, where he held senior roles that sharpened his expertise in telecommunications operations and business transformation. His diverse background laid the groundwork for his forward-thinking approach to leadership, blending operational excellence with innovative vision.

Rising Through the Ranks at e&

Dowidar joined e& in 2015 as Group Chief Operating Officer, bringing with him a powerful combination of strategic insight and operational expertise. His impact was swift and profound. By 2016, he took over as CEO of e&’s international business, driving expansion into new markets and spearheading cutting-edge digital solutions. His decisive leadership and ability to anticipate industry trends culminated in his appointment as Group CEO in 2020, positioning him at the helm of a company at the forefront of the digital revolution.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability at e&

Under Dowidar’s visionary leadership, e& has launched groundbreaking initiatives that showcase the company’s commitment to innovation, customer value, and sustainability. In August 2025, e&’s innovation platform charge&go partnered with Parkin to sign a landmark 10-year agreement to deploy 200 ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers across Dubai. This ambitious project not only supports the city’s sustainability goals but also cements e&’s role as a key player in the clean energy transformation.

Earlier in 2025, Dowidar championed the launch of ‘Save & Grow’ — a program integrated into the e& U.A.E. app in partnership with Kindred.co. It offers users an average discount of 10% at over 9,000 participating online retailers, with a portion of the revenue dedicated to tree-planting initiatives across the UAE. This innovative fusion of customer rewards and environmental stewardship highlights Dowidar’s belief in business as a force for good.

Expertise, Achievements, and Industry Recognition

Hatem Dowidar’s expertise spans telecommunications, digital transformation, operational management, and sustainability integration. His leadership is recognized globally, earning him the distinction of being a LinkedIn Top Voice in the UAE — an acknowledgment of his influence and thought leadership in the business community.

Throughout his career, Dowidar has been honored with multiple awards recognizing excellence in leadership and innovation, underscoring his reputation as a visionary who steers organizations toward future-ready success.

Leading e& Into the Future

Today, as Group CEO of e&, Hatem Dowidar is driving a company that is not just a telecom operator but a digital powerhouse. The company’s portfolio includes innovative digital services, enterprise solutions, consumer connectivity, and sustainability initiatives — each playing a key role in shaping the regional and global digital economy.

Dowidar’s leadership embodies a deep commitment to harnessing technology to create shared value, empower communities, and protect the environment. His strategic vision is positioning e& to thrive in a hyper-connected world where speed, sustainability, and customer experience define success.

Conclusion: A Leader for the Next Generation

The story of Hatem Dowidar is one of humble beginnings, relentless growth, and inspiring leadership. From his early career roots to leading e& through transformative milestones, Dowidar stands out as a trailblazer in digital innovation and sustainable growth.

At The Global CEO Network, we celebrate his journey and his role as a leading force not only in telecommunications but also as a champion for a smarter, greener, and more connected future.

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