Home lists Top 100 most powerful Arabs 2021 Dr Hayat Sindi Scientist Origin: KSA Residence: KSA Sector: Science and Technology In August, Dr Hayat Sindi, the first Saudi and Muslim woman from the GCC to obtain a PhD in biotechnology from the University of Cambridge, saw her role as a UNESCO Goodwill ambassador extended for another two years. The move came in recognition of her efforts to support scientists, technologists and engineers in the Middle East. Sindi, who serves as the senior advisor to the president of the Islamic Development Bank, was one of the first women to be appointed to Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council in 2013. She also co-founded non-profit Diagnostics for All.