Sima Ved

Born in Africa and raised in Dubai, Sima Ganwani Ved’s entrepreneurial journey began in the early 1990s when she managed a department in her father’s shopping mall.

This early experience set the foundation for her future success. She holds a bachelor’s degree from King’s College London and an MBA in business management, credentials that have equipped her for the dynamic world of retail.

in 1996, Apparel Group started as a single store in Dubai and has grown into one of the largest retailers in the Middle East.

The multibillion-dollar company houses over 85 international brands, including Tommy Hilfiger, Aldo, Charles & Keith, Skechers, Dune London, Tim Hortons, Crocs and Rituals. With over 2,200 stores in 14 countries and a workforce of more than 22,000, Apparel Group is a global retail powerhouse.

The company has a strong presence across the GCC, India, South Africa, Singapore, Jordan, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, with plans to expand into Iraq, Egypt, and the broader African continent.