Who Is Sheikha Moza? The Most Powerful Woman in Qatar

Known for her role in shaping Qatar's educational, social, and cultural landscape, she is often referred to as "the enlightened face of a profoundly conservative regime." With her net worth estimated at over US$15 billion, she has become an international icon. Her roles extend far beyond that of a royal consort, positioning her as one of the most influential women in the Middle East. This is the story of Princess Moza.

Early Life and Education

Sheikha Moza's early life was marked by political turbulence. Born on August 8, 1959, in Qatar, she is the daughter of Nasser bin Abdullah Al-Missned, a prominent opposition activist. Following her father's exile for his defiance against the regime of the deposed Emir Ahmad bin Ali Al Thani, Sheikha Moza spent much of her childhood in Kuwait. It wasn’t until 1977 that she returned to Qatar, the same year she married Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who later became the Emir of Qatar.

Her educational journey is equally impressive. In 1986, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Qatar University. She went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Public Policy in Islam from Hamad Bin Khalifa University. She also has honorary doctorates from prestigious institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University, Texas A&M, and Carnegie Mellon.

The Woman Behind Qatar’s Transformation

One of Sheikha Moza’s most notable contributions to Qatar is her role in founding the Qatar Foundation in 1995. This non-profit organization, aimed at improving education, science, and community development, has become instrumental in modernizing Qatar’s education system. Sheikha Moza’s influence through the Qatar Foundation has brought renowned Western universities, such as Georgetown and Carnegie Mellon, to Qatar, turning the country into a hub for higher education in the region.

She has also spearheaded various social initiatives, including the establishment of Education Above All in 2012. This initiative seeks to provide education to marginalized children globally, with a particular focus on conflict zones. Sheikha Moza’s advocacy for education in war-torn areas culminated in the creation of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, recognized by the UN General Assembly.

A Champion for Social and Economic Reform

Sheikha Moza is more than a visionary for education; she is also a driving force behind numerous social reforms in Qatar. As the chairperson of Silatech, she addresses youth unemployment in the region by connecting young people to jobs and economic opportunities. Her commitment to family welfare is evident in her leadership of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, which tackles domestic violence and promotes the well-being of women and children in Qatar.

Her global influence also extends to healthcare, as evidenced by her involvement in the Sidra Medical and Research Center, a high-tech hospital dedicated to women and children in Doha. Sheikha Moza’s philanthropic initiatives have not only transformed Qatar but also set the stage for the country’s growing influence in international humanitarian and educational sectors.

Fashion Icon and Cultural Ambassador

Sheikha Moza’s impeccable sense of style has earned her recognition as one of the world’s most stylish women. Known for her signature turbans, she combines modesty with elegance, often slaying couture from designers such as Chanel, Valentino, and Hermès. Her influence in the fashion world extends to supporting local designers, further highlighting her commitment to promoting Qatari culture on the global stage.

Her distinctive fashion choices, particularly her use of haute couture customized to fit Qatari modesty standards, have placed her on Vanity Fair’s International Best-Dressed List multiple times. Sheikha Moza is a strong advocate for using fashion as a means of cultural diplomacy.

Real Estate and Business Ventures

Sheikha Moza’s wealth is not just tied to her royal status but also her keen investments and business acumen. In 2014, she made headlines for purchasing three mega-adjacent houses in London for £191 million, converting them into a grand palace. She also owns several luxury cars and holds a 100 percent stake in Le Tanneur & Cie, a prominent French leather-goods company, further expanding her financial empire.

Political Influence and Advocacy

Although Sheikha Moza has stated that she is not a feminist, her influence on the political and social landscape of Qatar cannot be understated. She is often described as "the actual ruler of Qatar" due to her significant role in shaping the country’s domestic and foreign policies. Her active participation in global forums and her vocal stance on issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict demonstrate her deep engagement in international politics.

Sheikha Moza’s social media presence is equally impactful. She regularly uses her platforms to address humanitarian issues, especially the plight of Palestinian children affected by conflict. Her posts, often accompanied by powerful images, resonate with her millions of followers and align with Qatar’s broader political stance.

Recognition and Awards

Sheikha Moza’s contributions to society have earned her numerous honours. Forbes has recognized her as one of the "100 Most Powerful Women" on several occasions, and she has also been included in Gulf Business’s list of the "Top 100 Most Powerful Arabs." Additionally, her work in philanthropy and education has been recognized by institutions worldwide, including UNESCO, which named her Special Envoy for Basic and Higher Education in 2003.

Her diplomatic efforts have also garnered her several international honors, including the Grand Cross of the Order of Queen Jelena from Croatia and the Honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire from the United Kingdom.

A Legacy of Empowerment and Global Influence

Through her work in education, philanthropy, and social reform, she has not only transformed her nation but also left an indelible mark on the global stage. Whether through her advocacy for education in conflict zones or her role in promoting Qatar’s soft power, Sheikha Moza is an icon who continues to inspire and lead with grace, intelligence, and determination.