Darius Curta, Managing Director at Hortman Clinics, explores how leadership in the GCC is evolving beyond boardrooms and balance sheets, driven by purpose, philanthropy, and the belief that “we rise by lifting others.”
The future looks great. These four words aren’t just a personal motto — they’re a mindset I’ve carried with me from the earliest days of my career to my role now leading one of the UAE’s most forward-thinking wellness clinics. But as I’ve grown as a leader, I’ve come to realise that this optimistic outlook isn’t just about technology, strategy, or growth metrics. It’s about people — and more specifically, about lifting others as we ourselves evolve.
In the GCC, leadership is being redefined.
Gone are the days when executive power was measured solely by financial statements or the size of one’s office. Today, the most admired leaders are those who use their influence to serve. Whether it’s through healthcare accessibility, youth mentorship, environmental initiatives, or supporting SMEs, leadership with purpose is no longer a side project — it’s the main act.
This shift is especially visible here in the Gulf, where the vision of national leaders is anchored in long-term well-being — not just economically, but socially and spiritually. The UAE’s Year of Sustainability, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and Qatar’s investment in human development are just a few regional movements that signal one thing: leadership must serve society, not just shareholders.
We rise by lifting others
It’s a phrase I repeat often within our team at Hortman Clinics — not because it’s aspirational, but because it’s actionable. True leadership creates a ripple effect. When we empower employees to find meaning in their work, support their personal growth, and encourage them to give back, we create businesses that breathe life into communities.
During my career, I’ve introduced initiatives like community wellness events, partnerships with mental health organisations, and education campaigns on preventive care — because I believe that health is a human right, not a luxury. And I’ve found that when we lead with impact, performance follows naturally. Clients trust us. Teams stay longer. And the brand grows stronger.
Giving back isn’t charity — it’s strategy.
Across the GCC, this philosophy is being championed by industry giants and entrepreneurs alike.
Consider the leadership of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser of Qatar, whose foundation Education Above All is changing the lives of out-of-school children around the world. Or look at Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, whose philanthropic efforts have supported housing and healthcare causes far beyond the real estate sector.
In Saudi Arabia, the Misk Foundation — founded by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — is cultivating the next generation of leaders through programs in entrepreneurship, digital media, and education. And in the UAE, entities like the Al Jalila Foundation and the Dubai Cares initiative are proving that generosity can be institutionalised at scale.
These are not one-off acts of giving. They are systematic, strategic expressions of leadership — and they’re creating lasting change.
How leaders can start leading to serve
Philanthropic leadership doesn’t require a billion-dirham budget or royal title. It starts with intention. At the organisational level, that could mean introducing paid volunteer days for your team. It could mean mentoring a young Emirati professional. It could mean designing your next product or service with social impact in mind.
Whatever the format, the principle remains: give something beyond what is required, and you will receive more than you imagined — loyalty, reputation, and a true sense of purpose. As leaders, we must be willing to ask ourselves: What legacy am I building? Will my work outlive me in a way that serves others?
The future looks great — but only if we build it together.
In a region as dynamic as the GCC, we are uniquely positioned to lead the world not just in innovation, but in inspiration. Our growth is fast, our vision is bold, and our people are passionate. But true greatness will come not from what we accumulate, but from what we contribute.
As we step into a new era of leadership, let’s measure success not just by what we lead, but by who we lift. And in that spirit — I’ll say it again — the future looks great. Because we’re building it with heart.