Lujaina Mohsin Darwish is a business leader, entrepreneur, and public figure dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in Oman’s corporate and economic landscape. As the Chairperson of the Infrastructure, Technology, Industrial, and Consumer Solutions (ITICS) cluster at Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC (MHD LLC), she oversees diverse business operations, ensuring strategic growth, sustainability, and adaptability in an evolving market. CIO Global is proud to feature Lujaina Mohsin Darwish as the Cover Story for the Promising Women in Business 2025 edition.
MHD LLC, a family-owned enterprise with a rich legacy spanning decades, plays a pivotal role in Oman’s economic growth. The company specializes in automotive, infrastructure, technology, consumer products, healthcare and industrial solutions, operating across multiple sectors to drive innovation and development. The mission is to embrace emerging trends, explore new market opportunities, and cultivate a dynamic business ecosystem that supports both economic advancement and social responsibility. Her primary focus is on fostering innovation, strengthening market presence, and empowering the next generation of leaders, with a particular emphasis on supporting women in business.
Beyond business, she has a strong passion for public service. She had the privilege of making history as one of the first two women elected to Oman’s Consultative Assembly (Majlis A’Shura) in 2000 and later was appointed by Royal decree in the State Council (Majlis A’Dawla), contributing to policymaking and national development. In 2025, she was honored to be appointed as the Honorary Consul of South Africa in Sultanate of Oman, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. Her vision is to continue creating impactful business strategies, mentoring young professionals, and contributing to Oman’s growth through sustainable and innovative solutions.
“Dream big, push boundaries, and never settle for anything less than extraordinary.”
Her inspiration comes from a combination of legacy, innovation, and a strong desire to contribute to Oman’s economic growth. Having grown up witnessing the dedication and vision behind MHD LLC, she developed a deep appreciation for entrepreneurship, leadership, and the impact a well-run business can have on society. Continuing the family’s legacy was not just a responsibility but a passion—one that drives her to build upon a strong foundation while adapting to the evolving global landscape. Beyond legacy, she was inspired by the potential of innovation and transformation. She saw an opportunity to modernize, diversify, and expand operations to ensure MHD LLC continues to be a key player in Oman’s progress. The goal has always been to create a business environment that embraces emerging technologies, fosters sustainable growth, and supports national development initiatives.
Like any journey, stepping into a leadership role came with its own set of challenges. One of the initial hurdles was establishing herself in a traditionally male-dominated industry. While MHD LLC had a strong legacy, earning trust and respect in the corporate world required proving capabilities through strategic decision-making, resilience, and innovation. Another challenge was navigating an evolving business landscape. The industries MHD LLC operates in—automotive, consumer products, healthcare, technology, infrastructure, and industrial solutions—are constantly changing, requiring adaptability to trends, adoption of new technologies, and rethinking traditional business models. This was overcome by fostering a culture of adaptability, investing in continuous learning, and surrounding herself with a team of experts who share the same vision for progress.
Expanding the market presence of MHD LLC and ensuring sustainable growth required bold decisions. This meant taking calculated risks, diversifying the business portfolio, and forging strong partnerships locally and internationally. Through perseverance, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, these challenges were not only overcome but also positioned MHD LLC as a forward-thinking and innovative organization. Challenges have always been viewed as opportunities in disguise. Each obstacle has been a lesson that shaped her as a leader and strengthened her vision for the future—one that focuses on growth, empowerment, and long-term impact.
“Being a woman in business is not a disadvantage—it’s a unique strength.”
When faced with challenges, she remains motivated by reminding herself of the bigger purpose behind her work. The journey is not always easy, but staying connected to values and vision helps in remaining grounded. Knowing that the work impacts not just the business but also the community, the economy, and the lives of those mentored provides a sense of responsibility and motivation. Inspiration is also drawn from the people around her—the talented individuals she works with, the leaders she admires, and the entrepreneurs she has met along the way. Their stories of perseverance and resilience fuel her own determination. Strength is found in the knowledge that every setback is temporary, and it is the ability to learn and bounce back that defines long-term success. Self-reflection and mindfulness play a key role in maintaining motivation. Taking a step back to reassess goals, reflect on accomplishments, and stay focused on the long-term vision allows her to stay motivated even during tough times. Ultimately, belief in the power of growth, innovation, and the impact of work keeps her going, no matter the challenges that arise.
What sets MHD LLC apart from others in the industry is its legacy of excellence, coupled with a forward-thinking approach. While proud of the strong foundation laid by the late Mohsin Haider Darwish, the company continues to evolve by embracing innovation and new technologies to stay ahead of industry trends. The ability to blend traditional expertise with modern solutions enables MHD LLC to deliver tailored, cutting-edge solutions across infrastructure, technology, and industrial sectors. Another key differentiator is the commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The belief is that business success goes hand-in-hand with a positive impact on the community and the environment. The team is deeply invested in initiatives that support local communities, empower future leaders, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of Oman. Building lasting relationships with partners and clients is also a priority. The approach is highly collaborative and client-centric, ensuring customized solutions that are aligned with the specific needs and goals of those they work with. This personalized approach, combined with a deep understanding of local and global markets, gives the company a competitive edge. The focus on empowering women in leadership and fostering a culture of diversity further sets MHD LLC apart. The company is committed to creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of background, can thrive and contribute to success.
The biggest lesson learned as an entrepreneur is the power of perseverance and a positive mindset. In the face of challenges, it is easy to become discouraged, but maintaining a sense of optimism and determination is crucial. There will always be obstacles, but what matters most is how they are approached. Staying focused on the bigger picture while being adaptable to smaller changes along the way allows for turning setbacks into opportunities. Another key lesson is the importance of trusting one’s vision and team. As an entrepreneur, confidence in the direction taken is essential, even when things do not go as planned. However, success also depends on building a team that believes in the mission and is motivated to contribute to it. Empowering others and leading with purpose creates an environment where everyone thrives, which is the foundation of long-term growth. Success is a journey, not a destination. It is about embracing each step, learning from the process, and continuously pushing forward with resilience and passion. Keeping that mindset, no matter the challenge, has been key to growth as an entrepreneur.
“Innovation, resilience, and leadership are the foundations of lasting success.”
Balancing the demands of professional and personal life requires intentional planning, flexibility, and a deep sense of purpose. As the Chairperson of ITICS cluster in MHD LLC, Honorary Consul of South Africa in Sultanate of Oman, and an active member of the sports fraternity, Arab women’s organizations, and labor organizations, balance is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Delegation and building a strong, empowered team are crucial for success. At MHD LLC, working with talented individuals who share the company’s vision allows for focusing on strategic leadership while trusting the team to manage day-to-day operations. In the role as Honorary Consul, an exceptional network supports the goals of bilateral relations, making it possible to manage various aspects of work. Setting clear personal boundaries is equally important. Making time for family, personal growth, and self-care provides the energy to give the best in both business and community commitments. Whether it is through exercise, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking a break to recharge, these moments are essential to maintaining both mental and physical well-being. Success in one area of life fuels success in others. The discipline, leadership, and adaptability practiced at work translate to public service, and the compassion and empathy experienced in personal life enhance professional interactions. It is all about finding harmony, where each role complements the others, creating a balanced and fulfilling life.
Lujaina Mohsin Darwish believes that young women aspiring to start their own businesses should have confidence in themselves and take the first step. She emphasizes that waiting for the perfect moment is unnecessary; instead, opportunities must be created. She acknowledges that the business world is challenging, but she encourages resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. She advises young women to seek knowledge, find mentors, and surround themselves with people who inspire growth. Confidence, she believes, is built through preparation and experience. Taking risks and forging one’s own path are essential, and she stresses the importance of supporting other women along the journey. Success, she notes, comes from hard work, persistence, and believing in oneself.
Reflecting on her journey, she finds immense pride not only in her professional achievements but also in breaking barriers and making a lasting impact. Being elected to the Shura Council, appointed to the State Council, and serving as the Honorary Consul of South Africa in Sultanate of Oman were significant milestones. However, she considers her greatest accomplishment to be balancing her roles as a mother, a business leader, and a supportive wife. For her, true success is about the legacy she leaves, the people she uplifts, and the example she sets for future generations.
Networking and mentorship have played a crucial role in her success. She firmly believes that no one achieves success alone, as opportunities stem from relationships, shared wisdom, and strong support systems. Learning from experienced mentors has helped her make bold decisions and navigate challenges with confidence. Networking has also been instrumental in expanding opportunities, both in business and diplomacy. She actively mentors young women and entrepreneurs, passing on the guidance and support she once received, as she believes success is not only about personal achievements but also about uplifting others.
To stay ahead of the competition, she emphasizes the importance of vision, adaptability, and continuous innovation. At MHD LLC, she ensures the company leads rather than follows by anticipating changes, embracing technology, and proactively evolving with the market. Investments in cutting-edge solutions, strategic partnerships, and talent development keep the company at the forefront of Oman’s economic growth. She believes that a strong, forward-thinking team is the driving force behind success.
“Success isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about bringing others with you.”
As a woman in business, she has faced challenges, including biases and the need to prove her capabilities. However, she sees these obstacles as opportunities to demonstrate resilience and leadership. She believes that being a woman in business is a strength, bringing a unique perspective and a nurturing leadership style. Supporting and uplifting other women remains a priority for her, as she strives to foster an inclusive and empowering business environment.
Looking ahead, she envisions MHD LLC as a leading force in Oman’s economic growth, expanding its presence in new markets while maintaining its core values of innovation and sustainability. She is particularly committed to creating opportunities for young talent and ensuring that more women rise to leadership roles within the organization. Over the next five years, she aims to make MHD LLC a global player in its industry while continuing to positively impact the economy and society.
She believes that long-term success in business requires embracing innovation, agility, and adaptability. In today’s technology-driven world, businesses must integrate new technologies and stay ahead of trends to thrive. However, she also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships, trust, and communication. Data, artificial intelligence, and automation are tools that can enhance efficiency, but true success lies in leveraging these technologies to create value for customers, empower employees, and benefit society. If she could give one piece of advice to her younger self, it would be to dream big and never limit her potential. She would encourage herself to set even higher goals, push boundaries, and take bold risks. She believes that failure is merely a stepping stone to success and that perseverance, hard work, and unwavering ambition are the keys to achieving greatness. Her journey has taught her that success is earned through determination and the refusal to give up, no matter the challenges ahead.
“Believe in yourself and take the first step—don’t wait for the perfect moment, create it.”