Zain Group Recognized as a Top Employer Worldwide and in MENA Region
Kuwait – Zain Group, a prominent telecommunications and technology company in the Middle East and Africa, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being named the top employer in the telecom sector worldwide for the second year in a row, according to Forbes’ World’s Best Employers 2026 list. Globally, Zain was ranked 72nd and secured the second position in the MENA region, as well as being the top employer in Kuwait, where its headquarters is located.
This impressive recognition marks a significant jump from Zain’s previous global ranking of 146th in 2025, showcasing its commitment to building a strong employer brand and its reputation among leading international companies.
Forbes conducted its seventh annual survey, polling over 300,000 employees from more than 50 countries, all working for multinational firms with a staff of over 1,000. Employees rated their employers based on benefits, workplace culture, and talent development.
The announcement aligns with Zain’s focus on placing people at the heart of its strategy, ‘4WARD-Progress with Purpose.’ The company is evolving from a traditional telecommunications operator into a comprehensive technology firm.
Bader Al-Kharafi, Zain’s Vice-Chairman and Group CEO, expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing that it reflects the company’s dedication to responsible business practices, employee development, and a supportive workplace culture. He remarked, “As a purpose-driven technology leader, we strive to deliver meaningful connectivity that enriches lives and fosters strong connections for all our stakeholders.”
Emphasizing Purpose in Human Resources
Zain has made a unique move by designating its Chief Human Resources Officer as the Chief Purpose Human Resources Officer (CPHRO). This role focuses on aligning the company’s objectives with employee needs, fostering inspiration and human-centered innovation throughout the organization. Additionally, Zain has introduced a transformative cultural initiative, named ‘UNITY,’ aimed at integrating purpose and customer focus into its core operations, promoting collaboration and a people-first approach.
Nawal Bou-Risli, Zain’s Chief Purpose & Human Resources Officer, highlighted that this recognition is a testament to the company’s dedicated culture and hardworking employees, who play a pivotal role in enhancing customer experiences and supporting each other. She noted, “Creating a great workplace is an ongoing journey, and we are dedicated to continuing this path.”
Positive Advances in ESG Ratings
Zain’s accolades coincide with its upgrades in the MSCI ESG Ratings, moving from an ‘A’ to an ‘AA’ rating. This places Zain at the forefront among Kuwaiti companies and positions it as a leader among 164 global telecom companies. The assessment emphasized Zain’s strong performance in labor management, data security, environmental practices, and corporate behavior.
Creating Meaningful Career Opportunities
Zain is committed to fostering talent, inclusivity, and readiness for the future. The company actively develops its workforce of over 9,000 employees, believing that business growth goes hand-in-hand with human capital development. Its initiatives, such as WE ABLE 2030, focus on creating accessible and inclusive career pathways for people with disabilities, moving beyond mere policy to meaningful engagement and professional advancement.
Zain’s Women Empowerment program, launched in 2017, aims to raise the representation of women in leadership to 30% by 2030. It supports women through various policies, including extended family leave, enabling them to excel in their careers while balancing family life.
Nurturing Future-Ready Talent
To ensure a skilled workforce ready for the challenges of tomorrow, Zain has developed the “ZAINIAC” innovation platform, encouraging employees to share and develop new ideas. Additionally, its Generation Z graduate program is entering its second decade, offering new graduates an intensive training experience in critical skills such as AI and leadership. This program has successfully nurtured over 50 emerging talents into future leaders.
Zain also collaborates with IE University to provide the Inclusion, Diversity and Equity University (IDEU), which has reached over 2,000 employees across nine countries, creating an impactful learning environment with thousands of course completions.
Zain’s various initiatives underline a strategic focus on continuous learning, inclusivity, career progression, and cultivating capabilities for the future. As Zain progresses in its transformation and expands its reach, investing in its people remains essential to its mission of fostering ‘Better Lives. Lasting Connections.’
