Leadership transition announced alongside record earnings
Hatem Dowidar will depart his role as chief executive of international digital networks and services provider e& when March concludes. During his six-year tenure, he will hand over to Masood M Sharif Mahmood, who currently leads e& UAE and has held that position since 2021.
The leadership announcement coincided with e& unveiling exceptional financial performance for 2025. The group achieved consolidated revenues of AED 72.9 billion (approximately €16.814 billion), representing a 23.1% year-on-year increase before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation. Consolidated net profits climbed to AED 14.4 billion (roughly €3.321 billion), marking a 33.6% expansion fuelled by gains across its operating divisions. Consolidated EBITDA increased 21.1% year-on-year to reach AED 32.0 billion.
From 1 April, Mahmood will assume the group chief executive position while maintaining his existing responsibilities as head of e& UAE. He brings 25 years of professional experience spanning communications, investment and technology sectors. The domestic operating company concluded 2025 with 16.3 million subscribers, reflecting an 8.4% year-on-year increase.
It has been an honour to lead e& during a defining chapter in its history. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, transforming our business, expanding internationally and building new growth engines for the future.
Hatem Dowidar
Dowidar's career at e& began in September 2015 when he joined as Group Chief Operating Officer. He advanced to Chief Executive Officer, International in March 2016, before assuming the Group Chief Executive Officer position in May 2020.
