Page 205 - AAE PR REPORT - MARCH 2025

‘AI isn’t replacing us — it’s empowering us’: why ECI

CEO Raja Al Mazrouei is optimistic about the future

Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance, on leadership and the future of trade
AI isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a game-changer for trade, finance, and economic strategy, and
few understand this better than Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI). She is at
the forefront of helping UAE businesses expand globally and says AI-driven trade finance will define
the UAE’s future.

“AI and digital transformation are reshaping industries, and trade finance is no exception,” says Al
Mazrouei. “The UAE has been proactive in preparing for these changes, as seen in initiatives like the
appointment of AI officers across government entities.”

Al Mazrouei leads the country’s federal export credit agency, playing a key role in diversifying the
UAE’s non-oil economy. Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology, she ensures
businesses can trade faster, more intelligently, and with less risk.
Economic diversification and trade expansion

Under Al Mazrouei’s leadership, ECI has focused on providing financial security for UAE exporters,
particularly in the wake of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (Cepas) led by
the Ministry of Foreign Trade. These agreements aim to strengthen trade relationships and enhance
market access for UAE businesses looking to export, as well as for foreign business looking to enter
the UAE market. “One of the biggest challenges exporters face is non-payment from foreign buyers,”
Al Mazrouei says. “By offering trade credit insurance, we help businesses mitigate risks and expand
internationally.”

The push for economic diversification gained momentum following comments made by President
Sheikh Mohamed, who was then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of
the UAE Armed Forces, during the 2015 World Government Summit, where he said “in fifty years’
time we will celebrate the last barrel of oil”. Sheikh Mohammed went on to stress the importance of
building a knowledge-based economy that relies on innovation, words that resonated deeply with Al
Mazrouei.

“If you look at global markets today, technology companies have overtaken traditional industries in
market capitalization. AI adoption in trade finance is no longer optional—it’s necessary,” says Al
Mazrouei.

While AI is expected to bring efficiencies and enable volume operations, regulatory frameworks and
operational challenges remain key concerns for businesses in the UAE. “The appointment of AI
officers across government entities shows the commitment to integrating AI into all sectors,” she
notes.

Women in leadership and financial services

https://www.msn.com/en-ae/money/news/ai-isn-t-replacing-us-it-s-empowering-us-eci-ceo/ar-
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