HEC Paris Doha has graduated the first cohort of its Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track. The Class of 2026 completed the programme during the HEC Paris Commencement ceremony in Paris.
According to HEC Paris Doha, the new track supports professionals with at least five years of work experience who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities while continuing their careers. The institution said the programme aims to prepare future business leaders across Qatar and the wider GCC.
Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track focuses on leadership development
The inaugural class brought together professionals from different industries and backgrounds. According to HEC Paris Doha, participants joined the programme to strengthen strategic thinking, expand leadership skills and increase their organisational impact.
The Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track combines core business education with leadership coaching, international study opportunities and a capstone project. Participants study on a part time modular schedule, allowing them to balance work responsibilities with academic learning.
HEC Paris Doha said the curriculum covers strategy, finance, operational management, entrepreneurship, ethics and social responsibility. Participants also complete leadership coaching throughout the programme.
International learning experience supports executive education
The programme offers international specialisation modules across several business sectors. Participants can study topics including artificial intelligence, healthcare, energy, entrepreneurship and luxury management.
According to HEC Paris Doha, these modules take place across its international network. Locations include Paris, London, Frankfurt, New York, Singapore and Milan.
Participants complete the programme with a capstone project based on real business challenges. HEC Paris Doha said the project allows executives to apply classroom learning to practical business situations.
Graduates reflect on leadership journey
Graduate Maryam Al Darwish said the programme strengthened her professional capabilities and leadership approach.
“My journey at HEC Paris Doha has been both rewarding and transformative. Applying my learnings across the Maryam Al Darwish Group companies, I have strengthened brand positioning, refined strategy and contributed to long term results. As class social representative, I built meaningful connections and fostered collaboration. This experience has given me the clarity, confidence and perspective to lead with purpose and create impact.”
Graduate Tariq Atiyah said the programme changed the way he approaches leadership.
“HEC Paris EMBA Emerging Leaders Track is truly one of a kind. Designed for ambitious leaders, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn from world class faculty and collaborate with an exceptional cohort. The programme challenges you, inspires growth and transforms the way you approach leadership and create impact.”
Graduate Pawel Marciniak, who attended as a fly in participant, highlighted the international nature of the programme.
“The Emerging Leaders Track Executive MBA allowed me to expand my network beyond Europe, immerse myself in the region’s culture and gain insights I can apply immediately in my career.”
Programme expands HEC Paris Doha leadership education offering
According to HEC Paris Doha, the Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track follows the same academic standards as the HEC Paris Executive MBA. However, the programme targets professionals earlier in their leadership careers.
Graduates also join the HEC Paris alumni network, which includes more than 83,000 members across 152 countries. HEC Paris Doha said the network supports collaboration, career development and international exchange.
HEC Paris Doha confirmed that applications are open for the next Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track cohort. The next class will begin in October 2026.
