Citywealth Leaders List interview: 60 seconds with HE Raja Al Mazrouei, Etihad Credit Insurance

Date: 26 Feb 2025

Karen Jones

This week’s 60-second piece is dedicated to HE Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance.

Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role. 

As the CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI) since late 2022, I lead the UAE’s federal export credit company with a focus on advancing trade credit insurance and supporting the nation’s economic diversification goals. Under my leadership, ECI has implemented transformative strategies to strengthen non-oil trade and enhance UAE exporters’ global competitiveness. Our primary initiatives include developing tailored financial solutions that help businesses, particularly SMEs, mitigate trade risks and expand internationally. In doing so, we have driven digital transformation across our operations, implementing data-driven systems that improve service delivery and provide real-time, data-driven insights to our clients.  

The core of our mission is to boost ECI’s vital role in fostering sustainable trade and reinforcing the UAE’s economic resilience. Beyond my executive responsibilities, I serve on various boards where I advocate for innovation, responsible governance and the advancement of the financial services sector to support the nation’s development, as well as women empowerment across board rooms and businesses. 

What does a typical day look like for you? 

As the CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), my role encompasses comprehensive strategic oversight, collaboration and reflection. For me, a day typically commences with a thorough analysis of performance metrics and preparation for executive meetings. A significant portion of my day is dedicated to stakeholder engagement, including internal teams, industry partners and government representatives, ensuring strategic alignment and fostering institutional collaboration. 

My leadership responsibilities include directing strategic initiatives that support the UAE’s economic diversification agenda, particularly focusing on non-oil trade development. I further dedicate my time to effectively interact with team members, ensuring professional development, especially the advancement of women in leadership positions. Moreover, my responsibilities extend to representing ECI at industry forums, engaging in strategic networking and advocating for policies that strengthen the financial sector. A regular working day concludes with a systematic evaluation of organisational performance and strategic outcomes, facilitating continuous improvement at both personal and organisational levels. 

Tell us about some recent, interesting client instructions/requests you have received. 

At ECI, we actively collaborate with businesses seeking strategic solutions to safeguard their international trade transactions. Recently, there has been a substantial increase in requests for comprehensive risk assessments, particularly from exporters entering emerging markets. Companies are eager to evaluate the creditworthiness of potential buyers and analyse geopolitical risks before finalising trade agreements. Additionally, we have witnessed an increase in custom policy requests, with businesses seeking tailored coverage structures to address industry-specific risks. For instance, companies in the renewable energy and technology sectors require specialised insurance solutions to support large-scale international projects. 

Another key trend is the growing demand for market intelligence, as clients seek insights into evolving trade patterns, regulatory updates and financing opportunities to refine their global strategies. There is also an increased focus on claims support, with businesses looking for expert guidance in handling complex non-payment cases and ensuring efficient claim resolution. Beyond risk mitigation, numerous companies are exploring collaborative opportunities, leveraging ECI’s network to access financing and expanding their supply chains. Additionally, there is a rising interest in training sessions on trade credit insurance and risk management to strengthen internal expertise. These evolving client priorities highlight the increasing awareness of financial risk management and ECI’s vital role in fostering secure and sustainable global trade. 

What challenges do your clients face and how are you helping your clients to overcome them? 

Businesses engaged in international trade often confront significant challenges, ranging from managing market risks to securing financing and ensuring compliance with regulations. One of the primary obstacles is evaluating market risks, such as political instability and economic fluctuations. In order to support businesses in these circumstances, ECI provides comprehensive market intelligence reports, helping clients make well-informed decisions. Access to financing is another major concern, as traditional lenders often view cross-border trade as a major risk. ECI addresses this by offering credit insurance, which enhances a company’s credibility with banks and financial institutions, making it easier to secure funding.  

Additionally, cash flow difficulties caused by delayed payments from international buyers can impact business operations. ECI helps mitigate this by facilitating invoice discounting and factoring services, ensuring that businesses maintain liquidity. Navigating complex regulatory requirements is yet another challenge, with exporters often struggling to keep up with evolving legal frameworks. ECI offers expert guidance to ensure clients remain compliant across different markets. Establishing trust with international buyers is also critical. ECI supports businesses by conducting buyer risk assessments, providing insights into potential partners’ financial stability and reliability. 

What is your proudest professional achievement? 

One of my most significant professional accomplishments has been steering the company towards becoming a key driver of the UAE’s economic diversification and global trade aspirations. Under my leadership, ECI has solidified its position as a key partner for businesses, providing them with the financial security and confidence needed to expand internationally. A major milestone has been improving financial access for SMEs, enabling them to compete effectively in global markets with the right support.  

I have spearheaded digital transformation initiatives, integrating advanced technologies to enhance risk assessment and customer experiences. Notably, ECI has maintained its Fitch AA- rating for the seventh consecutive year, a testament to our financial strength and credibility. These efforts have reinforced ECI’s role in promoting economic resilience and advancing sustainable trade—an achievement I take great pride in, as it aligns with the UAE’s long-term economic vision. 

What do you consider to be the most important attributes for a leader? 

For me, the concept of leadership goes beyond merely guiding an organisation; it is about inspiring progress, building trust and cultivating a healthy environment for individuals. A strong vision is crucial, as a leader must not only anticipate future challenges but also pave a path that aligns with long-term objectives. Equally important is effective communication, ensuring that every team member understands the mission and feels empowered to contribute. Furthermore, emotional intelligence is fundamental in navigating complexities with empathy and fostering robust relationships.  

Integrity is another vital aspect, as trust is built through transparency and ethical decision-making. In an ever-evolving world, adaptability and resilience are also crucial. In my view, change is an opportunity, which encourages making informed decisions with confidence while remaining receptive to new perspectives. Above all, leadership is about empowering others, creating opportunities for growth, encouraging ownership and fostering innovation. These principles define impactful leadership and drive meaningful success. 

Who do you most admire and why? 

I admire leaders who drive meaningful change, especially those who challenge the conventional norms, push boundaries and strive to create opportunities for others. As an aspiring individual, I look up to people who possess these qualities, such as innovation, empowerment and impact. Similarly, I have great respect for individuals who have not only achieved success but have also used their influence to transform communities and industries.  I am particularly inspired by women who break barriers and pave the way for future generations.  

I am a strong supporter of empowering women in leadership, which drives me to appreciate those who have pioneered gender equality and established platforms that enable others to thrive.  I also have great respect for visionaries in technology and finance; leaders who have revolutionised industries by embracing innovation and adapting to change. The ability to anticipate challenges, develop solutions and build sustainable ecosystems is something I aspire to in my own leadership journey. Ultimately, I admire those who lead with purpose, resilience and an unwavering dedication to creating an enduring impact on society.  

Where was the last place you travelled to for work or pleasure? 

The last place I visited for work and leisure was Massachusetts, where I focused on deepening my understanding of artificial intelligence, exploring its transformative potential for the future economy and its significant impact on business operations. Balancing this journey with my full-time role and other responsibilities was challenging. During the trip, I successfully completed the “Competing in the Age of AI” program at Harvard Business School.  

In addition, I took the opportunity to enjoy Boston’s stunning landscape, spend quality time with my professors and colleagues, and foster connections. The trip perfectly blended productive discussions during the day with cherished moments with loved ones. 

If you were not in this industry, what else might you be doing? 

If I were not in the insurance and finance industry, I would undoubtedly be building a fintech startup that merges my deep passion for technology with my extensive experience in financial services. Technology has always fascinated me, and its transformative potential particularly inspires me in fintech. 

I would leverage advanced technologies- such as AI, blockchain, and data analytics- to create innovative solutions that enhance financial inclusion and make financial services more seamless, accessible, and efficient. My vision would be to develop fintech solutions that empower individuals and businesses, breaking down barriers and enabling more people to benefit from the ease and opportunities that digital finance brings to life. 

At my core, I am driven by the desire to create impact and push boundaries. Building a fintech venture would allow me to do just that- combine technological innovation with financial expertise to reshape the way people interact with money, trade, and economic opportunities. 

How do you relax after a long day? 

After a long day, I turn to mindfulness and family to truly unwind and recharge. Practicing breathwork and meditation allows me to reset, stay present, and regain mental clarity. These moments of mindfulness help me find balance, no matter how demanding the day has been. 

Spending quality time with my family is equally important- it’s in these moments, whether over a quiet dinner or simply sharing stories with my children, that I find true relaxation and joy. Family keeps me grounded and reminds me of what truly matters. 

I also find that light physical activity, such as a walk, helps me clear my mind and release stress. But ultimately, it’s the combination of mindfulness and family time that keeps me centred, refreshed, and ready to take on new challenges.