In a region synonymous with ambition and innovation, H.E. Dr. Aynour Tatanaki stands out as a trailblazing force, a dynamic entrepreneur whose work is reshaping the future of retail, fashion, and technology. As the Founder of the UAE’s leading Retail Accelerator, Hashtag Department Store, and Chairwoman of SMEDistrict Group, Dr. Aynour is not just building businesses; she’s architecting a movement that empowers emerging brands to rise and thrive on a global stage.
At the heart of her mission is a revolutionary concept: a 30,000 sq ft launchpad at Dubai Mall, one of the world’s most iconic lifestyle destinations. Here, she has created a thriving ecosystem where retail, fashion, e-commerce, drop shipping, F&B, and tech brands are given more than just shelf space, they’re given a strategic path to visibility, scalability, and success. Under her leadership, Hashtag Department Store has become a beacon for global entrepreneurs seeking to break into the GCC and wider Middle Eastern markets. With roots tracing back to the founding family of Tobruk, Libya, and a professional journey shaped by the UAE’s spirit of innovation, Dr. Aynour brings over 12 years of diverse experience in investment, real estate, digital marketing, events, design, and entrepreneurship. Her cross-sector knowledge and multicultural insight position her as a visionary leader with a global mindset and a local impact.
A recognized champion of youth and women empowerment, Dr. Aynour has been appointed as a pioneer by the UAE government in various national initiatives. She partners with key entities like the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Education, Dubai Chamber, Dubai SME, and the UAE Youth Council to drive programs that equip the next generation of entrepreneurs with the tools and networks they need. Through these collaborations, she has proudly graduated over 600 local and international businesses, propelling them from concept to commercial success. For Dr. Aynour, entrepreneurship isn’t just a profession, it’s a philosophy. Her work underscores a powerful belief: that the leaders of tomorrow will be those who create platforms for others to rise. And with her unmatched drive and transformative vision, she is redefining what it means to build, empower, and lead in the new economy.
In celebration of World Youth Skills Day, the Ministry of Economy launched an initiative to support the youth workforce in the UAE, under the patronage of the SME District Program, which aims to promote and empower small and medium-sized enterprises in the country. The event was graced by the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; H.E. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; H.E. Shamma Al Mazrui, Minister of Youth; and H.E. Aynour Tatanaki, as prominent Libyan businesswoman and CEO/Founder of the SME District Program and Hashtag Store, which supports both Emirati and international youth-driven brands and has been a government consultant and a leading influential figure in supporting entrepreneurship and youth within the region. H.E Aynour Tatanaki is also launching a new emerging luxury and innovative Men’s wear German Brand Vagant under the umbrella of UAE’s leading retail accelerator program Hashtag Department Store.
Waves and runways 