Shielding Tomorrow's Enterprises: DAMANA Holding's CEO On Redefining Risk In An Era Of Uncertainty

From cyber risk to the AI revolution, Georges Chidiac reveals how DAMANA is turning insurance into a catalyst for resilience, trust, and business growth

Published: Mon 8 Dec 2025, 10:35 AM

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“Uncertainty isn't the enemy,” writes Georges Chidiac, CEO of DAMANA Holding, with measured conviction.“It's the reminder that preparation and foresight are what keep businesses alive.”

It's a statement forged from experience, not optimism. When the pandemic shook global markets and exposed the fragility of systems once thought unbreakable, Chidiac didn't see crisis - he saw confirmation. For him, resilience has never been about reacting to shocks; it's about anticipating them.

That belief now anchors DAMANA 's transformation. In an era where cyberattacks multiply, climate risks escalate, and AI redraws the business map, Chidiac is reimagining insurance not as a safety net, but as strategic infrastructure - a force that helps companies move forward with confidence, clarity, and control.

As he leads one of the region's most trusted insurers into its next chapter, Chidiac reflects on the shifting nature of risk, the power of foresight, and why trust remains the most valuable currency in an unpredictable world.

Question:

In today's fast-evolving environment, what are some of the most significant risks organizations face across the region?

Answer:

In the MENA region, organisations operate amid rising cyber threats, climate-related pressures, and tightening regulatory frameworks, all against a backdrop of geopolitical tension and economic diversification. Inflation and shifting global trade routes are reshaping competitiveness across industries. At the same time, digital transformation and AI adoption are accelerating, intensifying competition from agile, tech-driven players. Ultimately, the speed at which markets and technology evolve will determine who leads and who falls behind.

Question:

How has the perception of risk management changed among businesses - especially post-pandemic?

Answer:

The pandemic was a wake-up call. Risk management is no longer a compliance function - it is a core enabler of business continuity and reputation. Organizations have shifted from reactive risk mitigation to proactive resilience-building. Today, data-driven insights, scenario planning, and stress testing are embedded in strategic decision-making. There is a stronger appreciation for preparedness, agility, and strong partnerships that support businesses through volatility.

Question:

What role does general insurance play in building business resilience? And how is DAMANA evolving to address new threats like cyber, climate and digital disruption?

Answer:

Insurance remains the cornerstone of resilience - it gives businesses the confidence to innovate, expand, and navigate uncertainty. At DAMANA, we are enhancing this foundation through innovation and trusted partnerships. We are working with leading global experts to launch advanced cyber insurance solutions and expanding protection against climate-driven events such as floods and business interruption. Our digital transformation - including AI, automation, and analytics - improves underwriting precision, accelerates claims processing, and elevates client service. We are building solutions that address the realities of tomorrow's risk landscape.

Question:

DAMANA has a long-standing reputation in the region. How do you continue to differentiate in a competitive insurance market?

Answer:

Trust is built over decades - and protected every day. Our edge begins with our people. We combine deep technical expertise, regional understanding, and unwavering commitment to client success. Supported by advanced digital capabilities, our teams deliver agility and reliability even in fast-changing conditions. DAMANA has always stood by clients when it matters most. Today, we pair that legacy with innovation - from data-intelligence to personalized service models, enabling us to anticipate evolving risks and deliver solutions designed around our clients' needs.

Question:

What does the future of insurance look like - and where do you see DAMANA in the next five to ten years?

Answer:

We are entering a defining decade for insurance, shaped by AI, real-time data, connected ecosystems, and embedded protection models. Insurance will shift from reactive risk transfer to proactive, predictive intervention - integrated seamlessly into everyday business systems and consumer channels. DAMANA is committed to leading this transition. We are investing in AI-driven underwriting, predictive analytics, and automation to deliver faster, more intelligent, and more personalized protection. Our goal is simple: combine human expertise with intelligent technology to create meaningful, immediate, and trusted insurance experiences.

Question:

What qualities define a truly reliable insurance partner today?

Answer:

A reliable insurer delivers clarity, consistency, and genuine commitment. At DAMANA, our mission is to provide personalized, competitive, and comprehensive solutions - and to pay claims fairly and promptly. Integrity and responsiveness guide every decision. Our vision is to be the region's most trusted insurance partner, consistently exceeding the expectations of every stakeholder we serve.

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