history

Mohamad AlAshmar and Luke McBain - the founders of MENA Development Valley - have a long working history in the Middle East and Europe. In this time they both came to know many hard-working, trustworthy, diligent professionals committed to the development of the Middle East.

The belief in purpose and quality knows no cultural or geographic boundaries.

And so MENA Development Valley was created.

Luke and Mohamad are convinced that good solutions are everywhere to be found - especially in networks.

This is why MENA Development Valley - through harnessing international expertise and local knowledge - will have a profound and enduring impact on the MENA region and beyond.

Mohamad AlAshmar

Co-Founder / Director

Mohamad is a dynamic leader and visionary who thrives on bringing people together. From Beirut to Damascus, Amman, Turkey, and Europe, Mohamad is constantly on the move—creating, discussing, and engaging. He is passionate about thinking outside the box, driving impactful initiatives, and fostering collaboration across borders to do what truly matters for the people of the region.

Luke McBain

Co-Founder / Managing Partner

Luke is a strategist and coach with decades of experience in the MENA region. His mission is to inspire and support organizations, leaders, and individuals by sharing his insights and experiences. Luke brings unparalleled energy to empowering others, developing innovative strategies, and helping teams and leaders navigate the complexities of the region with confidence and purpose.

Our Regional Reach

MENA Development Valley is a network of affiliates, civil society organizations, consultancies, and freelance experts, operating via local and regional hubs, partners, and our satellite offices across most MENA countries:

• Lebanon consulting hub

• Syria consulting hub

• Iraq consulting hub

• Jordan consulting hub

• Sudan consulting hub

• Palestine consulting hub

• Yemen consulting hub

• South Sudan consulting hub

How we Work

Our Vision: Leading Transformation in the Middle East

MENA Development Valley is committed to creating meaningful relationships, fostering resilience, and driving sustainable development in the MENA region. MENA Development Valley bridges grassroots organizations, regional networks, and global resources to co-design solutions that empower communities, rebuild societies, and enable inclusive growth.

Our vision is to drive transformative, sustainable, and community-centered solutions, fostering lasting impact in fragile and conflict-affected regions.

Our Mission: Social Purpose

MENA Development Valley is a purpose-driven social enterprise committed to challenging the status quo in the development and consulting sectors. Our goal is to foster local leadership and inspire transformation in the MENA region. We believe that how we work is just as important as what we do.

Through our purpose-driven network of professionals with a deep commitment to the region's people and their future. We take pride in:

• Invest in local partners: By dedicating our time, resources, and finances, we ensure that our local partners have the support they need to thrive.

• Regional expertise: Decades of experience working across the MENA region, with a passion for its people and potential.

• Collaborative spirit: Recognizing the power of cross-border and cross-cultural teamwork to navigate complex environments.