Graziela Martins

Graziela Martins was appointed Country Head for the United Arab Emirates at American Express Middle East (AEME) on May 12, 2025, while retaining her role as Vice President Merchant Business for the region. In this dual capacity, she leads the emirates leadership team to execute the company's growth strategy and drive operational excellence priorities across all business lines—including Consumer, Corporate, and Merchant Services.

Martins has been working at AEME for more than 20 years, taking on roles of increasing scope and complexity. Her career includes positions in consumer marketing, PR and corporate communications, premium products, travel and concierge premium services, and operations, as well as overall management of the American Express Middle East office in Abu Dhabi.

Career history

• Country Head UAE & Vice President Merchant Business, MENA (May 2025–present)
• Vice President Merchant Business (2014–2025)
• Senior Regional Manager – Merchant Acquiring and Strategic Partnerships (2011–2014)
• Abu Dhabi City Manager and Head of UAE Merchant Business (2010–2011)
• Head of Marketing (2008–2010)
• Head of Premium Products and Portfolio (2008)
• Project Manager of Centurion Product Launch in the Middle East (2007–2008)
• PR and Corporate Communications Manager (2004–2007)

Martins holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from American University in Dubai (2001–2006). In 2025, she was awarded the title of Middle East Finance Icon 2025 at the 4th Middle East CFO Vision event, recognizing her leadership prominence in the region's financial sector.

What Graziela Martins could bring to Country Head UAE at American Express Middle East: With over two decades of tenure at AEME and a demonstrated track record in operational management, merchant services expansion, and regional leadership across multiple business functions, Martins brings deep institutional knowledge and established relationships within the UAE market. Her proven expertise in driving growth across all business lines while maintaining strategic partnerships positions her to accelerate market penetration and competitive positioning in a strategically important country for American Express. Her recent recognition as a regional finance icon underscores her credibility and industry influence in executing the company's expansion agenda.