The growth and developments in a region are driven by several direct, indirect and influencing factors. Apart from the initiatives planned by the regional authorities, the role of the local entrepreneurs is crucial in creating strong economic potential by developing and leading their business organizations. These business leaders are transforming the middle east region’s developments, creating employment opportunities for the Arab youth, but are offering world-class products and services through their organizations. The Gulf region has grown up from a oil-centric economy to a diverse value-based region of global opportunities.
Lets explore the Notable Arab Entrepreneurs and CEOs who are Transforming the Arab World
Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair
The chairman of Mashreq and a director of the Abdullah Al Ghurair Group is Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, a billionaire businessman and politician from the United Arab Emirates, is one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs. From 2007 to 2011, Al Ghurair presided over the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates. Forbes estimates his net worth to be US$2.6 billion as of 2022. The CEO of Mashreq, the oldest bank in the United Arab Emirates, is Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair. He is also a member of the board of directors of Abdullah Al Ghurair, one of the biggest and most dependable corporations in the Middle East. Their operations span over 20 nations, and they have been in business for around 50 years.
In addition to founding Mashreq Bank, he also formed Emaar, a publicly traded joint stock corporation. Al Ghurair had a significant impact both locally and internationally and held a number of positions in both government and business. In addition to founding Mashreq Bank, he also formed Emaar, a publicly traded joint stock corporation.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
A member of the ruling Al Maktoum family in Dubai, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum is an Emirati businessman who is recognized as one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs. He is the chairman of Dubai World, the CEO and founder of the Emirates Group, and the head of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. His Majesty The chairman and chief executive officer of Emirates, the airline that most of us love, is Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Al Maktoum also serves as Chairman of Dubai Holding and Dubai Airports and President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. Since he started working in the industry in 1985, Al Maktoum has been instrumental in reshaping Dubai into the premier commercial, tourism, and commerce center that it is today known for. He is certainly frequently praised as one of the most significant Arab business magnates.
Abdulla Al Futtaim
The Al-Futtaim Group is owned by Abdulla Al Futtaim, one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs, is an Emirati businessman, philanthropist, investor, and billionaire. He is also cousin to Majid Al Futtaim, another billionaire. In addition to retail and real estate, he made his fortune in the automotive industry. The Al-Futtaim Group, one of the biggest and most varied businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was founded by Abdulla Al Futtaim. He is regarded as one of the most prosperous businessmen in the United Arab Emirates and has played a significant role in the expansion and advancement of the national economy. With a presence in more than 20 Middle Eastern, African, and Asian nations, he has guided the Al-Futtaim Group toward rapid expansion.
Mohamed Ali Alabbar
Emirati entrepreneur Mohamed Ali Alabbar is credited with starting Emaar Properties, a real estate development firm that has worked on projects like the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. In addition, he founded and serves as chairman of Eagle Hills, an Abu Dhabi-based private investment and real estate development firm. In 1997, Mohamed Alabbar established Emaar, which helped Dubai develop into a contemporary metropolis. In addition, he is the chairman of Americana Restaurants and has business endeavors in technology, F&B, real estate, and e-commerce. Among Emaar’s noteworthy accomplishments are the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. Sustainable community development is the main emphasis of Alabbar’s other businesses, Eagle Hills and Nshama.
His e-commerce company, Noon, works with government agencies to assist new businesses. Alabbar who is one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs, is a major contributor to Dubai’s development and innovation because of his investments and vision, which have had a profound effect on a number of businesses.
Najla Al Midfa
After joining Sheraa in 2015, Najla Al Midfa was appointed CEO in 2018. Sheraa has helped more than 150 firms under her direction and raised about $161 million in funding. Al Midfa, is regarded as one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs, is on the boards of several organizations, including Emirates Development Bank and United Arab Bank. The Centers of Excellence (CoEs) of Sheraa are designed to foster economic growth in the fields of sustainability, edtech, manufacturing, and the creative industries. Sheraa’s goal of promoting a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sharjah is propelled by Al Midfa’s strategic vision and dedication to innovation.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil
Leading Burjeel Holdings and Amanat Holdings, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil is in charge of a varied investment portfolio. He is identified as one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs, who has played a significant role in the UAE’s healthcare service development. Burjeel Holdings is now the leading provider of private healthcare services in the area because to Vayalil’s leadership. He is now a leading investor in healthcare companies in India and MENA thanks to his market expansion and strategic vision. Vayalil’s dedication to humanitarian endeavors and partnerships with governments has improved healthcare quality and tackled worldwide issues.
Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah
Established by Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah, MAG Lifestyle Development manages creative initiatives in the United Arab Emirates. He launched the Keturah brand in 2022, fusing wellness concepts with luxury. The first “Bio Living” concept in the Middle East, Keturah Reserve, improves the wellbeing of its inhabitants. Community cohesiveness and sustainability are given top priority in Keturah’s undertakings. The success of Al Gaddah’s luxury real estate business is fuelled by his innovative approach and dedication to perfection. New standards for opulent living in the UAE and around the world are established by Keturah’s developments. Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah is recognized as one of the notable Arab entrepreneurs making a difference in the Middle East Business landscape.
