Top 10 CEOs in the Middle East 2024

In the dynamic landscape of the Middle East's business sphere, visionary leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping industries, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth. As we delve into 2024, it's imperative to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of CEOs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic foresight, and resilience amid evolving challenges. Here, we highlight the top 10 CEOs in the Middle East who are spearheading transformative initiatives and propelling their organizations to new heights.

Amin H. Nasser (Saudi Aramco):

As the CEO of Saudi Aramco, Amin H. Nasser leads efforts to produce cleaner energy through investments in next-generation fuel-engine interfaces, crude oil-to-chemicals processes, and clean energy startups.

Colm McLoughlin (Dubai Duty Free):

Colm McLoughlin is an Irish businessman, and the executive vice chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free, an airport retailer with a turnover of US$2.16 billion in 2023.

Arif Naqvi (The Abraaj Group):

Renowned for his pioneering efforts in private equity investment, Arif Naqvi has established The Abraaj Group as a leading investor in emerging markets. Despite challenges faced by the organization, Naqvi's commitment to ethical business practices and impact investing continues to resonate positively across the region.

Sultan Al Jaber (ADNOC Group):

Al Jaber has been leading ADNOC since 2016. The group is investing in technology that turns CO2 into rocks. Al Jaber is also the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, the president-designate of the COP28 in Dubai, and the chairman of Masdar.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem (DP World):

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem's visionary leadership at DP World has propelled the company to become a global leader in port operations and logistics. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, DP World continues to drive efficiency and connectivity in global trade networks.

Hussain Sajwani (DAMAC Properties):

As the founder and CEO of DAMAC Properties, Hussain Sajwani has played a pivotal role in shaping Dubai's skyline with iconic residential and commercial developments. His entrepreneurial acumen and strategic vision have positioned Damac as a market leader in luxury real estate.

Hatem Dowidar (e&):

Since 2020, Hatem Dowidar has been at the helm of e&, previously known as the Etisalat Group. The company underwent a significant transformation and rebranding, shifting its focus from telecommunications to becoming a diversified technology and investment conglomerate in February 2022. Today, e& boasts a presence in 16 countries spanning across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Faraz Khalid (Noon):

Under Faraz Khalid's leadership, Noon, an e-commerce platform, is now focused on accelerating its growth and reinforcing its market presence in key regions, including the UAE, KSA, and Egypt.

Isam Jasem Al-Sager (National Bank of Kuwait "NBK Group"):

Al-Sager joined NBK in 1978 and assumed his current role as the group CEO in 2014. Al-Sager is also the chairman of the board of several NBK subsidiaries, including NBK (International), and a board member of Watani Wealth Management.

Nadhmi Al-Nasr (NEOM):

Nadhmi A. Al-Nasr has been the CEO of the NEOM project since July 2018 and is the former Executive Vice-President for Administration and Finance at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

In conclusion, the Middle East is home to visionary CEOs who are shaping the region's business landscape through innovation, resilience, and strategic foresight. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of 2024, these leaders serve as beacons of inspiration, driving growth and prosperity across diverse industries.

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