Top leaders in 2024: Propelling the Middle East to new heights
The Middle East is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by visionary C-suite leaders making strides across industries. These leaders are recognised for fostering talent development, championing sustainability, and promoting innovation in line with national and global goals. Their efforts are not only shaping the region's economic and social progress but also leaving a global impact, earning them spots on Forbes and Arabian Business lists of the best leaders in 2024.
Most influential leaders in the Middle East
Here are the top C-suite leaders in the Middle East in 2024 for their exceptional performance, leadership, and impact.
#1 Ali Al Baqali
CEO, Aluminium Bahrain (Alba)
Ali Al Baqali has championed talent and sustainability at Alba since becoming CEO in 2020. Under his leadership, the company introduced educational initiatives like robotic units for vocational training and launched the "EternAl" low-carbon aluminum line. His efforts emphasise upskilling local talent and pioneering sustainable aluminum production in alignment with Bahrain's national vision.
Impact: Ali's efforts have positioned Alba as a global leader in sustainability and workforce development within the industrial sector.
#2 Mutasim Alireza
CEO, Magrabi Hospitals & Centers Group
Leading since 1997, Mutasim Alireza has transformed the healthcare landscape with 34 hospitals serving millions annually. His initiatives prioritise workforce development, patient care, and philanthropic contributions, including co-founding the Ebsar Charity Organisation.
Impact: Mutasim's efforts drive healthcare accessibility, while his emphasis on staff training enhances the talent pipeline in Saudi Arabia.
#3 Sultan Al Jaber
Group CEO & Managing Director, ADNOC Group
Sultan Al Jaber is a visionary leader who has integrated sustainability and innovation into ADNOC’s core strategy. His leadership in decarbonisation, green financing, and private 5G wireless networks aligns ADNOC with the UAE’s climate goals and Industry 4.0 vision.
Impact: Sultan's efforts in fostering sustainable energy practices while empowering the workforce to embrace cutting-edge technologies, are widely visible.
#4 Yasser Zaghloul
Group CEO, NMDC Group
Yasser Zaghloul has driven NMDC’s transformation into a global player, achieving substantial profit and revenue growth. His initiatives in marine construction and sustainability directly contribute to the UAE's economic and environmental goals.
Impact: Yasser's leadership fosters innovation and workforce development in the construction industry.
#5 H.E. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer
Managing Director & CEO, DEWA
Leading DEWA since 1992, Saeed Al Tayer has achieved remarkable efficiency improvements and reduced carbon emissions significantly. His commitment to Emiratisation and advanced training programs supports DEWA's alignment with the UAE’s green economy goals.
Impact: Al Tayer is a pioneer in sustainable utility services, driving national environmental and talent development initiatives.
#6 Abdulnasser Bin Kalban
CEO, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA)
Bin Kalban has championed record production and innovative recycling projects to engage youth in sustainability. His leadership in promoting education and recycling underscores EGA’s commitment to community and environmental well-being.
Impact: Bin Kalban enhances industrial sustainability and cultivates a new generation of environmentally conscious talent.
#7 Ahmed Abdelaal
Group CEO, Mashreq
Ahmed Abdelaal has revolutionised Mashreq’s approach with wildlife mapping initiatives and eco-friendly financial products. His commitment to workforce upskilling and environmental stewardship sets a benchmark for the banking sector.
Impact: Abdelaal drives sustainability and innovation while fostering talent development in the financial services industry.
#8 Jerry Inzerillo
Group CEO, Diriyah Company
Inzerillo’s leadership has transformed Diriyah into a global tourism destination. His partnerships have introduced mixed-use developments and advanced cultural preservation while creating significant local job opportunities.
Impact: Inzerillo integrates sustainable tourism with workforce development, supporting Saudi Vision 2030.
#9 Khalid Al Marzooqi
CEO, Tabreed
Al Marzooqi leads Tabreed’s expansion into sustainable district cooling, aligning with smart city development in Southeast Asia. His efforts in technology-driven cooling solutions directly support green infrastructure and energy efficiency.
Impact: Al Marzooqi is a leader in sustainability, promoting innovative solutions for energy-efficient infrastructure globally.
#10 H.E. Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair
Chairman of Dubai Chambers & Mashreq Bank, and Director of Al Ghurair Investment
Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair’s leadership at Al Ghurair Investment reflects his dedication to nurturing talent and promoting sustainability. Under his guidance, the group has embraced programs like the ‘Fit for Future’ model, which enhances employee engagement and career growth. His commitment to Emiratisation fosters diversity by empowering local talent, while initiatives like leadership development programs have delivered over 6,000 learning hours. Recognised as a Top Employer in the UAE, Al Ghurair's efforts align with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8), promoting decent work and economic growth.
Impact: Al Ghurair has positioned Al Ghurair Investment as a leader in creating a future-ready workforce while contributing to sustainable development and national economic goals.
#11 Adel Ali
CEO, Air Arabia
Adel Ali has revolutionised aviation in the Middle East by establishing Air Arabia, the region's first low-cost carrier. By fostering innovation and implementing sustainable practices, he has steered the airline towards consistent profitability while expanding its global network to transport over 16.7 million passengers in 2023. Ali’s emphasis on operational excellence and his strategic ventures in aviation training and travel services underscore his commitment to developing the industry’s talent pool and supporting regional connectivity.
Impact: Ali’s visionary approach is reshaping air travel, creating new opportunities for talent, and aligning aviation growth with national economic priorities.
#12 Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Al Saud
Founder and Chairman, Kingdom Holding Company (KHC)
Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal has built KHC into a globally recognised investment powerhouse, championing innovation across sectors like hospitality, technology, and real estate. With projects such as the Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, he aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, driving sustainability and luxury development. KHC’s investments in digital technology and renewable energy reflect Alwaleed’s focus on future-ready industries, while his ventures generate employment and economic value in key sectors.
Impact: Alwaleed’s strategic investments are shaping a diversified and sustainable economy, enhancing talent development and innovation across industries.
#13 Amin Nasser
President and CEO, Saudi Aramco
Amin Nasser has redefined energy leadership by driving Saudi Aramco’s commitment to cleaner energy and sustainable innovation. He has advanced pioneering technologies like crude-to-chemical processes and renewable energy solutions while fostering entrepreneurship and talent development within the organisation. Programs such as the Young Leader’s Advisory Board empower Saudi youth, underscoring his focus on workforce development.
Impact: Nasser’s leadership is instrumental in transitioning the energy sector toward sustainability and innovation, aligning with global energy goals and Saudi Vision 2030.
#14 Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil
Founder and Chairman, Burjeel Holdings
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil’s strategic vision has transformed Burjeel Holdings into the UAE’s leading private healthcare provider. By integrating state-of-the-art medical technology with talent development initiatives, he has elevated the standard of healthcare across the region. His emphasis on partnerships and global outreach, coupled with a focus on addressing healthcare challenges, demonstrates his commitment to societal well-being and economic growth.
Impact: Vayalil’s initiatives strengthen regional healthcare infrastructure, creating jobs, enhancing care quality, and driving innovation.
Exceptional Women CEOs in the Middle East
Women leaders in the region are making their mark, transforming industries through entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and inclusive policies. Despite challenges like caregiving and societal pressures, they remain driven, with many setting their sights on senior roles. With Governments' and organisations efforts like flexible work policies and support programs, Women are driving economic growth and innovation in the region.
Here are top women leaders that are making a difference in the region:
#1 Hana Al Rostamani
Group CEO, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
Hana Al Rostamani broke barriers by becoming the first woman to lead a U.A.E.-based bank in 2021. Under her leadership, FAB has strengthened its position as the U.A.E.’s largest bank by market value and assets, with $336.3 billion in assets as of March 2024. In 2024, she spearheaded the launch of an AI Innovation Hub in partnership with Microsoft, enhancing innovation in financial services.
Impact: Al Rostamani exemplifies inclusive leadership, driving digital transformation and fostering strategic partnerships that shape the future of banking in the region.
# 2 Shaista Asif
Cofounder & Group CEO, PureHealth Holding
Asif has expanded PureHealth into a healthcare powerhouse, with a portfolio of over 100 hospitals, 300 clinics, and 147 labs. In 2024, PureHealth made headlines with its $1.2 billion acquisition of Circle Health Group in the U.K. and a successful IPO of its subsidiary Ardent Health Partners.
Impact: Asif's leadership underscores the importance of innovation and global expansion in building a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.
#3 Randa Sadik
CEO, Arab Bank
Randa has led Arab Bank since 2022, during which it achieved a 17% rise in net income in Q1 2024. With total assets of $68.7 billion and a widespread presence of 194 branches globally, the bank has been pivotal in advancing financial services across the region.
Impact: Randa's stewardship highlights the role of visionary leadership in driving financial stability and growth.
#4 Dana Nasser Al Sabah
Group CEO, Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO)
Al Sabah has driven remarkable growth at KIPCO, with an 80.4% increase in net profit in Q1 2024. She also plays key roles in education as the co-founder of the American University of Kuwait and as a leader in several financial and investment institutions.
Impact: Al Sabah’s diverse contributions demonstrate the power of cross-sector leadership in advancing education, finance, and economic sustainability.
#5 Donna Sultan
President & CEO, KEO International Consultants
Sultan has led KEO since 1991, turning it into a leader in architecture and engineering with over 2,600 employees. In 2023, she introduced digital advisory services, and in 2024, partnered with Johnson Controls to drive net-zero initiatives.
Impact: Sultan’s pioneering work in architecture and sustainability sets a benchmark for driving innovation and environmental stewardship in the construction sector.
#6 Dalia Khorshid
Group CEO, Beltone Holding
Khorshid has been leading Beltone Holding since 2022. In 2023, the company expanded into new business lines, including Beltone Capital's agribusiness platform and Beltone Venture Capital's investments. In Q1 2024, Beltone reported an 812% increase in operating revenues to $27.7 million, with assets under management rising by 56% to $612.5 million.
Impact: Khorshid’s leadership has driven remarkable growth and diversification in Beltone's operations, reflecting her extensive experience as Egypt’s former Minister of Investment and chairwoman of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones.
The leaders in the Middle East are widely emerging as torchbearers of new norms, innovation, social impact, and sustainability. They are transforming traditional work methods by embracing shifts such as AI-driven automation, flexible work arrangements, generational perspectives, and alignment with national initiatives.