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Top 20 CEOs in the UAE in 2026

Meet the top 20 CEOs leading UAE business growth in 2026. These leaders are changing the economy through energy and tech to build a stronger future for the country.

March 17, 2026
Elena Freeman
Country of author
Elena Freeman

Elena Freeman designs partnerships and events at Favikon. She cares about building spaces where creators, brands, and ideas meet in ways that feel real and memorable. From partner programs to community gatherings, she focuses on making connections that spark collaboration and professional growth.

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Here’s the list of the Top 20 CEOs in the UAE in 2026:

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20. Martin Rueegg

Martin Rueegg is the Group Chief Executive Officer at Liva Group and Liva UAE, based in Dubai. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, he has held various C-suite positions across Europe and Asia. He focuses on building sustainable business models and fostering strong relationships with customers and partners. His leadership emphasizes agility, empathy, and innovation, aiming to instill confidence in people through comprehensive insurance solutions.

Favikon Authority Score : 4 942 pts 

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19. Sahia Ahmad

Sahia Ahmad is a pioneering legal strategist, policymaker, and C-suite executive with over 25 years of experience shaping Dubai's economic and regulatory landscape. As the CEO of Regulatory Policy & Governance at the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) and a founding Executive Board Member of the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), she has driven legislative frameworks defining Dubai’s modern economy. Sahia publishes content on LinkedIn, focusing on corporate governance, regulatory innovation, and leadership. She frequently shares insights on legal updates, professional achievements, and women's empowerment, often highlighting her role in Dubai’s economic agenda and her participation in high-level educational programs like Harvard Business School’s Women on Corporate Boards.

Favikon Authority Score : 5 200 pts 

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18. Dr. Adnan Chilwan

Dr. Adnan Chilwan is the Group CEO of Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), a leading figure in the global Islamic finance industry. He is responsible for driving the bank's strategic growth and innovation, with a focus on expanding its presence across international markets. His content primarily revolves around Islamic banking, financial performance, and corporate leadership, often highlighting DIB's milestones, sustainability initiatives, and global partnerships. He frequently shares insights on LinkedIn, emphasizing the bank's role in shaping the future of ethical and values-based finance. His posts often celebrate national events, corporate achievements, and collaborations with global institutions, reinforcing DIB's position as a leader in the Islamic finance sector.

Favikon Authority Score : 5 810 pts 

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17. Mohammad A. Baker

Mohammad A. Baker is the Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, a global well-being company. He is a passionate brand creator and builder, focusing on driving progress within the global business community. His online presence highlights his leadership in business, equestrian sports, and community engagement. He frequently shares updates on GMG’s strategic partnerships, business achievements, and community initiatives, often celebrating UAE’s leadership and national milestones. His content includes professional insights, event participation, and collaborations with global brands like Nike and Amazon.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 016 pts 

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16. Rashid Abdulla

Rashid Abdulla is the CEO and Managing Director for Europe at DP World, overseeing operations across 20 countries. His expertise lies in logistics, supply chain management, and sustainability, with a focus on digitalization and process efficiency. Rashid emphasizes customer-centric solutions and has contributed to significant emission reductions in European operations. He actively engages in discussions about the future of global trade, innovation, and the importance of collaboration in logistics.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 170 pts 

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15. Shahid N. Khan

Seasoned GCC-based FMCG executive and advisor with 20+ years leading growth at Unilever, IFFCO, Al Homaizi & Al Islami. Founder of SNK Advisory; currently Group CEO for Food Manufacturing UAE & GCC and Senior Advisor at Alantra Middle East. Built mega brands, led regional expansions, and fostered strategic partnerships across Asia, the Middle East, and the US.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 829 pts 

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14. Sherif Beshara

Sherif Beshara is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Mohamed & Obaid Almulla Group, which includes the American Hospital Dubai. He is a prominent figure in healthcare leadership, focusing on strategic innovation, digital transformation, and patient-centered care. His content primarily revolves around healthcare leadership, strategy, and innovation in the UAE, often published in local media like 'Al Bayan'. He frequently promotes healthcare events, shares insights on leadership, and highlights collaborations with global institutions like Harvard Business Impact and Siemens Healthineers. His posts also emphasize the importance of sustainability, AI, and Emirati leadership in healthcare.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 406 pts 

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13. Issam Kazim

Issam Kazim is the CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, a role in which he oversees the strategic development and promotion of Dubai as a leading global tourism and business destination. His online presence primarily focuses on promoting Dubai’s tourism initiatives, sustainability efforts, and major events such as the Future Leaders Challenge and Arabian Travel Market. Kazim frequently shares updates on Dubai’s economic agenda, D33, and highlights the city’s achievements in accessibility, innovation, and global leadership. His content often features collaborations with key stakeholders, government officials, and industry leaders, emphasizing Dubai’s commitment to becoming a world-class destination for business and leisure.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 761 pts 

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12. Khaled Al Huraimel

Khaled Al Huraimel is the Group CEO of BEEAH Group, focusing on sustainability and technology to drive positive change. He has transformed BEEAH from a waste management company into a leader in integrated waste management and renewable energy in the UAE and beyond. His initiatives include the first waste-to-energy plant in the Middle East and AI-integrated headquarters. Khaled is also involved in various boards and councils, advocating for climate action and innovation in urban development.

Favikon Authority Score : 6 854 pts 

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11. Khalid Murshed

Khalid Murshed is the Chief Executive Officer of e& enterprise, a leading digital transformation and innovation company in the MENA region. With over 26 years of experience in the telecom industry, he focuses on advancing secure digital infrastructure, sovereign cloud adoption, and AI-driven solutions. His content primarily revolves around corporate leadership, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships, often highlighting e& enterprise's initiatives in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI. He frequently shares insights from industry events, keynote speeches, and collaborations with global tech leaders like Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Favikon Authority Score : 6 911 pts

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10. Fahed Ghanim

Fahed Ghanim is the CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, recognized as the Retail Business Leader of the Year 2024. With over 20 years of experience, he has successfully led the growth of luxury brands and retail operations in the Middle East. His social media presence highlights significant achievements in retail expansion, community engagement, and sustainability initiatives. He actively promotes a customer-centric approach and emphasizes the importance of teamwork and innovation in driving business success.

Favikon Authority Score : 7 031 pts 

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09. Dr. Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi

Dr. Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi is a Forbes-recognized executive, ranked among the Top 100 CEOs of 2024. Based in Abu Dhabi, he operates at the nexus of AI, capital markets, and institutional strategy—advising sovereign entities, global firms, and boards on cross-border growth and future-ready innovation. With 20+ years of leadership across energy, finance, and digital transformation, Dr. Al Qubaisi is a trusted voice on restructuring, capital deployment, and high-stakes partnerships. His influence spans public-private platforms, technology ecosystems, and national investment agendas across the UAE and broader MENA region. He combines credibility, discretion, and strategic foresight—engaging only where real value is created with minimal friction and maximum clarity.

Favikon Authority Score : 7 166 pts 

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08. Abdul Mohsen Al Hammadi

Abdul Mohsen Al Hammadi is the Chairman and CEO of Manazil Group, a prominent real estate and healthcare company in the UAE. His social media presence highlights the company's developments in property, hotels, and hospitals, showcasing new projects and healthcare services. He actively engages with the community, sharing updates on company achievements and job opportunities, while also expressing gratitude towards local leadership and government support.

Favikon Authority Score : 4 598 pts 

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07. Ahmed Galal Ismail

Ahmed Galal Ismail is the CEO of Majid Al Futtaim, a leading retail and leisure conglomerate in the UAE. His social media presence highlights significant achievements in financial growth, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement. He actively promotes corporate social responsibility, including support for local communities and environmental sustainability. His posts reflect a commitment to innovation and leadership in the retail sector, with a focus on enhancing customer experiences and fostering local talent.

Favikon Authority Score : 7 518 pts 

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06. Easa Al Gurg

Easa Al Gurg is the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG), a diversified conglomerate with 27 companies in retail, building and construction, industrial, and real estate sectors. His online presence primarily showcases business partnerships, corporate events, and leadership activities, often highlighting collaborations with international brands and industry leaders. Posts frequently emphasize long-term partnerships, strategic growth, and corporate milestones, reflecting his role in steering the group's diversified operations. Notable mentions include key collaborations with companies like Siemens, MLS, and LEDVANCE, as well as recognitions such as being listed among Arabian Business’ 150 Most Influential Arabs of 2025.

Favikon Authority Score : 7 735 pts

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05. Ahmed Bin Sulayem

Ahmed Bin Sulayem is the Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), a strategic initiative of the Government of Dubai aimed at creating a dynamic commodities marketplace in the region. He has been instrumental in driving DMCC’s growth since its inception in 2002, overseeing its transformation into a global hub for trade and commodities. Bin Sulayem frequently shares insights on global trade, commodities, and economic development through social media platforms, often highlighting DMCC’s initiatives and partnerships. His content includes updates on international summits, business meetings, and collaborations with global leaders, emphasizing Dubai’s role in the global economy. Bin Sulayem’s posts often focus on promoting Dubai as a leading trade hub, sharing expertise on commodities like gold, diamonds, and coffee, and discussing innovations in trade finance and blockchain technology.

Favikon Authority Score : 7 928 pts 

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04. Paul Griffiths

Paul Griffiths is the Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, a role he has held since 2007. Under his leadership, Dubai International Airport (DXB) has become the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, handling over 120 million customers annually. Griffiths oversees the strategic transformation of Dubai’s aviation infrastructure, including the development of Dubai World Central (DWC), the world’s largest airport. His content focuses on airport operations, employee engagement, sustainability, and the future of aviation. Griffiths frequently shares insights on LinkedIn about Dubai Airports’ achievements, collaborations, and the role of aviation in Dubai’s economic growth.

Favikon Authority Score : 8 001 pts 

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03. Hatem Dowidar

Hatem Dowidar is the Group Chief Executive Officer at e& (Etisalat), a leading technology and telecoms company. He is an international leader focused on harnessing technology for social and economic progress. Dowidar frequently shares insights on digital transformation, AI, and connectivity, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation. His content often highlights e&'s achievements, such as advancements in 5G and 6G networks, and partnerships with global tech leaders like AWS and Qualcomm. Dowidar is actively involved in global forums like the World Economic Forum and the Internet Governance Forum, where he discusses the future of technology and its impact on society. His posts also reflect a commitment to sustainability, digital inclusion, and building resilient digital ecosystems.

Favikon Authority Score : 8 251 pts 

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02. Mila Smart Semeshkina

Mila Smart Semeshkina is a prominent entrepreneur and the CEO & Founder of Lectera.com, an international educational platform. She is also the President of the Women's Empowerment Council and the WE Convention, a leading global forum for women's leadership. Her content primarily focuses on promoting women's empowerment, sharing insights from her entrepreneurial journey, and highlighting her involvement in high-profile events such as the WE Convention and Paris Fashion Week. She frequently shares her experiences in travel, fashion, and lifestyle, often showcasing her personal style and attending exclusive events. Mila is recognized as a thought leader in personal growth and development, with a strong presence in the Middle East and beyond.

Favikon Authority Score : 8 305 pts

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01. Saygin Yalcin

Saygin Yalcin is a prominent entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of SellAnyCar.com, the Middle East's first and largest car buying service. He is also the founder of Sukar.com, an online private shopping club acquired by Souq.com, which was later acquired by Amazon. Yalcin is recognized as a leading figure in the e-commerce and automotive industries, frequently sharing business insights, luxury lifestyle content, and entrepreneurial advice across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. His content often features luxury cars, business tips, and personal reflections, positioning him as an aspirational figure and expert in his field.

Favikon Authority Score : 8 650 pts 

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Also See đź‘€
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🏆 TOP 20 INFLUENCERS IN THE UAE IN 2026
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🏆 TOP 200 CEOs IN THE UAE
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