Dubai, UAE – The UAE topped the sixth edition of Forbes Middle East’s list of the most powerful CEOs for 2026. Which included 102 executive leaders leading their companies towards sustainable growth and value creation in one of the most dynamic economic environments.
The list included 31 CEOs from the UAE, 15 from Egypt and 13 from Saudi Arabia. While the banking sector dominates the list with 30 entries, followed by the real estate and construction sector with 8 entries.
CEOs from Gulf countries occupy the top 10 places in the rankings across 5 sectors. Reflecting the pivotal role of these countries in driving the region’s economic growth.
exacting standards
Forbes Middle East relied on a set of criteria in preparing the list. These included: the influence of CEOs in the region, the countries in which they operate, and the markets they oversee. Along with their professional experience, total length of time in their current positions, and the size of their companies. Based on the most prominent financial indicators, as well as their achievements and performance over the past year, and the innovations and initiatives they led.
The list includes 102 executive leaders representing 21 nationalities, distributed among 100 companies, reflecting the leadership diversity in the region.
The Emiratis also top the list with 31 CEOs, followed by the Egyptians with 15 CEOs, then the Saudis with 13. While the banking sector dominates the list with 30 entries, followed by the real estate and construction sector with 8 entries.
CEOs from Gulf countries occupy the top 10 places in the rankings across five sectors, reflecting the pivotal role of these countries in driving the region’s economic growth.
Companies are now moving towards diversifying their strategies, expanding beyond their core markets through acquisitions and launching new projects. (nmdc Infra) acquired a 51% stake in the Spanish company (Lantania Aguas) in January 2026, which is the first entry of the (NMDC) group into the European market. In June 2026, Emirates NBD Group acquired a 60% majority stake in the Indian bank (RBL Bank), through an initial capital injection worth approximately $2.75 billion.
