Mohamed Alabbar Tops Dubai 100 List, Highlighting Dubai’s Thriving Sectors
Mohamed Alabbar, the visionary behind Emaar Properties, has secured the top position on the Arabian Business Dubai 100 list, released on Wednesday. His ranking underscores the crucial role of landmark developments in shaping Dubai’s skyline and economy. Other prominent figures such as Hussain Sajwani of DAMAC and Sir Tim Clark of Emirates also earned spots, reflecting the industries driving Dubai’s remarkable expansion.
Shifting Ranks & New Entrants
Financial heavyweight Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair made a significant leap to second place, reinforcing his enduring impact on the finance sector. Meanwhile, Abdulla Al Futtaim, head of one of the region’s most influential business conglomerates, entered the list for the first time, securing the fourth spot.
The annual ranking, curated by a leading regional publication, serves as a benchmark for individuals shaping Dubai’s future. It spotlights influential personalities across key industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, real estate, tourism, and media.
Evaluation Criteria & Emerging Trends
The selection process was based on a standardized 10-point system across nine key performance areas, with inspiration carrying the highest weight at 20% of the total score. While real estate and finance remained dominant, newer industries such as technology, retail, media, and public policy showcased an evolving power dynamic.
Emaar Properties Announces $2.4 Billion Dividend Payout
A striking takeaway from this year’s list is the influx of 66 new names, illustrating Dubai’s expanding landscape of opportunities.
With expatriates making up 85% of Dubai’s population, as per the Dubai Statistics Centre, their presence on the list is undeniable. This year, 54 leaders are Emiratis, while 46 are expatriates, reflecting the city’s multicultural economic force. These expat leaders originate from South Asia, the MENA region, Europe, and North America, contributing significantly to Dubai’s economic growth.
During GITEX GLOBAL 2024, Timothy Chen, General Partner at ACHI Capital, highlighted Dubai’s unmatched diversity. He noted how encountering up to 12 different nationalities daily demonstrates an environment that has been carefully cultivated and engineered for success.
Dubai’s Tech Rise & Future Outlook
As Dubai cements its position as a global technology hub, its transformation is drawing parallels with Silicon Valley and Bengaluru.
Prominent government officials also made the Dubai 100 list, including Helal Al Marri (Director General, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism), Mattar Al Tayer (Director General, RTA), and Abdulla Al Karam (KHDA). Their inclusion underscores the growing collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Looking ahead to 2026, Dubai is set to focus on green energy, AI innovations, space exploration, and cutting-edge R&D. With the Emirates Mars Mission and the UAE Astronaut Programme gaining traction, aerospace and advanced technology sectors are poised to take center stage in the coming years.
