Dubai, a city known for its towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant lifestyle, is also a global business hub. Over the years, it has become home to some of the most successful and influential businessmen in the world. These individuals have helped shape Dubai’s rapid transformation into one of the most advanced economies in the Middle East. Here’s a look at some of the top businessmen who have made a significant impact on the city’s economy.
1. Mohammed Alabbar
As the founder and chairman of Emaar Properties, one of the largest real estate development companies in the Middle East, Mohammed Alabbar has played a critical role in shaping Dubai’s skyline. Emaar is behind iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers globally. Alabbar’s contributions have cemented his status as one of the most influential businessmen in Dubai.
2. Majid Al Futtaim
The late Majid Al Futtaim was a visionary entrepreneur whose name became synonymous with retail and real estate development in the Middle East. His company, Majid Al Futtaim Group, operates across multiple sectors, including shopping malls, real estate, and entertainment. The company’s malls, such as Mall of the Emirates, have become iconic landmarks, while Carrefour, a hypermarket chain under its wing, has expanded significantly across the region.
3. Rashid Al Ghurair
Rashid Al Ghurair is a key figure in Dubai’s industrial landscape. As the chairman of the Al Ghurair Group, he has overseen the growth of the conglomerate’s businesses across a variety of industries, including real estate, manufacturing, and banking. Under his leadership, the group has expanded its global footprint while contributing significantly to the development of Dubai’s industrial and economic infrastructure.
4. Hussain Sajwani
Hussain Sajwani, the founder and chairman of DAMAC Properties, is one of Dubai’s wealthiest and most successful businessmen. DAMAC is known for its high-end residential and commercial developments, which cater to the luxury market. Sajwani is also known for his ties with international investors and has played a pivotal role in attracting foreign investments to the Dubai property market.
5. Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair
Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair is one of Dubai’s leading business figures, serving as the CEO of Mashreq Bank, one of the largest banks in the UAE. His family also runs the Al Ghurair Group, which is involved in various sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and retail. Through his work in banking and financial services, Abdul Aziz has been integral to the development of Dubai’s financial landscape.
6. Khalaf Al Habtoor
Khalaf Al Habtoor is the chairman and CEO of the Al Habtoor Group, a conglomerate with interests spanning hospitality, real estate, automotive, and education. Al Habtoor is known for his strategic investments in Dubai’s hospitality sector, including luxury hotels such as the Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection. He has also been a key player in developing the city’s infrastructure.
7. Micky Jagtiani
Micky Jagtiani, the founder of the Landmark Group, has built one of the largest retail chains in the Middle East. The Landmark Group operates several well-known brands, including Centrepoint, Home Centre, and Max. Jagtiani’s success has made him one of Dubai’s most influential retail magnates. The Landmark Group continues to grow, with operations in multiple countries across the region.
8. Khalid Bin Kalban
As the CEO of Dubai Investments, Khalid Bin Kalban oversees a diversified portfolio of investments across sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, and healthcare. Dubai Investments has been instrumental in driving growth in Dubai’s real estate and industrial sectors, making Kalban one of the key figures in the city’s economic landscape.
9. Saud Ghanem Al Qattami
Saud Ghanem Al Qattami is a major player in Dubai’s business community, primarily known for his success in the oil and gas sector. He has significantly contributed to the development of Dubai’s energy infrastructure and is considered one of the key figures in the UAE’s efforts to diversify its economy.
10. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem is the chairman of DP World, a global leader in logistics and port management. Under his leadership, DP World has become a key player in global trade and logistics, with operations in over 60 countries. Bin Sulayem’s work has played an essential role in strengthening Dubai’s position as a global trade hub.
Conclusion
Dubai’s growth as a global business center is a testament to the vision and hard work of its top businessmen. These individuals have driven the city’s development across multiple industries, from real estate to finance, retail, and logistics. As Dubai continues to expand and diversify its economy, these influential figures will likely remain at the helm, shaping the city’s future in the global marketplace.
