The role of the chief executive in the Middle East has expanded beyond traditional corporate leadership. A CEO in 2026 must lead their company through technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, and evolving capital markets.

Our sixth annual list of the Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East spotlights executives who combine financial performance with a broader contribution to economic resilience and development.

Over the past year, companies across the region have increased investment in AI, digital infrastructure, the energy transition, and advanced manufacturing. AI has moved from strategy to implementation, while sustainability has become a standard business requirement rather than a compliance matter. In 2025, Saudi Aramco announced plans to acquire a minority stake in AI firm HUMAIN, while IHC launched Judan Financial this year, an AI-enabled platform with nearly $237 billion in assets under management.

Diversification has also continued to define corporate strategy, with companies expanding beyond their core markets through acquisitions and new ventures. In January 2026, NMDC Infra acquired a 51% stake in Spain’s Lantania Aguas, marking NMDC Group’s first entry into the European market. In June 2026, Emirates NBD acquired a 60% majority stake in India’s RBL Bank through a primary capital infusion of approximately $2.75 billion.

The top CEOs list features 102 individuals across 100 entries, representing 21 nationalities. Emiratis top the list with 31 executives, followed by Egyptians (15) and Saudis (13). The CEOs are based across eight countries in the region, with 49 based in the UAE, 18 in Saudi Arabia, and 11 in Qatar.

The list represents 29 sectors, with banking and financial services accounting for the largest share at 30 entries, followed by real estate and construction with eight.