Spotlighting the Region’s Pioneers
Forbes Middle East has unveiled its 2025 list of the Top 100 Travel and Tourism Leaders, casting a spotlight on key individuals shaping the future of tourism within the Middle East. These executives hail from a variety of sectors, driving ambitious initiatives in hotels, airlines, and tourism strategies.
Who Made the List?
The list comprises executives from ten countries, with the UAE boasting an impressive 49 leaders, followed by Saudi Arabia with 24, Egypt with seven, and Oman with five. Other notable mentions include representatives from Jordan and Morocco, each with four leaders, and Qatar and Bahrain with three. Kuwait and Tunisia round out the list with one leader each, specifically from Kuwait Airways and the Tunisian National Tourist Office.
National Representation
This year’s rankings reflect the diversity of nationalities among the listees, which includes 15 Emiratis, 14 Saudis, and nine British nationals, showcasing a robust mix of global perspectives within the regional tourism landscape.
Driving Forces Behind the Rankings
Forbes evaluated these leaders based on several impactful metrics such as organizational size—assessed through revenues, asset values, hotel keys, and passenger numbers—as well as their experience, achievements, and overall influence on tourism.
Top Figures in Middle Eastern Travel
Rank | Name | Country | Nationality | Position |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum | UAE | Emirati | Chairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group |
2 | Fahd Hamidaddin | Saudi Arabia | Saudi | CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority |
3 | Badr Mohammed Al-Meer | Qatar | Qatari | Group CEO, Qatar Airways Group |
4 | Saleh Al Geziry | UAE | Emirati | Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi |
5 | Fatim-Zahra Ammor | Morocco | Moroccan | Chair, Moroccan National Tourist Office |
Innovative Developments in the Sector
The travel and tourism leaders are not only figures of influence but also catalysts for groundbreaking initiatives. Notable advancements in 2025 include:
- Bander Almohanna’s leadership at flynas in completing a historic $1.1 billion IPO.
- Fernando Eiroa’s launch of Real Madrid World, the globe’s first Real Madrid-themed amusement park in Dubai.
- Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi’s collaboration with The Walt Disney Company to develop the region’s first Disney-themed resort in Abu Dhabi.
- Fatim-Zahra Ammor’s establishment of Morocco’s inaugural tourism project bank, facilitating 200 investment templates.
What Lies Ahead for the Tourism Industry?
The tourism landscape in the Middle East is witnessing an exciting transformation, driven largely by these influential leaders and their bold visions. The increase in investments and innovative projects indicates a thriving future for the sector.
Reflection on User Experience
While reviews and accolades are helpful, they can’t completely substitute for firsthand experience. For those planning travels within the region, utilizing GetTransfer can be particularly beneficial. Users can hire vehicles from verified providers at reasonable prices, ensuring that they receive quality service without hidden costs or disappointments. This platform offers transparency and a diverse range of vehicles tailored to customer preferences.
In summary, the influential leaders of Middle Eastern tourism are paving the way for innovative advancements and unparalleled experiences in travel. Utilizing a service like GetTransfer enables travelers to seamlessly navigate their transportation needs, ensuring peace of mind during their journeys. Travelers are encouraged to embrace the conveniences that GetTransfer provides, from selecting specific vehicles to transparent pricing, setting the stage for memorable travels.
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