Lubna Al Oayan Tops Forbes List of Most Powerful Arab Businesswomen
Out front again, Saudi Arabia’s Lubna Al Olayan runs the Olayan Financing Company without pause. Still holding strong, she tops Forbes Middle East’s ranking of influential women in business across the Arab world. Not slowing down, her presence remains firm at the peak – year after year.
Starting strong at the top, Al Olayan runs a vast network shaped by decades of quiet strength across Arab markets. Not just another name on FORBES’ global power roster, she shows up differently – reshaping views through action, not slogans. Power flows through her decisions, steady and sharp, proving that women in business can command without apology. Success here does not shout; it persists, grows roots, changes what seems possible.
Third on the list stands Raja Easa Al Gurg, a national of the UAE, followed closely by Fatima Al Jaber in fourth place – both named among Forbes Middle East’s top 100 influential businesswomen across the Arab world. Leading the Al Gurg Group as managing director is Raja, whereas Fatima runs the Al Jaber Group as its chief executive officer. Their presence highlights how women from the UAE continue shaping corporate leadership roles. At number three and four, their recognition reflects growing influence within regional commerce.
Among those named are leaders from Bahrain, Morocco, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia – one name stands out at a time. Shaikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani runs Qatar Museums, shaping culture through quiet authority. From Kuwait comes Maha Al Ghunaim, holding firm as vice chair of Global Investment House. Then there is Lobna Helal – her role as deputy governor of Egypt’s Central Bank marks steady influence. Each woman steps into view without fanfare. Their presence reflects different paths across one shared landscape. Leadership here does not shout – it appears in choices made daily. Countries shift slightly when such roles get filled. Recognition arrives slowly, yet it sticks. The list moves beyond borders by simply naming who is already doing.
