Top 10 Arab Family Businesses

Arab family businesses have long been the driving force behind the Middle Eastern economy. They started small, often as traders or distributors, and have grown into massive global players. These companies have a knack for spotting opportunities and expanding into new areas, keeping their businesses fresh and relevant.

Here's a concise yet valuable list of the stories of the top 10 Arab family businesses. From Egypt's Mansour Group to Qatar's Al Faisal Holding, we'll revisit their fascinating histories, current leaders, and how they've shaped industries not just at home, but around the world.

Their stories aren't just about business success. They're about resilience, innovation, the power of family in driving change, and, most importantly, what piece of something you can pick up from them.

1. Mansour Group

Founded: 1952

Country: Egypt

Group Chairman: Mohamed Mansour

From its humble beginnings as a cotton exporter in 1952, the Mansour Group has flourished into a global conglomerate with interests in automotive, investment, and foodstuff sectors. Led by Mohamed Mansour, the group's recent ventures include a $500 million franchise for a Major League Soccer club in California by 2025.

2. Al-Futtaim Group

Founded: 1930

Country: U.A.E.

Chairman: Abdulla Al Futtaim

With over 200 brands across 20 countries, the Al-Futtaim Group is a force to reckon with in automotive, finance, real estate, retail, and healthcare sectors. Headed by Abdulla Al Futtaim, the group recently launched an e-mobility-focused dealership in the U.A.E.

3. Olayan Financing Company (OFC)

Founded: 1947

Country: Saudi Arabia

Chair of the Executive Committee and Deputy Chair: Lubna S. Olayan

As the parent company of the Olayan Group, OFC boasts a diverse portfolio in industrial, commercial, and investment sectors. Lubna S. Olayan leads the charge, with recent support for climate solutions and a global presence in key financial hubs.

4. Al Ghurair Investment

Founded: 1960

Country: U.A.E.

Chairman of the Executive Committee: Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair

Pioneering industry in the U.A.E. since 1960, Al Ghurair Investment's diversified portfolio spans food, resources, construction, and energy sectors. Led by Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, recent milestones include exclusive partnerships in automotive and significant land lease agreements.

5. Majid Al Futtaim Holding

Founded: 1992

Country: U.A.E.

CEO: Ahmed Galal Ismail

Majid Al Futtaim Holding dominates retail, entertainment, real estate, F&B, and lifestyle sectors across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. Led by CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail, the company continues to expand its footprint with record revenues and strategic partnerships.

6. Abdul Latif Jameel

Founded: 1945

Country: Saudi Arabia

Chairman: Mohammed Abdul Latif Jameel

Operating across mobility, energy, finance, and health sectors, Abdul Latif Jameel has a global presence spanning 34 countries. Led by Mohammed Abdul Latif Jameel, the family's philanthropic endeavors through Community Jameel have impacted millions worldwide.

7. Al Muhaidib Group

Founded: 1943

Country: Saudi Arabia

Group Chairman: Sulaiman Al Muhaidib

Since its inception in 1943, the Al Muhaidib Group has been a key player in F&B, industrial, real estate, and financial sectors. With Sulaiman Al Muhaidib at the helm, the group continues to expand its global footprint and investment portfolio.

8. SEDCO Holding

Founded: 1976

Country: Saudi Arabia

Chairman: Saleh Salem Bin Mahfouz

SEDCO Holding's ethical and sustainable investments have made it a leader in the financial, real estate, and direct investment sectors. Saleh Salem Bin Mahfouz leads the charge, with recent ventures in tourism and healthcare shaping the region's landscape.

9. Al Faisal Holding

Founded: 1964

Country: Qatar

Chairman: Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani

Al Faisal Holding's journey from automotive parts trading to a diversified conglomerate underscores its resilience and vision. Led by Chairman Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, the group's hospitality arm and strategic partnerships continue to drive growth and innovation.

10. Rashed Abdul Rahman Al Rashed & Sons Group

Founded: 1950
Country: Saudi Arabia
Chairman: Abudlaziz Al Rashed

With over 25 companies across seven sectors, the Rashed Abdul Rahman Al Rashed & Sons Group has a significant presence in building materials, cement, contracting, automotive, and food products. The group also holds notable investments in major Saudi banks and steel industries.

From Egypt to Saudi Arabia, Qatar to the U.A.E., these top Arab family businesses inspire us with their resilience, innovation, and leadership, and they drive business leaders and entrepreneurs to reach new heights of success and impact in an ever-evolving global economy.

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