Mohammed Al Amoudi is an Ethiopian-Saudi billionaire businessman who has a net worth of $8 billion. That makes him one of the richest people in Saudi Arabia.

Mohammed Al Amoudi controls a diverse collection of industrial, energy, and agricultural assets spread across Sweden, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia. His holdings include Preem, Sweden's largest oil refinery, a minority stake in the Swedish infrastructure and property company Granitor, as well as extensive agricultural projects and an oil company in Ethiopia. He also owns Naft Services, a Saudi-based gas station operator.

Al Amoudi's wealth has fluctuated significantly over the years, once placing him among the richest men in the Middle East. At his peak, his fortune exceeded $12 billion, but recent asset sales and changes to his Ethiopian gold holdings reduced his net worth by roughly $4 billion in 2025. Despite these shifts, he remains one of Africa's wealthiest men and the single largest foreign investor in Ethiopia.

Beyond his businesses, Al Amoudi has also faced political and legal scrutiny. In November 2017, he was detained during Saudi Arabia's anti-corruption crackdown, an episode that lasted until January 2019. Although his assets in Europe and Africa continued to operate normally during his detention, the incident underscored the complexities of his position as a global investor tied closely to Saudi, Ethiopian, and Swedish markets.

Early Life and Education

Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi was born in 1946 in Ethiopia to a Yemeni father and an Ethiopian mother. He grew up in the Wollo region before moving to Saudi Arabia at the age of 19, where he took Saudi citizenship. He studied at Addis Ababa University but left Ethiopia to pursue business opportunities abroad.

Starting with modest resources, Al Amoudi began his career in Saudi Arabia's construction and real estate sectors, winning lucrative government contracts during the oil boom years of the 1970s and 1980s. These early ventures laid the foundation for the creation of his business empire, Midroc (short for "Mohammed International Development Research and Organization Companies"), which would become his primary investment vehicle.

Midroc and Early Success

In the early 1980s, Al Amoudi established Midroc, which grew into a sprawling conglomerate spanning construction, engineering, real estate, and industry. His big breakthrough came in 1988, when Midroc's construction arm won a multibillion-dollar contract to build Saudi Arabia's underground oil storage complex. The project was one of the largest of its kind at the time and cemented his reputation as a serious player in the region's industrial sector.

By the mid-1990s, Al Amoudi began diversifying his empire further, particularly in Ethiopia, where he forged strong ties with the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front. His close relationship with Ethiopia's government positioned him as the country's single largest foreign investor.

(via Alamy)

Expansion into Ethiopia

Al Amoudi invested heavily in Ethiopia throughout the 1990s and 2000s, directing capital into mining, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. He acquired a 98% stake in Ethiopia's only large-scale gold mine, which has been a cornerstone of his holdings. Beyond mining, he developed vast coffee and rice farms, including a 60-year concession on 10,000 hectares in Gambella province. While these projects generated jobs and foreign investment, they also drew criticism. Advocacy groups such as the Oakland Institute accused him of land grabs that displaced local communities, though the Ethiopian government maintained that any resettlement was voluntary.

Al Amoudi's footprint in Ethiopia extends beyond agriculture and mining. His investments cover steel, real estate, hotels, and infrastructure, making him one of the most influential private figures in the country's economic development.

Oil and Energy Investments

In the 1990s, Al Amoudi made a decisive move into the oil industry through his holding group, Corral Petroleum. In 1994, he acquired OKP (renamed Preem Petroleum), Sweden's largest oil refiner, as well as Svenska Petroleum. Preem remains his flagship European asset and a key contributor to his fortune, valued based on enterprise multiples of its public peers.

He also took control of Morocco's two largest oil refineries in 1999, merging them to create Samir. Although Samir later collapsed under heavy debt, Al Amoudi's other oil and fuel ventures, including Saudi-based Naft Services, continue to generate steady revenue. His minority stake in Granitor, a Swedish property and infrastructure group, adds to his European holdings and reflects his diversified approach to asset management.

Legal Battles and Defamation Cases

Al Amoudi's wealth and prominence have made him a target for allegations and controversies. In 2005, he was accused of funding terrorism by French analyst Jean Charles Brisard. The matter was resolved in court when Brisard issued a public apology, admitting his claims were false. In 2011, Al Amoudi won a defamation suit in the UK against Elias Kifle, publisher of the website Ethiopian Review, who had also accused him of terrorism financing. The court awarded him $282,000 in damages.

Detention in Saudi Arabia

On November 4, 2017, Al Amoudi was detained as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's sweeping anti-corruption crackdown. The arrest shocked the business world, as Al Amoudi was one of Saudi Arabia's most prominent expatriate investors. Ethiopia's then-Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, personally appealed for his release. After more than a year in detention, Al Amoudi was freed in January 2019. No formal charges were ever announced, and Saudi authorities offered no explanation for his arrest or release.

During his absence, his European and Ethiopian businesses continued to operate normally. Company statements at the time emphasized that operations were unaffected, reflecting the decentralized nature of his empire.

Read more: Mohammed Al Amoudi Net Worth

Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer is a Saudi businessman and royal family member with a net worth of $6 billion. That makes him one of the richest people in Saudi Arabia.

A relative of the ruling Al Saud family, he is best known as the founder and largest shareholder of Almarai, the Middle East's largest dairy and food company. Through Almarai and other investments, Al Kabeer has become one of Saudi Arabia's most prominent private entrepreneurs, building a fortune largely independent of state control.

Al Kabeer's wealth comes primarily from his Almarai stake, which has grown into one of the most successful consumer companies in the Middle East. The dairy giant is listed on the Saudi stock exchange and has expanded beyond milk into juices, baked goods, poultry, and infant formula. His personal stake has consistently ranked him among the richest individuals in the kingdom.

Beyond Almarai, Al Kabeer has holdings in real estate, agriculture, and other industries, making him a key figure in Saudi Arabia's private sector.

Early Life

Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer was born in 1954 into the extended Saudi royal family. While not in the direct line of succession, he leveraged his royal connections and entrepreneurial instincts to carve out his own path in business. After completing his education, he began focusing on agriculture and food production, areas where Saudi Arabia was seeking to expand capacity during the oil boom years of the 1970s.

Founding of Almarai

In 1977, Al Kabeer founded Almarai, recognizing the potential to modernize dairy farming in Saudi Arabia. At the time, milk production was fragmented and inefficient, with little large-scale organization. With significant capital investment, Almarai introduced modern farming techniques, imported high-quality cattle, and implemented strict quality controls that were uncommon in the region.

The company grew rapidly, establishing itself as the dominant dairy supplier in the kingdom. Over time, Almarai diversified into juices, baked goods, poultry, and other food products, becoming a household name throughout the Middle East. Today, it operates one of the largest vertically integrated dairy facilities in the world and distributes products across the Gulf and beyond.

Al Kabeer's vision helped transform Almarai into a publicly traded company, and his stake in the business remains his primary source of wealth.

Other Investments

In addition to Almarai, Al Kabeer holds stakes in a variety of companies, particularly in agriculture, real estate, and industry. His portfolio has often been managed through private investment vehicles and partnerships, and he has used his influence to support Saudi Arabia's broader economic development goals.

Al Kabeer's role as a royal family member has provided him with access to opportunities, but unlike many royals who depend heavily on state enterprises, his fortune has been largely self-made through private sector ventures.

Personal Life and Legacy

Despite his vast wealth, Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer has maintained a relatively low profile compared to other Saudi royals. He is known for his passion for agriculture and Arabian horses, reflecting his ties to Saudi traditions and culture.

His success with Almarai is often cited as a model for how private entrepreneurship can thrive in Saudi Arabia outside the oil sector. By creating a company that provides food security and employs thousands, he has played an important role in diversifying the kingdom's economy.

Read more: Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer Net Worth

As the eldest of the powerful Bani Fatima brothers, he is widely considered the most influential Arab leader of his generation. Known for his strategic vision, military background, and economic modernization policies, Sheikh Mohamed has played a decisive role in shaping both the UAE's domestic development and its foreign policy. With an estimated personal net worth of around $30 billion, he is also one of the wealthiest royals in the world, controlling vast assets in oil, real estate, finance, and international investments. Under his leadership, Abu Dhabi has emerged as the dominant power center within the UAE and a key player in global geopolitics.

Early Life and Military Career

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was born in 1961 in Al Ain, the third son of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding President of the UAE, and Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. He was educated in the UAE before attending the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, where he trained in armored warfare, flight, and tactics.

Upon returning to the UAE, MBZ embarked on a military career, rising through the ranks of the armed forces. He eventually became Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces, overseeing the modernization and professionalization of the military. His military training and strategic mindset later influenced his leadership style as a statesman.

Sheikh Mohamed is also one of six full brothers born to Sheikha Fatima, often called the "Bani Fatima." Together, they form the most powerful bloc within the Al Nahyan dynasty. Among them, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed serves as UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister and is internationally known as the billionaire owner of Manchester City Football Club. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed is the UAE's National Security Advisor and a financial heavyweight who chairs Royal Group and International Holding Company, two of Abu Dhabi's most valuable business empires. Other brothers, such as Sheikh Hamdan, Sheikh Hazza, and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, hold senior roles in government, with Abdullah serving as UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs for nearly two decades. Collectively, the Bani Fatima brothers dominate the politics, economy, and security apparatus of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

Rise to Power

After the death of his father in 2004, Sheikh Mohamed became the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, positioning him as heir to the most powerful emirate in the federation. In May 2022, following the death of his half-brother Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Mohamed was elected President of the UAE and became Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

As ruler, MBZ has consolidated Abu Dhabi's dominance within the UAE. He has been instrumental in steering the country's foreign policy, particularly in strengthening ties with the United States, maintaining pragmatic relations with Israel, and projecting Emirati influence across the Middle East and North Africa.

(Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Wealth and Investments

Sheikh Mohamed's estimated personal net worth of $30 billion comes from a mix of royal inheritance, oil revenues, and private holdings. While much of Abu Dhabi's oil wealth flows into sovereign wealth funds such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and ADQ, MBZ and his immediate family also control vast personal assets. He has significant holdings in companies spanning banking, energy, and real estate, and is one of the largest private landowners in the UAE.

Bloomberg has described the Al Nahyan dynasty as the world's wealthiest royal family, with collective assets exceeding $300 billion. MBZ, as head of the family and the nation, is at the center of this fortune.

Vision for Abu Dhabi and the UAE

Sheikh Mohamed has prioritized diversifying Abu Dhabi's economy away from oil dependence, investing heavily in renewable energy, technology, and education. Initiatives like Masdar City (a renewable energy hub) and major investments in artificial intelligence reflect his focus on innovation. He also expanded Abu Dhabi's global influence by supporting ventures like Emirates Global Aluminium and by strengthening partnerships with global corporations.

In foreign policy, MBZ is known for his assertive stance. He played a key role in the UAE's involvement in regional conflicts, including Yemen, and in forging the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020. His pragmatic but firm approach has made him a central figure in Middle Eastern politics.

Personal Life

Sheikh Mohamed is married to Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, with whom he has nine children. Despite his immense wealth and power, he is often portrayed as modest in demeanor, preferring a low-key personal style while focusing on national and regional strategy.

Legacy

As both a ruler and a strategist, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has reshaped the UAE into one of the Middle East's most powerful states. His mix of military discipline, economic modernization, and international diplomacy has cemented his reputation as a transformative leader. Financially, he stands as one of the wealthiest royals in the world, commanding a fortune that underscores Abu Dhabi's central role in global energy and investment. For the foreseeable future, MBZ's vision and fortune will continue to define not only the trajectory of the UAE but also its place on the world stage.

Read more: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Net Worth

Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani is a Qatari Minister and member of the royal family who has a net worth of $800 million. Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is a Qatari royal, businessman, and motorsport enthusiast who has become one of the most colorful and controversial members of the Al Thani dynasty. A son of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Khalid is best known internationally for founding Al-Annabi Racing and for his passion for drag racing, where he invested millions to put Qatar on the global motorsports map. With an estimated net worth of roughly $800 million, he enjoys the privileges of belonging to one of the richest royal families in the world, while also making headlines for his extravagant lifestyle and legal controversies. Though not in line for the throne, his bold personality and public profile have set him apart from many of his siblings, giving him a reputation as both a daring sports patron and a polarizing figure.

Early Life and Family Background

Sheikh Khalid was born in 1986 in Doha, Qatar. He is the son of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, and Sheikha Noora bint Khalid Al Thani. His father, Sheikh Hamad, is widely credited with transforming Qatar into a modern, energy-rich state, building its sovereign wealth fund and expanding its global presence. Sheikh Khalid is one of many children in the Al Thani dynasty, which has ruled Qatar since the 19th century and is estimated to control more than $170 billion in collective family wealth. He is also a half-brother of the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Motorsports and Al-Annabi Racing

Sheikh Khalid's enduring passion has been drag racing. In 2009, he founded Al-Annabi Racing, investing heavily in building a professional team and introducing Qatar to the international motorsport stage. His cars quickly became recognizable on the circuit, and he developed a reputation as "drag racing's patron sheikh." Through Al-Annabi Racing, he sponsored top drivers and brought international attention to Qatar's involvement in the sport. The venture cost millions, but it positioned Khalid as a central figure in the global drag racing community, blending royal wealth with high-speed glamour.

Getty

Political and Official Roles

Like many members of Qatar's royal family, Sheikh Khalid has held ceremonial and administrative positions. While his older brothers, including Emir Sheikh Tamim, have dominated national governance, Khalid has been involved in various governmental and public roles, often related to sports and youth development. His influence, however, has been more cultural than political, with motorsports serving as his primary platform of visibility.

Legal Controversies

Despite his high-profile investments in sport, Sheikh Khalid has also been linked to controversies. In 2015, he made international headlines after a yellow Ferrari registered to him was caught drag racing through Beverly Hills, prompting public scrutiny of his reckless driving habits. In 2019, he was named in a lawsuit filed in the United States that accused him of serious misconduct, including threats and violence toward employees. These allegations have cast a shadow over his public persona, reinforcing his reputation as a volatile and unpredictable figure within the Qatari royal family.

Personal Image and Lifestyle

Sheikh Khalid has cultivated the image of a flamboyant and thrill-seeking prince. His public appearances and social media presence highlight his love of luxury cars, racing, and yachts. This image of speed and excess has made him both admired by motorsport fans and criticized by others for recklessness. Unlike many royals who stay away from controversy, Khalid's willingness to embrace the spotlight has kept him in global headlines.

Read more: Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani Net Worth

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, popularly known as "Fazza," is the Crown Prince of Dubai and one of the most prominent figures in the United Arab Emirates. Fazza has a net worth of $800 million. Widely admired for his leadership role, philanthropy, and modern approach to governance, he has also cultivated a global following thanks to his love of adventure, poetry, and social media presence. Appointed Crown Prince in 2008, Hamdan has taken on major responsibilities in shaping Dubai's future, particularly in areas of innovation, technology, and sustainability. Beyond his governmental duties, he is recognized as a sportsman, equestrian champion, and cultural ambassador. His mix of tradition and modernity has made him both a respected royal and a relatable figure to younger generations across the UAE and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Sheikh Hamdan was born on November 14, 1982, the second son of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE. Sheikh Mohammed is the richest person in Dubai and one of the top three richest Sheikhs in the United Arab Emirates.

Growing up in one of the region's most powerful families, he was raised with a deep sense of duty and responsibility. Known by his pen name "Fazza," which means "the one who helps" in Arabic, he began writing poetry at a young age, often focusing on themes of heritage, loyalty, and love of country.

For his education, Hamdan attended Rashid School for Boys in Dubai before continuing at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy in the United Kingdom, a common training ground for Gulf royals. He also studied at the London School of Economics and the London School of Business, equipping himself with a global perspective on governance and finance.

Getty

Becoming Crown Prince

In 2008, Hamdan was appointed Crown Prince of Dubai, succeeding his older brother Sheikh Rashid. As Crown Prince, he has taken on leadership of the Dubai Executive Council, where he oversees key policies and initiatives that shape the emirate's economic and social development. Known for his forward-thinking vision, he has championed Dubai's push to become a global hub for technology, renewable energy, and smart city infrastructure.

He is also a strong advocate for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, launching initiatives designed to nurture talent and encourage innovation among Emiratis. His leadership style, combining tradition with modern approaches, has earned him respect both within the UAE and on the international stage.

Sports and Equestrian Success

An accomplished athlete, Sheikh Hamdan is especially passionate about horse riding, cycling, and skydiving. He has achieved global recognition in equestrian endurance racing, winning gold at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. His love of horses reflects his family's deep connection to equestrian traditions, and he has often represented Dubai in international competitions.

Hamdan is also a strong promoter of physical fitness and outdoor activity among Emiratis, frequently participating in marathons, long-distance cycling races, and extreme sports challenges. His adventurous lifestyle has become a defining aspect of his public image.

Philanthropy and Public Image

Sheikh Hamdan is deeply involved in humanitarian and charitable work. He has supported initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and social welfare, both in Dubai and abroad. His philanthropic efforts often emphasize the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

He is also one of the most popular royals on social media, with millions of followers on Instagram. Through his posts, he shares glimpses of his travels, sporting adventures, poetry, and moments with his family. This transparency and accessibility have helped him connect with younger generations in a way few royals achieve.

Personal Life

In May 2019, Sheikh Hamdan married Sheikha Shaikha bint Saeed bin Thani Al Maktoum in a royal wedding that also included his brothers Sheikh Maktoum and Sheikh Ahmad. The couple welcomed twins, a son named Rashid and a daughter named Shaikha, in 2021. Despite his global fame, Hamdan has maintained a reputation for humility, balancing his royal duties with his passions for sport, literature, and adventure. In August 2025, Sheikh Hamdan's half-sister, Sheikha Mahra, became engaged to rapper French Montana.

Read more: Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Net Worth

Sabah IV Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was the Emir of Kuwait. He had a net worth of $600 million at the time of his death. Sabah was also the Commander of the Military of Kuwait. The Sheikh was the head of the Sabah monarchy. He died on September 29, 2020 at the age of 91. He suffered from a stroke in 2019 that made him largely debilitated for the last year of his life. He was succeeded by his half-brother, Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahman al-Jaber al-Sabah.

Early Life and Education

Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was born on June 16, 1929 in Al Jahra in what was then the Sheikhdom of Kuwait. He was the fourth son of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and his mother was Munira Othman Hamad Al-Ayyar Al-Saeed. As a youth, Sabah attended Al Mubarakya School before completing his primary education under tutors.

Career Beginnings in Government

In 1963, Sabah became the foreign minister of Kuwait. He served in the position until 2003, making him the longest-serving foreign minister in the world at the time of his departure from office. Additionally, Sabah served as his country's first deputy prime minister, and from 1965 to 1967 was the acting minister of finance. In the summer of 2003, after leaving his position as foreign minister, Sabah was appointed Prime Minister of Kuwait by his half-brother Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the current Emir at the time. He replaced Crown Prince of Kuwait Sheikh Saad Al-Salim Al-Sabah in the role.

Emir of Kuwait

In early 2006, Emir Jaber passed away, making Crown Prince Sheikh Saad the next Emir of Kuwait. However, Saad was ill with a form of dementia, and was unable to speak at any substantial length. In the wake of a power struggle within the ruling family, Saad agreed to abdicate his position due to his illness. Subsequently, Sabah became the new Emir of Kuwait, and was sworn in on January 29, 2006 with the approval of the National Assembly. Two years later, he dissolved the National Assembly after the cabinet resigned amid a government power struggle. In 2012, Sabah dissolved the parliament. Among his other activities as Emir, he served as a regional and international mediator, making Kuwait a go-between for various antagonistic countries and groups. In 2017, Sabah established Kuwait as the key mediator in the Qatar diplomatic crisis.

YASSER AL-ZAYYAT/AFP/Getty Images

Humanitarianism

As Emir, Sabah was involved in many humanitarian endeavors. He made large donations in support of Syrian refugees, and also supported efforts in disaster relief, public health, and global peace. In 2014, Sabah was given a humanitarian award from United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Meanwhile, former US President Jimmy Carter called him a "global humanitarian leader."

Jailing of Critics

During his reign, Sabah was notorious for jailing his critics, including protestors, journalists, and even Members of Parliament. In early 2013, Ayad Al-Hirbi was sentenced to two years in prison for tweeting: "We call on the Kuwaiti government to abide by international agreements it has signed respecting human rights. As a nation, Kuwait must work toward broadening freedoms, not limiting them." Not long after that, Sabah and a Kuwaiti court sentenced three former MPs to prison with hard labor for allegedly insulting Sabah. At that time, more than 300 people were detained in Kuwait on charges of criticizing the Emir. In 2015, opposition leader and former MP Musallam Al-Barrak was sent to prison, and the following year 16 people were jailed for re-circulating a speech by Al-Barrak.

Personal Life and Death

Sabah was married to Sheikha Fatuwah Salman Al-Sabah, who passed away in 1990. Together, they had four children: Sheikhs Nasser, Hamad, and Ahmed, and Sheikha Salwa.

Following a long stay in the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, Sabah died on September 29, 2020 at the age of 91. His half-brother Sheikh Nawaf was subsequently announced as the new Emir of Kuwait. Sabah was buried at Sulaibikhat Cemetery alongside his family.

Read more: Sheikh of Kuwait Net Worth

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is the Emir of the State of Qatar, a position he assumed in 2013 upon his father's abdication of the throne. The Sheikh of Qatar has a net worth of $10 billion. Upon his ascension, he became the world's youngest reigning monarch. Since becoming heir apparent to the throne, Tamim has led a number of efforts to raise Qatar's international profile, notably by hosting major sporting events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and by buying the football club Paris Saint-Germain. He heads the Qatar Investment Authority board of investors, which owns stakes in Harrods, Barclays Bank, and Sainsbury's.

Early Life and Education

Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was born on June 3, 1980 in Doha, Qatar as the fourth son of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa and the second son of Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al-Missned. He was educated in England, first at Sherborne International and then at Harrow School. Subsequently, Tamim attended the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, from which he graduated in 1998.

Emir of Qatar

In 2003, Tamim became heir apparent to the throne of Qatar after his older brother Sheikh Jassim renounced his claim. A decade later, upon the abdication of the throne by the boys' father, Tamim took over as the new Emir of Qatar. Presiding over the country's authoritarian regime, he has continued the tradition of the Emir holding all executive and legislative power while forbidding citizens from most civil and political rights. Lending a particular focus to domestic affairs, Tamim has worked to streamline the country's bureaucracy and decrease the fiscal budgets of many of its institutions. Since he came to power, he has overseen the expansion of infrastructure including roads, a new metro system, and a new airport. On the international front, Tamim has promoted strong relationships with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, among other countries.

Professional Sports Involvement

Since becoming heir apparent to the throne in 2003, Tamim has made it a mission to boost Qatar's international profile through the promotion of professional sports. In 2005, he founded Oryx Qatar Sports Investments, a shareholding company that owned the football club Paris Saint-Germain. The next year, Tamim chaired the organizing committee of the 2006 Asian Games in Doha. He soon became the chairman of the Qatar Olympic Committee, initiating a failed campaign for Doha to host the 2020 Summer Olympics. Tamim was more successful elsewhere, securing the rights for Qatar to host the 2014 FINA Swimming World Championships, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2030 Asian Games.

2022 FIFA World Cup

Tamim gained a new level of attention in late 2010 when he won his bid to have Qatar host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It was the first Arab nation to have won hosting duties. The selection was met with widespread controversy, however, mostly due to allegations that bribery and other forms of malfeasance had been involved in the selection process. Controversy continued to brew during the lead-up to the World Cup over a wide range of issues. Tamim and the Qatar government were criticized for their numerous human rights abuses, including their mistreatment of foreign laborers involved in preparing for the tournament, many of whom were killed on the job. Other controversies surrounded the country's ban on alcohol consumption and its staunchly anti-LGBT laws.

(Photo by Paolo Blocco/WireImage)

Other Endeavors

In his other business endeavors, Tamim heads the board of directors of the Qatar Investment Authority, which has invested billions of dollars in businesses around the world. The fund owns substantial stakes in Harrods, Barclays Bank, and Sainsbury's, as well as a share of London's Shard skyscraper.

Tamim has chaired a variety of organizations over the years. He has been the chairman of the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Reserves; the Supreme Education Council; and the Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology. Tamim has also chaired the board of directors of Public Works Authority and the Urban Planning and Development Authority. Meanwhile, he sits on the board of regents of Qatar University.

Personal Life

Tamim has several children with multiple wives. He married his first wife, his cousin Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad Al Thani, in early 2005. Together, they have four children: Sheikhas Al Mayassa and Aisha and Sheikhs Hamad and Jassim. In 2009, Tamim wed his second wife, Sheikha Al-Anoud bint Mana Al Hajri. They have five children: Sheikhas Naylah, Rodha, and Moza and Sheikhs Abdullah and Alqaqaa. Tamim married his third wife, Sheikha Noora bint Hathal Al Dosari, in early 2014. Their four children are Sheikha Hind and Sheikhs Joaan, Mohammed, and Fahad.

An avid sports fan, Tamim plays badminton and bowls. He is also fluent in English and French in addition to his native Arabic.

Read more: Sheikh of Qatar Net Worth

Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the president of the United Arab Emirates, the supreme commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, and the Emir of Abu Dhabi. At the time of his death, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan had a net worth of $18 billion.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan died on May 13, 2022, at the age of 73.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan became the President of the UAE the day after his father's death, November 3, 2004. As the former Crown Prince, he had effectively been acting as president earlier (since the late 90s) as his father was in ill health. Khalifa is also chairman of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).

Sheikh Khalifa is known for his interest in traditional sports in the UAE, chiefly horse and camel racing. He is generally regarded as a pro-Western modernizer. In 2011, Sheikh Khalifa sent in the UAE's Air Force and Navy to support the anti-Gaddafi forces against Muammar Gaddafi alongside NATO, Qatar, Sweden, and Jordan. In January 2014, Sheikh Khalifa suffered a stroke and was reported to have undergone an operation, but was said to be in stable condition. Further, on the philanthropic side of things, Sheikh Khalifa founded the Khalifa Award for Education, the UAE Pakistan Assistance Program, and the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Specialty Institute for Cancer Diagnosis and the Ahmed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Pancreatic Cancer Center, funded by the center's largest grant in the history of its existence.

Early Life 

Khalifa was born on September 7, 1948, in Abu Dhabi born to parents Hassa bint Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the United Arab Emirates. Khalifa is the eldest son of Zayed. He attended the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Political and Leadership Career

Khalifa first became involved in politics and government when his father became the Emir of Abu Dhabi in 1966. At that point, he was appointed the mayor of the Eastern Region of Abu Dhabi at the age of 18. In 1969, Khalifa was appointed the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Head of the Abu Dhabi Department of Defense. Under his leadership, the Abu Dhabi Defense Force became the core of the UAE Armed Forces in 1971.

When the UAE was established in 1971, Khalifa took on more leadership roles in Abu Dhabi. He became the Prime Minister, head of the Cabinet, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Finance. Following a reorganization of the Cabinet, Khalifa became the 2^nd Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi under his father.

By May of 1976, he became deputy commander of the UAE Armed Forces, only lower in rank than his father. He also became head of the Supreme Petroleum Council in the 1980s, a position which he continues to hold, given the amount of power he wields in issues related to oil, natural gas, and energy.

When his father became ill in the 1990s, Khalifa began assuming the role of the president, though he did not officially become Emir of Abu Dhabi and President of the United Arab Emirates until November 3, 2004, following the death of his father the day before.

KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images

Records show that Khalifa had been planning the construction of his palace since 1995, when he had begun buying up acres of land on the Seychelles' main island of Mahé. Since then, the UAE has provided large aid packages to the Seychelles' government to bolster their social services programs and military, which is needed to stop piracy off the coasts of the Seychelles. Construction of the palace was set to begin in 2005 after Khalifa had purchased another parcel of land, but there were some problems with the building plans. Authorities in the Seychelles had originally rejected the plans, but the cabinet of President James Michel overturned that decision. A month after workers broke ground, the country's national utility company reported that the proposed palace may pose a threat to the nation's water supply. Further problems came in 2010 when the under-construction palace's sewage system overflowed and sent rivers of waste through the region, affecting the homes of 8000 residents. An investigation found that Ascon, the building company, had ignored a number of health and building codes. Officials from Khalifa's government arrived quickly to help resolve the matter. They offered $15 million to replace the water piping system in the region, as well as payments to the affected households.

Meanwhile, Khalifa sought reelection in 2009 and easily won, retaining the office of the presidency for a second five-year term. A couple of years later, in 2011, Khalifa sent the United Arab Emirates Air Force to support NATO forces in the military intervention in Libya against Muammar Gaddafi. The same year, the UAE initiated a program to promote allegiance to Khalifa, as well as other Emirati leaders. The program is designed to encourage nationals and residents to register their appreciation and loyalty to the leaders of the Emirates. In August 2015, Khalifa approved large amounts of food and aid supplies to be given to the people of Yemen through the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation. Almost 8,000 tons of supplies and medicine were sent.

Khalifa won reelection in 2014 and 2019. In February of 2022, Khalifa authorized a partnership agreement between the UAE and Israel on matters related to healthcare and tourism.

Personal Life

Unlike many other Sheikhs of his caliber, Khalifa only took one wife – Shamsa bint Suhail Al Mazrouei. Together, they have had eight children – Sultan, Mohammed, Shamma, Salama, Osha, Sheikha, Lateefa, and Mouza.

Khalifa owned $1.7 billion in luxury properties in London. While he doesn't directly own them, it was reported in the Panama Papers leak that the properties are owned via shell companies in the British Virgin Islands that were managed by the Panamanian law firm Mossack Fonseca.

In January 2014, it was reported that Khalifa suffered a stroke. However, his condition was stabilized, and he recovered after undergoing an operation. He died on May 13, 2022, at the age of 73.

Yacht

In 2013, he commissioned the construction of a superyacht called Azzam, which would become the longest motor yacht ever built at 590 feet. The cost of construction was between $400 and $600 million. He has also received a number of honors from foreign states. He was named an Honorary Knight Grand Cross of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath by the United Kingdom and was named a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Netherlands Lion by the Netherlands.

Read more: Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Net Worth

Mohammed bin Salman is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. Mohammed bin Salman has a net worth of $5 billion. He is the seventh son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and is considered Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler. Also known as "MBS," he has served as deputy prime minister and minister of defense of Saudi Arabia.

His father, King Salman, became the King of Saudi Arabia and the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia in January 2015 upon the death of King Abdullah. At that same point, Mohammed bin Salman became the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. MBS became the First Deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia in June 2017.

He served as Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and Second Deputy Prime Minister from April 2015 to June 2017 and became Minister of Defense in January 2015. Mohammed bin Salman has also served as President of the Council for Economic and Development Affairs. He has led many reforms, including removing the ban on female drivers and enacting regulations restricting the powers of the religious police. His fight for women's rights included the first Saudi sports stadium admitting women, the first Saudi public concerts featuring a female singer, and an increase in the number of women in the workforce.

Wealth

In 2015, Mohammed bin Salman spent $299 million to acquire a large mansion in France called Chateau Louis XIV. In 2017, he purchased a superyacht called "Serene" for $500 million. When asked about these purchases in an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes", Mohammed replied:

"As far as my private expenses, I'm a rich person and not a poor person. I'm a member of the ruling family that existed for hundreds of years before the founding of Saudi Arabia."

Early Life

Mohammed bin Salman was born on August 31, 1985, to then Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz and Fahda bint Falah Al Hithlain, who is Abdulaziz's third wife. Mohammed bin Salman is the eldest among his mother's children and is the eighth child and seventh son of his father. He attended King Saud University, where he received a bachelor's degree in law.

Career

After finishing his university studies, bin Salman worked for several years in the private sector before then becoming a private aide for his father. He started as a consultant for the Experts Commission, which coordinated with the Saudi Cabinet. He then became a political advisor to his father at the age of 24 when his father was working as the governor of Riyadh Province. He continued rising through the ranks, moving from one position to another. When the Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz died, bin Salman's father became more powerful and made his son his private advisor. His father became the new crown prince following the death of Crown Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz in June of 2012.

By 2015, bin Salman became the minister of defense. One of the first crises he faced in this position was the political unrest in Yemen. However, due to the lack of a coordinated response across all of the Saudi Arabia departments, bin Salman was criticized by some, both within Saudi Arabia and the international community.

In 2017, bin Salman was appointed Crown Prince and was made heir presumptive to the throne. In May of 2017, bin Salman began a purge within the Saudi government and business world, warning that corruption would be detected and weeded out, even at the highest levels. Some of the individuals who were arrested included billionaire and Saudi prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, head of the Saudi Arabian National Guard Mutaib bin Abdullah, and the Minister of Economy and Planning Abdel Fakeih. Many of those arrested were subjected to what would be called the "night of beating," in which many were beaten and tied to walls as a torture tactic. Many international observers have criticized the harsh tactics. However, some have described them as a reform tactic bin Salman planned to bring the royal family and their connections under the rule of law to reduce corruption.

In general, bin Salman has been described as a nationalistic leader with a conservative attitude towards politics while maintaining a more liberal stance towards economic and social issues. He announced a strategic vision plan called Vision 2030, which aims to reform Saudi Arabia's economy to one that is more diversified and privatized. Bin Salman wants to move away from complete reliance on oil as the major driver of the economy. He wishes to attract investment in biotechnology, renewable energy, robotics, and advanced manufacturing sectors. One of the primary ways he has done this is by creating Neom, a $500 billion economic zone that covers an area of 26,000 square kilometers along the coast of the Red Sea.

While focusing on diversification, bin Salman has also announced he plans to restore and retain Saudi Arabia's dominance in the global oil markets. He has also spearheaded the high-speed railway line connecting Mecca and Medina, which began its commercial operations in October 2018. Bin Salman also announced a plan to build Saudi Arabia's first nuclear reactor in November 2018 to build 16 nuclear facilities in the next 20 years.

Domestically, bin Salman has focused on liberalizing parts of Saudi Arabian society. He announced plans in April 2017 to construct the world's largest cultural, sports, and entertainment cities in Al Qiddiya. He also opened the first public cinema in the country in 2018 after a ban of 35 years. He has introduced various economic reforms and has announced a move from the ultra-conservative Saudi Arabian state to one that is more moderate and tolerant of all world religions. At the same time, many human rights abuses, particularly regarding the treatment of women, have been reported in Saudi Arabia.

FAYEZ NURELDINE/AFP/Getty Images

Controversies

In November 2017, Mohammed rounded up hundreds of extremely wealthy and powerful men at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh. Many of the detainees were princes and/or direct relatives of Mohammed. One of the detainees was bin Salman's cousin, famed billionaire investor Prince Al-Waleed. The detainees, who were reportedly abused over their three-month captivity, were not released until they reportedly handed over large portions of their personal wealth. They relinquished land, cash, and business stakes. Prince Al-Waleed allegedly handed over $6 billion worth of assets to his cousin. Saudi authorities would later claim that they had recovered $107 billion in assets.

In October 2018, journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, by a 15-man hit squad flown in by a private jet from Riyadh. Both incidents are generally believed to have been ordered by Mohammed bin Salman personally.

Personal Life

In April of 2008, bin Salman married his first cousin, Sara bint Mashour, the daughter of his uncle, Mashour bin Abdulaziz. The couple has had five children together.

Bin Salman enjoys purchasing expensive homes, yachts, and pieces of art. In 2015, he purchased the Italian-built yacht Serene from the Russian vodka tycoon Yuri Shefler. The same year, he also purchased the Chateau Louis XIV in France. In December 2017, he purchased "Salvator Mundi" by Leonardo da Vinci for over $450 million, setting a new record in art sales. However, the sale has been disputed by multiple sources, though the current location of the painting is unknown.

Bin Salman travels extensively and has represented Saudi Arabian interests to many key political figures, celebrities, and business leaders. He has had meetings with Mark Zuckerburg of Facebook, Michael Bloomberg, Morgan Freeman, Queen Elizabeth II, and multiple American presidents and first ladies.

Read more: Mohammed bin Salman Net Worth

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum is an Emirati politician and businessman who has a net worth of $16 billion. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum serves as the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, as well as the ruler of the Emirate of Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed is the owner of 99.67% of Dubai Holding and the guy responsible for those really cool man-made palm islands in the Persian Gulf. In a country full of extremely wealthy people, Sheikh Mohammed is the richest person in Dubai and one of the top three richest Sheikhs in the United Arab Emirates.

Early Life and Family

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum was born on July 15, 1949, in Dubai. At the time of his birth, the United Arab Emirates had not been formed yet. He is a member of the Al Maktoum family, Dubai's rulers, who are also descendants of the House of Al-Falasi. His maternal grandfather is the former ruler of Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Mohammed is the third son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum (out of a total of four sons) and Sheikha Latifa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Mohammed was educated in Dubai until 1966, when he and his cousin moved to the United Kingdom to attend the Bell Educational Trust's English Language School. He then studied and received military training at the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot (now a part of Sandhurst).

Political Career

After returning to Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed's father, who was the ruler of Dubai at the time, appointed him as the head of the Dubai Police Force and the Dubai Defence Force (which is now part of the Union Defence Force). Sheikh Mohammed was present at the momentous occasion in January 1968, when Sheikh Rashid of Dubai and Sheikh Zayed of Abu Dhabi first met to agree to the formation of a union between the emirates. Subsequently, the new nation, the United Arab Emirates, was founded on December 2, 1971, and Sheikh Mohammed became the nation's first Minister of Defence. In January 1995, Sheikh Mohammed was appointed the Crown Prince of Dubai by his older brother, Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who served as Dubai's ruler at the time.

Upon his brother's death, Sheikh Mohammed became the Ruler of Dubai on January 4, 2006. The following day, he was named as the new Vice President of the United Arab Emirates by the nation's governing body, the Federal National Council. Then, on February 11, 2006, the Council approved him as the nation's Prime Minister (he had been nominated by President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan).

Business Career

In addition to his career in politics, Sheikh Mohammed is an astute businessman responsible for the creation and growth of numerous economic assets in Dubai. Many of these businesses and assets are held under his two companies, Dubai World and Dubai Holding.

Dubai World launched in July 2006 as a holding company. It consolidated assets such as logistics company DP World and property developer Nakheel Properties. It has since expanded and has investments around the world in places like the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Dubai Holding is the Sheikh's other company, and it has four main operating units: Jumeirah Group, TECOM Investments, Dubai Properties Group, and Emirates International Telecommunications. It mainly focuses on developing and managing hospitality ventures, business parks, real estate, and telecommunications.

Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed has also proven his business acumen in the realm of travel and airlines. He is the figure behind the launch of Emirates Airlines, which is based in Garhoud, Dubai. The airline is a subsidiary of The Emirates Group, which is owned by the Government of Dubai. It is the world's fourth-largest airline, and the largest airline in the Middle East. Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed also pushed for the establishment of the low-cost carrier FlyDubai, which is also government-owned.

Getty Images

Other notable developments spearheaded by Sheikh Mohammed include the iconic Dubai hotel, the Burj Al Arab. It is managed by Jumeirah, Sheikh Mohammed's hotel management company that he launched in 1997, which is now part of Dubai Holding. Another iconic property development project the Sheikh is responsible for is the Palm Islands project, a series of manmade archipelagos extending into the Persian Gulf. He is also behind the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, which opened in January 2010. Part of the same development as the Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall, which is the world's largest shopping mall by total area.

Philanthropic Work and Other Activities

The Sheikh established the organization, Mohammed Bin Rashid Global Initiatives, a charitable foundation that consolidates 33 other charitable foundations and entities together. He also established the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (previously known as the Dubai School of Government) in 2005.

Personal Life

Sheikh Mohammed has fathered 26 children and reportedly has been married to 11 women, though in 2023 it was reported that he was divorced from all but one of his wives. In August 2025, it was revealed that one of his daughters, Shika Mahra, had become engaged to rapper French Montana. One of his other daughters is married to Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, one of the leaders of Abu Dhabi and one of the few people in the region richer than Sheikh Mohammed.

For many years, his 1979 wedding to his first wife held the Guinness World Record for "Most Expensive Wedding." The wedding, which cost around $100 million in today's dollars, was spent on a month-long celebration in Dubai that culminated in a party for 20,000 guests in a stadium built specifically for the occasion. His second official wife was Princess Haya bint Hussein of Jordan; they married in 2004 and got divorced in 2019. Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed has had several "unofficial" wives. Princess Haya departed Dubai along with her two children in June 2019 and filed for protection and sought custody of the children in court.

Sheikh Mohammed is the owner of a 531-foot, $350 million vessel named Dubai, featuring seven decks and enough luxury accommodations for 24 guests and 80 crew members.

Read more: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum Net Worth