Dubai’s status as a global business and real estate hub is inseparable from the figures who have made an absolute fortune in developing the city. The most successful businessperson in Dubai is undoubtedly Mohamed Alabbar, founder and managing director of real estate developer Emaar Properties. The other central figure in Dubai’s development is Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of logistics company DP World. Together, the two men have been at the forefront of Dubai’s master planning and free zone development.
Mohamed Alabbar is a self-made businessman and the creator of some of the UAE’s most iconic buildings and structures, including the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall. Alabbar has been developing prime properties in Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek Harbour, including luxury residential, upscale housing, and community projects. In addition to being one of the Middle East’s largest real estate developers, he is also the largest e-commerce company in the Middle East and North Africa, Noon.com. Recently, Alabbar has been investing in technology, fintech, and hospitality to create a regional business empire.
Meanwhile, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem has been developing ports and free zones for DP World. The company owns and operates trade and logistics infrastructure in all six continents. Bin Sulayem has overseen Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone’s transformation into a critical distribution channel for trade between Asia and Europe. The CEO of DP World is currently developing the region’s logistics infrastructure with a focus on smart technologies, automated terminals, and sustainable shipping solutions.
