The Rise of Sustainability in the Middle East: A Spotlight on Top CEOs for 2024
In the dynamic landscape of the Middle East, where tradition meets innovation, the drive towards sustainability has emerged as a defining theme for the region’s economic future. The leaders at the helm of this transformation are not just steering their companies towards financial success but are also pioneering initiatives that are redefining the sustainability paradigm. The Top 10 CEOs in the Middle East for 2024 embody this dual commitment to business excellence and environmental stewardship.
1. Amin H. Nasser – President & CEO, Saudi Aramco
Ranked at the top, Amin H. Nasser continues to lead Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil company, with a visionary approach to sustainability. Under his leadership, Aramco has partnered with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to launch a $100 million R&D initiative focused on energy transition and sustainability. This initiative aims to develop innovative solutions that address the global energy challenge while reducing the environmental impact.
2. Sultan Al Jaber – Group CEO & Managing Director, ADNOC Group
Sultan Al Jaber, leading the ADNOC Group, is a key figure in the UAE’s push towards sustainable energy. ADNOC’s recent diversification into carbon management, marked by a strategic stake in Storegga, underscores Al Jaber’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the company’s environmental footprint. His efforts are pivotal in positioning ADNOC as a leader in the global energy transition.
3. Ahmed bin Saeed – Chairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group
Ahmed bin Saeed’s leadership at Emirates Airline is characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainability in aviation. The creation of a $200 million Aviation Sustainability Fund by Emirates reflects the company’s proactive approach to tackling the environmental challenges facing the aviation industry. This fund is aimed at supporting initiatives that promote cleaner aviation technologies and reduce carbon emissions.
4. Saad Al-Kaabi – Deputy Chairman, President & CEO, Qatar Energy
QatarEnergy, under the leadership of Saad Al-Kaabi, is at the forefront of sustainable energy development in the region. The company’s ambitious project to build the “World’s Largest Blue Ammonia Facility” is a testament to its commitment to providing sustainable energy solutions that align with global environmental goals. This facility will play a critical role in producing cleaner energy and supporting global decarbonization efforts.
5. Syed Basar Shueb – Director, International Holding Company (IHC)
Syed Basar Shueb has led IHC through a period of significant growth, with a keen focus on sustainable practices. Under his leadership, IHC has expanded its portfolio to include companies that prioritize environmental and social governance (ESG) principles, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainability.
6. Nawaf S. Al-Sabah – CEO, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC)
Nawaf S. Al-Sabah is steering KPC towards a future where sustainability is a core component of its operations. KPC’s initiatives in clean energy and reducing carbon footprints highlight Al-Sabah’s dedication to aligning Kuwait’s oil industry with global sustainability standards.
7. Sultan Ahmed – Group Chairman & CEO, DP World
Sultan Ahmed’s leadership at DP World is marked by a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability in logistics. The partnership with Einride to launch the Middle East’s first fully electric, autonomous transport system is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable logistics solutions.
8. Isam Al-Sager – Vice Chairman & Group CEO, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK)
Isam Al-Sager has guided NBK in integrating sustainability into its financial operations. The bank’s commitment to responsible banking practices and sustainable finance is a reflection of Al-Sager’s vision for a financial sector that supports broader environmental and social goals.
9. Hatem Dowidar – Group CEO, e& (Etisalat)
Hatem Dowidar’s tenure at e& is characterized by the company’s strategic focus on sustainability in telecommunications. The collaboration with IBM to operationalize sustainability across e&’s business operations is a clear indication of Dowidar’s commitment to embedding sustainability into the core of the company’s strategy.
10. Abdulla Al-Khalifa – Group CEO, QNB Group
At QNB Group, Abdulla Al-Khalifa has ensured that sustainability standards are not just met but exceeded. The bank’s adherence to all sustainability standards positions it as a leader in responsible banking, reflecting Al-Khalifa’s dedication to aligning financial success with environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
These top CEOs are not only leaders in their respective industries but also champions of sustainability in the Middle East. Their initiatives and leadership are setting new benchmarks for sustainable business practices, ensuring that the region not only prospers economically but also contributes positively to global environmental goals. As these leaders continue to innovate and implement sustainable solutions, the Middle East is poised to play a pivotal role in the global sustainability narrative.
