Tahnoun bin Zayed tops Gulf News' list of the most powerful Arab figures for 2025.

The list of the 100 Most Powerful Arabs for 2025, compiled by Gulf Business magazine, clearly reflects a new generation of young Arab leaders focused on development and the future. The list includes prominent names in fields such as technology, finance, energy, and economic leadership, reflecting an ambitious Arab vision built on innovation and investment in the future.

What distinguishes this list is not only the names included, but also the trends they represent. These leaders' influence extends beyond their countries to the global level, thanks to their contributions to innovation, the digital economy, and sustainable leadership. The list also highlights tangible efforts to promote diversity and women's empowerment, as well as creativity in the fields of art and culture.

Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed at the forefront of the strategic vision Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor of the UAE, was ranked among the most influential figures of 2025, thanks to his pivotal role in leading one of the region's largest investment empires, valued at $1.5 trillion.

Sheikh Tahnoun is not only one of the UAE's most prominent political figures, but also a global influencer in the field of artificial intelligence, according to previous rankings such as those by Time magazine.

Artificial intelligence at the heart of the UAE's transformations One of Sheikh Tahnoon's most prominent technology projects is G42, founded in 2018 and rapidly rising to become a major player in the fields of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and surveillance. This company represents a key pillar in the UAE's transformation into a global hub for advanced technologies.

UAE-US cooperation worth billions of dollars Sheikh Tahnoon's recent visit to the United States received widespread media attention, as it witnessed the signing of several prominent agreements. Most notable was the launch of a joint venture between the Emirati holding company ADQ and the American company Energy Capital Partners, with investments totaling $25 billion in energy projects.

NVIDIA and XAI also announced their joining of a joint initiative to develop an AI infrastructure, aiming to accelerate innovation and expand the use of this technology across various sectors.

Although the economic relationship between the UAE and the United States has spanned years, what distinguishes this phase is the transition to strategic partnerships in future areas. Sheikh Tahnoon has given a new dimension to this cooperation, as artificial intelligence has become one of the most important economic bridges between the two countries.

Prominent figures leading the Arab development scene The list included not only Sheikh Tahnoun, but also a large group of Arab leaders who have left an impact in their fields. UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al Jaber came in second, followed by businessman Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, in seventh place. Amin Nasser, CEO of Saudi Aramco, came in eighth place, followed by Mohammed Al Hammadi, President of the Emirates Journalists Association, in ninth place, and Prince Alwaleed bin Talal in tenth place.

The list featured a significant female presence, reflecting the status of Arab women in leadership positions. Among the names that appeared were:

Hana Al Rostamani , CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (ranked 15th) Naila Hayek , Chairwoman of Swatch (No. 47) Wadha Ahmed Al-Khatib , CEO of Kuwait National Petroleum Company (ranked 63rd) Mona Ataya , CEO of Mumzworld (ranked 66) Huda and Mona Kattan , two of the most prominent pioneers in the beauty industry (ranked 82nd) Nadine Labaki , the well-known Lebanese director (ranked 99) Elie Saab , the world-famous Lebanese designer, despite being a man, had a distinct presence in the world of fashion (ranked 73rd) Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed's vision for innovation and technology From an early age, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed recognized the tremendous potential of artificial intelligence and its significant impact on reshaping the economy and society. This prompted the adoption of policies and strategies aimed at strengthening the UAE's position as a global hub for modern technology, in line with the global trends of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Strengthening the UAE's position in advanced technology Under the leadership of Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, the UAE seeks to become a global hub for innovation and advanced technology, with massive investments estimated at approximately $1.5 trillion, contributing to the diversification of the UAE economy and enhancing its sustainability. Enjoy interesting and useful content with an exclusive podcast that provides you with everything you need to know in just a few minutes via the Special app.

Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed and his efforts to develop the national economy Sheikh Tahnoon's efforts are not limited to the field of technology alone. He also manages major economic entities that contribute to advancing technological and economic development. He focuses on strategic areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and financial technology to support progress across various sectors.

Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed among the most influential people in the world of artificial intelligence Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan heads a $1.5 trillion economic powerhouse, including two sovereign wealth funds, according to Time magazine.

As an "inspirational" leader, TIME highlighted the Sheikh's inspiring work, channeling billions of dollars into initiatives that help transform the country into a global hub for artificial intelligence.

G42 is also a key pillar of Sheikh Tahnoon's ambitious strategies and plans. It comprises a group of companies specializing in artificial intelligence. Since its founding in 2018, it has emerged as one of the leading technology giants in the Middle East, with businesses spanning everything from biotechnology to surveillance.