Top 100 Arabs 2025

44. Mohammed Alshaya

Executive chairman, Alshaya Group

Origin: Kuwait

Residence: Kuwait

Sector: Retail

2024 Rank: 42

Alshaya continues to lead Kuwait-based Alshaya Group’s expansive retail operations across MENA, Türkiye, and Europe.

Founded in 1890, the conglomerate now manages over 70 globally recognised brands including Starbucks, H&M, The CheesecakeFactory, and Victoria’s Secret.

In 2024, the group partnered with Trendyol to strengthen its digital presence in the GCC. It also launched the Disney Store in the UAE, opening outlets in Yas Mall and Dubai Mall.

Alshaya’s commitment to corporate responsibility remains strong; in 2024, the group, alongside the Starbucks Foundation, pledged $6m towards youth empowerment programmes across MENA and Turkey.

Furthermore, Alshaya Group achieved Great Place to Work certification across several markets, recognising its focus on employee wellbeing.

Under Mohammed Alshaya’s leadership, the group continues to evolve as a regional retail powerhouse.

Faisal Al Bannai

Mohamed Mansour