58. Khaldoon Al Mubarak

Khaldoon Al Mubarak stands as one of the UAE’s most influential leaders, shaping the nation’s economic and global ambitions. As Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority and Group CEO of Mubadala, the UAE’s prominent sovereign wealth fund, Al Mubarak guides billions in global investments—from technology and aerospace to healthcare and energy.

But his influence goes far beyond financial portfolios.

Al Mubarak chairs several of the UAE’s most powerful institutions, including Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Emirates Global Aluminium, and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation. His strategic leadership is central to the country’s diversification from oil and its positioning as a hub for innovation and international investment.

He also bridges the worlds of business, diplomacy, and sport. As Chairman of City Football Group, which owns Manchester City FC, Al Mubarak has redefined the football business model, blending elite sports management with global brand development. Under his guidance, Manchester City has become not just a football powerhouse, but also a vehicle of soft power for the UAE.

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Mubadala has played a historic role in Formula 1, notably through its sponsorship of Ferrari in the late 2000s and support of various motorsport initiatives. These ties highlight the UAE’s growing presence in F1—not just as a host of the season-closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but as a key stakeholder in the sport’s global ecosystem. Al Mubarak’s involvement reflects the UAE’s broader strategy: using high-profile sports like F1 to project national identity, attract tourism, and spark innovation.

Khaldoon Al Mubarak exemplifies how leadership, ambition, and global influence intersect from racetracks to boardrooms. His work continues to shape not only the economic future of the UAE but also its cultural and sporting legacy on the world stage.