International companies play a crucial role in MENA, significantly impacting its economic, technological, and social landscapes. These companies bring substantial investments, create jobs, and stimulate local economies, aiding in the diversification from traditional oil and gas sectors to technology, tourism, healthcare, and renewable energy.

These companies have also been pushing digital transformation in the region with several investments and initiatives. For example, in March 2024, IBM announced plans to invest over $200 million in talent and infrastructure in a new IBM software lab in Riyadh. In April 2024, Microsoft announced a $1.5 billion investment into Abu Dhabi’s G42, with plans to establish a $1 billion fund for developers to boost AI skills in the region. In May 2024, Google introduced new AI Gemini models and other features, making the Arabic version of Gemini Advanced available.

We’ve been compiling and revealing our Global Meets Local ranking for 12 consecutive years, recognizing the regional heads of the world’s largest international companies who are based in MENA. This year’s list features 104 executives from 100 companies.

Of the 100 companies, 55% are based in the U.S., with the rest based in 15 other countries. They represent 30 sectors, demonstrating the role that these multinational corporations are playing in diversifying the region’s economies. The technology sector tops the list with 19 entries, followed by nine pharmaceutical companies and seven firms operating in the automotive industry.

The 104 executives represent 40 nationalities. Lebanon leads with 12 executives, followed by eight Indians, then the U.K. and France with seven executives each.