Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Recognized Among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
Over the past 37 years, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum has played a significant role in Dubai's remarkable economic development and transformation.
Hozpitality proudly honors HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Airline & Group, as one of the Middle East's Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders for 2024.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum has been a pivotal figure in Dubai's extraordinary economic growth and transformation over the past 37 years. His extensive leadership career began in 1985, when he was appointed President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Chairman of the newly founded Emirates Airline. Under his visionary leadership, Emirates grew from a small airline into a global powerhouse. As of March 2024, Emirates operates a fleet of 260 aircraft, connecting 151 destinations worldwide. The Emirates Group, which includes dnata, recorded a 29% revenue increase, reaching $5.2 billion in 2024, while Emirates Airline generated $33 billion in revenues, transporting 51.9 million passengers in the same period.
Sheikh Ahmed also plays vital roles in shaping Dubai's policies and strategies as Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman of Emirates NBD, and Second Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. He has been instrumental in establishing Dubai as a global hub for business, tourism, and transportation.
In addition to these roles, Sheikh Ahmed chairs Dubai Holding and serves on numerous government and corporate boards, including the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) and the Supreme Fiscal Committee.
Sheikh Ahmed holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Denver, USA. He has been honored with many prestigious awards, including a fellowship from the British Royal Aeronautical Society, the Commandeur de l'Ordre de la Légion d'Honneur from France, the Verfassungsportugaleser from Germany, and an honorary Doctor of Science from City University London – Cass Business School.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE