The head of the Middle East's largest satellite-TV network has topped a list of the 50 most powerful media executives in the Middle East.
Sheikh Waleed Al Ibrahim, the chairman of the Dubai-based MBC Group, was number one in the 'Power List' compiled by Communicate magazine.
MBC is the largest TV network in the region in terms of advertising revenues. It has several general entertainment channels and also runs the 24-hour news station Al Arabiya.
The top ten was otherwise dominated by advertising executives, with Elie Khouri, the chief executive of Omnicom Media Group in the Mena region, placing second.
Only one woman made the list: Amina Al Rustamani, chief executive of Tecom Business Parks, placed at number 27. Tecom manages freezones including Dubai Media City and the International Media Production Zone.
Communicate did not make the selection formula public. However, it said the criteria used in compiling the list included revenue (for media companies) and media agency billings.
Individuals were measured on factors such as the number of years they have worked in the business, and their exposure in the media.
Communicate ranked the top ten media executives as follows:
1. Sheikh Waleed Al Ibrahim, chairman, MBC
2. Elie Khouri, CEO, OMG MENA
3. Akram Miknas, chairman, MCN
4. Joseph Ghossoub, chairman and CEO, Menacom Group
5. Pierre Choueiri, CEO, Choueiri Group
6. Raja Trad, CEO, Leo Burnett Group of Companies, MENA
7. Roy Haddad, CEO, JWT Middle East and Africa
8. Ramzi Raad, chairman and CEO, TBWA/Raad
9. Edmond Moutran, CEO, Memac Ogilvy and Mather
10. Dani Richa, chairman and CEO, Impact BBDO
MBC boss tops media power list
Most popular today
