Top 10 Richest People in Dubai, UAE (2025)
Dubai, the sparkling jewel of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is renowned for its booming economy, luxury lifestyle, and its status as a global business hub. The city is home to numerous billionaires who have amassed fortunes across diverse sectors such as real estate, technology, retail, and healthcare. These wealthy individuals have not only reshaped Dubai's skyline but have also become influential figures on the global stage. Here’s an expanded look at the top 10 richest people in Dubai in 2025, offering a closer glimpse into their wealth and their contributions to the economy.
1. Pavel Durov - Net Worth: $15.5 Billion
Pavel Durov is a Russian entrepreneur who founded the social media platform VKontakte (VK), often referred to as the “Russian Facebook,” and Telegram, the highly popular encrypted messaging app. Durov’s career in technology has earned him a significant fortune, estimated at $15.5 billion in 2025. Despite his departure from Russia due to political tensions, Durov’s decision to base himself in Dubai has bolstered his status in the global tech community.
With Telegram’s focus on privacy, security, and free speech, Durov has remained an outspoken advocate for digital freedom. His innovative approach to digital communication has attracted millions of users worldwide. Durov’s wealth continues to grow as the platform’s user base expands, and as Telegram diversifies its services beyond messaging into payment systems and media.
2. Abdulla Bin Ahmad Al Ghurair - Net Worth: $4.9 Billion
Abdulla Bin Ahmad Al Ghurair is a prominent Emirati businessman and philanthropist with a fortune estimated at $4.9 billion. Al Ghurair is most famous for founding Mashreq Bank, one of the UAE’s largest banks. He has played an instrumental role in the development of Dubai’s banking sector and broader economic landscape. His wealth is not only derived from banking but also from investments in real estate, manufacturing, and telecommunications.
Al Ghurair is also well known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education, which provides scholarships to young Arabs in need of financial assistance. This commitment to social welfare has earned him significant recognition in the UAE and beyond.
3. Micky Jagtiani - Net Worth: $3.1 Billion
Indian-born billionaire Micky Jagtiani is the founder and chairman of the Landmark Group, which has grown into one of the largest retail conglomerates in the Middle East. The company operates across various sectors including fashion, electronics, home goods, and beauty products. Jagtiani’s strategic expansion across the Middle East and India has solidified his position as one of Dubai’s wealthiest residents, with an estimated net worth of $3.1 billion.
Jagtiani is also heavily involved in charitable initiatives through the Landmark Group Foundation, which supports healthcare and education projects in the regions where his company operates. His entrepreneurial vision has played a crucial role in transforming Dubai’s retail landscape.
4. Hussain Sajwani - Net Worth: $2.1 Billion
Hussain Sajwani, the founder of DAMAC Properties, has been instrumental in shaping Dubai’s luxury real estate market. DAMAC is one of the largest developers in the Middle East, specialising in high-end residential, commercial, and leisure properties. Sajwani’s real estate empire has contributed significantly to Dubai’s skyline, with iconic developments such as DAMAC Hills and Akoya Oxygen.
With a net worth of $2.1 billion, Sajwani is considered one of Dubai’s top real estate magnates. Beyond real estate, he has also invested in hospitality, with a portfolio of luxury hotels. Sajwani’s philanthropic efforts include charitable donations to support education and healthcare in the UAE and internationally.
5. Yusuffali M.A. - Net Worth: $3.7 Billion
Indian entrepreneur Yusuffali M.A., the chairman and managing director of the Lulu Group, has seen his wealth soar to an estimated $3.7 billion as of 2023. Lulu Group operates a chain of hypermarkets across the Middle East and beyond. Yusuffali’s expansion of Lulu Hypermarket into a dominant retail force has been key to his success, with stores in countries including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and India.
Apart from his business empire, Yusuffali is actively involved in philanthropy, contributing significantly to educational and health causes in the UAE and India. His role in Dubai’s retail sector has positioned him as one of the leading figures in the city’s economic development.
6. Sunny Varkey - Net Worth: $2.5 Billion
Sunny Varkey is the founder of GEMS Education, one of the largest private school networks in the world. Varkey’s vision for affordable, high-quality education has made GEMS a leading name in the education sector, with over 250 schools worldwide. His dedication to improving global access to education is reflected in his efforts to make GEMS Education a symbol of excellence in learning.
With an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion, Varkey is not only a prominent businessman but also a philanthropist. His charitable contributions include support for initiatives that enhance educational reform and access to schooling in underprivileged communities globally.
7. Abdulla Al Futtaim - Net Worth: $2.5 Billion
The Al Futtaim Group, founded by Abdulla Al Futtaim, is one of the UAE’s largest conglomerates, with operations in automotive, real estate, retail, and electronics. Al Futtaim has played a crucial role in establishing Dubai as a global retail and automotive hub. The group’s portfolio includes leading brands like IKEA, Marks & Spencer, and Toyota.
Abdulla Al Futtaim’s wealth is estimated at $2.5 billion. His impact on the UAE economy is profound, with the Al Futtaim Group being one of the largest employers in the region. The group is also known for its philanthropic efforts, including support for youth empowerment and educational initiatives.
8. B.R. Shetty - Net Worth: $2.6 Billion
Indian-born B.R. Shetty has made his fortune in the healthcare and financial services sectors. As the founder of NMC Health, BRS Ventures, and Neopharma, Shetty has played a key role in the development of Dubai’s healthcare infrastructure. NMC Health is one of the largest private healthcare providers in the UAE, and Shetty has also made significant investments in financial services, remittances, and pharmaceuticals.
With a net worth of $2.6 billion, Shetty has been an active philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes in healthcare and community development. He is also one of the few billionaires who have pledged to donate half of his wealth through the Giving Pledge.
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9. Ravi Pillai - Net Worth: $4.2 Billion
Ravi Pillai is the founder and chairman of the RP Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in construction, hospitality, and various investments. Pillai’s company has been involved in some of the most significant projects in the Middle East and India, including luxury hotels, large-scale residential developments, and infrastructure projects.
With a net worth of $4.2 billion, Pillai’s entrepreneurial journey is one of immense success, and his influence extends beyond business into philanthropy. He is dedicated to providing support for education, healthcare, and community welfare, particularly in India.
10. Saif Al Ghurair - Net Worth: $1.7 Billion
Saif Al Ghurair is the chairman of Al Ghurair Group, a family-owned conglomerate that has operations in manufacturing, real estate, and trading. The group is one of the largest diversified companies in the UAE, with investments in the construction and retail sectors. Al Ghurair has also invested heavily in the banking sector, making significant contributions to Dubai’s financial services.
With a net worth of $1.7 billion, Saif Al Ghurair is a key figure in Dubai’s corporate world, with a legacy that spans across several industries. His philanthropic initiatives focus on community development and improving living standards in the UAE.
Conclusion
The richest people in Dubai are a testament to the city's thriving business environment and entrepreneurial spirit. From technology moguls like Pavel Durov to retail giants like Micky Jagtiani and Yusuffali M.A., these billionaires have had a significant impact on the global economy. Dubai remains a magnet for wealth and investment, with these individuals leading the charge in a city known for its innovation, luxury, and economic growth. As Dubai continues to grow, the wealth and influence of these individuals will undoubtedly expand, solidifying their place as some of the most powerful figures in the world.
