RIYADH: Saudi Aramco boss Amin Nasser has maintained the first position on Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs list for the third consecutive year. Alongside Olayan Al-Wetaid, group CEO of stc Group, who ranks in the top 10, a total of 18 Saudis are highlighted among the 2023 edition of business leaders, demonstrating their impact on the Middle East’s economic landscape. The top three spots are rounded out by Sultan Al-Jaber of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. and Ahmed Al-Maktoum, chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, both representing the UAE. Combined, the 100 business chiefs managed revenues of over $1 trillion in 2022 and their companies are collectively worth more than $5 trillion. Explaining the rationale behind giving the Aramco CEO the top spot, the Forbes website states: “Nasser is leading efforts to produce cleaner energy through investments in next-generation fuel-engine interfaces, crude oil-to-chemicals processes, clean energy startups, and the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative.” Forbes Middle East’s rankings reveal that four of the top 10 executives are from the energy division, exemplifying the sector’s enduring importance in the region. Beyond financial achievements, the rankings highlight the commitment of Middle Eastern CEOs to sustainability. Al-Wetaid’s inclusion is notable as stc Group actively pursues environmental initiatives. The recognition of these efforts aligns with the wider global push for corporate responsibility. Forbes Middle East assessed the CEOs based on various criteria, including accomplishments, innovations, company size, and impact on the industry. In addition to the 18 Saudis, the third annual list of the top 100 CEOs in the Middle East showcases leaders from 22 nationalities, with Emiratis leading at 23 entries, followed by Egyptians with 19. With 17 CEOs, the banking sector claimed the highest number of entries, followed by real estate and construction with 14 and telecommunications with nine. In the top 10, six different industries are showcased, illustrating the diversity of sectors in leadership.