The Middle East and Africa region has experienced one of the fastest rates of billionaire growth globally, adding 19 new billionaires in 2025 to bring the total to 91. According to a new report from UBS, this 26% year-on-year increase highlights an accelerating wave of wealth creation driven primarily by Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation, even as growth patterns varied across other key markets.
The Kingdom’s Economic Reshuffle
Saudi Arabia was the clear engine behind the region’s expansion, adding 13 new billionaires in 2025. The Kingdom’s billionaire count surged from six in 2024 to 19, marking a more than threefold increase.
This dramatic rise was accompanied by a 113.2% increase in combined billionaire wealth, which now stands at $81 billion. The data underscores the tangible impact of Vision 2030 reforms, which have catalyzed private-sector activity and attracted significant investment, positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of MEA’s wealth generation.
UAE Wealth Deepens
In the United Arab Emirates, growth was more measured but equally significant. The country added one new billionaire, bringing its total to 19.
However, the aggregate wealth of its billionaires grew by a substantial 21.6% to reach $168.7 billion. This indicates that while the number of new entrants was modest, the existing fortunes within the UAE expanded considerably, cementing its status as one of the region’s primary wealth hubs.
Stable Ranks and Rising Fortunes in Egypt and Lebanon
Other major markets in the region displayed a different trend, where existing wealth grew without an increase in the number of billionaires. In Egypt, the billionaire count remained stable at four, but their collective net worth increased by 14% to $17 billion.
Similarly, Lebanon maintained its two billionaires, whose combined wealth rose by 10.7% to $37.3 billion. This pattern points to asset appreciation and the successful expansion of established businesses, even amid broader economic challenges.
A Tale of Two Growth Models
The 2025 data paints a picture of a region in transition, with wealth creation following two distinct paths. Saudi Arabia exemplifies rapid, large-scale new wealth generation fueled by structural economic reforms. In contrast, markets like the UAE, Egypt, and Lebanon are seeing significant wealth consolidation and growth among established players.
This uneven landscape reflects how capital is flowing into sectors aligned with economic diversification and private enterprise. While Saudi Arabia accounts for the majority of new entrants to the billionaire list, the expansion of existing fortunes elsewhere confirms the region’s rising and dynamic role in the global economy.
About UBS
UBS is a multinational investment bank and financial services company founded and based in Zurich, Switzerland. The firm provides wealth management, asset management, and investment banking services for private, corporate, and institutional clients worldwide.
Source: Arab Founders
