Moroccan family businesses shine in Forbes' top 100 Arab rankings

Wednesday 14 May 2025 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Moroccan family businesses shine in Forbes' top 100 Arab rankings

Forbes Middle East has unveiled its “Top 100 Arab Family Businesses 2025” list, highlighting the prominence of three Moroccan family enterprises among the most influential in the Arab world. This recognition underscores the growing impact of Moroccan businesses on the regional economic landscape.

The highest-ranked Moroccan company, O Capital Group, secures the 23rd position on the list. Established in 2021 from the merger of FinanceCom and Holding Benjelloun Mezian, O Capital is spearheaded by Othman Benjelloun, a notable figure in the Moroccan business community. The group operates across various sectors, including finance, insurance, and investments, both domestically and internationally. As of April 2025, Forbes estimates the Benjelloun family's fortune at approximately $1.6 billion.

Following closely is Holmarcom Group, led by Mohamed Hassan Bensalah, which ranks 80th regionally. Founded in 1978, Holmarcom has diversified interests in finance, agro-industry, logistics, and real estate, making it one of the most influential family businesses in Morocco today.

Diana Holding, under the leadership of Rita Maria Zniber, is the third Moroccan company to make the list, placing 84th. Originally established by her late husband, Brahim Zniber, in 1956, Diana Holding specializes in agriculture and agro-industry, managing a wide array of activities from poultry to beverages and plastic packaging. The group oversees approximately 8,300 hectares of land, operates over 30 subsidiaries, and employs around 7,200 individuals.

The overall list is predominantly represented by Gulf countries, with Saudi Arabia leading with 33 family businesses, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 32. The top three positions are held by Al Muhaidib Group, Abdul Latif Jameel Group, and Al-Futtaim Group, all hailing from Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Forbes emphasizes that family businesses in the region serve as more than mere commercial enterprises; they are integral pillars of society, intricately woven into the cultural and historical fabric of the Arab world.