When Abdulrahman Bin Ismail Tarabzouni spoke in front of Saudi Arabia’s HRH King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz, as he performed his duties as Master of Ceremonies at Saudi Aramco’s 75th anniversary last year, few in the audience would have believed he was still just 24 years old.
The cynical might be forgiven for thinking Tarabzouni’s presence at the prestigious event was as a result of nepotism – you don’t get to speak in front of such a select audience unless you’re related to someone who can open a few doors, I can hear you say.
But it doesn’t take long to work out why that wasn’t the case. For the now 25-year-old, the event was just another step in his remarkable rise up through the business ranks.
Tarabzouni, you see, is already responsible for bringing an additional $39bn worth of business to software giant Oracle Corporation, and has held leading positions at Microsoft and Morgan Stanley amongst others. As if that wasn’t enough, he is also the CEO of his own hybrid venture capital fund, Mubadiroon.
Tarabzouni is proof that making the cut in our 30 under 30 list doesn’t just depend on the family name. Even those with names you’ll recognise – the Hariris and Al Fayeds for example – are demonstrating that they can make their own way. 22-year-old Omar Al Fayed last month quit his position as board member at his father’s firm, Harrods, in order to concentrate on his education.
Salama Alabbar’s father might have built Dubai Mall, but that doesn’t mean she spends all day shopping – although she does plan to roll out her new accessories boutique across the GCC.
This month’s 30 under 30 list covers a variety of occupations from internet start-ups and fashion labels to established construction firms and oil and gas companies. It is a unique insight into the next generation of Arab leaders. Or as is fast becoming the case, the current generation.
Claire Ferris-Lay is the deputy editor of CEO Middle East.
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