Arabian Business has revamped its ranking algorithm for power lists which will be used from 2025 onwards, introducing a sophisticated nine-parameter evaluation system designed to capture the evolving nature of business influence in the Middle East.
The new methodology, which will debut with the publication’s upcoming Most Powerful Women list, employs weighted criteria to assess influence across multiple dimensions. Under this system, candidates are evaluated on a standardised 10-point scale across nine key areas, with inspiration emerging as the most heavily weighted factor at 20 per cent of the total score.
“This new approach reflects the changing dynamics of power and influence in today’s business landscape,” said Matthew Amlot, Editorial Director of Arabian Business. “We’re moving beyond traditional metrics to capture the full spectrum of what makes a leader truly influential in 2025.”
Legacy and economic contribution each command 15 per cent of the final score, while cultural impact, community engagement, entrepreneurial achievement, and social media presence are weighted at 10 per cent each. Environmental impact and innovation round out the criteria at 5 per cent each.
The scoring process involves multiple rounds of evaluation, where candidates are assessed against each criterion by a panel of experts. These individual scores are then fed into a proprietary algorithm that applies the weighted calculations to determine final rankings.
This methodological overhaul comes at a time when traditional measures of business success are being redefined. By incorporating factors such as social media presence alongside conventional metrics like economic contribution, Arabian Business aims to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive picture of influence in the modern business world.
The publication’s first list under this new system will feature 100 of the region’s most powerful women, selected through this enhanced evaluation framework. Each candidate’s final position will reflect their cumulative weighted score across all nine parameters, offering readers unprecedented insight into the factors driving their influence.
“What sets this system apart is its ability to quantify both tangible and intangible aspects of leadership,” explained Amlot. “Whether it’s the ability to inspire others or create lasting economic impact, every facet of influence is now being measured and weighted appropriately.”
The new methodology represents the most significant update to Arabian Business’s ranking system in recent years, setting a new standard for how business influence is measured and recognised in the region. The complete rankings, along with detailed profiles of the featured leaders, will be published in an upcoming special edition of Arabian Business.
For inclusion or nominations in Arabian Business lists please contact [email protected]
Follow us on
