Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and CEO of ADNOC, has secured the premier position in the 2026 ICIS Top 40 Power Players list, recognizing his exceptional leadership in shaping the global chemical industry. This prestigious ranking by Independent Commodity Intelligence Services (ICIS) Group highlights executives driving substantial positive impact within their organizations and across the international chemicals sector.
The recognition follows Dr. Al Jaber’s previous accolade as ICIS CEO of the Year in 2025 and acknowledges his strategic vision in two landmark developments: the creation of Borouge Group International (BGI) and the successful acquisition of German polyurethanes producer Covestro through ADNOC’s investment vehicle, XRG.
Industry analysts note that the forthcoming merger between Abu Dhabi-based Borouge, Austria’s Borealis, and Canada’s NOVA Chemicals will establish BGI as a dominant force in global polyolefins production. Joseph Chang, Global Editor of ICIS Chemical Business, emphasized that these strategic moves are fundamentally transforming the chemical industry landscape.
With global chemical demand projected to grow by 70% by 2050, these consolidations position Abu Dhabi as a central hub in the chemicals value chain. XRG’s expansion strategy aims to establish the entity among the world’s top three chemical providers, significantly enhancing the UAE’s industrial capabilities.
The ICIS selection process evaluates leaders across multiple criteria including project execution, profitability, shareholder value creation, mergers and acquisitions, innovation support, and implementation of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. The global editorial team at ICIS assesses each candidate’s distinction and visionary approach to industry challenges and opportunities.