Launch of the 1st event of Beirut to hail the success of Lebanon's business leaders

Forbes Middle East recently held a lavish gala event in Beirut, organized by ICE Events, to recognise and applaud the achievements of Lebanon's top business leaders and its most influential people that are supporting the growth of the country's economy. 

As a highlight of the exclusive evening, Forbes Middle East unveiled its "Lebanon 100"-a list compiled of the most inspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders helping Lebanon to transform.

Khuloud Al Omian, Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East said, "At our very first event in Lebanon, we have seen the energy and enthusiasm of these business leaders. We have explored Lebanon in our special edition. The future of the country is promising, and it is heading towards a positive future."

Lebanon's seven richest people include the Mikati brothers-telecom tycoons Taha and Najib Mikati; and four Hariri brothers-Bahaa, Saad, Ayman and Fahd Hariri. 

The Lebanon 100 also includes 10 companies on the Beirut Stock Exchange, ranked according to their assets, market value, profits and revenues, and 35 professionals heading businesses across various sectors in the country.

A list of 15 Lebanese entertainers who have made their mark globally includes stars like Elissa, Ragheb Alama, Carole Samaha, Najwa Karam and Nancy Ajram.

The list includes 15 of the country's most influential and powerful businesswomen. Elissar Farah Antonios, CEO Citibank UAE tops the list. She is followed by Randa El Assaad, CEO of Arif & Bintoak Consulting Architects and Engineers; Mona Bawarshi, CEO of Gezairi Transport; Hala Fadel, founder of Partner Leap Ventures and Ingie Chalhoub, President and Managing Director of the Etoile Group. 

A list of 18 of the most promising startups headquartered and founded in Lebanon include music streaming platform, Anghami; IoT Application Platform, Scriptr; and developer and publisher of online games, Falafel Games.

The event was held in partnership with Ritver Paints & Coatings; Diaspora ID; GMC Lebanon; Danube Properties; Le Royal Hotel- Beirut; The Sponsor Company; Ice International Events. Le Commerce Du Levant, The Daily Star, Sawt El Mada, Nostalgie and Mondanite were media partners for the event.