Juma al Majid

Juma Al Majid, born in 1930 in the Al Shindagha area of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is a highly influential Emirati businessman, political adviser, and philanthropist.

Coming from humble beginnings as the son of a pearl diver, he experienced hard work and sacrifice from an early age, accompanying his father on diving trips and learning patience and perseverance.

He began his career in trade with his maternal uncle at the age of 15, managing a shop in Deira, and with determination and sharp business acumen, he founded the Juma Al Majid Holding Group in 1950, which grew into one of the most diversified and reputable business conglomerates in the UAE.

The group expanded to sectors including automotive, real estate, contracting, construction services, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), travel, retail, hospitality, and tourism. His business ventures included becoming the second-largest distributor of General Electric products in the region by the 1970s and founding key companies involved in various industries such as automotive brands like Hyundai and Kia, construction materials, and food production.

Beyond business, he is widely known for his philanthropic efforts, establishing a number of charitable schools and educational institutions, including colleges for Islamic and Arabic studies. He also founded the Juma Al Majid Center for Culture and Heritage, which plays a pivotal role in preserving UAE's cultural and Islamic heritage through libraries, archives, and research.

He has held significant public positions including Chairman of the Dubai Economic Council and Vice Chairman roles at the UAE Central Bank and Emirates Bank International.

He is recognized not only for his business success but also for his dedication to education, cultural preservation, and community service in the UAE.