Ahmed bin Saeed tops the list of the most powerful 'leader of travel and tourism in the Middle East'

Ahmed bin Saeed: "The innovation strategy confirms what DAFZA has adopted in its practical path and its ambition to top the list of the most innovative free zones in the world."

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, has topped Forbes magazine's ranking of the 'Most Powerful Travel and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East' for the second consecutive year.

The list of 16 Emiratis highlights 100 leading travel and tourism leaders in the region.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed began his career in aviation in 1985, when he assumed the position of Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Dubai.

In the same year, His Highness also chaired the newly established Emirates Airline, under which he launched the airline with two charter aircraft and flights to two destinations from Dubai, while today he heads the Emirates Group, which also includes dnata, the world's leading travel company.