The ICIS Group, known for its commodity data and information services, has released its list of the top 40 most influential figures in the chemicals sector for 2026. This global ranking highlights prominent CEOs and executives who are making significant positive impacts within their companies and the broader chemicals industry. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and CEO of ADNOC and its affiliated companies, has topped the 2026 list, following his recognition as ICIS’s Best CEO in the sector for 2025.
According to Joseph Chang, the global editor for ICIS Chemical Business, Dr. Al Jaber is at the forefront of transformative initiatives in the global chemicals sector. His leadership in establishing the international Borouge Group and the acquisition of Covestro, a producer of polyurethane, is particularly noteworthy.
He further noted that the upcoming merger of Borouge in Abu Dhabi, Borealis in Austria, and Nova Chemicals in Canada will form the International Borouge Group, creating a leading entity in the global polyolefins market.
Additionally, ADNOC’s international investment arm, XRG, has completed its acquisition of Covestro and is making strides in establishing the International Borouge Group. XRG aims to become one of the top three chemical suppliers worldwide. With global chemical demand expected to surge by 70% by 2050, these strategic moves will solidify Abu Dhabi’s prominent position in the global chemicals landscape.
It is important to note that ICIS is a leading global provider of information, data, and analysis for the chemicals, energy, and gas markets. The ICIS list of the top 40 influential figures is curated by the global editorial team based on the executives’ outstanding performance and vision in areas such as project execution, profitability, value creation for shareholders, merger and acquisition processes, investment portfolio management, support for innovation, and implementation of best practices in environmental, social, and corporate governance.