Top 10 Influencers of the Gulf: Social Media Stars Dominating the Region
The Gulf region has emerged as a vibrant hub for social media influencers who captivate audiences with their engaging content across various platforms. From beauty moguls to lifestyle gurus, these individuals have not only amassed substantial followings but have also significantly influenced trends and consumer behaviors. Whether through fashion, beauty, business, or entertainment, they have transformed the digital landscape in the Middle East, inspiring millions with their creativity and innovation.
With the increasing power of digital marketing, brands across the globe recognize the impact of these Gulf-based influencers. Their influence extends beyond social media, shaping industries such as beauty, fashion, travel, fitness, and even entrepreneurship. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 influencers who continue to make waves across the region:
1. Huda Kattan (@hudabeauty)
Followers: 54M+ | Niche: Beauty, Entrepreneurship
Based in Dubai, Huda Kattan is one of the most successful beauty entrepreneurs in the world. She founded Huda Beauty, a cosmetics empire celebrated for its high-quality products, including best-selling foundations, lipsticks, and false lashes. Huda’s journey from a makeup artist to a global business mogul is truly inspiring.
Her social media channels are filled with makeup tutorials, product reviews, and empowering messages that encourage self-love and confidence. She has been featured in Forbes’ list of the richest self-made women, proving that passion and determination can build an empire.
2. Khalid Al Ameri
Followers: 3.1M+ | Niche: Lifestyle, Comedy, Social Issues
Khalid Al Ameri, a Stanford MBA graduate, transitioned from a corporate career to become a prominent content creator and entrepreneur. Known for his humorous and relatable storytelling, Khalid connects with his audience through family-friendly content that highlights social topics, cultural traditions, and everyday life experiences.
His ability to mix comedy with meaningful messages has won him millions of followers. From discussing relationships to sharing uplifting personal stories, Khalid’s authenticity makes him one of the most beloved influencers in the Gulf region. He has also collaborated with major brands like Zoho, Aseer Time, and Philips Home Living.
3. Ghaith Marwan
Followers: 8.5M+ | Niche: Lifestyle, Entertainment, Comedy
Residing in Dubai, Ghaith Marwan has become a social media sensation with his engaging lifestyle content. Often featuring his partner, Sara Alwari, he creates entertaining videos that showcase humor, challenges, and travel adventures. His charismatic personality and high-quality content make him a favorite among Gulf audiences.
Ghaith’s influence extends to top-tier brand collaborations, including 6th Street, L’Oréal Paris, and Emirates NBD. In November 2024, he was honored with the Best Lifestyle Content Creator Award at the Digital Creator Awards, further cementing his status as one of the region’s top digital stars.
4. Noor Stars (@noorstars)
Followers: 15.9M+ | Niche: Beauty, Lifestyle, Entertainment
Noor Naim, popularly known as Noor Stars, is one of the Middle East’s biggest YouTubers and influencers. She has built a massive following through her beauty tutorials, lifestyle vlogs, and engaging personality. Noor’s content is mainly in Arabic, making her a key influencer for Arabic-speaking audiences worldwide.
Her impact extends beyond social media—she hosts the “Stars Podcast,” where she engages in candid conversations with celebrities and influencers. Noor’s ability to connect with her audience has made her a sought-after brand ambassador for major companies in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle industries.
5. Balqees
Followers: 15.9M+ | Niche: Music, Luxury Lifestyle, Beauty
Balqees is not just a social media influencer but also a celebrated musician in the Gulf region. Known for her powerful voice and stunning visuals, Balqees has carved a niche in both the music and luxury lifestyle sectors.
She is the founder of BEX Beauty and BEX Beauty Skin, adding entrepreneurship to her list of accomplishments. Her social media is filled with glamorous looks, behind-the-scenes moments from her music career, and collaborations with luxury brands like Balenciaga. She has been a front-row guest at Paris Fashion Week and other prestigious events worldwide.
6. Asmaa Ibraheem
Followers: 8.8M+ | Niche: TV Hosting, Fashion, Luxury Lifestyle
A renowned TV host and luxury lifestyle influencer, Asmaa Ibraheem has established herself as a top media personality in the Middle East. With a stunning presence on Instagram, she shares exclusive content from fashion shows, beauty events, and travel experiences.
Her collaborations with elite brands include Dior Fashion Week in Paris and Roberto Cavalli at Dubai Fashion Week. In April 2024, she was awarded the “Star of the Night Award” at The EMIGALA Awards, showcasing her growing influence in the fashion and media industry.
7. Ahmed Hossam
Followers: 8.6M+ | Niche: Comedy, Reaction Videos, Entertainment
Ahmed Hossam, a Dubai-based influencer, has gained a loyal fanbase thanks to his hilarious reaction videos and trend-based content. He collaborates with brands like Lingo, Danube Home, and Dream Dubai, showcasing his impact on the entertainment industry.
Ahmed’s ability to create engaging, lighthearted content has helped him gain massive traction on social media. His videos often go viral, making him one of the most influential comedy creators in the Gulf region.
8. Rawan Bin Hussain
Followers: 7.6M+ | Niche: Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle
Rawan Bin Hussain is a beauty and fashion influencer who has taken the industry by storm. She is the founder of Kimi Skin, a personal care brand, and has worked with luxury brands such as DAVIDOFF CAFE and Burger Capital.
Beyond beauty and fashion, Rawan is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and frequently speaks on topics related to self-love and confidence. She has also been a key guest at Dubai Fashion Week, representing major designers.
9. Leyla Brunton (“Miss Lamborghini”)
Followers: 7.1M+ | Niche: Luxury Cars, Lifestyle, Fashion
Leyla Brunton, famously known as “Miss Lamborghini,” is a luxury lifestyle influencer who showcases the high-end world of supercars, designer fashion, and lavish travel experiences. As a brand ambassador for Lamborghini, she has gained worldwide recognition for her exclusive content.
Her partnerships extend to elite brands such as Chanel, NARS Cosmetics, and Paramount Hotel, making her a top name in the luxury industry.
10. Reem Khabbazeh
Followers: 6.3M+ | Niche: Beauty, Business, Fashion
Reem Khabbazeh is an entrepreneur and beauty expert known for her elegance and influential presence in the Gulf. She has attended the Cannes Film Festival multiple times and has been featured in publications like Arab News and Grazia Magazine.
Reem was recently awarded the “Most Influential Social Personality of the Middle East” at the sixth annual WIBA Awards, solidifying her role as one of the region’s most powerful digital personalities.
Final Thoughts
These influencers have harnessed the power of social media to build personal brands that resonate with millions. Their diverse content and entrepreneurial ventures continue to shape trends and inspire audiences across the Gulf region and beyond. Whether in fashion, comedy, or luxury, they have established themselves as trendsetters in the digital era.
As social media continues to evolve, these Gulf influencers will remain at the forefront, setting new trends and redefining the digital landscape.
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