Othman Benjelloun and Moroccan Business Dynasties Shine in Forbes' Top 100 Arab Family Businesses
In a remarkable showcase of economic prowess, five prominent Moroccan family conglomerates have secured their positions on Forbes Middle East's 2026 list of the Arab world's 100 most influential family businesses. This achievement marks a significant increase from the three entries recorded in the previous year, underscoring Morocco's growing influence in the regional wealth landscape. Leading the charge is O Capital Group, which has garnered the 21st spot on the prestigious list. Established in 2021 through the merger of FinanceCom and Holding Benjelloun Mezian, O Capital Group is chaired by Othman Benjelloun, Morocco's wealthiest individual, whose fortune is estimated at $1.7 billion by Forbes.
This ranking arrives shortly after the opening of Benjelloun's ambitious project, the Mohammed VI Tower, a stunning 250-meter skyscraper that now stands as Morocco's tallest building and the third tallest in Africa. Inaugurated in April 2026 by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, the $700 million landmark features a luxurious Waldorf Astoria hotel and marks a significant milestone for Moroccan architecture and business initiatives.
O Capital Group's diverse operations extend beyond real estate, encompassing sectors such as financial services, banking, telecommunications, agribusiness, and media. Notably, its banking arm, Bank of Africa, operates across 32 countries, managing approximately $46 billion in assets, further solidifying its role as a key player in the African banking sector.
Other notable Moroccan firms that have made their mark include Holmarcom Group, which ranked 75th, and is led by Mohamed Hassan Bensalah. This group is actively expanding its banking footprint, notably through the recent acquisition of BNP Paribas' majority stake in BMCI. In addition, Addoha Group, chaired by Anas Sefrioui, comes in at 83rd place and is recognized for its ambitious real estate developments, with over 26,000 housing units currently under construction, many of which are situated in West Africa.
Diana Holding, led by Rita Maria Zniber, secured the 84th position, managing vast agricultural resources, while YNNA Holding, founded in 1948 and now headed by Mama Tajmouati, rounds out Morocco’s representation at 85th. This group boasts a portfolio that includes retail chains and various manufacturing brands.
As Morocco continues to assert its presence in the African business landscape, it now ranks fourth on the continent in terms of the total number of billionaires, following South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria. The year 2026 is proving to be a pivotal moment for Moroccan family businesses, characterized by ambitious expansion and a commitment to regional growth.
As reported by billionaires.africa.
