Lebanon dominates the Arab world’s richest singers’ list, but Egypt’s Amr Diab is Number One

A new survey puts Amr Diab atop the list of wealthiest Arab pop stars. The 49-year-old Egyptian has an estimated fortune of $41 million.

According to the survey, which was conducted by Arabian Business magazine, Lebanese pop stars and divas occupy the next five positions.

Blue-eyed Nancy Ajram came in second place, and has a fortune estimated at $36.3 million. The artist known as Elissa was close behind, with $35 million.

Fairuz, one of the Arab world’s most celebrated voices, came in fourth with $29.5 million.

Majda al-Roumi, 55, ranked fifth with $28 million, one place ahead of the Lebanese composer Marwan Khoury, who has a fortune estimated at $24 million.

Diab, who has sold 50 million albums, has released 25 studio albums since 1983 and collaborated with 14 international artists. In addition, his songs have been featured in six different films.

A huge part of his fortune has come from touring, including performances in the Middle East, Australia, US and Europe.

(Dina Al-Shibeeb, a senior editor at Al Arabiya English, can be reached at: [email protected])