Billionaire Profile
Micky Arison
Global Rank
#328

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Micky Arison

CEO, Carnival Corporation
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$9.6B
As of December 2025
Age
76
Source
Carnival Cruises
Industry
service
Citizenship
US

Biography

Micky Arison, born June 29, 1949, is an Israeli-American billionaire and the Chairman of Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise operator. His career began at Carnival Cruise Lines in 1972, rising to CEO in 1979 and leading its expansion. Arison is also the owner of the NBA's Miami Heat, which has won three NBA championships under his ownership. His estimated net worth is $9.6 billion, stemming from his leadership in the cruise industry and his ownership of the Miami Heat.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Micky Arison was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, on June 29, 1949. His father, Ted Arison, co-founded Carnival Cruise Lines. Arison attended the University of Miami but dropped out to work for Carnival.

Rise to Success

Arison started his career at Carnival Cruise Lines in 1972 as a sales representative. He quickly advanced, becoming CEO in 1979. Under his leadership, Carnival grew into the world's largest cruise operator through strategic acquisitions and fleet expansion. He became the chairman of Carnival Corporation in 1990.

Key Business Strategies

Arison focused on expanding Carnival's fleet, acquiring other cruise lines like Holland America Line, Seabourn, Cunard, and Costa Cruises. He also led Carnival's entry into the European market and expanded its presence globally. Furthermore, he purchased the Miami Heat in 1995 and led the team to three NBA championships.

Philanthropy

Micky Arison and his wife Madeleine are dedicated philanthropists, supporting various causes through their Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation. They contribute over $40 million annually to various initiatives, including significant donations to organizations like Save the Children and for Hurricane Irma relief efforts.

Career Milestones

1972

Joined Carnival Cruise Lines

Began as a sales representative.

1979

CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines

Took over as CEO, leading significant expansion.

1990

Chairman of Carnival Corporation

Became Chairman of the Board.

1995

Owner of Miami Heat

Purchased the NBA franchise.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Disaster Relief

Hurricane Dorian Relief

$1M

Donation to aid recovery efforts.

Children and Health

Save the Children and Direct Relief

$5M

Supported to charitable organizations

Disaster Relief

Hurricane Irma relief efforts

$10M

Provided aid after Hurricane Irma.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Micky Arison has not made any public quotes."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Acquisitions

Expanding Carnival through acquisitions of other cruise lines to increase market share.

Fleet Expansion

Investing in new ship construction to grow the company's capacity.

Cost Control

Imposing tight cost controls across the Carnival fleet.