Dubai, UAE — Tunisian entrepreneur, artist, and philanthropist Karim Gharbi, widely known by his stage name K2Rhym, has been named among the 100 Most Powerful Arabs in Gulf Business magazine’s prestigious 2025 ranking.
The recognition highlights Gharbi’s remarkable transformation from an internationally acclaimed hip-hop artist to a tech-focused business leader and dedicated humanitarian. Gulf Business noted his pivot from a “bad boy” rapper image to a respected entrepreneur at the helm of K2 Meta, his venture focusing on blockchain, Web3, and emerging technologies.
“This recognition is not just about personal achievement — it’s a testament to what’s possible when you combine passion with purpose. I hope it inspires young people across the Arab world to dream bigger and work harder.”
A Journey of Reinvention
Gharbi’s path to this recognition has been anything but conventional. Born in the Ksar Saïd district of Tunis in 1980, he moved to Paris at just 15 years old to pursue a music career. Over the following decades, he built a reputation as one of the most influential rappers in the Middle East and North Africa, collaborating with global stars like Snoop Dogg, DJ Khaled, and Rick Ross.
His 2012 nomination for the MTV Europe Music Award for Best Middle East Act and his 2015 recognition as Best Middle Eastern Rapper cemented his status in the entertainment industry. But Gharbi had bigger ambitions.
From Entertainment to Enterprise
By the late 2010s, Gharbi began transitioning into the business world. He relocated to the United Arab Emirates and founded K2 Meta, where he serves as CEO. The company focuses on investments in:
- Blockchain technology
- Web3 infrastructure
- Emerging technology ventures
His ability to blend his entertainment background with business acumen has set him apart in the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Philanthropy at the Core
His efforts have included funding the care of orphaned children through La Voix de l’Enfant, supplying hospitals with medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic, and financing the renovation of public schools in underserved regions like Kasserine.
Local media has portrayed him as a “good Samaritan” figure, and many Tunisians view him as a positive role model for youth — someone who achieved international success without forgetting his roots.
About the Gulf Business 100 Most Powerful Arabs
The Gulf Business 100 Most Powerful Arabs is an annual ranking that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to business, culture, and society across the Arab world. The 2025 list features leaders from diverse sectors including technology, finance, entertainment, and philanthropy.
Karim Gharbi’s inclusion alongside established business leaders and innovators reflects the growing recognition of his multifaceted contributions to the region.
For media inquiries, please contact the Karim Gharbi Media Team at press@karimgharbi.com .