David and Simon Reuben are British billionaire brothers who built immense wealth through metals trading in post-Soviet Russia and later transformed it into one of the UK’s most powerful real estate, technology, and infrastructure empires. Today, they are among the richest families in the UK, major London landlords, technology investors, and influential philanthropists.

Who Are David and Simon Reuben?

David and Simon Reuben are billionaire brothers, born in Bombay (Mumbai) to Iraqi-Jewish parents, who later moved to London and became central figures in British business.

They are best known as:

• Major UK property owners

• Founders of Reuben Brothers, their family investment firm

• Early winners in Russian metals trading

• Significant investors in technology and data infrastructure

Despite their enormous wealth, they maintain a low public profile.

Early Life and Background

The Reuben brothers were born in Bombay (now Mumbai) and raised in a Baghdadi Jewish family before moving to London in the 1950s.

Their early life was marked by:

• Attendance at UK state schools

• Early exposure to trade and entrepreneurship

• A strong family-driven business mindset

They began their careers modestly, working in carpets, scrap metal, and commodities before expanding globally.

How Did the Reuben Brothers Make Their Money?

The foundation of the Reuben brothers’ fortune was built during the 1990s, when they made highly profitable investments in Russian aluminium and metals trading following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Key Wealth-Building Phases

1. Scrap metal and trading businesses

2. Russian aluminium investments

3. Shift into UK real estate

4. Expansion into technology, data centres, and infrastructure

This ability to exit commodities and reinvest strategically defines their success.

Diversified Business Empire of the Reuben Brothers

Today, the Reuben brothers operate through Reuben Brothers, one of the UK’s most powerful private investment firms.

Core Investment Areas

• Prime UK and global real estate

• Technology and data infrastructure

• Airports and transport assets

• Private equity and infrastructure

• Leisure, hospitality, and racecourses

Their portfolio spans multiple industries, reducing risk while compounding long-term value.

Iconic UK Properties Owned by the Reuben Brothers

The Reuben brothers are among London’s largest private landlords, owning some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

Major Holdings Include:

• Burlington Arcade (luxury retail destination)

• Millbank Tower

• Admiralty Arch (conversion project)

• John Lewis Headquarters, Victoria

• Prime retail and hotel properties across London

These assets position them at the heart of the UK property market.

Technology & Data Infrastructure Investments

Beyond property, the Reuben brothers are major players in digital infrastructure.

They own GlobalSwitch, one of the world’s largest data centre platforms, supporting:

• Cloud computing

• Enterprise data storage

• Global digital connectivity

This move reflects their shift from traditional assets to future-proof technology investments.

Infrastructure, Airports, and Leisure Assets

Their diversified portfolio also includes:

• London Oxford Airport

• Arena Racing Company (horse racing venues)

• Hospitality and leisure businesses

These investments generate long-term, stable cash flow and strengthen their infrastructure footprint.

Newcastle United Ownership Stake

The Reuben family owns a significant stake in Newcastle United F.C., one of the UK’s most high-profile football clubs.

Family Involvement:

• Jamie Reuben, David Reuben’s son, is a board member

• Actively involved in club strategy and governance

This investment increased their visibility beyond traditional business circles.

The Reuben Family: Next Generation Influence

The Reuben empire is increasingly shaped by the next generation.

Key Family Members

• David Reuben – Co-founder

• Simon Reuben – Co-founder

• Jamie Reuben – Businessman, Newcastle United board member

• Lisa Reuben – Art world figure, Sotheby’s Contemporary Arts Department

Both Jamie and Lisa are involved in business, culture, and philanthropy.

Reuben Brothers Net Worth (2025–2026)

According to multiple rankings and AI estimates:

• Estimated Net Worth: £26–27 billion

• Global Equivalent: $33–34 billion USD

• UK Ranking: 2nd richest family (Sunday Times Rich List 2025)

Their wealth primarily comes from:

• Real estate

• Technology and data infrastructure

• Private equity and long-term assets

They consistently rank among the top wealth holders in the UK.

Philanthropy: The Reuben Foundation

The brothers channel their charitable work through the Reuben Foundation, which supports causes in the UK and Israel.

Key Focus Areas:

• Education and universities

• Healthcare and hospitals

• Jewish community initiatives

• Arts and cultural institutions

Notable donations include funding for:

• Major universities

• Medical institutions

• Cultural organisations such as The Courtauld Institute

Why the Reuben Brothers Matter to the UK Economy

The Reuben brothers are influential because they:

• Control critical London real estate

• Invest in national digital infrastructure

• Support employment through large-scale developments

• Fund education and healthcare initiatives

Despite being private individuals, their decisions shape British business, property, and technology landscapes.

What Makes Their Business Strategy Unique?

The Reuben brothers stand out for:

• Early risk-taking in emerging markets

• Timely exits from commodities

• Long-term asset ownership

• Focus on infrastructure over hype

Their strategy prioritises control, stability, and future relevance.

FAQs About David and Simon Reuben

Who are David and Simon Reuben?

They are British billionaire brothers born in Bombay (Mumbai) who built wealth through metals trading and now dominate UK property, technology, and infrastructure investments.

How did the Reuben brothers become so wealthy?

They made early fortunes in Russian aluminium trading and reinvested profits into real estate, data centres, and infrastructure.

What is the Reuben brothers’ net worth?

Their combined family net worth is estimated at £26–27 billion as of 2025.

What companies do the Reuben brothers own?

Their assets include GlobalSwitch data centres, major London properties, airports, racecourses, and a stake in Newcastle United.

What is the Reuben Foundation?

It is their philanthropic organisation supporting education, healthcare, arts, and Jewish causes in the UK and Israel.

Final Thoughts

David and Simon Reuben exemplify how strategic reinvestment, patience, and diversification can create one of the most powerful private empires in Britain. From Russian metals to London landmarks and global data infrastructure, their story reflects quiet dominance rather than public celebrity.

Their influence on the UK economy, property market, and technology sector ensures the Reuben brothers remain central figures in British business for decades to come.