Land ownership has long been a measure of power, influence, and wealth.  Across the globe, a select few individuals, families, and entities possess vast tracts of land that span countries and continents.  These holdings are often tied to historical legacies, agricultural ventures, conservation efforts, and even sovereign authority.  Below is a list of the top 10 largest landowners in the world, ranked by the extent of their land holdings and their fascinating stories.

#1: King Charles III (British Crown) – 6.6 Billion Acres

King Charles III, representing the British Crown, holds dominion over a staggering 6.6 billion acres of land, making the British Royal Family the largest landowner in the world.  This includes vast swaths of Canada, Australia, and other Commonwealth realms.

The Crown’s lands include historic estates like Balmoral Castle and Windsor Great Park. Much of the property is owned in trust for the nation.  The Royal Family’s holdings are deeply interwoven with the history and identity of the Commonwealth.

#2: King Salman bin Abdulaziz (Saudi Arabia) – 531 Million Acres

As the King of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdulaziz technically owns the entire country, amounting to approximately 830,000 square miles.  This vast desert kingdom includes oil-rich fields, vast dunes, and sprawling cities.

The Al Saud family’s control of the land ties back to the formation of Saudi Arabia in 1932. With modern megaprojects like NEOM, the kingdom blends traditional culture with futuristic visions.  King Salman’s landholdings underscore the monarchy’s influence on global energy markets and regional geopolitics.

#3: Catholic Church – 177 Million Acres

The Catholic Church is the second-largest landowner globally, with 177 million acres under its stewardship.  This includes cathedrals, schools, hospitals, and agricultural land spread across every continent.

From Vatican City to rural mission lands, the Church’s property serves religious, educational, and humanitarian purposes.  Anecdotes of Popes advocating for land preservation or repurposing lands for refugees highlight the Church’s multifaceted role in global society.

#4: Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe Government) – 96 Million Acres

As the head of state in Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa oversees land spanning 150,000 square miles.  This includes national parks, agricultural zones, and urban centers.

Zimbabwe’s land ownership history is fraught with complexity, marked by colonial dispossession and post-independence redistribution.  Mnangagwa’s government continues to navigate land reform policies aimed at empowering local farmers and balancing economic growth.

#5: Ted Turner – 2 Million Acres

Media mogul Ted Turner owns 2 million acres of U.S. land, making him the largest private landowner in the country.  His holdings include sprawling ranches in Montana, New Mexico, and South Dakota.

Turner’s properties are renowned for conservation efforts, including the restoration of bison populations and rewilding initiatives.  Anecdotes of Turner hosting environmental forums and working tirelessly to preserve biodiversity highlight his commitment to the planet.

#6: The Irving Family – 1.9 Million Acres

The Irving family, owners of J.D. Irving Ltd., manage 1.9 million acres of forested land in Canada and the U.S.  Their holdings are primarily used for timber and paper production, making them a powerhouse in sustainable forestry.

The family’s dedication to reforestation and ecosystem management has garnered accolades.  Stories of multigenerational stewardship reflect their deep ties to the land and its resources.

#7: The Emmerson Family – 1.87 Million Acres

The Emmerson family, owners of Sierra Pacific Industries, hold 1.87 million acres of forestland in California, Oregon, and Washington.  This makes them the second-largest private landowners in the U.S.

The family’s emphasis on sustainable logging and habitat preservation has positioned them as leaders in eco-friendly forestry.  Their efforts to combat wildfires and protect endangered species underscore their land management priorities.

#8: The Singleton Family – 1.6 Million Acres

Based in Australia, the Singleton family owns 1.6 million acres of agricultural land. Their properties support cattle ranching and other agribusiness ventures across the Outback.

The Singleton family’s history is one of resilience and adaptation, navigating Australia’s harsh environment to build a legacy of sustainable farming.  Tales of their innovations in water conservation and land rehabilitation are inspirational.

#9: Gina Rinehart – 1.5 Million Acres

Gina Rinehart, Australia’s wealthiest woman, owns 1.5 million acres of land, much of which is used for cattle ranching.  Her holdings include some of the largest and most remote properties in the country.

Rinehart’s fortune stems from mining, but her investments in agriculture highlight her diversified interests.  Anecdotes of her ambitious plans to modernize ranching operations and create export opportunities for Australian beef are emblematic of her entrepreneurial spirit.

#10: The Hadley Family – 1 Million Acres

The Hadley family, known for their role in U.S. agriculture, own 1 million acres of land across multiple states.  Their holdings include vast farmlands that produce grains, livestock, and other essential commodities.

The family’s emphasis on sustainability and innovation has made them leaders in modern farming.  Stories of their contributions to rural communities and food security highlight their far-reaching impact.

These top 10 landowners collectively manage billions of acres, shaping economies, cultures, and ecosystems.  From monarchs to moguls, their stories reflect the complexity of land ownership and the profound responsibility it carries.  Whether for conservation, agriculture, or national stewardship, their holdings symbolize the enduring connection between humanity and the land.III