Miriam Adelson
United States
Net Worth
$34B
Source of Wealth
Las Vegas Sands
Global Rank
#39 of 100
About Miriam Adelson
Miriam Adelson is a physician, philanthropist, and the majority owner of Las Vegas Sands Corporation, one of the world's largest casino and resort companies. Born in Tel Aviv, Israel, she earned her medical degree from Tel Aviv University's Sackler School of Medicine and built a distinguished career in addiction medicine and research before becoming one of the most influential philanthropists in the world.
Dr. Adelson's medical career has been defined by her pioneering work in substance abuse treatment and research. She founded and led a clinic for the treatment of drug addiction in Las Vegas, bringing compassion and scientific rigor to a field that desperately needed both. Her research contributions and clinical work have helped countless individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.
As the inheritor of her late husband Sheldon Adelson's business empire, Miriam has continued to oversee Las Vegas Sands' global operations while channeling enormous resources into philanthropy. She is one of the most generous donors to medical research, educational institutions, and cultural organizations in both the United States and Israel. Her philanthropic vision reflects her deep commitment to healing, education, and the preservation of democratic values.
Key Achievements
Pioneer in Addiction Medicine
Built a distinguished medical career focused on substance abuse treatment and research, founding clinics and contributing to the scientific understanding of addiction, helping thousands of patients recover.
Stewardship of Las Vegas Sands
Assumed leadership of Las Vegas Sands Corporation, one of the world's largest casino and resort operators, and continued to oversee its global operations spanning Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore.
Transformative Philanthropy
Donated hundreds of millions to medical research, hospitals, universities, and cultural institutions, making her one of the most generous philanthropists in the United States and Israel.
Medical Research Advocacy
Championed funding for medical research and healthcare innovation, particularly in addiction medicine and biomedical science, advancing treatments that improve and save lives.
Notable Quotes
“Medicine is the noblest calling. To heal someone is the greatest gift you can give.”
— Miriam Adelson
“Philanthropy is not about writing checks. It is about investing in people and ideas that can change the world.”
— Miriam Adelson
Key Decisions
Founded a substance abuse treatment clinic in Las Vegas, applying her medical expertise and compassion to help individuals struggling with drug addiction.
Assumed majority ownership of Las Vegas Sands following the passing of Sheldon Adelson, stepping into a leadership role in one of the world's largest hospitality and entertainment companies.
Continued major philanthropic initiatives supporting medical research, educational institutions, and cultural organizations in the U.S. and Israel.
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