Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud is one of the most influential investors in the world, known for his diverse and expansive business empire.
Born in Riyadh on March 7, 1955, Prince Alwaleed was ranked 22nd among the world’s richest individuals in 2009 by an American publication, with an estimated fortune of $13.3 billion.
Today, according to Forbes, his wealth has surged to $18 billion, securing his position as the richest Arab in the world and placing him among the top 20 wealthiest individuals globally.
A Legacy of Leadership & Influence
Prince Alwaleed comes from a lineage of powerful leaders. His paternal grandfather is King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia, while his maternal grandfather is Riad Al-Solh, the first Prime Minister of independent Lebanon.
He has been awarded 23 honorary doctorates from prestigious universities worldwide and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Administrative and Economic Sciences with honors from Menlo College, California (1979).
Upon returning to Saudi Arabia after earning his degree, Prince Alwaleed launched his investment journey, laying the foundation for his business empire.
The Birth of Kingdom Holding Company
In 1979, he established Kingdom Establishment for Trading and Contracting, which rapidly expanded, leading to diversified investments across multiple industries.
By 1996, the company was transformed into Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), headquartered in Kingdom Tower, Riyadh, managing highly diversified investments across real estate, hospitality, media, and technology.
A Global Investment Visionary
As a pioneer in investment, Prince Alwaleed began his business journey in 1980, initially focusing on construction through Kingdom Contracting Company in Riyadh.
Over time, he consolidated his holdings under the Kingdom Holding Company, making strategic investments in global industries, particularly luxury hospitality, real estate, media, and technology.
Among his notable investments:
- Global Hospitality Sector: He owns stakes in Four Seasons, Fairmont, Movenpick, and iconic hotels like George V in Paris, Copley Plaza in Boston, and The Plaza in New York, which he fully owns.
- Media Empire: He owns Rotana Media Group, Al-Resalah TV, and shares in News Corporation, Mediaset, CNN, and Fox News.
- Technology & Financial Investments: His portfolio includes Apple, Twitter, Citigroup, Lyft, JD.com, and other leading firms.
Breaking Records: Kingdom Tower in Jeddah
In August 2011, Prince Alwaleed announced a $4.6 billion project, contracting Saudi Bin Laden Group to construct Kingdom Tower in Jeddah, aiming to be the world’s tallest building at 1,000 meters.
Global Recognitions & Prestigious Honors
Prince Alwaleed has received numerous international awards and honors, recognizing his economic contributions, philanthropy, and leadership.
Among his most prestigious accolades:
- King Abdulaziz Medal – Saudi Arabia (2002)
- Lebanese Order of the Cedar (2009)
- Order of Izzuddin – Maldives (2009)
- Palestine’s Star of Honor – The Highest Order in Palestine (2009)
- Dwight Eisenhower Award for Innovation (2010)
- Bahrain’s First-Class Medal of Honor (2012)
- Nepal’s Highest Foreign Honor – Mahaujjval Rastradip Manpadvi (2012)
- Guinea-Bissau’s Medal of Kolina di Boi (2012)
- Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic of Sierra Leone (2013)
- Order of National Merit – Republic of Malta (2014)
A Business Icon & Philanthropist
Prince Alwaleed bin Talal remains an unparalleled figure in global investment, with a visionary approach to business, philanthropy, and innovation.
From luxury real estate and international banking to media influence and humanitarian contributions, his impact continues to shape industries worldwide, making him an undeniable powerhouse in global finance and investment.
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