Tarek Omar Akkad is recognized as one of the most influential Arab business leaders, steering the Akkad Investment Company (AICO),
a diversified family holding group founded in 1975, while also serving as Chairman and CEO of the Arab Palestinian Investment Company (APIC).
His leadership has positioned him as a pivotal figure in both Saudi and Palestinian economies and a driving force in the wider Arab investment landscape.
Early Life and Background
Born in 1971 in Lebanon, Tarek Akkad is the eldest son of renowned businessman Omar Akkad. He grew up in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,
where he completed his primary and secondary education, immersed in a family environment deeply connected to finance and investment.
His father’s founding of AICO in 1975 gave him early exposure to the world of corporate strategy and institutional growth.
Education
Akkad pursued higher education in the United States, graduating with distinction in Economics from Harvard University in 1992.
His academic training gave him a strong foundation in macroeconomics and financial management.
In 2023, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Economics and Business Administration from Birzeit University in recognition of his contributions to Palestinian economic and social development.
Professional Career
AICO
As CEO of Akkad Investment Company, Tarek oversees a diverse portfolio of investments within Saudi Arabia and abroad.
Under his leadership, AICO has grown into a multi-sectoral powerhouse with robust regional influence.
APIC
In 1994, he co-founded APIC with his father. Through strategic vision and bold leadership,
he transformed it into one of the largest investment companies in Palestine. Today, APIC employs more than 3,000 people across subsidiaries in industries including food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, automotive, building materials, and consumer goods.
Board Memberships and Roles
Akkad’s influence extends beyond corporate boardrooms. He serves on the boards of:
Bank of Palestine
Palestinian Electricity Company
King Hussein Cancer Foundation
He has also held academic leadership positions as a Trustee of Boston University and an advisory board member at Brown University.
In 2001, he was named one of the Global Leaders of Tomorrow by the World Economic Forum in Davos,
marking him as an internationally recognized voice of leadership and innovation.
Achievements
Tarek Akkad’s tenure is defined by resilience and innovation.
In food manufacturing, he advanced food security and stabilized local markets.
In pharmaceuticals, he bolstered self-sufficiency in healthcare.
In automotive and construction materials, he introduced global brands to Palestinian and regional markets.
He built strategic partnerships with companies such as Procter & Gamble, Hyundai, Philip Morris,
Abbott, and Sanofi, forging not only business agreements but also bridges for knowledge transfer and global collaboration.
He has also embedded corporate social responsibility into his business philosophy, dedicating consistent portions of profits to education, healthcare,
and entrepreneurship programs—empowering youth and fostering long-term sustainability.
Recognition
Akkad’s leadership has been recognized through numerous awards:
The Medal of Merit from the President of Palestine.
An Honorary Doctorate from Birzeit University.
His inclusion in the Global Leaders of Tomorrow list by the World Economic Forum.
Wealth
While his personal wealth has not been publicly disclosed, it is widely regarded as substantial, reflecting the scale of assets and global partnerships under AICO and APIC.
His wealth is not only financial but also a testament to decades of visionary leadership and sustainable investment.
Personal Life
Tarek Akkad is married to Shireen Akkad, with whom he has four children. Despite his demanding career,
he remains dedicated to balancing family life with his extensive business responsibilities.
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