Sheikh Sulaiman Abdul Aziz Al Rajhi, the younger brother of Sheikh Salih Al-Rajhi, was born on November 30, 1928, in Al-Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia.
From a young age, Sheikh Sulaiman displayed a passion for trade and hard work. He took on various jobs, including carrying goods for merchants and guarding their wares in the marketplace.
In his spare time, he collected fallen firewood from camels, worked in construction, and explored different trades, gaining invaluable market knowledge and business acumen.
Early Years in Business
In 1945 (1365H), Sheikh Sulaiman moved to Jeddah to join his elder brother’s business, taking charge of the foreign exchange operations in Jeddah and Makkah.
During this period, he also delved into real estate, learning its intricacies and gradually expanding his investments.
By 1971 (1391H), he and his brother amicably ended their business partnership, allowing each to focus on their own ventures.
Building His Own Empire
Determined to carve his own path, Sheikh Sulaiman established Sulaiman Abdulaziz Al-Rajhi Establishment in 1972 (1392H).
With hard work and strategic vision, he quickly expanded, opening multiple branches in Jeddah and beyond. This growth was not limited to finance, as he simultaneously expanded into real estate, building a strong reputation among clients and merchants both inside and outside the Kingdom.
One of Sheikh Sulaiman’s most famous sayings was:
“O merchant, always oversee your business yourself.”
His commitment to excellence and direct involvement in his ventures played a crucial role in his success.
Diversified Business Ventures
Sheikh Sulaiman contributed to various industries, founding and investing in leading companies across multiple sectors.
Some of his pioneering ventures include:
- Al-Watania Agricultural Company (Qassim & Al-Basita): These farms operate entirely on natural methods, avoiding chemical additives and fertilizers.
- Al-Watania Industrial Company: Overseeing factories such as:
- Packaging & Container Factories
- Riyadh Carton Factory
- Red Brick Factory
- Plastic & Paper Products Factories
- Metal Cap Factory
- Al-Watania Transport Company: Supporting logistics and freight operations across Saudi Arabia and beyond.
A Legacy of Philanthropy & Education
Sheikh Sulaiman’s charitable contributions extended far beyond business. Understanding the importance of education and healthcare, he established a fully integrated charitable educational and medical project.
His most significant initiative, Sulaiman Abdulaziz Al-Rajhi Colleges, reflects his vision of providing world-class education in a local setting.
These non-profit institutions prioritize academic excellence over financial gain, aiming to nurture top talents who will become leaders of the future.
A Life of Dedication & Impact
Sheikh Sulaiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Rajhi’s journey from a humble laborer to a billionaire philanthropist is a testament to his unwavering determination, strategic vision, and commitment to community development.
His legacy of business success and philanthropy continues to shape Saudi Arabia’s economy and inspire future generations.
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