How Al Sulaiman Group became an industry leader in Saudi Arabia

Responsible for everything from the hospitality and logistics sectors to ecommerce and real estate, there is very little the Al Sulaiman family doesn’t specialise in.

Playing a pivotal role in the development and growth of Saudi Arabia, The Al Sulaiman Group has reached a number of industries, establishing successful business partnerships throughout the past three decades.

"The Al Sulaiman family has a very old and rich history in Saudi Arabia – the patriarch of the family was the first Minister of Saudi Arabia alongside the founding King," Nabil Nazer, CIO of Al Sulaiman Group, tells The CEO Magazine.

The family conglomerate, which was founded by Dr Ghassan Ahmed Al Sulaiman in 1983, is an industry leader and exercises entrepreneurial approaches across all sectors.

"Philanthropy is a core value to the family, as is doing business in a transparent, trustworthy, and reputable manner," Nazer explains. "For example, we kickstarted the first accelerator in Saudi Arabia around six years ago with a mission to support the entrepreneurship ecosystem."

While the business was established at a time when technology was less relied upon, Al Sulaiman Group is steadfast on operating a visionary company as it sets up for a future of ever increasing digitalisation.

"Since the launch of ‘Vision 2030’, it is impressive to see, in such a short period, so much being achieved," Nazer says. "The entire economy has become quite digitised, government transactions are becoming electronic, and this facilitates the ease of doing business.

"There are many sectors that are targeted within the economy in terms of logistics, infrastructure, health care and education."

Showcasing its ideas for the next decade, Al Sulaiman Group was one of more than 600 visionaries who came together at Dubai’s Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach for Sir Anthony Ritossa’s 10th Global Family Office Investment Summit.

Under the High Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum, hundreds of prestigious families gathered to discuss thought leadership and forward-thinking strategies.

Transforming from a traditional family business to a professionally managed company, the Al Sulaiman Group has evolved to become one of the fastest-growing businesses in the region with substantial reach in MENA, Turkey and Europe.

Led by its talented team of professionals including Nazer, who has more than 15 years of experience encompassing investments, finance and corporate strategy, the family conglomerate has developed a vast portfolio of businesses, including IKEA, and has diversified its commercial interests.

"I cannot overstress the massive leaps we have taken in Saudi especially in the entertainment space. There is no longer the need to travel to have fun – you can have fun with your family in Saudi."