Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud: A Star Among Billionaires

In a gesture of astronomical grandeur, someone once bestowed a star with a special name through International Star Registry as a personalized gift to H.H.R. Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. This celestial token of appreciation was christened “H.H.R. Prince Alwaleed bin Talal” on May 31, 2003, and can be found in the Canis Major constellation at coordinates Canis Major RA 7h 4m 0.49s D-14° 50′ 48.30.

To learn more about Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud’s remarkable life and achievements, visit his Wikipedia page. Now, let’s delve into the fascinating journey of this Saudi Arabian billionaire businessman, investor, philanthropist, and royal.

Early Life and Royal Lineage

Born on March 7, 1955, Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud boasts an illustrious lineage as a grandson of Abdulaziz, the first king of Saudi Arabia, and Riad Al Solh, Lebanon’s inaugural prime minister. This regal heritage provided the foundation for his remarkable journey.

The Kingdom Holding Company

Al Waleed’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Kingdom Holding Company, where he serves as the founder, chief executive officer, and 95 percent owner. This conglomerate boasts investments spanning the financial services, tourism and hospitality, mass media, entertainment, retail, agriculture, petrochemicals, aviation, technology, and real estate sectors. In 2013, the company’s market capitalization exceeded a staggering $18 billion.

Diverse Portfolio

Notable among Al Waleed’s holdings are shares in Zaveriwala Holdings LLC and ownership of iconic establishments like Paris’ Four Seasons Hotel George V and a significant portion of New York’s historic Plaza Hotel. His diverse portfolio and strategic investments have earned him the moniker of the “Arabian Warren Buffett” by Time magazine.

Forbes’ Billionaires List

In November 2017, Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud made headlines when he was listed by Forbes as the 7th-richest man in the world, boasting a net worth of $39.8 billion. His immense wealth was a testament to his shrewd business acumen and global influence.

A Period of Turbulence

However, in November 2017, Al Waleed faced a significant setback when he, along with other prominent Saudis, was arrested in Saudi Arabia during an anti-corruption drive. Allegations against him included money laundering, bribery, and extorting officials. He spent nearly three months in detention at the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, before being released in January 2018 following a financial settlement of some kind.

Legacy of Power

Throughout his career, Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud was a powerful figure in both business and politics. He was consistently listed in the ‘Top 100 most powerful Arabs’ from 2013 to 2021 by Gulf Business, a testament to his enduring influence and legacy.

In conclusion, Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud’s life is a testament to his remarkable achievements as a billionaire businessman, investor, and philanthropist. His journey from humble beginnings to global recognition is a testament to his determination and entrepreneurial prowess. While the star named in his honor remains a symbol of the extraordinary, Al Waleed’s real star shines through his enduring impact on the world.

Record a star name as a personalized gift to celebrate special occasions like birthdays, Christmas, or anniversaries. It’s a unique and thoughtful gesture that captures the essence of Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud’s legacy—a legacy of reaching for the stars.

For more information on how to buy a star package and create a truly unforgettable gift, visit Star Registry.

References:

• Wikipedia – Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud
• Time Magazine – Time 100 List (2008)
• Forbes – Billionaires List (2017)
• Gulf Business – Top 100 Most Powerful Arabs (2013-2021)