Nasser Al-Kharafi
Nasser Al-Kharafi | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Kuwait |
| Died | April 17, 2011 (aged 67) |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman |
| Known for | Chairman of M. A. Kharafi & Sons |
Nasser Al-Kharafi (, born 17 June 1943 – passed away 17 April 2011) was a distinguished Kuwaiti entrepreneur and the chairman of M. A. Kharafi & Sons.
Life
Under his leadership, the company generated sales amounting to $4.3 billion, with its net value enhanced by the appreciation of shares in investments such as Mobile Telecommunications Co., National Bank of Kuwait, and Americana, which manages several American fast-food brands. Al-Kharafi had affiliations with prominent franchises including Pizza Hut, Kentucky Fried Chicken, TGI Friday's, and Hardee's. He maintained a considerable ownership interest in Zain, a major telecommunications operator across the Middle East and Africa. His business portfolio was diverse, encompassing sectors like engineering, construction, maintenance, oil, water management, chemicals, power generation, energy, and food services, with operations extending over eleven nations. Among the group’s notable projects was the development of Egypt’s Ghalib International Marina port.
Al-Kharafi was awarded construction contracts in more than 30 countries globally. By 2011, his personal wealth was estimated at $10.4 billion, positioning him as the 77th wealthiest person worldwide.
In early 2009, he was reportedly engaged in discussions concerning a potential acquisition of Liverpool F.C..
Family
His older brother, Jassim, held the position of speaker in the Kuwait parliament. Additionally, his sister, Faiza, served as the rector of Kuwait University.
Death
Al-Kharafi died from cardiac arrest on 17 April 2011 while staying at a hotel in Cairo. His death prompted condolences from relatives, members of Kuwait’s parliament, political leaders, business associates, and international dignitaries. After his passing, ownership of M. A. Kharafi & Sons was transferred to his three remaining brothers: Fawzi, Jessaim, and Muhannad.
See also
- List of billionaires
- List of Kuwaitis by net worth