SALEH AL-TURKI

Saleh bin Ali bin Abdulrahman Al-Turki is a prominent Saudi businessman whose career spans over four decades—marked by unwavering determination, bold vision, and a deep-rooted passion for social impact. He is best known as the founder and chairman of Nesma Holding, a powerhouse conglomerate that has grown to include over 47 diversified companies, achieving remarkable success both locally and internationally.

But Al-Turki’s influence extends far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. Throughout his journey, he has built a powerful reputation for philanthropy and civic leadership, pioneering initiatives that empower youth, strengthen the local workforce, and support charitable organizations. His commitment to community welfare and national development has made him a widely respected figure in Saudi society.

In recognition of his leadership and dedication, he was appointed Mayor of Jeddah in 2018 by royal decree—a role that reflects the Kingdom’s trust in his ability to lead transformative urban development projects in one of its most vital cities.

Carrying the family’s spirit of trailblazing forward, his daughter Noura Al-Turki made history as the first Saudi woman to serve as vice president of a sports federation, marking a proud milestone for women’s empowerment in the Kingdom.

In examining Saleh Al-Turki’s extraordinary journey, we at Arageek see his story as one emphasizing resilience, empowering leadership, and deep-rooted compassion, making him one of Saudi Arabia’s influential pioneers in business and social advancement.

Born in Baghdad in 1947, Saleh Al-Turki spent his formative years moving across countries due to his family’s circumstances. His father, Ali Al-Turki, served as an officer in the Iraqi military—an assignment that initially kept the family in Iraq. However, following a royal directive urging Saudi families abroad to return home, the Al-Turki family relocated to Saudi Arabia, first settling in Riyadh, then later in Dhahran, in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province.

In 1958, seeking a strong educational foundation, Saleh and his brother Abdulaziz moved to Lebanon, where they enrolled at the esteemed Al-Makassed Islamic School in Beirut. His academic journey then took him to the American University of Beirut (AUB), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration.

Furthering his studies abroad, Saleh went on to receive a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of California, laying the groundwork for his future as a leader in both business and public service.

Al-Turki is known to maintain privacy about his personal life. Married and respectfully known by the nickname “Abu Faisal,” his family includes his daughter Noura Saleh Al-Turki, who actively participates in the professional realm as executive director of human resources and corporate social responsibility at Nesma Holding. She has notably represented Saudi Arabia’s business community at the International Labour Organization in Geneva.