Suleiman Bin Saleh Alolayan

Jobs
Businessman , Entrepreneur
Date of birth
May 5, 1925
Nationality
Saudi
Place of birth
Saudi Arabia , Qassim , Unaizah
Constellation
Capricorn

Biography

Suleiman Bin Saleh Alolayan was one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneering business minds, emerging prominently amid the oil boom period. His entrepreneurial vision reshaped much of the Saudi business landscape, initially in construction, later branching out into industries such as food trading, transportation, manufacturing, insurance and finance.

His cooperation with international brands and investment in global markets advanced Saudi Arabia’s industrial and economic presence significantly.

In his youth, he survived smallpox, a remarkable feat given the mortality rates during that period.

Early Life

Suleiman Alolayan was born on January 1, 1918, in the quiet town of Unaizah, nestled in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Qassim region. Life dealt him a heavy blow early on—he lost both parents while still a child. His father, a humble spice trader, left behind little more than a legacy of grit and quiet ambition.

Alolayan’s schooling began at the American School, continued at Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifiya, and concluded briefly at Jaafari School. But formal education soon gave way to the school of life. With his studies cut short, he set his sights on finding opportunity beyond the classroom walls.

A Humble Start, a Relentless Drive

His journey into the working world began in Bahrain, where he took a job at the Awali oil field. There, at the Bahrain Petroleum Company’s offshore facility, he earned just $12 a month as a technician measuring oil. Though modest, the role offered him something more valuable than money: experience, discipline, and a taste of the energy sector.

Later, back in Saudi Arabia, Alolayan joined what would eventually become one of the world’s most powerful oil companies—Saudi Aramco. At the time, it was known as the California Arabian Standard Oil Company. He began in the engine division, moved up to warehouse supervisor for spare parts, and later became head of imports. These roles gave him hands-on insight into logistics, trade, and operations—while sharpening his command of the English language.

The Personal Life

Suleiman Alolayan was married, and his children—Khaled, Hayat, Hutham, and Lubna—also hold prominent positions, with Lubna being especially recognized as a respected businesswoman.

Quick Facts

Mastered the English language through his early roles at Aramco.
To establish his first business, he mortgaged his recently acquired home.
Held board membership roles at multinational bodies such as Mobil Oil and Credit Suisse based in Zurich.
American University of Beirut’s Business School has been named after Suleiman Alolayan, honoring his legacy.

Death

Suleiman Alolayan passed away on June 4, 2002, aged 84, in Manhattan, New York, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurial success and social contribution.

Achievements

Suleiman Alolayan’s journey began in 1947 with a bold move. Together with his brother Abdullah, he launched the General Contracting Company after securing a landmark deal with Aramco to construct the Tapline pipeline—connecting Saudi Arabia’s oil fields to the Lebanese port of Sidon. It was the first of many deliberate steps in a career defined by vision and steady expansion.

A Pioneer in Energy and Logistics

Not content with construction alone, Alolayan soon helped launch Saudi Arabia’s first power generation and propane gas distribution companies—marking a pivotal moment in the country’s infrastructure development.

By 1954, he had expanded into trade and logistics, founding the General Trading Company to supply food products and Arab Commercial Enterprises to handle insurance, while also managing ventures in transportation and distribution.

Opening the Doors to Global Brands

By the early 1960s, Suleiman Alolayan had become a household name in Saudi business circles. He was instrumental in bringing iconic global brands like Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Kraft, Kimberly-Clark, Burger King, and General Foods into the Saudi market—reshaping retail and consumer habits in the Kingdom.

Building a Financial Empire

In 1969, Alolayan founded Olayan Financial Company—a diversified investment group with stakes in nearly 40 companies spanning banking, industrial manufacturing, F&B, and more. The group’s portfolio includes both local ventures and international blue-chip holdings, earning Alolayan a spot on Forbes with an estimated net worth reaching $7.6 billion at one point.

Philanthropy With a Global Impact

True to his values, Alolayan didn’t stop at business. In 1982, he launched the Suleiman Saleh Alolayan Foundation to manage his philanthropic vision—providing hundreds of international employees with access to quality education and social programs that continue to make an impact.