Saad Hariri at a Glance
- Categories: Business > Billionaires, Business
- Net Worth: $1.7 Billion
- Birthdate: Apr 18, 1970 (54 years old)
- Birthplace: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Saad Hariri’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Finances of a Lebanese Billionaire
Introduction: Saad Hariri’s Financial Standing
Saad Hariri, a prominent figure in both Lebanese and international politics, has built a substantial fortune. His net worth, estimated at $1.7 billion, reflects a complex interplay of inherited wealth, successful business ventures, and a controversial political career. This article will delve into the sources of his wealth, the evolution of his business holdings, and the key events that have shaped his financial and political trajectory.
Early Life and Family: The Hariri Legacy
Born Saad-eddine Rafiq Al-Hariri on April 18, 1970, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Saad Hariri is the son of the late Rafik Hariri, who also served as the Prime Minister of Lebanon. The Hariri family’s influence in Lebanon is undeniable, with Rafik Hariri having played a crucial role in the country’s reconstruction after the civil war. Following his father’s assassination in 2005, Saad Hariri inherited a significant portion of the family’s wealth, estimated to be around $4.1 billion, along with his siblings. This inheritance provided the foundation for his later business and political endeavors.
Business Ventures and Telecom Holdings
Saad Hariri’s business acumen is as notable as his political career. He graduated from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business in 1992 with a degree in Business Administration. During his time, he managed a portion of his father’s business in Riyadh. He has been involved in numerous ventures. He has served as both the chairman and executive committee member of Oger Telecom, a major telecommunications company, and as the chairman and CEO of Saudi Oger, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest construction companies. These roles have been instrumental in building and managing the family’s wealth. The telecom and construction sectors have been key drivers of Hariri’s financial success.
Political Career and Premiership
Saad Hariri’s political career began after his father’s assassination. He took office as the Prime Minister of Lebanon on November 9, 2009, a position he held until June 13, 2011. His time in office was marked by political instability and challenges. His government collapsed in early 2011 when opposition parties withdrew, citing disagreements over decision-making. Despite these difficulties, Hariri’s political career has left a significant mark on Lebanese politics.
Current Status and Controversies
Currently, Saad Hariri resides outside of Lebanon for security reasons, primarily splitting his time between homes in Paris and Riyadh. His outspoken opposition to Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad led to an arrest warrant issued by the Syrian government, alleging that he funded Syrian opposition groups. Although he is no longer directly involved in Lebanese politics, he continues to chair Saudi Oger. The company remains a significant source of the family’s wealth. These controversies and his current status highlight the complex and often turbulent nature of his life and career.
Saad Hariri’s Net Worth Summary
Saad Hariri’s net worth of $1.7 billion is a testament to his family’s legacy, his business successes, and his impact on Lebanese politics. His wealth comes from inheritance, strategic business investments, and leadership roles in significant companies. His story highlights the intertwining of wealth and political power in the Middle East. This complex figure continues to be a subject of interest and scrutiny both in the region and internationally.
/**/