By Mohamed Al-Fayed, the self-made Egyptian billionaire, was one of the most influential businessmen of his time. Known for his ownership of Harrods, the Ritz Paris, and Fulham Football Club, he built an empire spanning luxury retail, real estate, and sports. Despite controversies and a tumultuous relationship with the British establishment, his fortune remained a subject of global fascination.
This article breaks down Mohamed Al-Fayed’s net worth in 2025, exploring his wealth, major investments, and financial legacy.
Mohamed Al-Fayed’s net worth in 2025
At the time of his passing, Mohamed Al-Fayed’s net worth was estimated at $2 billion. His wealth was built through strategic investments in retail, hospitality, and sports, making him one of the richest businessmen of Egyptian origin.
| net worth (2025) | $2 billion |
|---|---|
| Harrods Sale (2010) | £1.5 billion ($1.86 billion) |
| Fulham FC Sale (2013) | $300 million |
| Ritz Paris Purchase (1979) | $30 million ($135 million adjusted for inflation) |
While his fortune remained substantial, it had fluctuated due to business sales, legal disputes, and economic factors.
How Did Mohamed Al-Fayed Make His Money?
Al-Fayed’s financial empire wasn’t built overnight. His journey began in Alexandria, Egypt, where he worked in shipping and trade before expanding globally. Key milestones in his wealth accumulation include:
Shipping & Middle East Trade
- In the 1950s and 60s, he worked with Adnan Khashoggi, a Saudi arms dealer, and expanded into oil and shipping.
- His shipping ventures helped him connect with the Middle Eastern elite, paving the way for bigger deals.
Real estate & Retail investments
- Al-Fayed invested in prestigious properties, including the Ritz Paris, which he purchased for $30 million in 1979.
- His biggest acquisition was Harrods, the world-famous luxury department store, in 1985.
- His ownership of House of Fraser, which included Harrods, expanded his retail empire.
Sports & Media Ventures
- Bought Fulham Football Club in 1997 for £6.25 million ($10 million), selling it in 2013 for $300 million.
- Invested in film production, funding movies such as Chariots of Fire (1981), which won an Oscar for Best Picture.
The Harrods Era: How Much Did He Buy and Sell It For?
One of Al-Fayed’s most famous business moves was his ownership of Harrods.
- Acquisition: Purchased Harrods in 1985 for £615 million ($1.05 billion).
- Reputation: He transformed Harrods into a symbol of British luxury, attracting elite customers worldwide.
- Controversy: He frequently clashed with the British government and establishment, claiming racism and elitism prevented him from gaining British citizenship.
- Sale: In 2010, Al-Fayed sold Harrods to Qatar Holdings for £1.5 billion ($1.86 billion).
Why Did He Sell Harrods?
- Cited age and wanting to secure his family’s financial future.
- Expressed frustration over British aristocracy’s reluctance to accept him.
- Focused on managing the Ritz Paris and other investments.
Other business Ventures and Assets
While Harrods was his most famous investment, Al-Fayed had multiple high-value assets and businesses:
- The Ritz Paris
- Purchased in 1979 for $30 million.
- Underwent a $450 million renovation before reopening in 2016.
- Remains one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.
- Fulham Football Club
- Bought in 1997 for £6.25 million ($10 million).
- Helped the club rise to the Premier League.
- Sold in 2013 to American billionaire Shahid Khan for $300 million.
- Other investments
- luxury real estate holdings in London, Dubai, and France.
- Retail investments beyond Harrods.
- Shipping and logistics businesses in the Middle East.
Dodi Fayed’s Wealth and Legacy
Dodi Fayed, Mohamed Al-Fayed’s eldest son, was known for his lavish lifestyle and Hollywood connections. He was romantically linked with Princess Diana, which brought immense media attention.
Dodi Fayed’s net worth and Spending Habits
- Monthly allowance from Al-Fayed: £400,000 ($499,448 in 2023, approx. $1M adjusted for inflation).
- Owned luxury homes in London, Paris, and Los Angeles.
- Accumulated significant debt due to unpaid taxes and extravagant spending.
Dodi Fayed’s Career in Hollywood
Dodi was a film producer, financing movies through his company, Allied Stars.
Notable Films Produced by Dodi Fayed
| Film | Release Year | Notable Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Chariots of Fire | 1981 | Ian Charleson, Ben Cross |
| Hook | 1991 | Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman |
| The Scarlet Letter | 1995 | Demi Moore, Gary Oldman |
Although Chariots of Fire won an Oscar for Best Picture, Dodi never personally won an Academy Award.
How Al-Fayed’s Wealth Compares to Other Billionaires
Compared to other luxury moguls, Al-Fayed’s $2 billion net worth placed him among the world’s wealthiest individuals but far below retail magnates like Jeff Bezos or Bernard Arnault.
| businessman | net worth (2025) | Industry |
|---|---|---|
| Bernard Arnault | $210 billion | luxury (LVMH) |
| Jeff Bezos | $190 billion | E-commerce (Amazon) |
| Mohamed Al-Fayed | $2 billion | Retail, real estate |
| Sultan of Brunei | $30 billion | Oil, investments |
Despite not reaching tech billionaire status, Al-Fayed’s influence in the luxury sector was undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Mohamed Al-Fayed a Billionaire?
Yes, at his peak, he was worth over $2 billion, making him one of the richest Egyptians in the world.
Who Inherited His Fortune?
His wealth was distributed among his surviving family, including his children.
Did Mohamed Al-Fayed Ever Become a British Citizen?
No, he was repeatedly denied citizenship, a matter he publicly criticized.
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Final Thoughts
Mohamed Al-Fayed was a self-made billionaire whose legacy spanned luxury, business, and controversy. From Harrods to Fulham FC, his impact on global business remains undeniable.
His story is a testament to wealth, power, and the relentless pursuit of success.
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