The Billionaire Who Gave Away $19 Billion and Lost His Billionaire Status

In a world where wealth often measures success, stories of extraordinary generosity stand out. One such story is that of Sulaiman bin Abdul Aziz Al Rajhi, a Saudi businessman and co-founder of Al Rajhi Bank, who once ranked among the Middle East’s wealthiest men. Instead of clinging to his fortune, he chose a different path—donating $19 billion to charity and social causes.

From Billionaire to Philanthropist

Al Rajhi’s decision to part with nearly his entire fortune is nothing short of remarkable. His donations have supported projects in education, healthcare, and religious institutions, as well as social programs aimed at improving the lives of communities across Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Through the Sulaiman Al Rajhi Foundation, his wealth has been directed toward initiatives that focus on sustainability, knowledge, and opportunities for future generations. This move drastically reduced his net worth to around $590 million, officially removing him from the billionaire’s list, but cementing him as one of the greatest philanthropists of our time.

Redefining Wealth and Legacy

Unlike many business leaders who pass on fortunes as inheritances, Al Rajhi also distributed part of his wealth to his children while alive. This allowed him to see the benefits of his generosity firsthand, reshaping the traditional idea of legacy.

His story reminds us that wealth can be more than just a status symbol; it can be a tool to create lasting impact. While his billionaire status may have faded, his contributions continue to improve countless lives—something money alone could never achieve.

A Lesson for the World

Philanthropy at this scale challenges the notion of what it means to be rich. Al Rajhi’s decision shows that true wealth isn’t about how much one keeps, but how much one gives back.

For more inspiring stories of global impact and leadership, visit Prime Curators’ Global Section ↗.