logo
UAE: Veteran Emirati Business Leader Haj Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan Passes Away at 94

UAE: Veteran Emirati Business Leader Haj Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan Passes Away at 94

Gulf Insider12-04-2025

One of the oldest Emirati business leaders and a veteran pearl merchant in the region, Haj Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan has passed away at the age of 94.
The passing of the Honorary Chairman of Al Fardan Group was announced by his grandson Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, CEO of Al Fardan Exchange LLC, on LinkedIn while the Group also shared the news on social media.
'With profound sorrow, I share the passing of my beloved grandfather, Haj Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan, the visionary leader and Honorary Chairman of Al Fardan Group,' the grandson wrote in his post 'in loving memory' of his grandfather.
'To the world, he was a pioneer who began his journey in 1954 with pearl trading and went on to build a diversified enterprise rooted in resilience, humility, and an enduring commitment to excellence. To me, he was far more than a grandfather. He was my guiding light, my role model, and the steady foundation of our family,' he said.
Love for the UAE
Hasan Fardan said his grandfather's love for the UAE and its leadership ran deep. 'He firmly believed in the promise of its people, and often said that his greatest hope was to see Emirati generations thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation's story. I am grateful that he lived to witness those hopes coming true.'
For him, the veteran Emirati's journey was never solely about building a successful business. 'It was about uplifting others, and creating a legacy with purpose, heart, and humanity. His wisdom, generosity, and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.'
The grandson's tributes continued as he said the lessons instilled by his grandfather continued to shape the way he works, leads, and lives and his blessings are the light that guided him forward.'Though his passing leaves a space no words can fill, his spirit, values, and legacy will remain forever with us and with the generations to come. May Allah (SWT) envelop his soul in mercy and grant him eternal peace,' he added.
Mourning period announced
Meanwhile, Al Fardan Group posted that the group will observe a three-day mourning period in the honour of its 'visionary leader and the last great pearl merchant of the region.'
The Group said he was revered for his wisdom, humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity, values that continue to guide them today.
'Under his remarkable leadership, Al Fardan Group transformed from its origins in pearl trading into a diversified business conglomerate. His foresight and dedication laid strong foundations for the UAE's business community and inspired generations of Emirati entrepreneurs.'
The group added that its founder 'will forever be remembered as a remarkable leader and his legacy will remain etched in our hearts.'

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Dubai's Higher Education Sector Sees Nearly 20% Rise In Enrollment
Dubai's Higher Education Sector Sees Nearly 20% Rise In Enrollment

Gulf Insider

time6 hours ago

  • Gulf Insider

Dubai's Higher Education Sector Sees Nearly 20% Rise In Enrollment

Dubai is emerging as one of the world's fastest-growing higher education hubs, with total student enrollment at private institutions rising by around 20 per cent in the 2024–25 academic year, and international student numbers jumping 29 per cent, according to figures released by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and global consultancy L.E.K. Consulting. More than 42,000 students are now enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions licensed by the KHDA, with international students making up 35 per cent of the total — a figure expected to rise under the emirate's Education 33 strategy. Four new international universities opened in the current academic year alone, signalling strong investor confidence in Dubai's education sector. The data was released at an exclusive high-level briefing hosted by L.E.K. Consulting's Global Education Practice recently in Dubai. The event brought together policymakers, investors, and higher education leaders to discuss Dubai's ambitions to become a world-class destination for transnational education. 'Dubai's continued growth as a global hub for higher education is testament to our leadership's vision and the ambitious goals of the Dubai Plan 33,' saidDr Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA. 'Through E33, we are building a future where Dubai is not only a destination for quality education, but a centre of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.' The KHDA's City of Students initiative, part of its broader Education 33 strategy, aims to increase international student enrollment to 50 per cent by 2033, bolstering the emirate's reputation as a top-tier study destination. Ashwin Assomull, partner and head of the Global Education Practice at L.E.K. Consulting, said Dubai's higher education sector represents 'one of the most compelling growth markets globally,' citing its student-friendly infrastructure, global university presence, and favourable cost and regulatory environment. 'Dubai presents a significant opportunity for international universities to meet the evolving needs of both local and international students,' he said, noting that increasing regulatory restrictions in traditional anglophone markets are pushing institutions and students to seek new education hubs. The briefing also highlighted increasing participation from Emirati students, with enrollment in international universities up 22 per cent year-on-year — underlining Dubai's dual appeal to both domestic and overseas learners.

AliExpress Revolutionizes the Online Shopping Experience with Electric Vehicles
AliExpress Revolutionizes the Online Shopping Experience with Electric Vehicles

Biz Bahrain

time4 days ago

  • Biz Bahrain

AliExpress Revolutionizes the Online Shopping Experience with Electric Vehicles

AliExpress is pushing the boundaries of online shopping by enabling customers to purchase the latest electric vehicles (EVs) directly from their homes, marking a significant milestone for e-commerce globally. This unprecedented service will launch in June during the platform's Summer Sale, offering consumers an innovative way to embrace sustainable transportation. At the initial stage, the cars will only be sold to the UAE with the plan to expand to other GCC markets. The Ideal Fit Aligned with the UAE's Vision 2031, AliExpress will simplify the purchasing process for the latest brand-name EVs delivered from China. The UAE Vision 2031 seeks to position the nation as a leader across multiple sectors while enhancing the quality of life for its residents and ensuring sustainable development for future generations. This initiative serves as a perfect match for the country's aspirations, providing an accessible solution for consumers and promoting eco-conscious choices. By offering more affordable EVs, AliExpress is broadening the appeal of electric mobility across diverse demographic groups, benefiting all income brackets and contributing positively to the UAE's economy. Fueling the Future of Transportation The electric vehicle market in the UAE is witnessing significant growth, driven by government incentives and robust infrastructure investments. Currently, there are over 70,000 EVs in the UAE, and this number is expected to reach 100,000 by 2027. Residents are increasingly drawn to electric vehicles due to their environmental advantages, such as zero emissions and reduced air pollution, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment. Additionally, consumers appreciate the lower operating costs that EVs offer compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Transparency at Its Finest With AliExpress, purchasing the latest EV shipped from China has never been easier or more affordable. Through the platform's Big Save Channel, customers can conveniently select their desired model with AliExpress 15 years of e-commerce expertise. Once purchased, the electric vehicle will arrive via sea freight from China. This innovative approach is revolutionizing the way you shop for big-ticket items. Expect renowned brands like BYD, Geely, Jetour, and Toyota at significant savings, making these cutting-edge electric vehicles even more accessible to the Emirati consumer. The electric vehicle market in the United Arab Emirates is experiencing swift growth, driven by consumers' increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation, supportive government initiatives, and the establishment of a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Additionally, the country's commitment to sustainability has fostered a positive environment for electric vehicle adoption. In this dynamic landscape, AliExpress is stepping in to enhance accessibility by offering customers the ability to purchase the latest electric vehicles through its platform, further accelerating this shift toward sustainable mobility.

UAE Exempts 222 Citizens From $39mn in Debts
UAE Exempts 222 Citizens From $39mn in Debts

Gulf Insider

time4 days ago

  • Gulf Insider

UAE Exempts 222 Citizens From $39mn in Debts

The UAE's Defaulted Debts Settlement Fund has exempted 222 citizens from debts totalling more than AED 139.879 million, following directives from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The initiative, which operates under the supervision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, targets retirees and social support categories. The Fund cleared debts exceeding AED 86.476 million for 132 retirees, whilst exempting 90 citizens under the social support category from debts totalling more than AED 53.403 million. 'The initiative reflects the wise leadership's vision to ease the lives of citizens and ensure them a dignified and stable standard of living,' the Emirates News Agency (WAM) said in a statement. The programme contributes to social development by alleviating financial burdens, supporting retirees and social support beneficiaries, and fostering family stability, according to the statement. The initiative aligns with the UAE's national strategy for sustainable development and demonstrates commitment to social cohesion and prosperity, with attention focused on those who served the country and the community's most vulnerable members. The Fund emphasised that the programme embodies President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's commitment to alleviating financial burdens on citizens. It highlights his vision to ensure a dignified life for Emiratis, promote their well-being, strengthen family and community stability, and uphold the values of cohesion and solidarity that characterise Emirati society. The debt relief initiative supports financial and social stability across the UAE, targeting citizens who require assistance to maintain their standard of living. Also read: UAE Eid Al Adha Weather Forecast: Rain and Humidity Expected

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store