Mahdi Al Tajir Arab businessman living in England Country: Great Britain

1. Biography of Mahdi Al Tajir
2. Business Ventures and Properties
3. Political and Diplomatic Achievements
4. Relationship with Mohamed Al-Fayed
5. Current Business Ventures

Biography of Mahdi Al Tajir

Mahdi Al Tajir is an Arab businessman who currently resides in England. Born in Bahrain, he attended school in Lancashire. He rose to prominence in Dubai when he was appointed to lead an oil project by Sheikh Rashid. In a short period of time, Al Tajir became one of the most influential figures in Dubai, second only to the Sheikh himself.

Business Ventures and Properties

Al Tajir's business interests extend beyond Dubai. He owns a vast estate called Blackwood in Perthshire, Scotland, which is registered under the company 'Park Tower Holding Establishment' based in Liechtenstein. Additionally, he possesses the Sheraton Park Tower hotel near Hyde Park in London and the Mereworth Castle in Kent. Al Tajir acquired Mereworth Castle in 1976 for £1.2 million.

Political and Diplomatic Achievements

Al Tajir was appointed the head of Dubai's customs services by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and later became one of the Sheikh's closest advisors. He served as the first ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United Kingdom after the country's formation in 1971. Al Tajir's influence allowed him to retain his position as ambassador until 1987.

Relationship with Mohamed Al-Fayed

During the late 1960s, Al Tajir became acquainted with Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed through the efforts of Iraqi businessman Salim Abu Alwan. Al Tajir shared the financial struggles faced by Dubai, which caught Al-Fayed's attention. Al-Fayed was able to arrange a loan of £9 million, but unfortunately, the funds were owned by American lawyer Imre Rochlitz, whose Jewish background hindered further business relations. However, Al-Fayed later found suitable contractors for Al Tajir and received £1.5 million for his efforts.

Current Business Ventures

Currently, Al Tajir is the owner of a glass bottle manufacturing company in Dubai and a private bank in the Cayman Islands. His extensive collection of silver rarities and carpets showcases his passion for collecting valuable items. In 1993, Al Tajir acquired a silver candelabrum crafted by Balthasar Friedrich Behrens in 1736 for €2.27 million.

Despite facing a loss of power and influence, Mahdi Al Tajir continues to be a significant figure in the business world, with his ventures spanning various industries and locations around the world.