Mohammed Al Barwani is one of Oman’s most successful businessmen. Known for founding MB Holding and owning the famous yacht company Oceanco, he has built a diverse business empire. His journey from a petroleum engineer to a billionaire businessman is truly inspiring. Let’s take a closer look at his life, achievements, and the empire he built.
Early Life and Education
Mohammed Al Barwani was born on October 30, 1951, in Oman. He always had a passion for science and engineering, which led him to study abroad. He earned his bachelor’s degree in science from Miami University in Ohio, USA, in 1975. He later pursued a master’s degree in petroleum engineering from Heriot-Watt University in the UK. Years later, the university awarded him an honorary doctorate in recognition of his success and contributions to the field.
Starting a Career in Petroleum Engineering
After finishing his studies, Mohammed Al Barwani began working at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) in 1976. PDO is a major oil company in Oman and is partly owned by Shell. He worked there for ten years, gaining valuable experience in oil exploration and production. This experience helped him understand the technical and business sides of the energy industry.
Founding MB Holding Company
In 1982, Al Barwani decided to start his own company. He founded MB Holding in Muscat, the capital of Oman. At first, the company focused on providing oilfield services. It worked with major clients like PDO and other oil producers in the region.
As time passed, MB Holding grew into a large multinational company. Today, it has operations in over 20 countries and employs thousands of people. The company has expanded into several sectors including oil and gas, mining, engineering, property development, and even luxury yachts.
Major Companies Under MB Holding
- MB Petroleum Services – Offers oilfield and drilling services around the world.
- Petrogas E&P – Engages in the exploration and production of oil and gas.
- Mawarid Mining – Focuses on mining minerals like copper and gold.
- United Engineering Services – Provides engineering solutions in various fields including aerospace and defense.
- Musstir – A property development company involved in hospitality and real estate.
MB Holding has earned a reputation for innovation, quality, and long-term vision. Mohammed Al Barwani’s leadership has been a key factor in its growth.
Buying Oceanco – Entering the World of Luxury Yachts
In 2010, Al Barwani made an interesting move by buying Oceanco, a Dutch shipyard that builds luxury superyachts. At the time, the company was struggling due to the global financial crisis. However, Al Barwani saw potential and invested in it.
Oceanco is now one of the world’s top builders of custom yachts. The company is known for producing large and stylish vessels for ultra-wealthy clients. Under his ownership, Oceanco has become a leader in innovation and sustainability in yacht building.
One of its most famous creations is the Black Pearl, one of the largest and most eco-friendly sailing yachts ever built. Al Barwani’s passion for the sea and engineering helped Oceanco reach new heights.
Leading Oman Air During a Difficult Time
In July 2020, Mohammed Al Barwani was appointed as the chairman of Oman Air, the country’s national airline. His appointment came during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when the aviation industry was facing severe challenges.
As chairman, he focused on making the airline more efficient. This included reducing unnecessary costs, optimizing flight routes, and looking into partnerships with other airlines. His leadership brought stability and new ideas to the airline during a critical period.
The Mohammed Al Barwani Foundation
In addition to his business ventures, Al Barwani is also known for his charitable work. In 2011, he and his wife, Sharifa Al Harthy, established the Mohammed Al Barwani Foundation (MBF). The foundation focuses on improving lives in Oman and other countries.
Key areas supported by MBF include:
- Education: The foundation provides scholarships and promotes safe driving among youth.
- Women’s Empowerment: MBF offers training and resources to help women start and grow their own businesses.
- Health: It supports medical research and donates modern equipment to hospitals.
- Community Development: MBF funds projects that improve infrastructure, promote art, and support cultural activities.
The foundation is officially recognized by Oman’s Ministry of Social Development and continues to play a major role in local development.
Family and Personal Life
Mohammed Al Barwani is married to Sharifa Al Harthy, who is also active in the family business as the deputy chairperson of MB Holding. The couple has five children, and many of them are involved in the family’s various business ventures.
Despite his wealth and success, Al Barwani is known to be humble and focused on giving back to society. He prefers to let his work and impact speak for him.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Al Barwani has received many honors for his achievements. In 2012, he received an award for innovation and excellence in the yacht industry. In the Netherlands, he was made a “Commandeur” in the Order of Orange-Nassau, a royal honor, for his contributions to the maritime industry.
These recognitions highlight his influence not just in Oman, but globally.
Conclusion
Mohammed Al Barwani’s life is a powerful example of vision, hard work, and dedication. From humble beginnings, he became a petroleum engineer, then a business founder, and finally, a global billionaire with interests in energy, mining, engineering, property, aviation, and luxury yachts.
His focus on innovation, sustainable practices, and philanthropy makes him a role model for entrepreneurs around the world. Whether through MB Holding, Oceanco, or his foundation, Al Barwani continues to shape industries and change lives.
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