Early Life: Humble Beginnings in Sur
Suhail Bahwan was born in the town of Sur, a coastal city in Oman famous for its shipbuilding and trading. Coming from a large family, Suhail spent his early years helping his father, who was a traditional dhow trader. They would sail between Oman and India, trading goods like dates and fish in return for food items and household goods.
Even as a child, Suhail showed an interest in business. He attended school in India but left his studies after sixth grade. He returned to Oman to take charge of his own dhow. This experience taught him how to negotiate, trade, and understand markets—skills that would shape his future.
The Move to Muscat: A New Chapter
In 1965, Suhail and his brother Saud decided to move to Muscat, Oman’s capital, in search of better business opportunities. They opened a small shop in the Muttrah Souq, a busy market area. At first, they sold fishing nets, but soon they added more products like building materials, tools, and everyday goods.
Their honesty and hard work helped them grow fast. By 1968, they were able to sign deals with international brands, becoming official agents for companies like Seiko and Toshiba. This marked the beginning of their journey into larger-scale trade.
Winning the Toyota Dealership: A Major Breakthrough
The real turning point in their business came in the 1970s when the Bahwan brothers tried to win the dealership rights for Toyota vehicles in Oman. It was a tough competition, with many big traders interested. But Suhail and Saud believed in themselves and were determined to succeed.
Their determination paid off in 1975 when they were granted the Toyota dealership. It was a huge deal. With Japan’s support and Oman’s trust, they turned the Toyota business into a market leader. This success gave them both money and reputation, making them one of the most trusted names in Oman’s business world.
Expanding the Empire: From Cars to Chemicals
After their success in the automobile industry, Suhail and his brother decided to diversify their business. They did not want to depend only on car sales. Over the years, they entered various sectors including:
- Construction and infrastructure: They began working on major building and road projects across the country.
- Manufacturing: Suhail partnered with local businessmen to start pipe manufacturing factories.
- Travel and tourism: They opened a travel agency that worked with international airlines.
- Electronics and consumer goods: They expanded their product range with more well-known international brands.
By the end of the 1980s, their business had grown to employ over 4,000 people. They were now involved in sectors like telecommunications, shipping, electronics, and even food distribution.
Family Dispute and Business Split
Every big business has its challenges, and the Bahwan family was no different. In 1990, Suhail and his brother Saud had a disagreement over how to run the company. The disagreement grew to the point that they decided to split their business.
In 2002, the official division happened. Saud took over the Toyota dealership and some related businesses. Suhail kept other parts of the empire, including the rights to Seiko and Toshiba. Despite the split, both businesses continued to grow independently.
Amal Bahwan: A New Generation Takes the Lead
After the split, Suhail started focusing on rebuilding and growing his part of the business. Around this time, his daughter Amal Bahwan joined the group. She started from the bottom, without a title or salary, and worked hard to understand the business.
Amal focused on organizing the company better. She introduced rules, policies, and new systems to help the company grow professionally. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed. In 2016, Suhail appointed her as the Vice Chairperson of the group.
Today, Amal is one of the most powerful women in Oman’s business world. She plays an important role in many companies, including banks, hospitals, and manufacturing firms. Under her leadership, the company continues to grow while keeping its core values of honesty and hard work.
A Modern Business Giant
Today, the Suhail Bahwan Group is one of the largest privately-owned companies in the Gulf region. It owns over 30 companies and employs more than 7,000 people. The group operates in many sectors, including:
- Chemicals and fertilizers: Their plant produces more than a million tonnes of urea every year.
- Healthcare: They have invested in hospitals and pharmaceutical companies.
- IT and telecommunications: They are part of several major technology and telecom projects.
- Automobiles: Until 2023, they were the official distributors of Nissan cars in Oman.
Even after losing the Toyota dealership, Suhail Bahwan’s companies have remained strong. Their wide range of business interests ensures that they continue to grow even in changing markets.
Giving Back: Philanthropy and Social Work
While Suhail Bahwan is known for his business success, he is also recognized for his charity work. He has always believed in helping the community and supporting people in need. Over the years, he has funded many projects in education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Suhail understands that success means little if it doesn’t help others. His philanthropic work continues to impact thousands of lives across Oman and beyond.
Legacy of a Billionaire
As of early 2025, Suhail Bahwan’s net worth is estimated at around $2 billion, making him one of the richest men in the Middle East. But more than the money, his legacy is defined by his journey—from a dhow trader with limited education to the founder of one of the largest business empires in the Arab world.
His life story is a powerful example of how determination, vision, and hard work can change one’s destiny. Today, his name stands as a symbol of success in Oman and across the Gulf.
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