Mohamed Al Fayed, former Harrods owner, dies at 94

Billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed, the father of Princess Diana’s late partner Dodi Al Fayed, has died at the age of 94.

- ELEANOR NOYCE

The Egyptian businessman died on Wednesday morning, with his burial taking place last night at London Central Mosque, near Regents Park, after prayers, Sky News reports.

Mr Al Fayed was the owner of Hotel Ritz Paris, and previously owned Harrods department store and Fulham Football Club. In 2023, his wealth was estimated to be $2bn, ranking him 1,493 richest in the world.

In a statement released by Fulham FC, his family said: “Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age on Wednesday August 30, 2023.

“He enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones. The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time.”

A statement from Fulham FC’s owner and chairman Shahid Khan said: “On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94.

“The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as chairman. His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike.

“I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as chairman in 2013. I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club.”