Mohamed Al-Fayed: Former Harrods owner, whose son died in car crash with Princess Diana, dead at 94
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM: Mohamed Al-Fayed, the self-made billionaire who was known for his ownership of Harrods and Fulham FC, has died at the age of 94 of old age.
His death occurred nearly 26 years after the tragic car crash in Paris that claimed the lives of his son Dodi Al-Fayed, along with Princess Diana.
Where did Mohamed Al-Fayed die?
Mohamed Al-Fayed died in London. A funeral service adhering to Islamic traditions took place at London Central Mosque in Regents Park on September 1, following the practice of burying the deceased as promptly as possible, ideally within 24 hours.
As per BBC, in a statement released on September 1, 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 fulfilling retirement surrounded by his loved ones."
Where is Mohamed Al-Fayed buried?
Mohamed Al-Fayed is buried at Barrow Green Court, his 17th-century country estate located in Oxted, Surrey, in the family mausoleum next to his son, Dodi.
Dodi's initial resting place was Brookwood Cemetery near Woking, but he was later re-interred at Barrow Green Court, as reported by The Sun.
“The service went ahead as planned”, a source said, continuing, “The prayers were held in the mosque after Friday prayer - the prayer for the deceased”.
How did Mohamed Al-Fayed make his fortune?
According to Reuters, Mohamed Al-Fayed skillfully amassed his family's wealth through ventures in real estate, shipping, and construction, initially in the Middle East and subsequently expanding his influence into Europe.
Al-Fayed embarked on his career by selling fizzy drinks and later transitioned to working as a sewing-machine salesman, showcasing his journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of business success.
Born in Alexandria in 1929, Al-Fayed relocated to the United Kingdom during the 1960s and played a pioneering role in Dubai's early development.
He later acquired House of Fraser, which included Harrods, along with his brothers. Additionally, he owned the prestigious Ritz hotel in Paris, a possession he retained until his death.
Did Mohamed Al-Fayed meet Diana?
It is believed that Al-Fayed crossed paths with Diana and the then-Prince Charles at a polo match in the 1980s, which ultimately led to his introduction of Diana to his son, Dodi.
Despite his extensive business ventures, Al-Fayed became most prominently recognized for his persistent quest for answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the tragic crash that claimed the lives of Dodi and Diana on August 31, 1997 - almost precisely 26 years prior to his own death.