Farouk Al-Moayed, Prominent Bahraini Business Leader, Passes Away at 80

TDT | By Mohammed Darwish

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Farooq Al Moayyed, a highly regarded Bahraini businessman, has passed away at the age of 80 due to complications following surgery abroad. His life’s work had a profound influence on Bahrain’s economy, earning him recognition as a key figure in its modern development.

Born in Manama in 1944, Farooq grew up in the Fareej Al Fadhel neighbourhood, part of a well-established trading family. He graduated in 1966 from Loughborough University in England with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and returned to Bahrain to join the family business. His involvement helped expand and strengthen its operations, ensuring its growth during changing economic times.

Farooq’s father, Shaikh Yousif Al Moayyed, had shifted the family’s trade focus from pearls—following the downturn in that market—towards sectors like electrical goods. Farooq built on this foundation, overseeing further diversification and cementing the group’s standing in local and regional markets.

Throughout his career, Farooq held numerous senior positions across leading companies and organisations. He served as chairman of Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, Y.K. Almoayyed Properties, National Bank of Bahrain, Bahrain Duty-Free, Gulf Hotels Group, Bahrain National Holding, Ahlia University, National Finance House, and Al Wasat Publishing and Distribution.

He also held honorary roles, including leadership of Almoayyed International Group and the Bahrain Small and Medium Enterprises Society. His contributions extended to the Economic Development Board, where he was a member, and as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Ibn Khuldoon National School. He further served as Deputy Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and National Bank of Bahrain, and as Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council.

Farooq’s influence reached far beyond Bahrain. He held directorships with Bahrain Saudi Bank, Arab Banking Corporation, United Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance, Asia International Bank in Hong Kong, and Investcorp. He also advised international institutions, including Harvard University’s Institute for Social and Economic Policy in the Middle East and Georgetown University’s Center for Contemporary Arab Studies. In addition, he was an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Manama.

Farooq Al Moayyed will be remembered for his leadership, adaptability, and dedication to Bahrain’s progress. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.