In the late 1960s, Saïd embarked on a transformative journey. Assisting his brother in managing a kebab restaurant in west London exposed him to opportunities beyond the culinary sphere. His association with two young Saudi princes, Bandar and Khalid, opened doors to new horizons. Although political instability in Syria thwarted his plans to enroll at the University of Cambridge, Saïd's thirst for knowledge led him to the Institute of Bankers in London.
In 1969, Saïd made a pivotal move to Saudi Arabia, a nation undergoing rapid transformation due to the surging price of oil. Recognizing the potential in large-scale infrastructure projects, he founded and invested in companies pivotal to shaping the modernization of Saudi Arabia's infrastructure.
The Karim Rida Saïd Foundation, later rebranded as the Saïd Foundation in 2008, serves as a testament to Wafic Rida Saïd's dedication to philanthropy. Established in 1982 in memory of his son, the foundation has played a crucial role in supporting various charitable causes, reflecting Saïd's belief in contributing to society.
A significant milestone in Saïd's commitment to education occurred in July 1996 when he generously donated £20 million to the University of Oxford to establish a business school. This contribution played a pivotal role in founding the Saïd Business School, rapidly propelling it to become a global leader in business education. The school's stellar reputation for academic excellence and groundbreaking research stands as a testament to Saïd's vision of nurturing future business leaders.
Wafic Rida Saïd's life journey epitomizes resilience, determination, and philanthropy. From his early days in a London kebab restaurant to his transformative impact on the educational landscape through the Saïd Business School, Saïd exemplifies that success is not solely measured in financial gains but also in the positive influence one can exert on society. His legacy serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations, highlighting the profound impact that a single individual can have on the world.
Wafic Rida Saïd: A Philanthropic Visionary and Business Trailblazer
