Muslim Billionaires Investing in Islamic Art

Islamic art is a profound reflection of a rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and its preservation and promotion are becoming increasingly vital in today's fast-paced world. Beyond the confines of galleries and museums, several visionary Muslim business leaders are championing the cause of Islamic art. These individuals, renowned for their achievements in the business world, are also investing their resources in preserving and promoting Islamic art. Let’s take a closer look at the billionaires who are ensuring that this timeless art form continues to inspire future generations.

Abdul Latif Jameel Family 

* The Abdul Latif Jameel family has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Arab Family Businesses by Forbes.

The Abdul Latif Jameel family, known for their business achievements and dedication to cultural preservation, has played a key role in safeguarding Islamic art. They have fostered strong partnerships with institutions like MIT and Harvard University, supporting initiatives that promote Islamic art globally. Additionally, Victoria & Albert Museum in London houses Jameel Gallery, displaying over 400 objects. Notably, the Jameel Prize, an international award for artists inspired by Islamic tradition, and contributions to Harvard Art Museums' programs exemplify their commitment. Their investments in exhibitions and educational initiatives continue to advance Islamic cultural preservation and enrich the global art scene.

Murat Ülker 

* Murat Ülker ranks #597 on the Forbes Billionaires list. (2024)

As the head of Yıldız Holding, one of the largest food conglomerates in the world, Murat Ülker has made significant strides not only in the corporate world but also in the art world. His passion for Islamic art, particularly contemporary interpretations of traditional forms, has led him to invest in various projects and exhibitions that emphasize the importance of Islamic cultural heritage. Through Yıldız Holding’s dedicated gallery, which showcases Islamic art and fosters cultural dialogue, Ülker continues to support the arts. Additionally, as the owner of Godiva, he leverages his global presence to further promote artistic initiatives.

Sakıp Sabancı and His Family

* In 2004, when Sakıp Sabancı passed away, he ranked #147 on the Forbes Billionaires list with a fortune of $3.2 billion.

A legendary figure in Turkey’s industrial growth, Sakıp Sabancı's legacy extends beyond business to cultural preservation. The Sabancı Museum in Istanbul, which he established, houses an impressive collection of Islamic calligraphy, manuscripts, and artworks. His investments in the museum have ensured that Islamic art remains accessible and appreciated by people from all backgrounds, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.

Syed Mokhtar AlBukhary 

* Syed Mokhtar AlBukhary ranks #2287 on the Forbes Billionaires list. (2024)

Syed Mokhtar AlBukhary, a prominent Malaysian tycoon, actively supports Islamic art through his AlBukhary Foundation. The foundation is a major sponsor of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, which showcases a vast collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and decorative arts from the Islamic world. Additionally, the foundation is the official sponsor of the Islamic art department at the British Museum. Syed Mokhtar has contributed to international exhibitions and educational initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Islamic art, ensuring its cultural significance is recognized and accessible worldwide.

Ömer Koç and Koç Family 

* Koç Holding ranks #309 on the Forbes Global 2000 List. (2024)

The Koç family, one of Turkey's most influential business dynasties, has long supported the arts, playing pivotal roles in preserving Islamic art. Their philanthropic efforts include funding exhibitions, supporting conservation projects, and acquiring significant Islamic artworks for public collections. A key example of their contributions is the Koç Family Galleries of Ottoman Art at the Metropolitan Museum, which enhances the display and appreciation of Ottoman and Islamic art on an international stage. The Sadberk Hanım Museum, founded by the Koç family, also reflects their dedication, housing a remarkable collection of Islamic artifacts, manuscripts, and decorative arts, ensuring these cultural treasures remain accessible to the world.

Abdulrahman Al-Zayani

* Al Zayani Investments has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Arab Family Businesses by Forbes.

As a prominent supporter of Islamic art, Al Zayani’s commitment to the field extends to significant investments, including the sale of the Al Zayani Middle Eastern art collection, which fetched $2.9 million at a Sotheby’s auction. This notable example highlights the family's deep involvement in both the appreciation and promotion of Islamic and Middle Eastern art on the global stage, further solidifying their role in preserving and elevating the value of these cultural treasures. Through sponsorships and philanthropic activities, the Al Zayani family has played a vital role in enhancing the visibility of Islamic art, both regionally and globally.

Selçuk Bayraktar 

* Selçuk Bayraktar ranks #2410 on the Forbes Billionaires list. (2024)

Selçuk Bayraktar, widely recognized for his technological innovations in defense, also actively supports cultural preservation. As a founder of the Kültür ve Medeniyet Vakfı (Foundation for Culture and Civilization), he contributes to promoting Islamic art and safeguarding cultural heritage. His efforts ensure that Islamic traditions are maintained and appreciated in both traditional and modern contexts, reflecting a blend of technological progress and cultural preservation.

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