Billionaire Father of Princess Diana's Partner Dodi, Al-Fayed, Passes Away at 94



by ZAIN UL ABEDIN

Billionaire Father of Princess Diana's Partner Dodi, Al-Fayed, Passes Away at 94
Billionaire Father of Princess Diana's Partner Dodi, Al-Fayed, Passes Away at 94 © Ian Walton/Getty Images Sport

Outspoken figure Mohamed Al-Fayed, a prominent Egyptian business tycoon, passed away at the age of 94. Recognized as the father of Dodi, Princess Diana's partner at the time of her tragic demise, Al-Fayed left an indelible mark on both the business world and public consciousness.

In a statement conveyed through Fullham FC on Friday, Al-Fayed's family shared the news of his peaceful passing on August 30, 2023. "Mrs. Mohamed Al Fayed, her children, and grandchildren confirm that her cherished husband, their esteemed father, and beloved grandfather, Mohamed, peacefully departed due to old age," the statement read.

Famed for his dynamic influence, Al-Fayed's legacy included the remarkable transformation of Britain's Harrods department store and the Fulham Football Club. Arriving in the United Kingdom during the 1970s, he went on to acquire several opulent establishments.

Among his notable holdings was the illustrious Ritz Hotel in Paris, a cherished possession maintained for an impressive four decades, according to reports from CNN.

Pursuit of Truth: Al-Fayed's Crusade

However, Al-Fayed was equally recognized for his relentless pursuit of truth and justice in the face of personal tragedy.

Following the untimely demise of his son Dodi in a fatal car accident in 1997, Al-Fayed embarked on a relentless crusade against the British Royals. Dodi's connection with Princess Diana had been initiated through his association with his father's enterprise, Harrods, a store frequented by the princess herself.

A brief but intense romance between Diana and Dodi concluded abruptly in the summer of 1997, when the two embarked on a vacation to the south of France, only to meet a tragic end just 30 days into their relationship. Al-Fayed steadfastly maintained that the incident was not an accident but a deliberate act of murder, a stance that often placed him in contentious opposition to the Royals.

His unwavering commitment extended to his financial support for the 2011 documentary "Unlawful Killing," a film presenting his perspective on the events surrounding Diana's death. However, the documentary faced challenges and was never officially released due to potential legal repercussions.

With his passing, Mohamed Al-Fayed leaves behind a legacy characterized by bold business ventures, passionate advocacy, and a determined quest for the truth. His impact on both the business world and the realms of social justice will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come.

Princess Diana