Saadi Saihood

Entrepreneur and Philanthropist

Mr. Saadi Saihood’s entrepreneurial journey is a remarkable Iraqi success story. Born to relatively humble beginnings in Baghdad in 1954, he has drawn on his economic vision and effective management skills, achieving extraordinary success in the corporate world.

Early Life & Career

Saadi Saihood

CEO & Chairman of RAS Group

Early Life & Career

Mr. Saihood graduated in 1977 with a higher diploma from the Institute of Administration in Baghdad. He embarked on his professional journey by taking up a modest administrative role, steadily rising through the ranks. Over the years, he amassed a wealth of commercial and strategic experience, along with an extensive network of professional contacts. Having forged strong relationships with both domestic and international entities, he launched the Raban Al-Safina (RAS) Group of companies in the late 1990s.

Establishing RAS Group

Establishing RAS Group

Mr. Saihood’s objective in establishing his company was clear. It was about more than merely making money; instead, it was about “rebuilding Iraq with Iraqi hands.” Over the decades, RAS Group has expanded considerably, venturing into new industries. Today, the organization comprises 38 entities spanning an array of different sectors. RAS Group subsidiaries operate in industries as diverse as IT infrastructure and AI solutions, manufacturing, energy, real estate development, education, food and beverage, engineering, logistics and life support capabilities, turnkey construction, and professional security services.

A true son of Iraq, Mr. Saihood retains an unerring belief in his country’s potential to reestablish itself as a regional economic and industrial powerhouse. His entrepreneurial vision centers around the core tenets of providing innovative solutions that create real value, investing in people and national development, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and quality.

Philanthropy

In addition to his role as a prominent business leader, Mr. Saihood is also a committed humanitarian and philanthropist. Recognizing all too well the transformative power of education in shaping a brighter future for Iraq, he and his sons – Hussein, Ali, and Yousif – have established a worldclass university in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. Operating with a sharp focus on reforming Iraq’s educational and medical sectors, Mr. Saihood is committed to helping the nation reestablish itself as the Middle East’s leading cultural and intellectual hub.

Establishing AUIB

Establishing The American University of Iraq – Baghdad

Having worked tirelessly with his sons to establish the American University of Iraq – Baghdad, Mr. Saihood recognizes that no nation can flourish without modern education. He is committed to creating a new foundation for Iraq, enabling the nation to reclaim its rightful place as the cradle of civilization. The American University of Iraq – Baghdad is proud to offer a full spectrum of scholarships and financial support, enabling students from underprivileged backgrounds to access transformative academic opportunities.

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