Osama Bin Hassan Al Afaleq stands as a towering figure in the Middle East’s construction industry, serving as the Vice Chairman of AlKifah Holding and the Chairman of AlKifah Contracting Company. With a career spanning over three decades, he has transformed AlKifah Contracting into one of Saudi Arabia’s top 10 contracting firms, delivering projects that align with the kingdom’s ambitious development goals. His leadership, rooted in an engineering background and a commitment to excellence, has earned him widespread recognition, including a prestigious ranking as number 4 on Construction Week’s 2020 Power 100 List.
Born into a family with a strong entrepreneurial legacy, Al Afaleq inherited the vision of his father, Sheikh Hassan Abdullah Al-Afaleq, who founded AlKifah Holding in 1970. With a degree in engineering, Al Afaleq brought technical expertise and a forward-thinking approach to the family business. In the early 1990s, he assumed the role of General Manager at AlKifah Contracting Company, marking the beginning of his transformative journey. His ability to blend technical knowledge with strategic vision quickly set him apart as a leader capable of navigating the complexities of the construction industry.
Al Afaleq’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish key subsidiaries under AlKifah Holding, including AlKifah Real Estate Company and Al-Kifah Precast Company. These ventures expanded the group’s footprint in real estate and construction materials, showcasing its ability to diversify and innovate. As Vice Chairman of AlKifah Holding, he oversees a conglomerate with over 27 subsidiaries, spanning contracting, construction solutions, financing, education, and renewable energy.
Leading AlKifah Contracting to New Heights
Under Al Afaleq’s leadership, AlKifah Contracting Company has become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s construction sector. Established in 1971, the company has over 50 years of experience and a reputation for delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. With a turnover exceeding $2 billion, AlKifah Contracting has worked with major clients such as Saudi Aramco, the Royal Commission in Jubail and Yanbu, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), SABIC, and various government ministries.
The company’s commitment to excellence is evident in its adoption of international standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications. These accolades reflect Al Afaleq’s emphasis on quality, environmental responsibility, and workplace safety. His leadership has also earned AlKifah Contracting nominations for ‘Contractor of the Year’ by the Middle East Economic Digest (MEED) Awards for two consecutive years, underscoring its reliability and industry standing.
Notable Projects
AlKifah Contracting’s portfolio includes some of Saudi Arabia’s most significant projects, showcasing its capability to handle complex and large-scale developments. Below is a table highlighting key projects under Al Afaleq’s leadership:
| Project Name | Location | Description | Client |
| King Fahd University Business Park | Dhahran, Saudi Arabia | A $1.5 billion megaproject for academic and commercial development | KFUPM |
| Red Sea Project Hotel | Red Sea Coast | Construction of the first hotel to welcome visitors, supporting tourism goals | The Red Sea Development Company |
| Jazan Industrial City Commercial Port | Jazan, Saudi Arabia | Industrial port infrastructure for Saudi Aramco | Saudi Aramco |
| Amaad Business Park | Dhahran, Saudi Arabia | A commercial hub fostering business growth | Private Sector |
| Dar Al-Hijra Project | Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah | A 1.6 million square meter development at a key intersection | Private Sector |
These projects highlight AlKifah’s versatility, from educational and commercial developments to tourism and industrial infrastructure. The Red Sea project, in particular, aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy through sustainable tourism. Al Afaleq’s strategic oversight ensures that these projects meet client expectations and contribute to the kingdom’s broader development objectives.
Industry Leadership and Recognition
Al Afaleq’s influence extends beyond AlKifah Contracting. In 2015, he was appointed Chairman of the Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA), a role he was later re-elected to. As SCA Chairman, he has driven initiatives to strengthen the construction sector, fostering innovation and aligning it with Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals. His leadership in this role has solidified his reputation as a visionary in the industry.
In 2020, Al Afaleq’s contributions were recognized when he was ranked number 4 on Construction Week’s Power 100 List, a prestigious acknowledgment of the most influential leaders in the Middle East’s construction sector. This ranking reflects his ability to navigate industry challenges and drive progress in a competitive landscape.
Commitment to Community and Sustainability
Beyond his professional achievements, Al Afaleq is deeply committed to community development and sustainability. AlKifah Holding, under his guidance, supports numerous community-driven initiatives, including charity work, training programs, and employment opportunities. The company’s participation in the Saudi Green Initiative, as highlighted by its ESG strategy, underscores Al Afaleq’s focus on sustainable practices. AlKifah’s sponsorship of the Future Projects Forum for five consecutive years, as noted by Dana Al-Afaleq, Director of Relations and Sustainability, reflects its long-term commitment to industry and community partnerships.
A Legacy of Impact
Osama Bin Hassan Al Afaleq’s journey is one of dedication, innovation, and impact. His leadership has transformed AlKifah Contracting Company into a powerhouse in Saudi Arabia’s construction industry, delivering projects that shape the nation’s future. From megaprojects like the KFUPM Business Park to sustainable initiatives like the Red Sea project, Al Afaleq’s vision continues to drive progress. His commitment to quality, community, and sustainability ensures that his legacy will endure, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s growth and development for years to come.
