Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq stands as a towering figure in Saudi Arabia’s industrial and engineering sectors, celebrated as the co-founder and chairman of Alfanar Group. His visionary leadership has propelled Alfanar from its humble beginnings as a construction company to a global leader in electrical manufacturing, engineering services, and renewable energy.
Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, a credential that laid the foundation for his illustrious career in the technical and industrial fields. While specific details about his early life, such as his birthplace or formative years, remain limited in public records, his engineering education equipped him with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of electrical construction and project development. This academic background has been a cornerstone of his ability to lead Alfanar Group through decades of growth and diversification.
Career Beginnings
Al Mutlaq’s professional journey began in the engineering sector, where he likely gained hands-on experience in electrical construction projects. This early exposure to the industry provided him with a deep understanding of its challenges and opportunities, shaping his approach to business leadership. His technical expertise and practical knowledge were critical in preparing him to co-found a company that would redefine standards in electrical manufacturing and engineering services.
Founding Alfanar Group
In 1976, Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq, alongside his brother Sabah Al Mutlaq, established Alfanar Construction in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Initially focused on electrical construction, the company quickly earned a reputation for reliability and quality. Over time, Alfanar Construction evolved into Alfanar Group, expanding its portfolio to include manufacturing electrical and electronic products, engineering services, and large-scale project development. Al Mutlaq’s strategic vision and leadership were pivotal in this transformation, setting the stage for the company’s remarkable growth.
Growth and Expansion
Under Al Mutlaq’s stewardship, Alfanar Group has achieved significant milestones, diversifying its operations and expanding its footprint across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe. The company’s early projects, such as the Farasan Island Electrification Project (1979-1981) and the Sajir Electrification Project (1981-1983), established its credibility in Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure sector. By the 1990s, Alfanar had completed its first power plant in Qurayyat (1990-1993), marking a significant leap in its capabilities.
In recent decades, Alfanar Group has embraced renewable energy, aligning with global sustainability goals. Key projects include:
- 50 MW Solar Photovoltaic Plant in Benban Solar Park, Egypt: Awarded in 2015 and constructed between 2018 and 2019, this project marked Alfanar’s entry into large-scale solar energy production.
- Project Lanuza, Spain: A 500 MW wind farm spanning 23 sites across three regions, demonstrating Alfanar’s expertise in wind energy development.
- Acquisition of Senvion India: This strategic move enhanced Alfanar’s capabilities in wind turbine technology, strengthening its position in the renewable energy market.
Alfanar’s international expansion includes subsidiaries like Alfanar Energía in Spain, which focuses on renewable energy, and Alfanar Projects, which undertakes critical infrastructure developments across multiple continents. In 2016, Al Mutlaq emphasized the company’s global ambitions, stating, “This comes at a time when Alfanar is aggressively involved in expanding its product portfolio and the markets it operates in as well as reaching out to new markets”.
| Project Name | Location | Year | Description |
| Farasan Island Electrification | Saudi Arabia | 1979-1981 | Early electrification project establishing Alfanar’s reputation |
| 50 MW Solar Photovoltaic | Benban, Egypt | 2018-2019 | First major solar energy project |
| Project Lanuza | Spain | Ongoing | 500 MW wind farm across 23 sites |
| Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant | Teesside, UK | Ongoing | Produces over 175 million liters annually |
Key Achievements
Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq’s leadership has yielded numerous accolades and achievements for Alfanar Group, including:
- Establishing Alfanar as Saudi Arabia’s largest privately owned manufacturer of electrical and electronic products.
- Completing critical infrastructure projects, such as the Haramain High Speed Railway Substations (2011-2013) and Waad AlShamal Substations (2014-2016).
- Installing 5 million smart meters across Saudi Arabia (2019-2021), showcasing innovation in energy efficiency.
- Developing a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) plant in Teesside, UK, expected to produce over 175 million liters annually, contributing to aviation decarbonization.
- Initiating a $4 billion green hydrogen project in Egypt, aimed at producing clean energy through renewable sources.
These accomplishments highlight Al Mutlaq’s ability to drive ambitious projects while maintaining a focus on sustainability and technological advancement.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is a core pillar of Al Mutlaq’s vision for Alfanar Group. The company’s investments in renewable energy, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects, reflect a proactive approach to addressing global environmental challenges. The SAF plant in the UK and the green hydrogen initiative in Egypt are prime examples of Alfanar’s commitment to supporting nations in achieving net-zero goals. These efforts position Alfanar as a leader in the global transition to clean energy.
Leadership and Management Style
As Chairman, Al Mutlaq is known for his hands-on leadership and ability to inspire his team. He emphasizes ethics, excellence, collaboration, and innovation—values that define Alfanar Group’s culture. His role as a board member of the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) underscores his commitment to advancing industrial development in Saudi Arabia. Al Mutlaq’s leadership fosters a work environment where employees are encouraged to embrace new technologies and pursue excellence.
Corporate Social Responsibility
While specific details about Al Mutlaq’s involvement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) are limited, Alfanar Group actively engages in initiatives that benefit local communities. These include supporting education, promoting environmental conservation, and fostering economic development through local supplier partnerships. The company’s focus on local content requirements in its projects reflects a commitment to creating value in the regions where it operates.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq continues to steer Alfanar Group toward sustainable growth and innovation. His vision includes expanding into new markets, leveraging advanced technologies, and maintaining Alfanar’s leadership in the energy and infrastructure sectors. By prioritizing sustainability and global collaboration, Al Mutlaq aims to position Alfanar as a key player in the world’s transition to clean energy.
Abdulsalam Al Mutlaq’s journey from co-founding Alfanar Construction to leading Alfanar Group as a global industry leader is a testament to his vision, dedication, and leadership. His strategic foresight has transformed Alfanar into a powerhouse in electrical manufacturing, engineering, and renewable energy, with a lasting impact on Saudi Arabia and beyond. Through his commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence, Al Mutlaq’s legacy continues to shape the future of Alfanar Group and the global energy landscape.
