Mohammad Sheikh Suliman wears suit, Tom Ford; polo neck, Mercken; hat, Elvis Pompilio. Photography: Domen / Van de Velde
The founder of the world-famous Al Sheikh farm, Mohammad Sheikh Suliman, has always been passionate about horses. The global businessman is also an investor in start-up companies and a qualified horse trainer, launching his farm in 2016 and rapidly making his mark in the Arabian horse world. Over the last four years, the company has gained international recognition for its breeding program, winning world championships.
Outside of the equestrian world, Suliman, a keen sartorialist, is also a philanthropist focusing particularly on education. Speaking to Vogue Man Arabia, he reveals all about his love of horses, his donation campaigns, and his ultimate style tips.
Mohammad Sheikh Suliman wears coat, Dolce & Gabbana; suit, Tom Ford; polo neck, Mercken; hat, Elvis Pompilio. Photography: Domen / Van de Velde
When did your passion for horses begin?
My interest and love for Arabian horses stem from a very young age. I used to visit my grandfather and he would show me his Arabian horses. Ever since then my love for Arabian horses has grown. Four years ago I got my first horse, and over the past year and a half, I acquired 30 more, and each one of them is considered a big part of my life. My love for horses comes from religious motives as well. I truly believe that God blesses all those who take care of horses.
Mohammad Sheikh Suliman wears suit, waistcoat, pants, Caramelo; shirt, tie, Louis Vuitton. Photography: Domen / Van de Velde
How did you establish your first farm?
Al Sheikh farm was founded in 2016 with the help of Raphael Curti and Uri Shaked. It did not take long for Al Sheikh to be recognized as one of the most successful and fastest-growing farms in the world, winning the silver trophy in its very first year and most recently winning the Arabian Horse World Championship in 2018 and 2019. Al Sheikh horse farm has also achieved great success across the Middle East, but it is in Paris where the farm’s horses have really dominated and made the farm’s name famous worldwide. The dedication and passion the team has for the Arabian horse breed made Al Sheikh an internationally recognized farm.
Tell us about your philanthropy projects.
My main philanthropic contributions are through donations and grants to several schools and organizations. My donations have gone mostly towards fellowships and scholarships for deserving students in the fields of engineering and computer science, especially to Arab students studying in foreign universities. I believe that donating and raising awareness of the importance of education in our community will make a remarkable impact. I’m also a main sponsor for other national institutions. Every year, I run donation campaigns. For example, one of them is called Sufficiency. It provides for families who are in need of food.
Mohammad Sheikh Suliman wears blazer, Caruso; polo neck, Mercken. Photography: Domen / Van de Velde
What is next for your company?
I can’t say – it will ruin the surprise. What I can tell you is that we are working on one of the biggest technological projects that you will see in 2021. Headquartered in Cyprus and the UAE, we will make a huge impact that’s going to reach smart devices all over the world.
Tells us about your style.
Whenever I select pieces to wear, I follow my current mood and consider other people’s opinions last. Before looking nice, the outfit needs to be comfortable and whenever I buy clothes, I don’t really pay too much attention to the brand. Every occasion and every event demands a different dress code, and each person has their own taste and style, whatever suits them best.
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Photography: Domen / Van de Velde
Style: Francis Boesmans
Hair and grooming: Yvonne Nusdorfer
Photography assistant: Gaelle Spaas
