In the heart of Kuwait’s dynamic transformation, one name continues to shape its narrative with vision, purpose, and innovation H.H. Rakan Bader Al-Sabah. A distinguished member of the Al-Sabah royal family, H.H. Rakan is more than a leader. He is a steward of legacy and a catalyst for progress. As the Chairman of the National Group, he has built a modern empire rooted in Kuwait’s heritage while steering it toward global prominence.
Under his strategic leadership, the National Group has emerged as one of Kuwait’s most diversified and forward-thinking conglomerates, with influence across infrastructure development, heavy equipment, engineering, logistics, and international trade. His ambitions extend far beyond business. H.H. Rakan’s commitment to national development, youth empowerment, innovation ecosystems, and global partnerships reflects his core belief that visionary leadership must inspire growth at every level of society.
From reshaping the business landscape to championing the rise of sports like padel, H.H. Rakan Bader Al-Sabah continues to redefine excellence in leadership blending tradition with innovation to create an impact that resonates across generations. In this special feature, we explore his values, philosophy, and plans for a brighter Arab world.
What early values shaped your path as a leader?
“Leadership, for me, has always been about responsibility, not status. I was raised in an environment where serving others was considered the true essence of leadership. From a young age, I learned that influence is not defined by power, but by how well you empower those around you. Those foundational values continue to guide my leadership journey.”
How has your royal heritage influenced your leadership outlook?
“Carrying the Al-Sabah name is both an honor and a duty. It instills in me a deep sense of purpose to uphold our nation’s values and to continuously work toward its betterment. My heritage encourages me to lead with humility, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to national pride and progress. It’s about balancing legacy with relevance.”
What has leadership taught you most over the years?
“Leadership has taught me that resilience and adaptability are indispensable. The world evolves rapidly, and to be effective, one must remain firmly rooted in their principles while also being agile in strategy. True leadership is the balance of conviction and openness to change. It’s a mindset, not a method.”
How do you personally define success in today’s complex world?
“Success, to me, isn’t measured by personal accolades or business milestones it’s about collective progress. When I see teams flourish, communities uplifted, and ideas turned into sustainable systems, that’s true success. It’s about building frameworks that outlast you and nurturing ecosystems that empower generations.”
What principles guide you in making high-stakes decisions?
“Three core principles guide every critical decision I make: clarity of vision, alignment with national interest, and executional integrity. In times of uncertainty, I return to these values they help ensure that choices are both courageous and conscientious. It’s about being strategic without compromising on core ethics.”
What drives your ability to turn business challenges into growth opportunities?
“Every challenge is an invitation to innovate. Whether it’s a global disruption or a regional shift, I ask how can this make us more resilient and creative? Adversity often brings out the best in teams and systems when approached with the right mindset. Innovation often begins at the edge of discomfort.”
How do you build and maintain high-value global partnerships?
“Authenticity is the foundation. Global relationships are not transactions they’re built on shared vision, transparency, and mutual respect. Excellence is a language understood worldwide, and when your work reflects that, partnerships become enduring. It’s also important to listen and adapt—true collaboration is always two-way.”
What is your long-term vision for the National Group?
“I envision the National Group becoming a global benchmark for sustainable development, innovation, and ethical leadership. We’re not just building for today we’re creating structures that will shape the future of the Gulf region and beyond. This includes investing in smart technologies, green infrastructure, and human capital.”
Which industries in the Gulf are poised for major transformation?
“Technology-driven infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics, and digital commerce are set for exponential growth. The Gulf has both the ambition and the resources—we now need unified execution to lead these transformations globally. I’m particularly focused on the intersection of digitalization and sustainability, where the region can truly excel. Additionally, the development of health technology, education tech, and clean transportation solutions must be prioritized for a resilient future.”
Why is championing padel as a national sport so important to you?
“Padel is more than a sport it’s a platform for community, health, and national pride. Its inclusive nature makes it accessible, especially for the youth. By investing in padel, we’re creating safe, empowering spaces where young people can compete, grow, and represent Kuwait internationally. It’s about more than winning—it’s about identity and resilience. In every match, there is discipline, unity, and a lesson in perseverance qualities we need in future leaders.”
What does legacy mean to you beyond your business achievements?
“Legacy is the emotional and intellectual footprint you leave behind. It’s about how people feel when they speak your name. I want to leave behind values, institutions, and pathways that empower future generations to dream and build. Legacy is not what you accomplish, but what you enable others to achieve. It’s about impact that endures, beyond applause and beyond your time.”
And finally, what message would you share with the young visionaries across the Arab world?
“Dare to dream bigger than what you see around you. Don’t let fear or convention limit your ambition. Your heritage is rich, your potential is boundless. Root yourself in purpose, lead with boldness, and your legacy will follow. The future is not written it’s designed by those brave enough to act. Be that designer, and the world will take notice.”
