Adel Al Ateeq: Pioneering Saudi Arabia’s Financial and Investment Revolution

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning financial and entrepreneurial ecosystem stands Adel Al Ateeq—a visionary leader and trailblazer whose work has reshaped the nation’s investment landscape. With a career marked by innovation and impact, Adel’s journey provides a masterclass in driving systemic change while staying grounded in values and purpose.

Building Foundations: The Early Vision

Adel Al Ateeq’s path to prominence began with a clear goal: to empower Saudi Arabia’s economy through innovative investment vehicles and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). As the Founder and Chairman of Riyad REIT, Saudi Arabia’s first real estate investment trust, Adel carved out a pioneering space in a then-untapped market. His leadership enabled Riyad REIT to become a model for sustainable and transparent investments, bridging traditional and modern investment strategies.

This success, however, was only the beginning. Adel’s role as Vice Chairman of Riyad Capital showcased his dedication to advancing financial services in the Kingdom. His efforts extended beyond profitability to fostering a financial ecosystem that champions inclusivity and growth.

Catalyzing Saudi Arabia’s Venture Capital Evolution

Adel’s most transformative role has been as the CEO of Jada Fund of Funds, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s venture capital and private equity ecosystem. Jada was established to catalyze investment in SMEs—key drivers of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy. Under Adel’s stewardship, Jada has gone beyond its mandate, creating a ripple effect in nurturing entrepreneurs and enabling their access to much-needed capital.

Adel’s impact here is systemic, addressing long-standing barriers to capital access and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. This has not only stimulated innovation but also reinforced Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a global investment hub.

Alwaed: Bringing Investment Innovation to the Masses

Adel’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his role as Cofounder and CEO of Awaed, a revolutionary investment platform that simplifies access to global markets. Awaed stands out with its instant investment accounts via Absher integration, Apple Pay deposits, and fast biometric login.

Crucially, Awaed champions Sharia-compliant investments, combining ethical considerations with cutting-edge technology. Adel’s leadership ensures that Awaed not only competes with traditional options but surpasses them by offering commission-free trading and a unified portfolio experience.

Balancing Innovation and Values

Adel’s ability to harmonize tradition with innovation is a hallmark of his leadership. Whether it’s ensuring Sharia compliance in Awaed’s offerings or building a sustainable REIT, he demonstrates that progress and values can coexist.

His involvement with the Saudi Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SVCPEA) and board memberships with organizations like Boudl Hotels & Resorts and Taibah Valley Company further cement his influence across industries. Adel’s diverse portfolio of roles underscores a commitment to holistic growth for Saudi Arabia.

Lessons for Founders

Adel Al Ateeq’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and adaptability. For founders looking to make an impact, his story offers three key lessons:

1. Build with Purpose: Adel’s work consistently aligns with larger economic and societal goals, proving the value of purpose-driven leadership.

2. Innovate Responsibly: Whether through Jada or Awaed, Adel balances technological advancement with ethical considerations, offering a model for sustainable innovation.

3. Think Ecosystem, Not Individual: Adel’s roles show the importance of creating ecosystems where others can thrive, ensuring long-term impact.

Conclusion

Adel Al Ateeq’s journey from visionary founder to an architect of Saudi Arabia’s financial future is nothing short of inspiring. By blending innovation with tradition, he has not only advanced his ventures but also empowered countless others to succeed. As Saudi Arabia continues its remarkable transformation, Adel remains a guiding light for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

Discover Adel Al Ateeq’s inspiring journey as a founder and CEO driving Saudi Arabia’s financial evolution. Learn how his leadership at Jada, Awaed, and Riyad REIT is empowering SMEs and reshaping global investment opportunities.

From founding the Kingdom’s first REIT to leading Jada Fund of Funds, Adel empowers SMEs and drives innovation. His latest venture, Awaed, revolutionizes ethical investment access.