A Legacy of Impact
Our founder believed that truly impactful philanthropic initiatives focus on long-term, sustainable impact, as opposed to providing immediate short-term relief; he believed one of the best ways to provide this long-term support is to empower individuals and communities, so as not to perpetuate cycles of dependency. Through the Suliman Saleh Olayan Foundation (SSOF), we bring this belief to life — investing in initiatives that uplift lives, strengthen communities, and build a better tomorrow.
“Give people something that nobody can take away.”
Suliman S. Olayan (1918-2002)
Founder
Our Journey Ever Forward for Future Generations
A Passion our Founder
Instilled
Our founder, Suliman S. Olayan, measured his success by the positive impact he had on others. He believed that any business operating within a community carries a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to its well-being and help shape a better future for all.
Our Founder's Philosophy
Our founder approached philanthropy with deliberation, thoughtfulness, and care—guided by a singular principle: to support initiatives that create lasting impact for generations to come and reflect a genuine commitment to progress, inclusion, and shared opportunity.
Continuing the Legacy
Our founder’s values guide our work in business and philanthropy. Through the Foundation Active Support Team (FAST) volunteer program, our people carry his legacy forward—taking action, building community, and shaping future leaders who live those principles every day.
Focus Areas That Drive Meaningful Impact
The Suliman Saleh Olayan Foundation centers its efforts around three core
pillars — each focused on creating sustainable, long-term change where it matters most.
Education
Our founder believed education was a lifelong enabler — a force that unlocks potential, fuels opportunity, and creates a cascading effect across generations. Rooted in this belief, SSOF’s education pillar supports learning at every stage, creating pathways to advancement and inclusion. By expanding access to knowledge, we help equip individuals to grow, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to the future of the Kingdom.
Healthcare
SSOF’s healthcare pillar is grounded in the belief that well-being is essential to participation, productivity, and progress. From life-saving treatments to long-term care, we support solutions that restore independence, remove barriers, and improve quality of life. With compassion at the core, we meet people where they are—ensuring that health challenges do not stand in the way of a brighter, more dignified future.
Relief, Assistance & Social Development
Rooted in compassion and a deep sense of shared responsibility, we address society’s most pressing needs with a clear focus on impact—providing support where it’s needed most. Guided by strong values and a commitment to uplifting lives, we work through thoughtful action and trusted partnerships to extend our reach, strengthen community ties, and create meaningful, lasting change across the Kingdom.
Our Impact in Numbers
380+
Scholarships
526,000+
Healthcare Beneficiaries
95,000+
Relief, Assistance & Social Development Beneficiaries
“Driven by the values and passion that define Olayan, the Suliman Saleh Olayan Foundation (SSOF) champions society’s most urgent causes with purpose—balancing patience, compassion, and resilience. Guided by a dedicated, agile team, we direct our efforts where they can shape the deepest and most enduring change.”
Abdulmohsen Al-Ajaji
Member of the Executive Committee of SSOF
Our Work in Action
Suliman S. Olayan Scholarships
Launched in 2013, the Suliman S. Olayan Scholarship Program has supported over 380 students across Saudi Arabia. With a focus on academic excellence and opportunity, it empowers future professionals to pursue higher education and realize their potential — creating a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and the Kingdom.
Child Mental Health Diploma
Developed with AlFaisal University and Al-Muhaidib Foundation, and designed by Massachusetts General Hospital, the Child Mental Health Diploma Program trains professionals to address children’s mental health needs. Over 70 graduates have been equipped to deliver specialized care, with plans to transition the program to Saudi faculty.
Suliman S. Olayan Institute
A lasting symbol of our 75th anniversary, the Suliman S. Olayan Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at KAUST empowers a new generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers. With a focus on innovation, public engagement, and startup incubation, the Institute builds on our founder’s vision to unlock knowledge and drive economic opportunity.
ZADK Scholarships
ZADK Culinary Academy is redefining Saudi Arabia’s culinary landscape through education that advances Saudization, sustainability, and social progress. SSOF proudly supports ZADK and sponsors students who are trained to become skilled chefs, advocates for wellness, local culture, and zero-waste practices—in line with Vision 2030.
Kafo Programs
SSOF supports a range of initiatives in partnership with the Kafo Association for Employment and Training. Among the most impactful is a program that empowers incarcerated women through vocational training, guaranteed income, and post-release employment—paired with psychological support and on-site facilities, such as gyms, libraries, and daycare centers. Launched in Riyadh and soon in Qassim, it is now being replicated by other donors across multiple cities.
Annual Ramadan Program
A long-standing tradition rooted in compassion and connection, this program enables SSOF to respond quickly and effectively to urgent needs during the holy month. Through flexible, project-based support, we reach communities across the Kingdom—delivering timely assistance and reflecting the values of generosity, empathy, and shared well-being that define this special time of year.
Eye Surgery Initiatives
Eye health has long been a focus within SSOF’s healthcare work. In 2024 alone, 360 patients across four cities received critical, sight-restoring surgeries—delivered through five partner NGOs. For many, it marked the difference between isolation and independence. Behind this effort is a deeper legacy: our founder’s belief that vision is a gateway to opportunity, dignity, and fuller participation in life.
Expanding Access to Care
For over three decades, SSOF has supported a wide spectrum of healthcare needs across the Kingdom—from a broad range of life-saving surgeries, rehabilitation, and critical physical therapy to mobile clinics, equipping medical centers, and housing for long-term patients. Quietly impacting over 526,000 lives since 1990, our work ensures that access to care is never out of reach for those who need it most.
Creating a Sustainable Tomorrow
Reducing our impact on the planet is as important as improving our impact within our community. Our conscientious sustainable practices across our business ensure our positive impact scales up with us.