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Portrait of Yousef Asfour

Yousef Asfour

Visionary Educator, Influential Businessman

Born
1955
Born in
Sinjil village, Palestine
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Why Yousef is here

Yousef Asfour is renowned for founding the Arab American University in Palestine, the first private university in the country, and for his significant contributions in the fields of education, business, and charitable work within Palestine.

Their story

Yousef Asfour, born in Sinjil village, Palestine, is a prominent Palestinian businessman and educational pioneer. Despite facing financial constraints in his early life, he achieved notable success in various fields including customs clearance, trade, and real estate. His most notable achievement is the establishment of the Arab American University, which has made significant strides in the Palestinian educational sector. Additionally, Asfour is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting educational and community projects in Palestine.

In pictures

Milestones

The moments that shaped Yousef’s path.

  1. Educational Struggles and Early Career

    Asfour faced financial challenges in his early life, preventing him from completing university studies initially. He moved to Saudi Arabia to work in various fields including customs clearance and trade.

  2. 2000

    Establishment of Arab American University

    Founded the first private university in Palestine, enhancing higher education in the country.

  3. 1997

    Geneva Company Establishment

    Launched a successful marble and granite company in Palestine.

  4. 2018

    Sydney Tourism Investment Company

    Expanded his business ventures by establishing this company, which owns several international commercial agencies.

  5. Honorary Doctorate in Economics and Business Administration

    Received from the University of Oxford, recognizing his achievements in education and economics.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Educational Development

    His founding of the Arab American University provided significant opportunities for higher education in Palestine.

  2. Business Ventures

    Diversified his business interests across various sectors, contributing to the economic development of Palestine.

  3. Philanthropy

    Donated a secondary school in Sinjil and supported numerous community projects, displaying a commitment to education and community development.

  4. Promoting Technology in Education

    Opened a new computer lab at the Arab American University to enhance electronic services for students.

  5. National Recognition

    Awarded the Star of Merit from the Medal of the State of Palestine by President Mahmoud Abbas for his national role and economic contributions in higher education.

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