Rami Makhlouf, often referred to as the “king of Syria’s black market,” began his entrepreneurial journey in the late 1990s, during the presidency of Hafez al-Assad. Born into a prominent family with political connections, Makhlouf initially worked in his father’s import-export business. However, he soon ventured into the more lucrative and less regulated market of smuggling, primarily dealing in goods such as cigarettes, fuel, and electronics.

Makhlouf’s rise to fame and fortune was swift and dramatic. He quickly established a reputation for his business acumen and ruthless tactics, often using his family’s political clout to secure favorable deals and avoid scrutiny. His operations expanded rapidly, and by the early 2000s, he had become one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in Syria, with a vast network of businesses and investments across various sectors, including telecommunications, real estate, and finance.

Rami Makhlouf’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Rami Makhlouf’s current net worth is estimated to be around $5 billion, according to the latest available information. This places him among the wealthiest individuals in Syria.

Rami Makhlouf’s Career

Rami Makhlouf is a Syrian businessman and the cousin of Bashar al-Assad, the President of Syria. He began his career in the early 2000s, establishing himself as a major player in the Syrian economy. He has held various positions, including the head of the Syrian National Security Bureau, and has been involved in numerous business ventures, both legal and controversial.

Other Ventures

Makhlouf’s business empire spans across various sectors, including telecommunications, construction, and oil. He is the founder and majority shareholder of Syriatel, Syria’s largest mobile phone operator. He also has significant investments in real estate and banking. Despite the economic sanctions imposed on Syria, Makhlouf has managed to maintain and even grow his wealth.

Assets

Makhlouf’s assets include a luxurious villa in Damascus, a private jet, and numerous properties in Syria and abroad. He is also known to have significant investments in offshore accounts. His business interests in Syria, however, have been the subject of much controversy and criticism, with some accusing him of using his political connections to amass wealth at the expense of the Syrian people.

Annual Income

Makhlouf’s annual income is difficult to pinpoint due to the opaque nature of his business dealings and the lack of transparent financial reporting in Syria. However, given his extensive business interests and the value of his assets, it is estimated that his annual income could be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Despite the economic turmoil in Syria, Makhlouf’s wealth has continued to grow, indicating a significant annual income.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Rami Makhlouf

Frequently Asked Questions: Rami Makhlouf Net Worth

1. Who is Rami Makhlouf?

Rami Makhlouf is a Syrian businessman and the cousin of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. He is one of the most influential figures in Syria’s business and political landscape.

2. What is Rami Makhlouf’s net worth?

Rami Makhlouf’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 billion.

3. How did Rami Makhlouf make his fortune?

Makhlouf’s wealth comes from his extensive business interests in Syria, including telecommunications, construction, and oil and gas. He is the founder and majority shareholder of Syriatel, Syria’s largest mobile phone operator.

4. Is Rami Makhlouf the richest person in Syria?

Yes, Rami Makhlouf is the richest person in Syria.

5. What is Rami Makhlouf’s role in Syrian politics?

While not holding any official political position, Makhlouf is considered to be one of the most powerful figures in Syrian politics due to his close relationship with President Assad and his significant influence over the country’s economy.

6. Has Rami Makhlouf faced any controversies?

Yes, Makhlouf has faced numerous controversies, including allegations of corruption, smuggling, and human rights abuses. He has also been subject to U.S. and European Union sanctions due to his association with the Syrian regime.

7. What is Rami Makhlouf’s relationship with the Assad family?

Makhlouf is the cousin of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and is considered to be a part of the Assad family inner circle. He is often referred to as a “brother” to the president.

8. Does Rami Makhlouf have any children?

Yes, Rami Makhlouf has two children, a daughter named Lina and a son named Hafez.

9. Where does Rami Makhlouf live?

Makhlouf primarily resides in Damascus, Syria, but he also owns properties in other countries, including Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates.

10. What is Rami Makhlouf’s nationality?

Rami Makhlouf is a Syrian national.