From Legacy to Leadership: The Story of Qais Al-Khonji
Born in 1978 into one of Oman’s most prominent business families, Qais Al-Khonji could have easily followed the well-paved path of legacy and wealth. His family—led by respected figures like Ahmed and Mohammed Al-Khonji—ran successful real estate ventures across Oman, Dubai, and the UK. But Qais had different plans. With a vision to forge his own identity, he broke away from the traditional family enterprises and set out to become a self-made entrepreneur, advocating innovation, technology, and youth empowerment along the way.
Education & Early Career: The Foundation of Purpose
Qais’ journey began abroad at Atlantic College in Wales, followed by a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from De Montfort University, Leicester, in 2001. After a brief stint in banking, he realized that true freedom lay in entrepreneurship. Instead of relying on family business ties, he ventured into import-export trades with East Asia, aiming to build something of his own—and by his rules.
Trials, Errors, and Breakthroughs
Al-Khonji’s entrepreneurial path wasn’t smooth. His first company, Qais United Agency, launched in 2010 to import water purification systems, eventually failed. But failure became his teacher. Each setback sharpened his understanding of market needs.
In 2012, he founded four new startups across diverse sectors—education, health tourism, electric technology, and digital metering. Although three of them closed, one stood out: Genesis International.
This venture offered smart metering solutions for water and electricity, helping cities in Oman and India move toward digitization and sustainable infrastructure. Through Genesis, Al-Khonji positioned himself at the forefront of smart-city development and green technology in the Middle East.
Achievements & National Recognition
Qais Al-Khonji’s contribution to entrepreneurship and economic reform has not gone unnoticed. His timeline of achievements is a testament to resilience and impact:
- 2006 – Board Member, Oman Fisheries Company
- 2009 – Board Member, Oman Investment and Finance Company
- 2010 – Launch of Qais United Agency
- 2011 – Board Member, Fund for Development of Youth Projects
- 2012 – Founding of Genesis International
- 2013 – Launch of Genesis Projects & Investments (focused on oil extraction technologies)
- 2013 – Board Member, Muscat National Holding
- 2015 – Social Entrepreneur of Oman by Business Worldwide Magazine
- Represented Omani entrepreneurs in bilateral business talks with the President of India
- Partnered with top global brands such as Thermax (India) and Albentiag (Spain)
Empowering Omani Youth
While business success forms the core of his public identity, mentorship and youth empowerment lie at the heart of Qais’ mission. He serves as a mentor, advisor, and public advocate for entrepreneurial development among Oman’s younger generation.
Al-Khonji believes in technology-based transformation of traditional industries, helping a new generation of Omanis see entrepreneurship not just as an option, but as a necessity for freedom and growth.
The Man Behind the Mission
Despite his public achievements, Qais Al-Khonji leads a deeply personal and grounded life. He’s a father of two—Zainab and Mahmoud—and prefers to keep his family life private.
Outside the boardroom, he finds joy in fashion and collecting clothing, and stress relief through riding his beloved three-wheeled motorcycle—often joined by a close-knit biker community. For him, this isn’t a hobby—it’s a ritual of clarity and balance.
💬 Famous Quote
“I want to be my own boss and do what I love.”
— قيس الخنجي
Quick Facts
- Born in Muscat, Oman (1978)
- Educated in the UK
- Passionate about motorcycles and fashion
- Advocates youth entrepreneurship and innovation
- Founder of Genesis International and Genesis Projects & Investments
- Known for independently rising outside family businesses
- Believes entrepreneurship = personal freedom
Final Word
At Arageek, we see Qais Al-Khonji as more than a businessman. He is a visionary builder—one who has dared to step away from comfort and tradition to pave his own way in business and in life. Through his entrepreneurial grit, technological foresight, and unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, he exemplifies the modern Arab leader, driven by innovation, independence, and purpose.
