Ahmed El Ibrahimi, Founder of Abou Nawas Hotel Chain, Passes Away
Ahmed El Ibrahimi, the founder of the Abou Nawas hotel chain and an iconic figure in Tunisian tourism development, passed away on September 22, 2025. A Kuwaiti businessman who settled in Tunisia at the age of 25, he contributed significantly to transforming the country's hotel landscape by introducing a modern and high-end approach.
A Legacy in Tunisian Hospitality
Under his leadership, Abou Nawas became a benchmark in Tunisian hospitality, with flagship establishments in Tunis, Hammamet, Djerba, and Tabarka. The chain distinguished itself through its professionalism, sense of hospitality, and ability to train a new generation of executives in the tourism sector.
Rise to Prominence
El Ibrahimi's ascent within the Tunisian-Kuwaiti Development Consortium (CTKD) was rapid. Within a year, he rose from General Manager to Chairman and CEO, demonstrating his vision and ability to lead large hotel projects. His influence greatly contributed to structuring Tunisian tourism and giving it an international dimension.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the difficulties related to geopolitical upheavals, including the suspension of Kuwaiti investments in the 1990s, Ahmed El Ibrahimi always sought to maintain and develop his projects. His career is marked by determination and a sense of innovation that inspired many professionals in the sector.
