Harrods has recently made headlines following the passing of Mohamed Al Fayed, the Egyptian billionaire who owned the iconic department store for 25 years. Al Fayed, a controversial figure known for his flamboyant personality, acquired Harrods in 1985 and transformed it into a luxury shopping destination. During his ownership, he introduced numerous changes and expansions to the store, solidifying its reputation as a symbol of opulence and extravagance.
Established in 1834, Harrods is located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London, and is renowned for its upscale offerings across various departments, including fashion, beauty, food, and homeware. The store's distinctive green and gold facade and iconic Egyptian-themed escalator have made it a landmark in the city. Harrods is currently owned by the state of Qatar through its sovereign wealth fund, the Qatar Investment Authority, which acquired the store from Al Fayed in 2010. The department store continues to attract visitors from around the world seeking a luxury shopping experience in the heart of London.