In the early 2000s, the Arab world witnessed a digital transformation, largely spearheaded by visionary entrepreneurs. Among them, Samih Toukan stands out as a trailblazer who not only introduced the first Arabic email service but also laid the foundation for the region’s burgeoning e-commerce landscape.
The Birth of Maktoob.com: Revolutionizing Online Communication
In 2000, recognizing the Arab world’s need for localized online services, Samih Toukan co-founded Maktoob.com. This platform offered the world’s first Arabic email service, breaking language barriers and providing a digital space tailored for Arabic speakers. Under his leadership, Maktoob.com grew exponentially, amassing over 16 million users and becoming the largest online Arab community of its time. This monumental growth culminated in 2009 when Yahoo! acquired Maktoob.com, marking the region’s most significant technology acquisition at that time.
Establishing Jabbar Internet Group: Nurturing Digital Enterprises
Following the successful sale of Maktoob.com, Toukan’s entrepreneurial spirit remained undeterred. He established Jabbar Internet Group, aiming to foster and invest in innovative internet ventures across the Middle East. One of Jabbar’s most notable successes is Souq.com, which evolved into the Arab world’s largest e-commerce platform. This achievement caught global attention, leading to its acquisition by Amazon in 2017 for a staggering $680 million.
Jabbar Internet Group’s influence extends beyond Souq.com. The company has been instrumental in launching and supporting various internet businesses, solidifying its reputation as a leading investor in the region’s tech startups. In 2020, Jabbar made its first foray into the Pakistani market by leading a $1 million seed round for GrocerApp, an online grocery delivery service. This move underscored Toukan’s commitment to identifying and nurturing promising tech ventures beyond the Middle East.
Educational and Professional Foundations
Samih Toukan’s journey is underpinned by a robust educational background. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of London, followed by a Master’s in Management and International Business from HEC Paris. These academic achievements equipped him with a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen.
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Toukan honed his skills at Andersen Consulting, where he gained extensive experience in technology consulting, systems development, and internet services. In 1994, he co-founded Business Optimization Consultants, marking his initial step into the business world.
Philanthropy and Mentorship: Giving Back to the Community
Beyond his business endeavors, Toukan is deeply committed to philanthropy and mentorship. He serves as the chairman of UnderMyOliveTree, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting education in underprivileged communities. Additionally, he is an investor and board member of the Ruwwad Micro Venture Fund, which provides grants to entrepreneurs in marginalized areas of Jordan.
Toukan’s passion for fostering entrepreneurship is evident in his role as a founding investor in Oasis500, Jordan’s premier startup incubator. Through this platform, he mentors budding entrepreneurs, sharing his wealth of experience and guiding the next generation of innovators.
Recognitions and Accolades
Samih Toukan’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2009, he was honored with the Al Hussein Medal for Distinguished Performance of the First Order by His Majesty King Abdullah II, recognizing his significant impact on Jordan’s IT and telecommunications sector.
His influence extends beyond national borders. In 2011 and 2012, Arabian Business magazine listed him among the world’s 500 most influential Arabs, highlighting his role in shaping the digital landscape of the Middle East.
A Visionary Leader with a Lasting Legacy
Samih Toukan’s journey from co-founding Maktoob.com to leading Jabbar Internet Group exemplifies visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation. His efforts have not only transformed the Arab digital landscape but have also inspired countless entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. As he continues to mentor and invest in the next generation of tech pioneers, Toukan’s legacy as a catalyst for change in the Middle East’s digital evolution remains firmly intact. Do connect on Linkedin.
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