Asaad Basili

Asaad Basili was a prominent Lebanese businessman who moved to Egypt in 1895 and became a leading figure in the timber trade. Known for his insightful motto, 'Wood starts as fuel and ends as gold,' he significantly expanded his business operations, establishing Basili Timber Company, which became a major player in the industry. In addition to his commercial success, Basili was actively involved in social and cultural initiatives, contributing to the establishment of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce in 1922 and building a mosque for workers near his factory to facilitate their prayers. His architectural contributions, including a notable palace in Alexandria, reflect the rich Italian architectural heritage in the region.