Those close to Al-Fayed described him as determined to learn the truth, even if he eventually accepted that some questions might never be answered.

Allegations of abuse and Harrods’ response

Beyond his search for answers, Mohamed Al-Fayed’s legacy has also been clouded by serious allegations. In 2023, shortly before his death, he was accused by multiple former employees of sexual assault and rape. He was never charged.

A BBC documentary, Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods, featured testimonies from alleged victims. Following the airing of the documentary, Harrods — the luxury department store once owned by Al-Fayed — announced a compensation scheme for survivors, which has since received over 100 claims. The scheme was also extended to employees of Fayair, a private airline company formerly owned by him.

In a statement, Harrods condemned the alleged abuse, expressing deep regret that victims had been failed and pledging support through the involvement of an independent survivor advocate.