Early Life and Education
Shmuel Harlap was born in 1945 in Rehovot, Israel. He grew up in Rehovot and Haifa. His father, Amichai, established Colmobil, a car importer, in the early 1960s. Harlap served in the Golani Brigade during the Six-Day War. After completing his military service, he pursued higher education, earning a Ph.D. in Platonic philosophy from Harvard University and subsequently lectured in political science at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Rise to Success
Harlap's career took a significant turn when he joined Colmobil Group, eventually becoming its chairman in 1982. Under his leadership, Colmobil grew to become Israel's largest car importer, representing major brands like Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, and Mitsubishi. This success contributed significantly to Harlap's wealth. A pivotal moment in his financial success was his early investment in Mobileye, an automotive tech startup, where he acquired a 7.2% stake. Intel's acquisition of Mobileye in 2017 for $15.3 billion significantly increased his net worth, propelling him into the billionaire ranks.
Key Business Strategies
Harlap's key business strategy has been a blend of traditional automotive imports and strategic investments in emerging technologies. His leadership at Colmobil involved securing a significant share of the Israeli car market. Moreover, his foresight in investing in Mobileye showcased his ability to identify and capitalize on technological advancements. This dual approach of managing a successful traditional business while also investing in innovative startups has been a hallmark of his financial strategy.
Philanthropy
Shmuel Harlap, alongside his wife Anat, is committed to philanthropy. In August 2025, the Harlaps donated $180 million to Rabin Medical Center–Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva. The donation is the largest single gift to an Israeli hospital to date and will fund the construction of the “Tower of Hope,” a new heart and brain center. This act underscores their dedication to public health and unity within Israeli society, representing their commitment to supporting communities of all backgrounds.
