Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin to Depart Role After Seven Years

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is undergoing a leadership transition as Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), prepares to step down after seven years. His tenure saw the Kingdom surpass its 100 million annual visitor target years ahead of schedule, prompting an updated goal of 150 million visitors by 2030. Hamidaddin played a key role in launching the Visit Saudi brand, securing global partnerships, and positioning tourism as a cornerstone of Vision 2030’s economic diversification. Abdullah Al Hagbani will assume the acting CEO role from July 1, though no permanent successor has been named. Hamidaddin’s leadership transformed Saudi Arabia into a global tourism destination, reshaping international perceptions through high-profile campaigns and direct engagement with governments, investors, and media. Prior to STA, he held senior roles in the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority, King Abdullah Economic City, and the Ministry of Tourism, bridging government strategy with commercial execution. Under his guidance, Saudi Arabia developed tourism infrastructure, aviation links, and a visitor economy ecosystem at unprecedented speed. He also co-founded TOURISE, a Saudi-backed platform uniting industry leaders to address future travel challenges, emphasizing innovation and sustainability. His departure coincides with a shift in Saudi tourism’s trajectory, as the Kingdom recalibrates mega-projects amid financial constraints and regional tensions, including Iran-related disruptions. While visitor numbers and global awareness have surged, Saudi tourism now faces a more complex phase balancing ambition with economic realities. Rising debt and the scale of ongoing projects have intensified scrutiny over execution and timelines. The transition marks both a milestone in Saudi tourism’s rapid growth and a test of its ability to sustain progress amid evolving challenges.