Explore the inspiring journey of Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, CEO of IMI and Makeen, whose visionary leadership is shaping Saudi Arabia’s maritime and industrial future under Vision 2030.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of Saudi Arabia's industrial and maritime sectors, Abdullah Al-Ghamdi stands as a beacon of transformative leadership and visionary excellence. As the Chief Executive Officer of International Maritime Industries (IMI) and a driving force behind Makeen, he embodies the ideals of Saudi Vision 2030, leading ambitious initiatives that not only redefine industries but also place Saudi Arabia on the global stage as a hub of innovation and opportunity.
The Foundations of Excellence
Abdullah Al-Ghamdi’s professional journey began with an unwavering commitment to excellence, earning him a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with highest honors from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals. Furthering his academic credentials, he completed a Master of Science in the Design of Rotating Machines at Cranfield University in the UK. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for a career characterized by innovation, resilience, and an unrelenting pursuit of growth.
Believing in the importance of continuous learning, Abdullah also completed prestigious executive programs, including Harvard Business School’s Management Development Seminar and the Advanced Board Governance Program at INSEAD. These programs further honed his strategic and governance capabilities, preparing him to lead complex organizations and shape the future of entire sectors.
Transforming Saudi Aramco and Laying the Groundwork for Industrial Progress
Abdullah’s career with Saudi Aramco spanned nearly 25 years, during which he held a series of pivotal roles across industrial services, project management, finance, and new business development. Notably, as Director of Mechanical Services Shops, he led teams responsible for providing critical services to Saudi Aramco’s upstream and downstream plants, consistently upholding the company’s reputation for operational excellence.
Under his leadership, Saudi Aramco’s central shops were not only reliable service providers but also hubs of innovation and workforce development. His efforts in building a sustainable, competent workforce and cultivating a qualified contractor base earned his department multiple President’s Excellence Awards—testament to his ability to align operational goals with strategic vision.
Makeen: Building a Foundation for Industrial Leadership
In November 2020, Abdullah transitioned into a new leadership role as CEO of Makeen, the first enterprise of its kind in the MENAT region to specialize in manufacturing marine equipment and pumps. At Makeen, Abdullah’s visionary leadership was pivotal during its establishment phase, as he guided the company through key milestones to operational readiness.
Under his stewardship, Makeen expanded its scope from manufacturing to include trading and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Abdullah’s strategic foresight culminated in partnerships with global giants like Rolls-Royce Power Systems, securing a 10-year framework license agreement to manufacture and service high-speed mtu engines within Saudi Arabia.
He also facilitated interim operations by establishing a Rolls-Royce mtu MRO service center in Dammam, generating revenue while preparing the main facilities at Ras Alkhair. These achievements underscore Abdullah’s ability to balance immediate goals with long-term growth, positioning Makeen as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s industrial future.
At the Helm of International Maritime Industries
Abdullah Al-Ghamdi’s appointment as CEO of International Maritime Industries (IMI) in June 2024 marked a new chapter in his illustrious career. Leading the largest full-service shipyard in the Middle East and North Africa, he is steering IMI toward becoming a global leader in the maritime industry.
His vision for IMI is not only to solidify its regional dominance but also to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals. By forging global partnerships, scaling operations, and integrating cutting-edge technologies, Abdullah is ensuring that IMI is not just a regional player but a global powerhouse.
Beyond his operational achievements, Abdullah’s leadership reflects his deep commitment to aligning IMI’s mission with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030. This alignment ensures that IMI contributes to the Kingdom’s broader vision of becoming an industrial and logistical hub connecting three continents.
Visionary Leadership in Action
What sets Abdullah Al-Ghamdi apart is his ability to transform challenges into opportunities and organizations into global leaders. His strategic insight, combined with an innate ability to inspire and mobilize teams, has positioned him as one of the most influential figures in Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation.
For Abdullah, leadership extends beyond business metrics. His work is guided by a deep sense of responsibility to his nation’s future—creating jobs, fostering innovation, and elevating Saudi Arabia’s industrial and maritime sectors to new heights.
An Inspirational Legacy
Abdullah Al-Ghamdi’s career is a masterclass in visionary leadership, strategic growth, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His journey—from laying the groundwork for Makeen’s success to leading IMI toward global prominence—serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when talent, hard work, and national pride converge.
As Saudi Arabia continues its march toward a diversified and resilient economy under Vision 2030, leaders like Abdullah Al-Ghamdi are not only driving this transformation but also inspiring future generations to dream bigger, act bolder, and contribute to a thriving global community.
