Abdullah AlShaya: The Rising Saudi Leader Driving Tourism Transformation and Talent.

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation stands a new generation of leaders redefining what it means to serve, innovate, and elevate a nation. Among them is Abdullah AlShaya—a dynamic executive whose journey embodies the spirit of modern Saudi leadership: bold, visionary, and deeply committed to impact.

A Transformational Leader Behind Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Strategy

Abdullah AlShaya serves as Chief Engagement, Coordination, and Monitoring Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, where he is trusted with translating strategy into execution. Under the guidance of H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, he plays a central role in driving national tourism goals, including reaching 150 million annual visitors and positioning tourism as a key pillar of the Saudi economy.

AlShaya’s leadership is not just technical—it’s deeply personal. Every initiative he leads is guided by a belief that tourism is not just about destinations, but about building bridges between cultures, empowering local communities, and creating a legacy for future generations.

Secretary General of The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality

In his role as Secretary General of the Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality (RSTH), AlShaya is helping shape the next generation of global hospitality leaders. Backed by a powerhouse Board of Trustees that includes leaders from Accor, Red Sea Global, Trip.com, and more, RSTH is more than a school—it's a symbol of Saudi ambition in redefining excellence. Under AlShaya’s leadership, the school delivers future-forward programs that equip young Saudis with the mindset, skills, and global confidence to lead.

Empowering Saudi Youth Through Education and Innovation

True leadership is measured by how many others it lifts. AlShaya’s work with the Alshaya Retail Academy stands as proof of that. Through practical training and certification, he has helped build a platform that prepares young Saudis—especially women—to step confidently into the workforce. These initiatives reflect his belief that every young Saudi deserves the opportunity to thrive, contribute, and lead.

MAHD HUB and Mahd Academy

He also served as a transformational advisor to Mahd Academy, leading the design of "MAHD HUB"—a full-spectrum customer experience program targeting scouts, coaches, athletes, and other stakeholders. He played a pivotal role in shaping the academy’s strategy, bylaws, and operational model.

A Career Defined by Strategic Execution

AlShaya has earned his reputation as a reliable executor. As the Head of IPH—a globally leading national performance platform featured at the World Economic Forum in Davos and endorsed by world-renowned figures—he demonstrated how vision and technology can transform public sector performance.

Key Transformation Projects

He has also led over SAR 700 million in transformation projects across multiple ministries, including:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (E-Visa, PMO, Digital Strategy)
• Ministry of Interior (Innovation, Service Design)
• General Authority of Civil Aviation (Privatization, Cloud Migration)
• Mahd Academy (Customer Experience and Operating Model)
• SAMI Advanced Electronics (Strategic Project Management)

In every role, he has focused on delivering real change, modernizing systems, and improving lives.

A Global Mindset, Locally Rooted

AlShaya’s educational background—from KFUPM to executive programs at MIT Sloan and IMD—has shaped his global perspective. But his true strength lies in applying this knowledge to Saudi Arabia’s local context. With a leadership style grounded in collaboration, agility, and humility, he represents a new wave of Saudi changemakers who think globally but act locally.

Why Abdullah AlShaya Inspires a New Generation

• Cross-sector leadership with measurable outcomes
• SAR 700M transformation portfolio and global platform impact
• Commitment to empowering youth and women
• Trusted in shaping national education and tourism institutions
• A belief in execution over talk

For aspiring Saudi leaders, Abdullah AlShaya is more than a success story—he is a blueprint. His journey reminds us that with vision, discipline, and heart, young Saudis can not only participate in the Kingdom’s transformation, but lead it.

Saudi Wins is proud to feature Abdullah AlShaya as a beacon of purpose-driven leadership in the Kingdom.