Abeer M. AlAkel: Leading AlUla’s Cultural Renaissance as Acting CEO

Abeer M. AlAkel is an influential figure in the cultural and heritage sectors of Saudi Arabia. As the Acting CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), she has taken a leading role in overseeing the development and regeneration of AlUla, one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant cultural and historical regions. Abeer has been instrumental in aligning the vision for AlUla with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, ensuring that its rich cultural landscape is preserved, while also enhancing the quality of life for its residents and attracting global visitors.

A Strategic Leader in Cultural Development

Abeer has been a core part of RCU’s team for the past six years, leading several high-impact projects aimed at the sustainable development of AlUla. As the Founding CEO of the Cultural Oasis Regeneration Centre, she played a pivotal role in reviving the local communities, with a focus on education, training, and agritourism. Her efforts have restored not only the cultural heritage of the area but also revitalized the livelihoods of local farmers, integrating sustainability into her vision for the region.

Mastermind Behind Key Initiatives

Abeer’s strategic acumen shines through in her role as Chief of Special Cultural Zones, where she spearheaded the Journey Through Time masterplan and the Cultural Oasis District Public Realm Programme. Her ability to bring together cultural heritage, design, and tourism has helped transform AlUla into a global destination for art, culture, and nature. Abeer was also responsible for launching Winter at Tantora, an event that set two Guinness World Records and cemented AlUla’s status as a leading destination for cultural experiences.

Global Collaborations and Partnerships

Abeer’s leadership extends beyond Saudi Arabia. She has built an extensive network of global partnerships, collaborating with organizations like UNESCO, IUCN, and the World Bank. Her efforts have not only raised AlUla’s international profile but also brought global expertise to the region’s development, ensuring that its transformation aligns with international standards.

Driving Innovation and Vision

Abeer’s experience spans both the private and public sectors. Before joining RCU, she held key positions at PwC, where she worked on mega transformation projects within the Saudi government. She holds a B.S. in Computer and Information Sciences from King Saud University and completed the Program for Leadership Development at Harvard Business School, further solidifying her expertise in strategic leadership and innovation.

Abeer M. AlAkel is a driving force behind AlUla’s transformation, blending cultural preservation with modern development. Her leadership at RCU is reshaping the region, turning it into a global hub for art, culture, and heritage while supporting local communities and sustainable development. As a visionary leader, Abeer’s work is integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the future of cultural tourism in the Kingdom.