Aseel Al Hamad, Saudi Arabia’s motorsport advocate, entrepreneur, and design leader, inspires with her roles in F1, IDEGREE DESIGN, and STEER. She embodies Saudi Vision 2030, redefining empowerment and excellence.
Aseel Al Hamad stands as a pioneering force in Saudi Arabia's evolving narrative on women empowerment and sectoral innovation, embodying the spirit of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. With a diversified portfolio in motorsports, interior design, and entrepreneurship, Aseel’s journey reflects an extraordinary commitment to breaking boundaries, celebrating Saudi identity, and nurturing talent across her homeland.
A Visionary in Motorsports Advocacy
Aseel’s entry into motorsports began as a deeply personal passion, one that would set the stage for a historical moment in Saudi Arabia. In a time when women were not yet permitted to drive in the Kingdom, she taught herself to drive in Dubai, even becoming the first Saudi woman to import and own a Ferrari. In 2018, her passion culminated in an iconic achievement when she took a victory lap at France's Paul Ricard Circuit, celebrating the lifting of Saudi Arabia’s ban on women drivers.
Today, Aseel holds multiple influential roles in motorsports: she serves as Saudi Arabia's representative at the FIA Women in Motorsports Commission and as the first female board member at the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation. Her work through these platforms not only advances women’s roles in motorsports but also aligns with Vision 2030's goals of fostering inclusivity in sectors that have traditionally excluded women.
Entrepreneurial Excellence with IDEGREE DESIGN and STEER
Beyond her contributions to motorsports, Aseel is an accomplished entrepreneur. As the Founder and Design Director of IDEGREE DESIGN, she leads an integrated interior design studio known for producing distinguished, innovative interiors for high-end projects, including the award-winning Bagatelle Jeddah. Her design philosophy combines aesthetics with cultural resonance, making IDEGREE a beacon for modern Saudi interior design.
In 2023, she expanded her entrepreneurial portfolio by co-founding STEER, a tourism company specializing in supercar tours across the Kingdom. This venture reflects Aseel’s commitment to showcasing Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty and modern roadways while promoting high-quality experiences for car enthusiasts and tourists alike. STEER’s unique approach to tourism resonates strongly with the Saudi Vision 2030 mandate to diversify the economy through tourism and leisure.
A Champion for Women’s Empowerment and Youth Development
Aseel Al Hamad’s journey is inspirational to young Saudis, especially women, who see in her a model of empowerment and leadership. In addition to her public speaking engagements and mentorship initiatives, Aseel frequently collaborates with organizations aimed at fostering Saudi youth’s skills and resilience. She brings her expertise to the Nomination, Remuneration, and Compensation Committee at the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, supporting strategic decisions that promote talent development and gender inclusivity.
Her recent role as a judge for the Women's World Car of the Year Award further positions Aseel as a global ambassador for Saudi women, advocating for diversity in an industry that has long been male-dominated.
Educational Journey and Professional Growth
Aseel’s academic journey underpins her versatile expertise. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Interior Design Engineering from Prince Sultan University in 2009 and later completed an MBA from Alfaisal University in 2019. Her commitment to learning extends globally, with certifications from the University of the Arts London and London Business School. Additionally, her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification aligns with her goal of instilling professionalism and precision in her projects, from design to motorsport management.
Legacy and Vision
Aseel Al Hamad’s story is more than just a collection of firsts; it is a legacy of persistence, empowerment, and pride in Saudi heritage. Through her motorsports milestones, she has become a symbol of Saudi women's achievements on a global platform. In her design ventures, she has set new standards for creativity and cultural authenticity. And through her work with STEER, she is a key player in redefining Saudi tourism.
As Saudi Arabia advances towards its Vision 2030 objectives, Aseel remains an exemplar of transformative leadership, actively contributing to a future where innovation, equality, and cultural pride drive progress.
