Mohammed Hakeem: Pioneering Innovation in Customer Experience and Strategy for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030

Mohammed Hakeem stands out as a transformative leader and strategist in Saudi Arabia, deeply engaged in efforts aligned with Vision 2030 to reshape the kingdom’s economy and cultural landscape. Currently the CEO of an undisclosed venture, Mohammed’s professional journey is marked by his work across sectors, including heritage preservation, customer experience, and technology-driven innovations. His roles have consistently demonstrated a commitment to advancing strategic growth and enhancing customer experiences, drawing on his diverse expertise in strategy, product development, and public engagement.

Early Career and Academic Foundations

Mohammed’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from King AbdulAziz University, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Waterloo, and later a Ph.D. from Ryerson University. His doctoral work focused on the security and privacy of RFID systems, a field that has significant implications in areas such as supply chain security, contactless payment systems, and asset tracking.

The depth of his technical knowledge, combined with his strategic mindset, has been pivotal in his career. His research has been published widely, reflecting his commitment to advancing both theoretical and practical aspects of technology. Mohammed’s educational achievements highlight his dedication to knowledge and his desire to leverage these insights in a way that aligns with the kingdom’s modernization and economic diversification objectives.

Key Leadership Roles and Impact

In his professional career, Mohammed has played influential roles in several organizations, each time leaving a substantial impact on the institutions he served. His experience as Chief Strategy and Product Development Officer at the Camel Club is particularly notable. Here, he worked to elevate the camel’s status in Saudi culture—not just as an emblem of heritage but also as an economic asset. By designing and executing strategies to enhance the camel ecosystem and experience, he contributed to transforming a cultural symbol into a pillar of economic growth and sustainability.

Previously, as Chief Strategy Officer at Kidana Development Company, Mohammed led initiatives aimed at optimizing strategic execution and fostering innovation. His work with Kidana, a company dedicated to serving the needs of pilgrims in Makkah and surrounding holy sites, underscored his commitment to improving the quality of services for millions of visitors each year. In this capacity, he demonstrated a nuanced understanding of the cultural and logistical challenges associated with large-scale events, successfully crafting solutions that improved both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Mohammed’s tenure with the Royal Commission for Makkah City & Holy Sites further reflects his dedication to innovation and strategic planning. As a Strategy and Innovation Officer, he focused on enhancing service delivery for the holy sites, an area of national importance that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals for tourism and economic diversification under Vision 2030. His leadership and forward-thinking approach were instrumental in shaping new policies and processes that streamlined the pilgrim experience, further embedding customer-centric practices within the organization.

Public Speaking and Advocacy

In addition to his corporate achievements, Mohammed has made significant contributions to public discourse on topics of resilience, ambition, and social progress. As a TEDx speaker at TEDxJeddah, he shared his personal journey in a talk titled “Why I Ran 120km,” reflecting his drive, resilience, and dedication to pushing boundaries—qualities that also define his professional life. His involvement in public speaking extends his influence beyond corporate spaces, inspiring young Saudis and professionals to pursue their goals with vigor and dedication.

Certifications and Continuous Learning

Committed to staying at the forefront of strategic thinking, Mohammed has completed several certifications, including a program on strategy execution from Harvard Business School Online. These credentials highlight his dedication to continuous improvement and excellence, enhancing his ability to implement innovative strategies effectively. His specialized training also includes courses on storytelling for influence, which no doubt enhances his capacity to communicate complex strategies and engage diverse audiences.

Vision for the Future

Mohammed’s career reflects an inspiring synergy between his technical expertise, strategic insights, and cultural awareness. In his current role as CEO, he continues to innovate, driving initiatives that align with Vision 2030 and support the kingdom’s mission to diversify its economy. By merging technology, culture, and customer experience, Mohammed exemplifies the ideal of a modern Saudi leader: one who honors the past while paving the way for a dynamic, prosperous future.

Through his work, Mohammed is not only advancing the operational capacities of Saudi organizations but also helping to shape a more resilient, customer-focused, and culturally enriched Saudi Arabia. His story is a testament to the power of education, strategic thinking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—qualities that position him as a rising star in Saudi Arabia’s transformative landscape.