Muath Alfares: Shaping Saudi Arabia’s Investment and Business Development Landscape

Muath Alfares, the Deputy Governor of Investment and Business Development at the State Properties General Authority, is a leader driving significant growth in Saudi Arabia’s real estate and investment sectors. With nearly two decades of experience across banking, real estate, and strategic management, Alfares has played a pivotal role in aligning business development initiatives with the ambitious Vision 2030 goals. His expertise in investment strategy, business intelligence, and key account management has contributed to Saudi Arabia's ongoing transformation into a global investment powerhouse.

Leading Investment at the State Properties General Authority

In April 2024, Muath Alfares was appointed Deputy Governor of Investment and Business Development at the State Properties General Authority. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the Authority’s investment initiatives, strategic planning, and business development projects. Alfares' role is crucial as the authority aims to optimize the use of government-owned real estate, enhancing the value of state properties and attracting private sector investments.

Alfares' strategic approach to real estate investment aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, focusing on maximizing returns from state assets while supporting urban development. His ability to navigate the complexities of large-scale investment projects ensures that the authority meets its goals of financial sustainability and urban development, both key pillars in the Vision 2030 framework.

Driving Real Estate Innovation at the National Housing Company

Before joining the State Properties General Authority, Muath Alfares spent nearly seven years at the National Housing Company (NHC), where he held various leadership roles. As General Manager of Real Estate Investment and Business Development from 2021 to 2024, he played an instrumental role in leading large-scale housing projects, developing investment strategies, and facilitating partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Alfares’ leadership was key in developing strategic business models that expanded affordable housing options in the Kingdom. His work helped NHC become a major player in Saudi Arabia’s housing sector, directly contributing to Vision 2030’s objectives of improving living standards and increasing homeownership. His earlier roles as Director of Strategy and Business Development, and Director of the Strategic Management Office, reflect his deep expertise in crafting and executing business strategies that deliver tangible results.

Experience in the Banking Sector: A Foundation for Growth

Alfares’ career began in the banking sector, where he spent a decade at Al Rajhi Bank, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest financial institutions. As Head of the Government Banking Department, Alfares managed relationships with key government clients, providing financial solutions that supported large-scale government projects. His experience in banking provided him with a strong foundation in financial management, which he later applied to his work in real estate and investment.

His tenure at Al Rajhi Bank also included roles such as Projects Manager and Senior Government Relations Manager, where he was responsible for managing critical government banking projects. This experience gave him a unique perspective on managing complex, high-stakes relationships, an asset he continues to leverage in his current role at the State Properties General Authority.

Expertise in Strategic Management and Business Intelligence

A key feature of Muath Alfares’ leadership is his ability to integrate strategic management with business intelligence. His experience at the National Water Company as Investment Initiatives Manager (2017) further highlights his capacity to manage large-scale investment projects while focusing on sustainable development. In this role, Alfares oversaw investment initiatives that aligned with national water security goals, contributing to the broader environmental objectives of Saudi Arabia.

Alfares’ strategic mindset, honed over years of experience, allows him to craft investment plans that are data-driven and results-oriented. His ability to analyze market trends and align them with business objectives has made him a vital asset in every organization he’s been a part of.

Educational Foundation in Business Leadership

Muath Alfares' academic background includes a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Brunel University (2009-2010), which has equipped him with advanced business management skills. His education, coupled with his participation in the Future Managers Program at the Institute of Finance, reflects his commitment to continuous learning and leadership development.

His educational journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from King Saud University, providing him with a strong foundation in business development, marketing strategies, and customer relations. These qualifications, combined with his professional experience, have positioned Alfares as a leader capable of driving business growth and investment in Saudi Arabia.

A Vision for Sustainable Investment and Development

As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward economic diversification and urban development, leaders like Muath Alfares are at the forefront of this transformation. His strategic approach to real estate investment and business development has already left a lasting impact on the Kingdom’s housing sector and government properties.

Looking forward, Alfares' vision for the future focuses on fostering sustainable investments that align with the Kingdom’s long-term objectives. His work at the State Properties General Authority aims to increase the efficiency of state-owned assets, attract foreign investments, and support the growth of Saudi Arabia’s urban infrastructure. By prioritizing sustainability and financial returns, Alfares ensures that his contributions are aligned with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.