Since assuming his role in 2020, Hamidaddin has spearheaded the STA’s mission to position Saudi Arabia as a premier global destination. His leadership has enabled landmark collaborations with world-class hospitality groups and travel platforms, while also launching initiatives that promote the Kingdom’s cultural identity and tourism competitiveness on the global stage.
CEO
Fahd Hamidaddin
Fahd bin Mohammed Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), has been ranked 2nd on Forbes Middle East’s annual list of the Most Powerful Travel & Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2025. With a career spanning more than two decades, he is recognized as one of the most influential leaders driving the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem under Vision 2030.
Career Journey
– CEO – Saudi Tourism Authority (2020 – Present) – Chief Investment, Strategy & Marketing Officer – Ministry of Tourism – Chief Commercial Officer – King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) – Head of Marketing & Competitive Enablers – Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA)
Board Memberships & Leadership Roles
– Board Member – King Saud University – Board Member – General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) – Board Member – Saudi Tourism Authority – Board Member – General Authority for Exhibitions & Conferences – Board Member – Qiddiya Investment Company – Trustee – Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business & Entrepreneurship
Key Achievements
– Led the signing of 14 Memoranda of Understanding at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 with global players including Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, Careem, Fazaa, and Booking.com – Oversaw the launch of signature programs such as “Saudi, Welcome to Arabia” (formerly “Spirit of Saudi Arabia”) and the STA Accelerator Program – Named by Forbes Middle East among the Top Tourism Leaders for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, 2025)
Academic Credentials & Professional Development
– Bachelor’s in Industrial Management – King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) – Executive Programs – Global leadership, marketing, and tourism management from leading universities and institutes worldwide
Leadership Impact
Hamidaddin’s leadership has positioned Saudi Arabia as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets globally. Through forging international partnerships, launching transformative initiatives, and aligning strategy with Vision 2030, he continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the Kingdom’s journey toward becoming a global tourism powerhouse.
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