Pioneering AlUla’s Global Transformation
Abeer Al-Akel is revolutionizing Saudi Arabia’s cultural and tourism landscape, leading the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) with an innovative approach that seamlessly blends heritage preservation with modern development. As the CEO of RCU, she plays a pivotal role in transforming AlUla into a world-renowned destination while ensuring its historical significance remains intact.
Her journey is a testament to strategic leadership, global collaboration, and sustainable development. With a background in government transformation, tourism strategy, and cultural preservation, Abeer Al-Akel has established herself as a key architect of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Early Life and Educational Background
Abeer Al-Akel’s formative years were marked by a profound appreciation for culture and heritage. This passion led her to pursue higher education in fields that would later become instrumental in her career. She holds a degree in Computer and Information Sciences, a foundation that equipped her with analytical and strategic skills. Furthering her expertise, Abeer attended prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School and King Saud University, where she honed her leadership and management capabilities.
Professional Trajectory
Before her tenure at the RCU, Abeer amassed a wealth of experience in both the public and private sectors. Her career commenced at Hewlett-Packard (HP), where she served as a Business Support Analyst in the SADAD project from 2007 to 2008. This role was followed by a position at SAB, where she worked as a Productivity Management Manager between 2010 and 2013. Her journey then led her to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where she served as an Assistant Manager in Government Strategy from 2013 to 2017. At PwC, Abeer led large-scale transformation projects for Saudi government entities, sharpening her expertise in driving change at a national level. In 2017, she briefly held the position of Head of the Vision Realization Office at the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), further solidifying her role in the Kingdom’s cultural and entertainment sectors.
Pioneering AlUla’s Renaissance
In 2017, Abeer became a founding member of the RCU, an entity established by royal decree to oversee the development and preservation of AlUla. Her initial contributions were pivotal in laying the groundwork for the region’s transformation. As the Chief of Special Initiatives and Partnerships, she spearheaded the development of the Journey Through Time Masterplan, a visionary blueprint that seamlessly integrates history, culture, and nature. This plan aims to transform AlUla into a global cultural and tourism destination, attracting two million visitors annually by 2035.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Collaborations
Under Abeer’s leadership, the RCU forged significant partnerships with esteemed organizations such as UNESCO, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Panthera, and the World Bank. These collaborations have been instrumental in preserving AlUla’s unique heritage while promoting sustainable development. One notable initiative is the Hammayah Program, which focuses on community engagement and training local residents in conservation efforts, ensuring that the custodianship of AlUla’s heritage remains in the hands of its people.
Cultural Initiatives and Milestones
Abeer’s visionary approach led to the inception of “Winter at Tantora,” an annual cultural festival that has positioned AlUla on the global map. The festival celebrates art, music, and heritage, attracting visitors worldwide. It has achieved remarkable milestones, including two Guinness World Records: one for the largest hot air balloon show and another for the largest mirrored building, Maraya. Maraya, meaning “mirror” in Arabic, is a testament to innovative architecture, reflecting the surrounding desert landscape and symbolizing the harmony between modernity and tradition.
Sustainable Development and Environmental Conservation
A central tenet of Abeer’s leadership is the emphasis on sustainability. The Sharaan Nature Reserve, under her guidance, has been established to protect the region’s unique flora and fauna. This reserve not only serves as a sanctuary for wildlife but also offers eco-tourism opportunities, allowing visitors to experience AlUla’s natural beauty responsibly. Furthermore, the Wadi AlFann, or “Valley of the Arts,” is an ambitious project that envisions large-scale art installations within the desert landscape, blending creativity with environmental stewardship.
Educational Empowerment and Community Engagement
Recognizing that the sustainability of AlUla’s transformation lies in the hands of its people, Abeer has championed educational initiatives to empower the local community. The AlUla Scholarship Program, for instance, has enabled numerous Saudi students to pursue studies in fields such as hospitality, tourism, agriculture, archaeology, and heritage management at esteemed institutions worldwide. This investment in human capital ensures that the future custodians of AlUla are well-equipped to continue its legacy.
Architectural Innovations
Under Abeer’s stewardship, AlUla has witnessed architectural marvels that pay homage to its rich history while embracing modernity. The Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre, designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, is being constructed directly into the mountains of the Sharaan Nature Reserve. This project exemplifies a harmonious blend of natural landscapes with cutting-edge design, aiming to provide visitors with an immersive experience that respects the environment.
Global Recognition and Future Vision
Abeer’s contributions have not gone unnoticed on the global stage. Her leadership has been instrumental in positioning AlUla as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and promote cultural and tourism sectors. The Royal Commission for AlUla’s efforts have been recognized as a model for sustainable and inclusive development, balancing the preservation of cultural heritage with economic growth.
Challenges and Resilience
Leading such a transformative project is not without challenges. Abeer has navigated complexities ranging from ensuring the preservation of archaeological sites to balancing the interests of local communities with tourism development. Her resilience and ability to adapt have been crucial in overcoming these obstacles, ensuring that AlUla’s transformation benefits all stakeholders involved.
Personal Philosophy and Leadership Style
Abeer’s leadership is characterized by a deep respect for heritage, a commitment to sustainability, and an inclusive approach to development. She believes in empowering those around her, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring that AlUla’s transformation is not just about economic growth but also about cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Her ability to balance tradition with modernity has set her apart as a leader who understands the complexities of large-scale development while staying true to the essence of AlUla’s identity.
Innovating for the Future
Abeer Al-Akel’s vision extends far beyond what AlUla is today. She is not only focused on enhancing the region’s tourism appeal but also on making it a hub for education, research, and innovation. Plans are underway to establish centers dedicated to archaeological studies, sustainable agriculture, and arts and culture. These initiatives aim to position AlUla as a center of excellence where global experts can collaborate with local talent to unlock new opportunities for cultural and economic growth.
Moreover, her leadership in the catenary-free tramway project with Alstom demonstrates her commitment to modern infrastructure that respects AlUla’s delicate environment. This tramway, connecting key heritage sites and modern developments, is an example of how sustainable mobility solutions can be integrated into historic landscapes without compromising their integrity.
Additionally, Abeer has facilitated key partnerships, such as the collaboration with French water and waste management company Suez, aimed at enhancing environmental services across AlUla. Such strategic alliances reflect her foresight in addressing the long-term sustainability of the region while ensuring that local communities benefit from improved infrastructure and services.
Empowering Women and Driving Social Change
As one of Saudi Arabia’s prominent female leaders, Abeer Al-Akel is paving the way for women in leadership across the Kingdom. Her success is a testament to the changing landscape of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, where female empowerment and inclusion have become national priorities.
Her presence at the helm of one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious projects serves as an inspiration to young women aspiring to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. She actively champions initiatives that encourage the participation of women in AlUla’s workforce, ensuring that gender diversity becomes a cornerstone of the region’s development.
Beyond the professional sphere, Abeer is deeply involved in initiatives that promote education and professional training for Saudi youth. She understands that the future of AlUla—and Saudi Arabia as a whole—depends on nurturing a generation that is not only skilled but also deeply connected to their heritage. Through programs such as the AlUla Scholarship Program, she has helped create pathways for young Saudis to gain international education and bring back knowledge that can contribute to the region’s future.
A Legacy in the Making
Abeer Al-Akel’s journey is not just one of professional achievement but also one of legacy-building. Every initiative she spearheads is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility—to the land, to its people, and to future generations. She has set a precedent for how historic regions can be revitalized without erasing their past, demonstrating that cultural preservation and economic development can go hand in hand.
As AlUla continues to evolve under her leadership, the world watches in admiration at how a once-hidden treasure of the Arabian Peninsula is emerging as a global icon of heritage, sustainability, and innovation. Through her unwavering dedication, strategic foresight, and commitment to excellence, Abeer Al-Akel is cementing her place as one of the most influential figures in Saudi Arabia’s modern renaissance.
Recognizing Her Impact
At Arabian Leaders Magazine, we take great pride in highlighting individuals who are shaping the future with vision and determination. Abeer Al-Akel’s contributions to AlUla’s transformation are nothing short of extraordinary, and our editorial team recognizes her remarkable efforts in bringing this historic region into the global spotlight. Her story is one of resilience, leadership, and an unyielding passion for preserving Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage while embracing the promise of the future.
We look forward to seeing how her continued leadership will redefine AlUla and set new standards for sustainable tourism and cultural innovation worldwide.
