Championing Cultural Regeneration and Community Development in AlUla Since January 2017.
A founding member of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s leadership team since its establishment in 2017, Abeer Al Akel has served as Acting Chief Executive Officer for RCU since January 2024. A driving force behind the comprehensive regeneration of AlUla, Abeer previously held the roles of Head of Special Initiatives and Partnerships and Head of Strategic Delivery within the commission.
Today, Abeer oversees a regeneration strategy that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship and community empowerment, underpinned by a deep understanding of AlUla’s unique cultural landscape and a commitment to its future as an economically thriving, year-round destination.

Under her guidance, RCU is investing in AlUla’s community, fostering opportunities across a broad range of sectors including tourism, agriculture, archaeology, culture, film, and entrepreneurship. Abeer plays a vital role in RCU’s strategic partnerships at a global level, driving collaborative agreements with governments and organisations worldwide – from France and Italy to China and the UK – leveraging global expertise to drive sustainable progress and position AlUla as a leader in responsible regeneration.
As AlUla continues its evolution, Abeer stands at the forefront, guiding its transformation into a destination that honours its rich past while embracing a future for all.
Abeer AlAkel’s LinkedIn profile