Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry Honored as Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
Saleh’s dedication to creativity and teamwork, demonstrated by his participation in multiple committees and projects that have influenced Dubai's tourism scene, is what defines his leadership.
Hozpitality Group proudly recognizes Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), as one of the Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024.
In his pivotal role, Saleh has been a driving force behind Abu Dhabi's transformation into a leading global tourism hub, significantly contributing to its ambitious growth trajectory.
Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry. His career includes roles such as Director General at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and various leadership positions at Ajman Tourism Development Department and Meraas Holding, among others.
Since his appointment in April 2022, Saleh has focused on enhancing the tourism landscape of Abu Dhabi, building on his extensive experience that spans over two decades. Prior to his current position, he served as the Director General of the Ajman Tourism Development Department for five years, where he implemented key strategies that strengthened Ajman's tourism sector. His previous roles at Meraas Holding and the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) in Dubai further solidified his expertise in tourism and retail management, making him a well-rounded leader in the field.
Under Saleh's guidance, Abu Dhabi's tourism strategy is set to achieve significant milestones, with an aim to increase visitor figures from approximately 24 million in 2023 to over 39 million by 2030. This ambitious target aligns with the Emirate's overarching plan to boost tourism's contribution to the UAE's GDP from AED 49 billion to AED 90 billion annually. To accomplish these objectives, DCT Abu Dhabi is focusing on 26 initiatives under four essential pillars: Offering & City Activation, Promotion & Marketing, Infrastructure & Mobility, and Visa, Licensing & Regulation.
As part of Abu Dhabi’s commitment to cultural preservation and authentic experiences, Saleh has championed the development of significant cultural landmarks, such as the Saadiyat Cultural District, which houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other key projects like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum. Additionally, the tourism strategy emphasizes expanding attractions across Yas Island, Hudayriyat Island, and Al Ain, further broadening the Emirate's appeal to travelers.
Saleh's impressive accomplishments have been recognized through various accolades, including winning Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s prize for Government Excellence and being awarded “Best Employee” at DTCM. His leadership is characterized by his commitment to innovation and collaboration, as evidenced by his involvement in numerous committees and initiatives that have shaped Dubai's tourism landscape.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE