Aiman al-Mudaifer Named Permanent CEO of Saudi Arabia’s NEOM

Saudi Arabia is set to officially appoint Aiman al-Mudaifer as the permanent Chief Executive Officer of NEOM, the kingdom’s ambitious $500 billion mega-project aimed at economic diversification beyond oil, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Al-Mudaifer has been serving as NEOM's acting CEO since November 2024, following the departure of long-time chief Nadhmi al-Nasr. His appointment comes at a critical juncture as NEOM, a cornerstone of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, faces challenges related to rising costs and project scaling.

With a background leading the Local Real Estate Division at the Public Investment Fund (PIF) since 2018, al-Mudaifer brings extensive experience in overseeing local real estate investments and infrastructure projects. His deep involvement with NEOM's developments positions him to provide enhanced oversight and operational continuity as the project progresses.

NEOM, envisioned as a futuristic urban and industrial development near the Red Sea, has faced adjustments due to financial pressures, including the downsizing of "The Line," a planned 170 km linear city. Al-Mudaifer's leadership is expected to align NEOM's execution with the broader objectives of Vision 2030, ensuring that the project's ambitious goals are met with pragmatic oversight.

The official announcement of al-Mudaifer's permanent appointment is anticipated in the coming weeks, marking a new phase in NEOM's development trajectory.