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‘Diriyah will become one of the great gathering places in the world’, says CEO at AB Leadership Summit 2023

Jerry Inzerillo shared insights into Diriyah, the Saudi vision and leadership

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company took to stage at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit on Wednesday at the Armani Hotel in Dubai.

Stepping away from the scripted remarks, the CEO of Diriyah embarked on a deeply personal and inspiring speech addressing some of the most influential business leaders in the region in attendance. Inzerillo captivated the audience with an inspiring message about the power of culture and people in driving the success of Vision 2030.

Diriyah will become one of the great gathering places in the world,” he said.

Inzerillo shared impressive statistics, stating 85 percent of the staff at Diriyah are from Saudi with 36 percent being Saudi women. “16 percent of those Saudi women are in leadership.” These figures underscored Diriyah’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, showcasing the organisation’s dedication to empowering women and providing leadership opportunities.

Looking ahead to the future goals of Vision 2030, Inzerillo expressed a vision of Saudi Arabia as an incubator of talent and prosperity, stating, “We want to be one of the great incubators of talent in the kingdom. We want that prosperity to reach more people.”

“I believe in tourism as an ambassadorial vehicle, it joins people, It promotes inclusion,” he exclaimed signifying a commitment to empower and uplift the Saudi workforce.

He placed emphasis on the value of Diriyah and the fact that the birthplace of the Kingdom, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a landmark for Saudi Arabia.

Jerry Inzerillo is one of the hospitality industry’s most influential figures, having notched up more than five decades’ experience championing the sector and its people.

As Saudi Arabia and the world progress toward 2030, Inzerillo’s speech serves as a powerful reminder that true success lies not only in technological advancements but also in nurturing the human spirit and fostering a collective commitment to building a brighter future.

Diriyah: Transforming into iconic global destination

In June 2018, he was appointed by HRH The Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman to be the first CEO of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority. The authority will turn the historic city of Diriyah into one of the world’s great gathering places. With the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif at its heart, it is set to become Saudi Arabia’s most iconic lifestyle and tourism destination.

Upon completion, the $63.2 billion development will add 27 billion Saudi Riyals to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and provide 55,000 job opportunities. The development will be home to 100,000 people and will aim to attract 27 million visitors annually.

The Arabian Business Leadership Summit is currently underway in Dubai in the presence of UAE Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs Huda AlHashmi, former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Diriyah Company chief executive officer Jerry Inzerillo, former Etihad boss and Knighthood Global chief executive officer James Hogan, Etoile Group president Ingie Chalhoub, GMG deputy chairman and chief executive officer Mohammad A Baker, ROSHN group chief executive officer David Grover, Amazon MENA vice president Ronaldo Mouchawar – to name a few.

The summit serves as a platform for leaders to exchange ideas, discuss obstacles, and explore possibilities for shaping the future of business in the Arab region.

The summit will also offer attendees the chance to participate in engaging discussions and network with influential regional leaders.

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