Traveller, Adventurer, Explorer
NIZAR FAKHOURY
Career Mission
Activating tourism destinations through unique travel experiences, outdoor sports, and memorable journeys.
Professional Background
With over 23 years of leadership experience across the GCC, primarily within Saudi Arabia and the UAE, I have dedicated my career to the Government sector, advancing tourism strategies that turn places into vibrant, sought-after destinations. Currently the Executive Director at The Royal Commission for AlUla.
My work focuses on unlocking unique tourism sites and crafting innovative experiences that blend adventure, culture, and authenticity. From developing standout tourism products to launching initiatives that position cities and regions on the global stage, I specialise in creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact on visitors and local communities alike.
Personal Achievement
I is a former Guinness World Record holder for being the ‘Fastest man to run seven marathons on seven continents in 10 days’. During that race around the world, I also accomplished running six marathons, on six continents, in six consecutive days.
At the time I signed up for this challenge, I was not a runner and had never completed a marathon. With only six months to prepare, I ran my first marathon two months into training, learning quickly how to adapt, endure, and stay focused under extreme pressure.
I thrive’s on setting ambitious goals and delivering when it counts. This drive and discipline shapes how I approach every professional challenge, always pushing boundaries to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
Humanitarian Work
In 2010, I founded Climb for Cancer, a charity initiative that brought together volunteers to raise funds and awareness for underprivileged pediatric cancer patients, giving children a fighting chance at survival through access to life-saving treatments.
By climbing mountains around the world alongside dedicated supporters, Climb for Cancer shone a light on the urgent needs of these young patients and helped provide critical support when it mattered most.
For me, the true measure of leadership extends far beyond the boardroom, it’s about using our strengths and willingness to make a meaningful difference where it matters most, and what could be more important than trying to save a child’s life?
Let’s Work Together
It all begins with an idea which soon turns into an opportunity. Let’s have a conversation about how we can create transformational projects and meaningful impact together with industry professionals across the public and private sectors who share a passion for shaping the future of tourism, sports, events, and extraordinary destinations.