Saudi Red Sea Authority Appoints Dr. Maryam Ali Ficociello as New CEO to Lead Sustainable Marine Tourism Transformation

The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Maryam Ali Ficociello as its new Chief Executive Officer. Effective March 22nd, 2026, Dr. Ficociello’s leadership marks a pivotal moment in the Authority’s commitment to regulating navigational activities and marine tourism along the Kingdom’s Red Sea coast. Her appointment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of boosting sustainable tourism and environmental protection, ensuring that the Kingdom’s Red Sea region remains a thriving hub for eco-conscious travel and investment.

With over two decades of expertise in governance, risk management, and sustainability, Dr. Ficociello brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her background in both public and private sectors, including leadership positions at state-owned entities, makes her uniquely qualified to navigate the complexities of the Red Sea’s marine and tourism landscapes.

Dr. Ficociello’s Career and Expertise

Dr. Ficociello’s extensive career includes her most recent role as Group Chief Governance Officer at Red Sea Global, where she led the Governance, Risk, and Compliance Division. She has become a respected voice on matters related to sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, which will be crucial as the Saudi Red Sea Authority continues to implement best practices in sustainable tourism.

Her passion for the ocean and marine ecosystems is more than professional—it’s personal. An avid sailor and diver, Dr. Ficociello has long been dedicated to protecting the oceans. This deep connection to the sea informs her approach to marine conservation, as she works towards building a sustainable future for the Kingdom’s coastal tourism sector.

A Strong Focus on Sustainability and the Blue Economy

Dr. Ficociello’s appointment comes at a time when the Saudi Red Sea Authority is intensifying its focus on sustainable tourism development. She has previously played a key role in national sustainability efforts, contributing to the Saudi Green Initiative and serving as a Founding Member and Secretary of the Executive Committee for Oversight of the Sustainability of the Red Sea.

Her work in promoting the Blue Economy and protecting marine ecosystems aligns with the Kingdom’s ambitious goals to position the Red Sea as a model of responsible coastal tourism. As CEO, Dr. Ficociello will continue to advocate for policies that balance economic growth with environmental preservation, making the Red Sea a world-class destination while safeguarding its unique marine environments.

Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Role on the Global Stage

Dr. Ficociello has represented Saudi Arabia at international forums such as the UN Climate Change Conference and the UN Ocean Conference. She also led the Saudi Ocean 20 delegation at the G20, showcasing her ability to build international partnerships and advance the Kingdom’s leadership on environmental and sustainability issues.

Her global experience and leadership in international environmental dialogues will play a crucial role in further establishing Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable tourism and marine conservation. With the Red Sea region being a critical part of this vision, Dr. Ficociello is poised to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a leading global destination for eco-tourism.

Preserving the Red Sea’s Marine Ecosystem

One of Dr. Ficociello’s main objectives as CEO will be to uphold the Saudi Red Sea Authority’s commitment to marine ecosystem protection. SRSA has long focused on preserving the region’s biodiversity while enabling responsible growth in coastal tourism. This includes licensing, regulatory efforts, and the development of necessary infrastructure that aligns with sustainability principles.

As part of her strategy, Dr. Ficociello will ensure that SRSA continues to support local communities, promote sustainable investment, and protect the natural resources that make the Red Sea a key asset for both tourism and the Kingdom’s broader economic development.

Honouring the Legacy of Leadership

The SRSA also took a moment to recognize the contributions of Mr. Mohammad Ali Al-Nasser, the outgoing CEO, who served the Authority for the past four years. His leadership was instrumental in establishing SRSA’s operational framework and fostering stronger collaborations with national partners to advance the development of coastal tourism in Saudi Arabia.

As Dr. Ficociello takes the helm, she will continue to build on this strong foundation, ensuring SRSA remains a dynamic and innovative force in the tourism and environmental sectors.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

With Dr. Maryam Ali Ficociello at the helm, the Saudi Red Sea Authority is poised to reach new heights in its mission to shape the Kingdom’s coastal tourism industry. By focusing on sustainable practices, marine conservation, and innovative tourism experiences, Dr. Ficociello will help guide Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region toward becoming a global model for responsible tourism.

The appointment reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to aligning economic development with environmental stewardship, ensuring that the Red Sea remains a vibrant, sustainable destination for generations to come.

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