By: TN Media News | Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Strengthening Regional Commitment:
Airbus has announced the appointment of Eid Al Qahtani as President of its newly established Regional Headquarters in Riyadh. This move underscores Airbus’ long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.
The new headquarters marks a significant expansion of Airbus’ presence in the Kingdom. It will support operations across commercial aviation, defence, space, and helicopter sectors.
A Veteran Leader Takes Charge:
Al Qahtani brings over 20 years of leadership experience, most recently serving as Head of Operations for Airbus Helicopters in Riyadh. In his new role, he will be responsible for:
-
Strengthening ties with regional governments and key stakeholders
-
Leading new business development across the Gulf and neighboring markets
His deep industrial expertise is expected to play a vital role in achieving Airbus’ regional ambitions.
Executive Praise and Vision:
Wouter Van Wersch, President of Airbus International, expressed confidence in the appointment:
“Eid Al Qahtani is the right person to lead our growing presence in the Kingdom. His understanding of local dynamics and dedication to talent development aligns well with our strategic goals.”
Al Qahtani, in his statement, said:
“I am honored to lead Airbus from Riyadh. We aim to deepen our roots in Saudi Arabia and inspire the next generation of Saudi aerospace leaders.”
Support for Saudi Vision 2030:
Airbus continues to align its efforts with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s strategy to diversify its economy and advance local industries. In January 2024, the company signed an Industrial Participation (IP) agreement with the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI).
This agreement focuses on:
-
Technology transfer to Saudi companies
-
Enhancing local aerospace capabilities
-
Expanding the role of SAAMS, a joint venture between SAMI and Airbus
SAAMS has been positioned as a key enabler for industrial localization in the Kingdom.
A Diverse and Growing Team:
Airbus currently employs over 350 people in Saudi Arabia. Approximately 30% of the workforce comprises Saudi nationals, while the rest represent over 30 different nationalities. This diverse team reflects Airbus’ inclusive and global approach to business.
Conclusion:
The appointment of Eid Al Qahtani and the launch of the Riyadh Regional Headquarters mark a pivotal moment for Airbus in the Middle East. As the company deepens its footprint in Saudi Arabia, it continues to play a vital role in shaping the Kingdom’s aerospace future, driven by local talent and global expertise.
