Zaher Sharifi: Steering Saudi Arabia’s Data Future Through Vision, Governance, and Intelligent Transformation

Executive Summary

In today’s rapidly shifting digital landscape, the leaders who stand out are those who not only understand data but elevate it into a national asset. Zaher Sharifi, an influential Data and AI executive, has spent nearly two decades shaping Saudi Arabia’s public-sector intelligence ecosystem through strategic vision, technical mastery, and governance excellence.

His journey reflects a blend of hands-on innovation and board-level leadership, establishing him as a key figure in modern digital transformation.

Current Leadership & Impact

As the Acting CEO of the National Data Management Office (NDMO) at SDAIA, Zaher led one of the Kingdom’s most ambitious data governance mandates. His work oversaw the rollout of national frameworks for data quality, lifecycle management, interoperability, and compliance. Under his leadership, the activation of the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) became a cornerstone achievement, integrating policy, regulation, and government-wide awareness into a unified national model.

Professional History

Zaher’s career showcases a trajectory of expanding influence. At Fusion, he aligned major telecom operators including STC, Mobily, and Zain during the company’s founding phase while supporting hyperscale cloud deployment across the Kingdom.

Earlier roles at Tabadul, Elm, and GOSI highlight his strong foundation in analytics, fraud detection, business intelligence, and enterprise architecture.

Credentials & Memberships

With a deep academic background spanning leadership programs at Northeastern University, Missouri State University, and Kellogg School of Management, Zaher blends executive maturity with technical precision.

Currently serving within Saudi Arabia’s most critical digital governance circles, including the Saudi Leadership Society and the GCC Board Directors Institute, he has become a trusted voice in responsible AI and regulatory alignment.

Conclusion

The CEO Network proudly highlights Zaher Sharifi as a distinguished executive leader. His commitment to cohesive governance and ethical AI continues to inspire decision-makers, setting a benchmark for responsible innovation and shaping meaningful transformation across the region’s digital landscape.