Said Salim Al Shanfari: Positioning Oman as a Global Destination for Business Events and Innovation

A country’s reputation is shaped not only by its industries and infrastructure but also by its ability to bring the world together. International conferences, exhibitions, and business events have become powerful drivers of investment, knowledge exchange, and economic diversification. At the centre of Oman’s growing presence in this space is Said Salim Al Shanfari, a leader whose career has been defined by innovation, strategic marketing, and organisational transformation.

As Chief Executive Officer of the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC), Al Shanfari has led the organisation’s evolution into one of the region’s leading venues for international business events. His vision extends beyond hosting conferences. It is about strengthening Oman’s position as a competitive global destination while creating lasting economic and social value.

Creating a Platform for Global Connections

Under Al Shanfari’s leadership, the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre has expanded its international profile, attracting world-class conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events that contribute to tourism, investment, and knowledge-based industries.

His approach focuses on creating an integrated experience for organisers, delegates, and partners while continuously enhancing the venue’s operational capabilities and sustainability initiatives. This commitment to excellence has helped position OCEC among the Middle East’s recognised business events destinations.

“Innovation is not a destination. It is a mindset that allows organisations to remain relevant in a constantly changing world.”

A Career Shaped by Strategy and Marketing

Before leading OCEC, Al Shanfari built an extensive career across the telecommunications sector, where he held senior leadership positions with Omantel, Ooredoo Oman, and du.

Throughout these roles, he led strategic marketing, business development, customer engagement, and commercial performance initiatives, helping organisations strengthen their market position in increasingly competitive environments.

His experience across marketing, product development, and strategic partnerships provided a strong commercial foundation that continues to influence his leadership today, combining customer insight with long-term business strategy.

Leading Organisations Through Transformation

A consistent theme throughout Al Shanfari’s career has been his ability to guide organisations through periods of change.

Whether driving marketing transformation, developing new business opportunities, or leading one of Oman’s most prominent business event destinations, he has maintained a leadership philosophy centred on adaptability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

His work reflects the belief that successful organisations create environments where innovation becomes part of the culture rather than a one-time initiative.

Investing in People and Future Leadership

Alongside his responsibilities at OCEC, Al Shanfari continues to invest in leadership development through his work as Founder of Global Learning Partner, a consultancy focused on executive coaching, organisational development, and professional learning.

He is also Co-Founder of Monak e-Services, a digital platform supporting residents and travellers across the region, reflecting his broader interest in entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions.

His leadership continues to emphasise:

• Organisational transformation.
• Strategic marketing and brand development.
• Innovation and digital thinking.
• Leadership development.
• Customer experience.
• Sustainable growth.

This balanced perspective has enabled him to lead organisations across multiple industries while maintaining a strong focus on people, performance, and long-term impact.

Championing Oman’s Global Presence

As Oman continues to diversify its economy, business tourism and international events have become increasingly important contributors to national development.

Through his leadership, Said Salim Al Shanfari continues to strengthen the country’s position on the global events map, creating opportunities for international collaboration, investment, and knowledge exchange while supporting Oman’s long-term economic ambitions.

“The organisations that leave a lasting legacy are those that create opportunities for people, businesses, and nations to grow together.”

Recognition by The Arab CEOs

The Arab CEOs proudly recognises Said Salim Al Shanfari for his contributions to business events, organisational leadership, and innovation in Oman. Through his work at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre and his continued commitment to leadership development and entrepreneurship, he is helping position Oman as a destination for global engagement while demonstrating how strategic vision and people-centred leadership can create lasting impact.