Pioneer of the travel & tourism industry in the GCC, CEO - Al Naboodah Travel
Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel and Tourism, has been in the travel and tourism industry for over 35 years. He has spent nearly 20 of those years in Saudi Arabia and is recognised as one of the most influential industry players in the region due to his vast knowledge and experience in both the KSA and the UAE markets. Khan has been instrumental in the growth and development of Al Naboodah Travel and Tourism, where under his leadership, the company has become one of the leading travel and tourism providers in the region.
“I have an extensive background in the travel, tourism and aviation industries. I am truly passionate about travel, having lived and worked in three countries and being fluent in four languages. I consider myself a lifelong learner and trainer with leadership skills. I have earned multiple awards and certifications during my time as a leader. In 2004, I joined Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism, part of the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, one of the UAE’s most renowned and innovative groups.”
Khan continues, “I spent over 20 years in Saudi Arabia prior to joining Al Naboodah Travel, during which I contributed to the development of the nation’s travel and trade sectors as the Regional Manager for the Saudi Tourist and Travel Bureau, one of the most significant travel companies in the region. I also gathered valuable insights into the airline industry while working as the Area Manager for Gulf Air for more than a decade. However, the most crucial part of my journey was starting my career with American Express, which ignited my passion for travel and tourism.”
‘Outside of work, I enjoy collecting watches, driving cars and exploring new tourist destinations’.
working as the Area Manager for Gulf Air for more than a decade. However, the most crucial part of my journey was starting my career with American Express, which ignited my passion for travel and tourism.”
Working is one of Nasir’s hobbies which he continues to enjoy.
“I don’t even want to think about what I’m going to do if I stop working. Outside of work, I enjoy collecting watches, driving cars and exploring new tourist destinations.”
Nasir understands that time outside of work is precious, so he tries to spend as much time as possible with his wife and children.
“We generally converse about various topics, watch documentaries or films, go on drives and have a good time when we’re together. Time spent with family is always calming and provides me with the motivation to continue doing well in what I excel at.”
For Nasir, his father has been a great influence in his life.
“He taught me to follow the virtues of honesty, kindness, patience and hard work. I believe we should always be grateful to God for his blessings. My father’s example has helped me to become the person I am today. I am grateful for all that he has done for me,” he shared.
When asked if he wasn’t an aviation guy, what profession he would have chosen instead, Nasir replied, “It’s hard to say what I would have done if I hadn’t ended up in aviation. It’s something I’ve always been interested in, and it’s been such a big part of my life for so long that it’s hard to imagine doing anything else. But if I had to choose something, I would probably either be a doctor or some kind of medical specialist. I was a science student in college and my family really wanted me to be a doctor, but they could see how much I loved to travel and they allowed me to pursue my dream. I’m grateful for that.”
Nasir remains steadfastly optimistic on the growth of the travel industry.
“Together with my team, we work to contribute to the success and growth of the travel and aviation industries in 2022. We are committed to digitally transforming the business and are planning to expand globally. I believe that the travel industry has a lot of potential for growth, and I am excited to be a part of its success.”
