At Icons Oman, we spotlight visionaries shaping the Sultanate’s future through bold ideas, innovative thinking, and transformative leadership. Among these leaders is Said Salim Al Shanfari, the dynamic CEO of the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) and a recognized figure on Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders of 2024.

Transforming OCEC into a World-Class Destination

Since taking the helm in 2018, Said has redefined what the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre stands for. Under his leadership, OCEC has hosted high-profile global events and earned the prestigious title of Best Venue in the Middle East (2023) at the Middle East Event Awards.

For Said, innovation isn’t a project—it’s a mindset. He’s embedded a culture of forward-thinking at OCEC, where sustainability, youth empowerment, and bold ambition converge. His vision is to position Oman not just as a regional hub, but as a globally competitive destination for international conferences and events.

A Leader Who Builds with Purpose

More than just a CEO, Said is a founder, entrepreneur, and coach who believes in empowering others. In 2023, he established Global Learning Partner, a consultancy and training firm focused on organizational development and human potential. His passion for lifelong learning and growth is also reflected in his co-founding of Monak e-Services, a digital platform designed to streamline services for expats, travelers, and locals across the Middle East.

Whether in boardrooms or workshops, Said brings a human-centric approach to leadership—balancing ambition with humility and strategy with intuition.

Corporate Roots with a Digital Edge

Before his rise at OCEC, Said held key leadership roles at Omantel, Ooredoo, and du, where he drove transformation in marketing communications, consumer engagement, and strategic partnerships. His ability to scale brands and align business objectives with customer-centric experiences is widely respected across industries.

His journey through telecom, digital innovation, and public sector partnerships reflects a unique blend of corporate rigor and entrepreneurial flair—one that has helped him lead with clarity in fast-changing markets.

Academic Excellence and Global Exposure

Said’s leadership philosophy is shaped by world-class education. He holds a Professional Doctorate in Global Leadership & Management from the European International University – Paris, and has also completed leadership programs at IMD Business School, London Business School, and University of Hull. His educational background, combined with fluency in Arabic and English, gives him the cross-cultural insight needed to navigate and lead in diverse environments.

Recognized for Impact and Innovation

With honors like OER Innovative CEO of the Year, Said has proven time and again that bold thinking, coupled with disciplined execution, creates lasting impact. His commitment to empowering the next generation of Omani talent, promoting diversity, and positioning Oman on the global events map makes him not just a leader—but a national asset.