Arabian Travel Awards Saudi Arabia Launches in Riyadh, Honoring Tourism Leaders

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The inaugural Arabian Travel Awards Saudi Arabia concluded on a high note in Riyadh, celebrating excellence, innovation and leadership across the region’s travel, tourism and hospitality sectors. Often regarded as the Oscars of the travel industry, the landmark first edition brought together senior leaders, policymakers and pioneers to recognise outstanding achievements shaping the future of regional tourism.

Held at the Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport, the evening opened with a warm welcome by Mr SanJeet, Director of DDP Group and host for the night, who set the tone for a celebration of people-driven progress. The distinguished guest list included H.E. Raymond Reyes Balatbat, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Khalid Al Zarooni, Vice President – Saudi Arabia, Emirates; Bandar Adnan Abdulmajeed, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, AMSA Hospitality; alongside industry stalwarts Saleem Sharif and Mamoun Hmidan.

A key highlight of the evening was the launch of an exclusive collector’s edition coffee table book, unveiled in the presence of the Guest of Honour dignitaries. Curated especially for the occasion, the publication captures defining milestones, visionary leaders and stories shaping the region’s tourism journey.

Addressing the audience, SanJeet emphasised the deeper role of tourism beyond economics. “Travel and tourism bring people closer, build understanding and foster trust between nations. Saudi Arabia deserves recognition for leading this transformation through bold investments, world-class infrastructure and forward-thinking policies, positioning the region as one of the world’s most influential tourism hubs.”

The evening also witnessed prestigious individual honours, with Daniel Ponzo, Group Managing Director of Zahid Travel Group, inducted into the Gallery of Legends, Saleem Sharif, Deputy Managing Director of ATS Travel,  named DDP Gamechanger, Hashim AlShawi, General Manager of Ashraqat, honoured as DDP Trailblazer, and Hessa Almazroa, General Manager Novotel Sahafa, recognised as the DDP Face of the Future.

The awards further celebrated excellence across airlines, hotels, destinations, travel management companies, OTAs, technology providers and service partners, underscoring the depth, diversity and dynamism of the Middle East’s travel ecosystem.

With strong industry participation and overwhelming response, the Arabian Travel Awards Saudi Arabia marked a powerful beginning—setting a new benchmark for recognising achievement and inspiring the next chapter of tourism growth in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The full list of award winners given below: