Dubai Tourism Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Dubai Tourism has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, and policy.

Driven by a commitment to showcasing the best of Dubai, Dubai Tourism provides comprehensive information and curated travel experiences, fostering a vibrant tourism sector and enhancing the city's global appeal through exceptional accommodations, events, and activities.

Leadership Roles at Dubai Tourism

  • Chief Executive Officer - George Michael
  • Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism - Yousuf Lootah
  • Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy - Essa Hadher
  • Chief Executive Officer, Regulatory Policy & Governance - Sahia Ahmad
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Mweene Bashily
  • George Michael - Chief Executive Officer

    George Michael, the Chief Executive Officer at Dubai Tourism, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the organization. Michael's leadership focuses on enhancing Dubai's position as a premier global destination by optimizing the delivery of information, travel accommodations, events, and activities. This role involves aligning departmental objectives with the company's mission to attract and engage tourists. Michael ensures that all facets of Dubai Tourism operate cohesively to provide an unparalleled visitor experience. The Chief Executive Officer's purview includes fostering innovation in tourism services and driving initiatives that expand market reach. By setting strategic priorities, George Michael guides the company's growth and reinforces its commitment to excellence in the hospitality sector.

    Yousuf Lootah - Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism

    Yousuf Lootah, the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism at Dubai Tourism, spearheads the strategic planning and performance measurement initiatives. Lootah's responsibilities encompass developing and implementing robust corporate strategies designed to elevate Dubai's tourism landscape. This involves rigorous analysis of market trends and performance metrics to ensure sustained growth and operational efficiency. The Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism works closely with other leadership to translate strategic visions into actionable plans. Lootah's focus is on driving measurable outcomes and ensuring the long-term viability and success of Dubai's tourism sector. Yousuf Lootah's leadership ensures strategic alignment across all departments.

    Essa Hadher - Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy

    Essa Hadher, the Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy at Dubai Tourism, drives the economic planning and strategic development initiatives that underpin the city's tourism sector. Hadher's role focuses on analyzing economic impacts, forecasting market growth, and formulating strategies to enhance Dubai's competitive advantage in the global tourism arena. This involves identifying new opportunities for economic diversification within the hospitality and travel sectors. The Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure that tourism policies and investments contribute positively to the broader economic objectives of Dubai. Essa Hadher's strategic insights are crucial for sustainable development and maximizing the economic benefits derived from tourism activities, ensuring robust financial performance for the organization.

    Sahia Ahmad - Chief Executive Officer, Regulatory Policy & Governance

    Sahia Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer, Regulatory Policy & Governance at Dubai Tourism, establishes and oversees the regulatory frameworks and governance structures that ensure operational integrity and compliance. Ahmad's leadership focuses on developing policies that support sustainable tourism growth while maintaining high standards for accommodations, events, and activities. This role involves ensuring that all operations adhere to national and international regulations, fostering a secure and trustworthy environment for tourists and businesses alike. The Chief Executive Officer, Regulatory Policy & Governance works to align organizational practices with best-in-class governance principles, safeguarding the reputation and long-term interests of Dubai Tourism. Sahia Ahmad's commitment to robust governance is essential for maintaining stakeholder confidence and operational excellence.
    Sahia Ahmad

    Mweene Bashily - Chief Marketing Officer

    Mweene Bashily, the Chief Marketing Officer at Dubai Tourism, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to promote Dubai as a world-class travel destination. Bashily oversees all promotional campaigns, digital marketing efforts, and brand development initiatives, ensuring a consistent and compelling message across all platforms. This leadership position involves identifying target audiences, understanding their travel motivations, and crafting campaigns that resonate deeply. The Chief Marketing Officer is pivotal in driving tourist engagement and increasing visitor numbers by highlighting the unique accommodations, events, and activities Dubai offers. Mweene Bashily's expertise ensures that Dubai Tourism maintains a strong market presence and effectively communicates its value proposition to a global audience, thereby contributing significantly to the sector's expansion.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dubai Tourism Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Dubai Tourism?
    Dubai Tourism is led by George Michael (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Yousuf Lootah (Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism) and Essa Hadher (Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy).
    Who is part of Dubai Tourism’s executive team?
    The executive team of Dubai Tourism includes leaders such as George Michael (Chief Executive Officer), Yousuf Lootah (Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism), Essa Hadher (Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Dubai Tourism have?
    Dubai Tourism has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Dubai Tourism’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Dubai Tourism includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Chief Executive Officer, Economic Strategy, Chief Executive Officer, Regulatory Policy & Governance, Chief Marketing Officer.