Gulf Air Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gulf Air has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, people, and network development.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Gulf Air is dedicated to providing exceptional air travel services, connecting destinations across the globe and fostering international connectivity through its extensive network and customer-centric approach.

Leadership Roles at Gulf Air

  • Chief Executive Officer - Waleed AlAlawi
  • Chief Operating Officer - Qasim Ismaeel
  • Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air - Qasim AlBastaki
  • Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo - Mazin Saleh
  • Chief People Officer - Ahmed Albanna
  • Waleed AlAlawi - Chief Executive Officer

    Waleed AlAlawi, the Chief Executive Officer at Gulf Air, directs the airline's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all facets of the business, AlAlawi ensures alignment with market demands and international aviation standards. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and enhancing the customer experience across all service touchpoints. By optimizing route networks and fleet management, Waleed AlAlawi directly impacts Gulf Air's competitive positioning. Ultimately, AlAlawi secures the airline's long-term financial health and market leadership. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering key stakeholder relationships and ensuring regulatory compliance throughout the global network. This executive champions innovation in service delivery and operational efficiency, maintaining Gulf Air's reputation as a premier international carrier.
    Waleed AlAlawi

    Qasim Ismaeel - Chief Operating Officer

    Qasim Ismaeel, the Chief Operating Officer at Gulf Air, manages the day-to-day operational activities critical to the airline's service delivery. Overseeing flight operations, ground handling, and network scheduling, Ismaeel ensures seamless execution of all flight services. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation and maintaining the highest safety standards across all operational domains. By streamlining operational workflows and enhancing efficiency, Qasim Ismaeel directly contributes to Gulf Air's punctuality and reliability. Ultimately, Ismaeel guarantees the smooth functioning of the airline's extensive route network. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing crew resources and ensuring adherence to stringent aviation regulations. Ismaeel drives continuous improvement in operational processes, supporting Gulf Air's mission to provide exceptional travel experiences.

    Qasim AlBastaki - Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air

    Qasim AlBastaki, the Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air at Gulf Air, directs the strategic planning and execution of the airline's commercial operations. Overseeing revenue management, network planning, and commercial partnerships, AlBastaki drives market expansion and revenue growth. This executive position involves analyzing market trends and developing strategies to enhance Gulf Air's competitive edge. By optimizing pricing strategies and expanding route profitability, Qasim AlBastaki directly impacts the airline's financial performance. Ultimately, AlBastaki ensures the commercial viability of Gulf Air's extensive flight network. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing sales channels and fostering strong relationships with travel partners. AlBastaki champions initiatives to improve customer acquisition and retention, supporting Gulf Air's mission to connect the world.

    Mazin Saleh - Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo

    Mazin Saleh, the Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo at Gulf Air, spearheads the technological infrastructure and aviation maintenance strategies. Overseeing all IT systems and ensuring compliance with aviation maintenance regulations, Saleh drives innovation in digital transformation and aircraft upkeep. This critical role involves managing the technical aspects of aircraft airworthiness and operational technology integration. By implementing advanced technological solutions and robust maintenance protocols, Mazin Saleh directly enhances operational safety and efficiency. Ultimately, Saleh ensures the technological backbone supports Gulf Air's global flight operations. The Chief Technology Officer's purview includes managing Part 145 maintenance approvals and the Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Organisation (Camo) functions. Saleh champions the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to maintain fleet readiness and optimize maintenance schedules.

    Ahmed Albanna - Chief People Officer

    Ahmed Albanna, the Chief People Officer at Gulf Air, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. Overseeing recruitment, employee development, and organizational culture, Albanna cultivates a high-performance workforce. This pivotal role involves ensuring employee engagement and fostering a supportive work environment aligned with Gulf Air's values. By implementing effective HR policies and talent acquisition programs, Ahmed Albanna directly enhances organizational capacity and employee retention. Ultimately, Albanna ensures that Gulf Air possesses the skilled personnel necessary for its global operations. The Chief People Officer's responsibilities include managing compensation and benefits and driving diversity and inclusion programs. Albanna champions initiatives that empower employees and contribute to the airline's overall success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gulf Air Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gulf Air?
    Gulf Air is led by Waleed AlAlawi (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Qasim Ismaeel (Chief Operating Officer) and Qasim AlBastaki (Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air).
    Who is part of Gulf Air’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gulf Air includes leaders such as Waleed AlAlawi (Chief Executive Officer), Qasim Ismaeel (Chief Operating Officer), Qasim AlBastaki (Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gulf Air have?
    Gulf Air has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gulf Air’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gulf Air includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air, Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo, Chief People Officer.