Gulf Air Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gulf Air has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, flight operations, technical maintenance, digital infrastructure, and human capital management.

Operating as a premier international carrier, Gulf Air delivers exceptional connectivity across global markets while maintaining a commitment to operational excellence and passenger safety standards within the aviation industry.

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 overarching strategic vision for this international airline. By overseeing global network expansion and fleet modernization, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with long-term profitability goals. Waleed AlAlawi manages high-level relationships with the Board of Directors to secure sustainable growth across diverse international markets. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to maintain a competitive edge in the transportation sector. Through rigorous oversight of corporate governance, the Chief Executive Officer drives efficiency across all departments. By prioritizing passenger experience and service quality, the executive maintains the reputation of the airline. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health of the organization while navigating complex regulatory environments in the aviation industry, ensuring that the company remains a leader in regional and international air travel.
    Waleed AlAlawi

    Qasim Ismaeel - Chief Operating Officer

    Qasim Ismaeel, the Chief Operating Officer at Gulf Air, manages the daily flight operations and ground logistics for the entire airline network. By optimizing flight schedules and crew management, the Chief Operating Officer ensures maximum efficiency across all international routes. Qasim Ismaeel coordinates with maintenance teams to guarantee fleet readiness and safety compliance. This leadership role involves monitoring real-time operational data to mitigate disruptions and improve on-time performance metrics. By streamlining ground handling processes, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the overall passenger journey from departure to arrival. The executive maintains strict adherence to international aviation safety standards while driving operational excellence. Through continuous process improvement, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of the airline to provide reliable transportation services. By focusing on operational scalability, the executive ensures that the company meets the growing demands of global travelers.

    Qasim AlBastaki - Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air

    Qasim AlBastaki, the Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air at Gulf Air, oversees the strategic integration of supply chain logistics and procurement for the airline. By managing vendor relationships and fuel efficiency programs, the Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air reduces overhead costs while maintaining high service standards. Qasim AlBastaki directs the implementation of sustainable operational practices to align with modern environmental goals. This leadership role involves analyzing complex data sets to forecast resource requirements across various regional hubs. By optimizing the supply chain, the Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air ensures that all necessary components for fleet maintenance and passenger services remain available. The executive collaborates with other C-suite leaders to synchronize operational output with corporate financial targets. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer, Gulf Air drives significant improvements in operational agility, ensuring the airline remains resilient against market fluctuations.

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

    Mazin Saleh, the Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo at Gulf Air, architects the digital infrastructure and technical maintenance systems for the airline. By overseeing the implementation of advanced aviation software, the Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo ensures that all maintenance protocols meet strict regulatory requirements. Mazin Saleh manages the digital transformation of fleet management systems to improve diagnostic accuracy and safety. This leadership role involves integrating complex data analytics into daily maintenance workflows to reduce downtime. By securing the digital environment, the Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo protects critical operational data from cyber threats. The executive collaborates with engineering teams to ensure that all technical standards align with international aviation safety mandates. Through the deployment of innovative technology, the Chief Technology Officer, Post Holder Part 145 & Camo drives operational efficiency and enhances the overall safety profile of the airline.

    Ahmed Albanna - Chief People Officer

    Ahmed Albanna, the Chief People Officer at Gulf Air, directs the human capital strategy and organizational development for the airline. By overseeing talent acquisition and employee training programs, the Chief People Officer ensures that the workforce possesses the skills necessary to maintain high service standards. Ahmed Albanna manages internal communications and corporate culture initiatives to foster employee engagement across the international network. This leadership role involves designing performance management systems that align individual contributions with the strategic goals of the airline. By implementing robust leadership development programs, the Chief People Officer prepares the next generation of aviation professionals. The executive collaborates with department heads to address staffing requirements and workforce planning. Through the promotion of a safe and inclusive work environment, the Chief People Officer drives organizational stability and productivity. By prioritizing employee well-being, the executive ensures that the company attracts and retains top talent in the competitive transportation industry.

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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.