Rotana Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Rotana has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, media services, and content production.

Driven by a commitment to cultural relevance, Rotana delivers a diverse array of television channels and programs across the MENA region, resonating with Saudi and GCC audiences through culturally attuned content and a comprehensive entertainment platform.

Leadership Roles at Rotana

  • Chief Executive Officer - Same Ahmad
  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Rami Damanhouri
  • Chief Financial Officer - Mohamed Kharbash
  • President, Rotana Media Services - Nezar Nagro
  • President Rotana Studios - Hala Sarhan
  • Same Ahmad - Chief Executive Officer

    Same Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer at Rotana, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the leading entertainment network in the MENA region. Ahmad's leadership guides the company's mission to provide a diverse range of television channels and programs, including free-to-air Arabic movie channels, comedy shows, classic films, and contemporary dramas. This strategic direction ensures content resonates with Saudi and GCC audiences, reflecting their interests and societal issues. Overseeing all major business units, Ahmad ensures alignment with Rotana's goal of being a comprehensive entertainment platform for the Arab world. The Chief Executive Officer's role involves fostering innovation in content creation and distribution, driving market expansion, and maintaining Rotana's position as a culturally relevant media powerhouse. By focusing on robust financial performance and strategic partnerships, Same Ahmad solidifies Rotana's influence and reach across the region.

    Rami Damanhouri - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Rami Damanhouri, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Rotana, supports the Chief Executive Officer in executing the company's strategic vision and managing daily operations across the MENA region's leading entertainment network. Damanhouri's responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of programming strategies that cater to diverse audiences, from Arabic movie channels to music and educational content. This involves ensuring operational efficiency in content acquisition, production, and broadcast scheduling. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer plays a critical part in maintaining Rotana's appeal to Saudi and GCC viewers by ensuring content remains culturally relevant and addresses contemporary societal issues. Damanhouri collaborates closely with department heads to drive growth initiatives and enhance the network's market position. By focusing on operational excellence and cross-functional team coordination, Rami Damanhouri contributes significantly to Rotana's comprehensive entertainment platform for the Arab world.

    Mohamed Kharbash - Chief Financial Officer

    Mohamed Kharbash, the Chief Financial Officer at Rotana, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the prominent MENA entertainment network. Kharbash's oversight encompasses budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and capital management, ensuring the company's financial health and sustainability. This role is crucial for supporting Rotana's diverse offerings, which include Arabic movie channels, comedy shows, classic films, and contemporary dramas, by allocating resources effectively. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial strategies align with the company's mission to provide culturally relevant programming to Saudi and GCC audiences. Kharbash manages investor relations and seeks opportunities for financial growth and investment in new content and technologies. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Mohamed Kharbash underpins Rotana's ability to operate as a comprehensive entertainment platform and expand its market influence across the Arab world.

    Nezar Nagro - President, Rotana Media Services

    Nezar Nagro, the President, Rotana Media Services at Rotana, leads the strategic development and execution of media services for the leading entertainment network in the MENA region. Nagro's focus is on maximizing revenue streams through advertising sales, content syndication, and strategic partnerships, ensuring Rotana's diverse programming, including Arabic movie channels and contemporary dramas, reaches its target audiences effectively. This involves cultivating strong relationships with advertisers and clients to promote culturally relevant content appealing to Saudi and GCC viewers. The President, Rotana Media Services oversees the commercial aspects of the network, driving business growth and expanding market reach. Nagro's leadership ensures that Rotana's comprehensive entertainment platform is commercially viable and continues to innovate in its service offerings. By optimizing media sales strategies and exploring new commercial opportunities, Nezar Nagro significantly contributes to Rotana's overall success and market leadership.
    Nezar Nagro

    Hala Sarhan - President Rotana Studios

    Hala Sarhan, the President Rotana Studios at Rotana, spearheads the creative direction and production operations for the entertainment network's studio division in the MENA region. Sarhan's mandate involves overseeing the development and execution of high-quality television channels and programs, including Arabic movie channels, comedy shows, classic films, and contemporary dramas, ensuring they resonate with Saudi and GCC audiences. This leadership role focuses on nurturing creative talent, driving innovation in content production, and maintaining Rotana's reputation for culturally relevant programming. The President Rotana Studios is responsible for managing the entire production lifecycle, from concept development to final delivery, ensuring alignment with the company's mission. Sarhan's strategic vision guides the studio's output, contributing to Rotana's position as a comprehensive entertainment platform. By championing compelling storytelling and diverse genres, Hala Sarhan enhances Rotana's cultural impact and market appeal across the Arab world.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Rotana Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Rotana?
    Rotana is led by Same Ahmad (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rami Damanhouri (Deputy Chief Executive Officer) and Mohamed Kharbash (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Rotana’s executive team?
    The executive team of Rotana includes leaders such as Same Ahmad (Chief Executive Officer), Rami Damanhouri (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Mohamed Kharbash (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Rotana have?
    Rotana has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Rotana’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Rotana includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Rotana Media Services, President Rotana Studios.