Makkah Deputy Emir Welcomes New Jeddah Mayor Ehsan Bafaqeeh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Jul 13, 2026 ALN: JEDDAH — Makkah Deputy Emir Prince Saud bin Mishaal recently received newly appointed Jeddah Mayor Ehsan Bafaqeeh at the governorate headquarters, marking a significant moment in the governance of one of Saudi Arabia's most important cities. This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment of the Saudi leadership to enhance municipal governance and improve the living conditions for the residents of Jeddah.

During this introductory meeting, Prince Saud congratulated Bafaqeeh on the royal trust placed in him, emphasizing the importance of this role in serving the city and fulfilling the aspirations of the leadership. Such appointments are often seen as pivotal, as they can greatly influence the direction of municipal policies and initiatives that impact the daily lives of citizens.

The discussion between the Deputy Emir and the new mayor was centered around various municipal issues and future plans for the city, which is known for its strategic location along the Red Sea and its role as a gateway for millions of pilgrims heading to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Jeddah's unique position not only makes it a cultural and economic hub but also necessitates a robust municipal framework to manage its growth and development effectively.

Bafaqeeh expressed his gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for the royal appointment. He described his new role as "a responsibility before it is an honor," highlighting the weight of expectations that accompany such positions in public service. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding within Saudi Arabia of the importance of leadership in public administration, especially in cities that serve as critical infrastructure for national and religious activities.

In his remarks, Bafaqeeh indicated his intention to build upon the achievements of previous Jeddah mayors, particularly praising the contributions of former Mayor Saleh Al-Turki. This acknowledgment of past leadership is vital as it sets a collaborative tone for future governance, suggesting that continuity and respect for previous successes will be essential in his administration. Bafaqeeh's commitment to working alongside the municipality's staff to further develop the city and improve municipal services aligns with the broader goals of public sector reform and community engagement that have been emphasized in recent years.

"The next phase requires even greater dedication and achievement to fulfill the aspirations of the leadership and the people of Jeddah," Bafaqeeh stated, indicating a proactive approach to the challenges that lie ahead. This commitment to dedication is particularly relevant in the context of Jeddah's ongoing urban development projects, which aim to enhance the city's infrastructure, public amenities, and overall livability for its residents.

Bafaqeeh also highlighted Jeddah's strategic location, which has implications for both economic development and tourism. As a city that serves as a major entry point for pilgrims during the Hajj season, Jeddah's municipal services are critical in ensuring that the influx of visitors is managed effectively. The support he acknowledged from Makkah Emir Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Deputy Emir Prince Saud bin Mishaal, and Jeddah Governor Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi further illustrates the collaborative governance model that is being promoted at various levels of the Saudi government.

In addressing the citizens of Jeddah, Bafaqeeh conveyed a message of commitment: "I will always be there to support them and serve the city, working with all colleagues at the municipality as one team to continue improving Jeddah." This approach emphasizes a community-oriented leadership style that seeks to engage with residents and address their needs directly, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation between the government and the public.

Bafaqeeh's background is noteworthy, as he was born in Jeddah in 1973 and has built a career as an economist and investment banker with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. His previous role as governor of the General Authority for State Properties from December 2018 to March 2023 is indicative of his ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and manage significant public assets. This experience will likely be beneficial as he takes on the responsibilities of overseeing Jeddah's municipal governance.

His career trajectory includes leadership roles such as chief executive of Mohammed Alsubeaei (MASIC) Logistics Services, chief financial officer of the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON), and chairman of Al-Fadhili Housing Company. These positions have equipped him with a diverse skill set that encompasses financial management, strategic planning, and operational oversight—qualities that are essential for effective municipal administration.

Bafaqeeh's tenure at MODON is particularly noteworthy; during this time, he played a crucial role in expanding industrial land capacity by more than 100% through revenue diversification and public-private partnerships. This achievement not only showcases his ability to drive economic growth but also reflects his understanding of the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in achieving developmental goals.

His accolades, including the Government Finance Excellence Award in 2010, further underscore his capabilities and commitment to public service. Bafaqeeh holds a bachelor's degree in science from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has pursued further education and training, including a Wealth Manager certification from the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority and executive training programs at the International Institute for Management Development and other prestigious institutions.

The appointment of Ehsan Bafaqeeh as the new mayor of Jeddah comes at a time when the city is poised for significant development, including infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and public services, as well as initiatives to improve the quality of life for residents. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, the expectations are high for Bafaqeeh to leverage his experience and vision to navigate the challenges ahead and to contribute to the ongoing transformation of Jeddah into a modern and vibrant metropolis that meets the needs of its diverse population.

In conclusion, the recent welcome of Ehsan Bafaqeeh by Makkah Deputy Emir Prince Saud bin Mishaal not only marks a new beginning for the mayor's office in Jeddah but also reflects the broader ambitions of the Saudi government to enhance local governance and improve urban living conditions. As Bafaqeeh steps into his role, the focus will undoubtedly be on collaboration, innovation, and responsiveness to the needs of the community, ensuring that Jeddah continues to thrive as a key city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.