Aradhana Khowala

Aradhana Khowala is one of the most influential leaders in the luxury hospitality, travel, and tourism sector. With over 23 years of global experience, her career spans across more than 75 countries. Today, she is the CEO of Aptamind Partners, a strategic consultancy that leverages hard data and extensive experience to advise governments, emerging destinations, and public and private organizations on future-proofing their business. Previously, she served as the Managing Director of Tourism at NEOM, where she led a transformative US$500 billion sustainable project aimed at creating a new way of living in Saudi Arabia.

Khowala is an active board member with significant roles, currently serving as Chair of the Group Advisory Board of Red Sea Global in Saudi Arabia, which is developing the Red Sea Project and AMAALA - the world’s first integrated wellness destination. She also serves as a Board Member of Elaf Group, the leisure arm of a sustainable listed holding company – SEDCO, where she chairs the compensation and remuneration committee. Khowala’s advocacy work extends to global policy discussions at the United Nations and G20, reflecting her dedication to using tourism as a catalyst for global change.

An accomplished public speaker, Khowala has delivered keynotes focused on data-driven strategies, innovative approaches to luxury tourism, and visions for a sustainable future, including a TEDx talk titled "Don’t Be A Gender. Be An Airbender!" at TEDxEHLLausanne. She is recognized among the 100 most powerful people in Global Hospitality and has been acknowledged for her ability to inspire change and innovate within the industry. Khowala champions women in leadership, worker rights, and gender parity, continuously advocating for diversity and inclusion. Her energetic and engaging speaking style makes her a captivating presence on stage, driving forward discussions on sustainability, social impact, and sustainable growth within the tourism sector.