Abu Dhabi Airports appoints acting chief executive

Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi joins from Tawazun Economic Council

Abu Dhabi Airports appointed Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi as its acting chief executive. Courtesy Abu Dhabi Airports

Abu Dhabi Airports appointed Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, a former executive of Tawazun Economic Council, as its acting chief executive.

Mr Al Hashmi previously worked as the chief defence strategic programmes officer and chief information security officer at the Tawazun Economic Council overseeing a range of programmes and initiatives within the UAE’s defence and aerospace industries, Abu Dhabi Airports said in a statement on Tuesday.

He has more than 20 years of experience in aerospace engineering, aircraft project management, technology development and implementation, defence and security.

“I am confident that his excellent leadership and vast experience will empower Abu Dhabi Airports during this challenging time and further support Abu Dhabi’s transformation into a destination of choice for local, regional and international travellers,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports.

Mr Al Hashmi also served in executive and management positions in other organisations such as the Supreme Council for National Security, Outlook Energy Investment, Presidential Flight and Royal Jet, the statement said. He holds a BSc in aeronautics from Saint Louis University in Missouri, US.

“I am delighted to join Abu Dhabi Airports and look forward to building upon its strong foundations to further enhance its business and operations across the aviation sector,” Mr Al Hashmi said.

Abu Dhabi Airports, created in 2006 to develop Abu Dhabi's aviation infrastructure, currently manages and operates five airports in the emirate. It is also building the Midfield Terminal, the new hub for UAE flag-carrier Etihad Airways at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with a capacity to handle 45 million passengers annually.

Last year, Abu Dhabi Airports signed a non-binding preliminary agreement with Bucharest-based South Development Group to discuss possibilities for managing and developing Romania's international and regional airports.

Abu Dhabi Airports is wholly-owned by Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company.