Eng. Nezar Banabeela

Mobily, CEO

Speaker Bio

A visionary leader with over two decades of experience delivering impact across telecommunications, digital infrastructure, and logistics. As the Chief Executive Officer of Mobily, one of Saudi Arabia’s most strategic enablers of the digital economy, Nezar is steering the company’s evolution into a future-focused, integrated TMT powerhouse aligned with Vision 2030.


Recognized for his entrepreneurial mindset, high ethical standards, and ability to lead at scale, Nezar brings a track record of launching bold initiatives that have redefined organizational futures and influenced national ecosystems. Under his leadership, Mobily has achieved sustainable growth, profitability, and expanded influence, positioning itself as a catalyst for innovation, digital inclusion, and global connectivity.


Prior to Mobily, Nezar served as Group Head of Special Projects at STC Group, where he was entrusted with group-wide transformation initiatives, strategic alliances with global hyperscalers, and the development of new platforms in AI, API marketplaces, and open gateways.


As CEO of STC Bahrain, Nezar executed a full strategic reset, launching six new revenue streams, rebranding the company, and unlocking regulatory wins that reshaped the telecom landscape in Bahrain. His leadership resulted in record-high customer satisfaction, major cost optimizations, and the successful relaunch of STC Pay.


Earlier, Nezar led Bahri Dry Bulk as President, scaling revenues by over 350% and expanding global partnerships, including a landmark joint venture with Bunge and a long-term partnership with the Suez Canal Authority. He also held senior roles at Mobily, STC KSA, and VIVA Bahrain, where he built wholesale and enterprise functions from the ground up.


A frequent contributor to business forums and recognized as one of the Top 40 CEOs Under 40, Nezar has received multiple regional and international awards for customer experience, digital innovation, CSR, and infrastructure leadership.


Nezar holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from Umm Al-Qura University, and has completed executive education programs at Harvard, Wharton, London Business School, IESE, and Cambridge, reflecting his deep commitment to lifelong learning and strategic excellence.