Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 2025 – Nawaf Al Owain (نواف العوين) has been appointed as Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at the Cultural Development Fund (CDF). In this elevated role, he will lead the Fund’s marketing and communications strategy, strengthening its brand presence and supporting its mission to develop the cultural sector and empower institutions, entrepreneurs, and creatives across Saudi Arabia.
Al Owain has been an integral part of the Cultural Development Fund for over four years. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of Marketing and Communication, where he spearheaded the launch of the Fund’s brand identity, drove communication strategies to enhance public perception, and oversaw high-impact campaigns and events. He also directed content strategies across digital and traditional channels, ensuring cohesive storytelling aligned with organizational values. Before this, he worked as Director of Marketing and Communication, where he laid the groundwork for CDF’s brand evolution and outreach initiatives.
Prior to joining the Fund, Al Owain was Head of Brand Communications at Zain KSA, where he played a key role in impactful campaigns, including the 5G launch strategy, and partnered with agencies to deliver integrated communication strategies. He also contributed as a Communications Consultant for the National Competitiveness Center, where he worked on policy-driven initiatives to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness narrative.
Earlier, he served as Communications Manager at the Government Expenditure & Projects Efficiency Authority (Mashroat) and later at the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, where he developed brand strategies, managed creative teams, and delivered large-scale communication projects. His earlier leadership included serving as Brand Manager at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), where he set and implemented a nationally consistent brand identity. He also gained agency experience with Phi Creative Agency and held early career roles at Mawhiba and 2P Perfect Presentation.
Al Owain has pursued advanced leadership and communication education. He completed the High Performance Leadership Program at IMD in May 2024 and holds a Master’s Degree in Communication from RMIT University.
About the Cultural Development Fund
The Cultural Development Fund (CDF) plays a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s cultural sector. It empowers stakeholders including institutions, entrepreneurs, and creatives, while supporting the Kingdom’s cultural vision as a driver of economic growth and a contributor to quality of life. The Fund also serves as a catalyst for investment opportunities, ensuring that Saudi culture continues to thrive as a source of inspiration, innovation, and national pride.
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