Saudi Arabia names new CEO to lead Diriyah heritage initiative

Saudi Arabia has named Gerard Jerry Inzerillo as the chief executive officer of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the entity spearheading the transformative initiative to develop and manage the historical destination of Diriyah.

The board of directors of DGDA is chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Inzerillo was selected to oversee the restoration of Diriyah and to develop a number of major new historical and tourism assets including museums, academic institutions and “edutainment” facilities, as well as resorts, restaurants, wellness facilities and high-end retail in a 7.1 million square meter development on the west side of Riyadh.

Previously, he was working as the CEO of Forbes Travel Guide.

Diriyah, a UNESCO registered site, is the birthplace of the Saudi nation and holds a historical depth of more than 590 years.

The At-Turaif District in Diriyah has also been designated as a “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO.