NFPA appoints Zahi Daher to advance fire safety in Saudi Arabia

October 11, 2024

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Zahi Daher as its new Manager of International Business Development for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In his new role, Daher will work alongside Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development for the MENA region, to advance NFPA initiatives within Saudi Arabia. Leveraging his extensive experience, Daher will support the implementation of fire and life safety standards in one of the region’s fastest-growing nations.

Zahi Daher, a seasoned expert in fire protection, standards management, and business development, joins NFPA from UL Standards & Engagement, where he served as the regional standards manager for the Middle East and Northern Africa. During his tenure, he played a key role in establishing and strengthening strategic relationships with government bodies, industry associations, and regulatory agencies. His efforts were instrumental in promoting the adoption of international standards across the region.

“We are thrilled to have Zahi Daher join the NFPA team,” said Jim Pauley, NFPA president and CEO.

“His strategic insights, extensive background, and proven track record make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts in the Kingdom. Zahi Daher’s role will accelerate our work to offer tailored solutions that address local fire and life safety risks as Saudi Arabia rapidly expands,” added Jim.

Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development, MENA, NFPA, also commented on the appointment: “Zahi Daher’s appointment is an important milestone in our efforts to enhance fire and life safety in Saudi Arabia. I warmly welcome him to our team, as his extensive experience will be invaluable as we engage with local organizations to create a safer environment that aligns with the Kingdom’s growth and Vision 2030.”

This appointment follows the recent opening of the NFPA regional office in Riyadh, further strengthening the association’s presence in Saudi Arabia.

Over the years, NFPA has collaborated with government entities and local safety professionals to reinforce the fire, electrical, and safety infrastructure as part of the Saudi Building Code.

Daher’s work will build upon these efforts, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 while promoting the principles of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem™, a comprehensive framework designed to enhance fire and life safety across various sectors.

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing an incredible transformation, and I am honored to help NFPA play a role as fire and life safety standards are implemented throughout this process, aligned with local risks and hazards,” said Zahi Daher, Manager of International Business Development, Saudi Arabia, NFPA.

“I look forward to working with stakeholders across the kingdom to foster an environment where safety continues to be prioritized at every level,” added Daher.

Daher officially began his role with NFPA on 1 October. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Beirut Arab University and a master’s degree in engineering management from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. His diverse professional background spans sales management, fire protection design, and field engineering, uniquely positioning him to lead NFPA’s efforts in Saudi Arabia.

To read the full article, see our last issue here.