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

 

He joins Eng Dana Kamal, Director of IBD for the Mena region, and will be responsible for driving NFPA initiatives in KSA, leveraging his experience to support the use of fire and life safety standards in one of the region's most rapidly transforming nations.

 

Daher, a seasoned professional in fire protection, standards management, and business development, joins NFPA from UL Standards & Engagement, where he served as regional standards manager for the Middle East and Northern Africa (Mena). In his previous role, he was instrumental in forging and growing strategic relationships with government authorities, industry associations, and regulatory bodies while leading successful initiatives to use international standards throughout the region.

 

Proven track record

“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 Pauley.

 

Kamal said: “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 organisations to create a safer environment that aligns with the kingdom's growth and Vision 2030.”

 

His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for NFPA operations in Saudi Arabia, following the recent opening of the NFPA regional office in Riyadh. Throughout the years NFPA has collaborated with government organisations and local safety professionals to strengthen the fire, electrical, and safety infrastructure as part of the Saudi Building Code. Zahi Daher’s work will strengthen those efforts in conjunction with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 while championing the principles of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, a comprehensive framework to improve fire and life safety across societies and sectors.”  

 

Safety a priority

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing an incredible transformation, and I am honoured to help NFPA play a role as fire and life safety standards are implemented throughout this process, aligned with local risks and hazards,” said Daher. “I look forward to working with stakeholders across the kingdom to foster an environment where safety continues to be prioritised at every level,” added Daher.

 

Daher began his new role with NFPA on October 1. 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 (KFUPM) in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. His diverse career includes experience in sales management, fire protection design, and field engineering, making him uniquely positioned to help lead NFPA efforts in KSA.--TradeArabia News Service