Hilal Al-Riyami is a passionate advocate for leadership development and social impact, currently serving as Head of National Initiatives at the Royal Academy of Management in Oman. In this role, he collaborates with some of the world’s leading academic institutions to design and deliver executive programmes in leadership, innovation, and government transformation empowering the next generation of leaders to drive change across sectors critical to Oman’s growth. Hilal works closely with senior government officials and private-sector leaders across Oman and the GCC, with programmes that have supported over 1,000 leaders since 2016, promoting innovation and resilience.
Previously, Hilal worked in the energy sector as Data and Analytics Lead in the Gas Directorate at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), where he led strategic digital transformation projects that enhanced operational efficiency and future-proofed the workforce. Among his achievements was launching PDO’s first digital upskilling programme, equipping employees with cutting-edge skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Beyond his corporate contributions, Hilal is the Founder of Salikon, a pioneering skills accelerator dedicated to bridging the gap between education and employability. Under his leadership, Salikon developed a comprehensive ecosystem of training programmes, workshops, and mentorship initiatives designed to equip young Omanis with market-ready skills. These efforts targeted in-demand competencies including leadership, digital fluency, and entrepreneurship ensuring alignment with the evolving needs of the job market.
Since 2018, Salikon has empowered over 20,000 young Omanis through innovative, hands-on learning experiences and partnerships with industry leaders. Many have gone on to assume leadership roles in Oman and globally, driving transformative change across technology, education, and sustainability sectors. With aspirations to expand across the GCC, Salikon continues to address youth unemployment and cultivate a generation of confident, capable professionals shaping the region’s future.
Hilal’s academic journey and passion for travel have been deeply transformative. Studying in Australia allowed him to experience new cultures and gain a broader understanding of how people view the world, enriching his appreciation for diversity and human connection.
Beyond academics, Hilal enjoys hiking, beach volleyball, cooking, and volunteering. His dedication to working with youth inspired him to engage in community projects, reinforcing his belief in mentorship and collective growth.
A Global Shaper under the World Economic Forum, Hilal is committed to empowering individuals and communities. His insights have been featured at prestigious platforms such as the UNESCO Youth Forum, where he champions the transformative power of education, innovation, and collaboration in driving sustainable societal change.