ع
The Jeddah Municipality announced that Ehsan Bafaqeeh officially assumed his duties as mayor on July 14, 2026. In his initial engagements the new mayor convened with directors of various departments to examine priority projects and assess current municipal operations. Bafaqeeh who was appointed by royal decree as reported by the Saudi Press Agency stressed the necessity of stronger coordination among all units to boost overall efficiency and expedite project completion.
His extensive knowledge of the city as a Jeddah native positions him well to implement improvements where needed according to municipal statements. The mayor pointed out that many projects require accelerated implementation to match the pace of the city’s urban expansion. This review forms part of a broader effort to align municipal work with national development objectives Arab News reported.
Speaking to Al-Eqtisadiah Bafaqeeh outlined his priorities as advancing municipal services increasing field oversight and elevating the quality of life for residents. He characterized the appointment as a significant responsibility to serve Jeddah in line with the kingdom’s aspirations. The incoming mayor called for consolidating previous achievements while raising performance standards across the board.
Bafaqeeh succeeds Saleh Al-Turki who had led the municipality since 2018 until earlier this year according to multiple Saudi outlets. His prior roles include governor of the General Authority for State Properties and chief executive of Mohammed Al-Subaie Logistics Services a profile detailed by Arab News. Earlier in his career he served as chief financial officer at the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones and earned a science degree from Westminster College in the United States.
The transition occurs as Jeddah pushes forward with several flagship initiatives including the Jeddah Central project designed to create a vibrant new urban district along the Red Sea coast. Industry analysis from Construction Week Saudi highlights additional efforts such as the Jeddah Tower and the creation of 55 zones open to foreign ownership to stimulate investment. These developments demand robust municipal support to navigate regulatory and infrastructural demands effectively.
On the eve of assuming office Bafaqeeh met with Makkah Deputy Emir Prince Saud bin Mishaal where he conveyed his appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the royal trust Saudi media outlets stated. The deputy emir’s reception underscored the strategic importance of effective local governance in the region. Municipal leaders anticipate that the new leadership will drive continued progress in public services and infrastructure maintenance throughout Jeddah.
