Arab Drilling CEO Resigns, Fahad Al-Bani Appointed as New President

The board of directors of Al-Hajer Arabian Drilling Company has accepted the resignation of Ghassan bin Abdulaziz Murad as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 9, 2026, and appointed Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Bani as the new CEO, effective February 10, 2026.

The decision to accept Murad’s resignation, submitted for personal reasons, was made on February 5, 2026, according to a company statement. Al-Hajer Arabian Drilling announced the appointment of Al-Bani following a recommendation from the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.

Al-Bani brings nearly three decades of experience in the oil and gas sector, specializing in drilling engineering, unconventional resources, and operational excellence. He most recently served as Vice President of Reservoir Engineering, Drilling & Completion for Unconventional Resources (UR) at Saudi Aramco, where he led initiatives in digitalization, automation, and the development of innovative well delivery technologies. He likewise held several leadership positions, including a board membership at Saudi Aramco Nabors Drilling – SANAD.

The board of directors expressed gratitude to Murad for his efforts during his tenure and wished him success in his future endeavors. Similarly, the board extended its best wishes to Al-Bani as he assumes his new responsibilities.