FaceOf: Talat Hafiz, secretary-general of the Media and Banking Awareness Committee for Saudi Banks

Talat Hafiz
Updated 13 July 2018
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FaceOf: Talat Hafiz, secretary-general of the Media and Banking Awareness Committee for Saudi Banks

  • With over 30 years’ experience in financial analysis and banking, Hafiz is responsible for enhancing banking knowledge in Saudi society
  • Hafiz gained a master’s degree in professional accounting from Hartford University, Connecticut, in 1984

Talat Hafiz is secretary-general of the Media and Banking Awareness Committee for Saudi Banks. 

With over 30 years’ experience in financial analysis and banking, Hafiz is responsible for enhancing banking knowledge in Saudi society.

On Wednesday, he led the first panel discussion at the 12th BMG Economic Forum in London under the theme “Business and Financial Environments in Saudi Arabia.” 

The BMG Economic Forum addressed wider investment opportu- nities in Saudi Arabia and the King- dom’s vision for the future.

“Saudi Arabia is the heart of the Arab world and an investment powerhouse,” Hafiz said.

British MP John Glen pledged UK support for the Kingdom’s comprehensive Vision 2030 plan.

Hafiz gained a master’s degree in professional accounting from Hartford University, Connecticut, in 1984. After graduating, he joined one of the leading commercial banks in the Middle East, the National Commercial Bank (NCB), and went on to hold senior positions including corporate branch manager and head of private banking. 

Hafiz worked as an assistant professor at King Saud University in the accounting department from 1977-1983.

He has also acted as CEO for United Assets Co., an investment and real estate development company.

An economic and financial analyst and columnist, Hafiz has hosted several economic and finance programs on the Saudi Television Network. 

Along with his responsibilities as secretary-general, Hafiz serves as a board member for the General Organization of Social Security, the Saudi Broadcasting Corporation and Baazeem Trading Co.


Syrian foreign minister congratulates Saudi counterpart on Founding Day

Updated 24 February 2026
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Syrian foreign minister congratulates Saudi counterpart on Founding Day

  • Asaad Al-Shaibani and Prince Faisal bin Farhan also discuss developments in Syria and the wider region, as well as bilateral cooperation
  • This year’s Founding Day marked the 299th anniversary of the establishment of the First Saudi State

RIYADH: Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, on Monday congratulated his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, on Founding Day, which this year marked the 299th anniversary of the establishment of the First Saudi State.

During their telephone conversation the ministers also discussed the latest developments in Syria and the wider region, along with ways in which they might strengthen bilateral relations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Faisal reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and highlighted the need for regional stability and security, the Syrian Arab News Agency said.

Founding Day, which was introduced in 2022, is celebrated each year on Feb. 22 and marks the founding of the First Saudi State in 1727.