Learn how your comment data is processed. Douglas joined RIA in September 2022. As reported in Arabian Business today, Douglas has accepted to the job offer. The British government picked Douglas to rescue what has been described as a botched reform programme which saw 22,000 soldiers axed from the armed services. Gain a global perspective on the US and go beyond with curated news and analysis from 600 What do you make of Saudi Arabia allegedly recruiting Tony Douglas, and who do you think will be the next CEO of Etihad? You can still enjoy your subscription until the end of your current billing period. Having led the airline through the pandemic - aviation's worst crisis in history - Douglas has now seen the carrier posting its first half-year profit in a very long time. Etihad Abu Dhabi's Sovereign Wealth Fund Takes Control of He previously served as the CEO of Etihad Airways from January 2018 to October 2022. He has also held senior positions with airport operator BAA, and as Chief Operating Officer and Group Chief Executive designate of Laing ORourke. Reports also suggest that several other senior officials at Etihad will follow Douglas to RIA. We want to reassure (that) afterwards when we all want to get back to our normal lives, we want to travel, Etihad will still be there to make sure its the best possible way that you can enjoy that experience, he said in the video posted on Etihad Airways Twitter channel. "Etihads previous CEO lit billions of dollars on fire, wanting to grow the airline into a mega-carrier that competed with Emirates and Qatar Airways". Discover today's celebrity birthdays and explore famous people who share your birthday. RIA will compete against other Middle East-based airlines known for their luxury, namely Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways. Etihad declined to comment, while PIF did not respond to our request for comment. Check if your Riyadh Air News: CEO Is Tony Douglas, ex-Etihad Boss