Leadership Team
H.E. Fahad Al Farhan, President
His Excellency Fahd Al Farhan is a renowned Saudi diplomat and legal expert who has significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of Arabian Salukis through his work with the Saluki Center in Saudi Arabia. In addition to his legal and diplomatic roles within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. Al-Farhan has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at protecting the cultural heritage of the Arabian Saluki, a breed deeply rooted in the history of the Arabian Peninsula. His efforts at the Saluki Center focus on preserving the breed’s purity and promoting its significance in regional culture.
Under his guidance, the center has become a global hub for Saluki enthusiasts, working to safeguard the breed’s legacy while also supporting modern breeding practices. Mr. Al-Farhan's leadership in this area reflects his broader commitment to cultural preservation and legal excellence .
Hamad Al Ghanem, Vice President
Hamad Al Ghanem is a notable figure in the world of Saluki preservation and breeding. He is the Vice President of the International Assel Arabian Saluki Club (IAASC) and is deeply involved in the cultural heritage associated with this ancient breed. Beyond his role with the IAASC, Al Ghanem is the founder of the Saluki of Arabia Club and has been a breeder and advocate for Salukis for many decades. He has established a stud book for Salukis, which documents the lineage of over 1,800 dogs, and is currently involved in creating a DNA database to trace the origins of Salukis from different regions.
Additionally, Al Ghanem played a significant role in founding the Saluki Centre in Abu Dhabi, a hub dedicated to the preservation, breeding, and training of Salukis. The center, which he established in 2001, is renowned for its cultural significance and serves as a focal point for Saluki enthusiasts worldwide.
Akram bin Rashid Al Farhan, Director
Mr. Akram bin Rashid Al Farhan serves as the Director in charge of Memberships and Engineering at IAASC. In this multifaceted role, Mr. Al Farhan oversees the growth and management of IAASC’s membership base, ensuring that the organization remains inclusive and engaged with its global community of Saluki enthusiasts. His engineering expertise is also crucial to IAASC’s operations, where he applies his technical knowledge to enhance the organization’s infrastructure and digital platforms. Through his leadership, Mr. Al Farhan plays a key role in fostering a connected and thriving community, while also contributing to the technological advancement of IAASC’s initiatives.
Dr. Faisal Al Mathen, DVM, MSc, PhD, Director
Dr. Faisal Almathen serves as the Director of Research and Genetics at IAASC. In this role, Dr. Almathen spearheads initiatives to advance the understanding of Saluki genetics and their historical lineage, ensuring the preservation of this ancient breed’s heritage. Drawing from his extensive experience as Director of the Camel Research Center and as a leading academic in animal genetics, Dr. Almathen brings a wealth of expertise in genomic studies and marker-assisted breeding. His ongoing work with IAASC focuses on integrating advanced genetic technologies to support conservation efforts and enhance breed performance. Dr. Almathen’s dedication to research and innovation is instrumental in strengthening IAASC’s commitment to the scientific study and preservation of Salukis.
Guise Bule de Missenden, Director
Mr. Bule serves as our International Director, with oversight responsibility for managing relationships with international organizations, marketing and communications. Mr Bule is the Chairman of the Dog Friendly Hotel Association, Chairman of the English Breakfast Society, and Chief Executive Officer of Roch Dog, the world's first dog friendly standard and certification process for hotels. Mr Bule oversees our rebranding project, and is working with our creative and content teams to develop a body of Saluki based research, articles, and guidebook materials for the IAASC and WAASO.
Ahmed Moustafa, Director
Mr. Moustafa is the Director of the Asia Center for Studies and Translation, where he plays a crucial role in translating IAASC's research and content into English, Russian, and Chinese. With a Master's degree in Political Economy from Moscow's Higher School of Economics, he brings a wealth of knowledge and linguistic expertise to his work. His leadership ensures that IAASC's work is accessible to a global audience, fostering international understanding and cooperation around our work and efforts.
Tamara Yakovleva, Ambassador
Tamara Yakovleva is the IAASC Ambassador to Russia, where she has played a pivotal role in promoting the heritage and legacy of the Arabian Saluki. As a dedicated owner of two purebred Saluki males, who are the progeny of a world champion and multiple Best in Show winners, Tamara is deeply involved in the Saluki community. Tamara is particularly focused on elevating the role of Russian breeders in international arenas, with a specific emphasis on shows held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region through the IAASC Center. She envisions the IAASC taking the lead in organizing beauty shows in Russia that highlight traditional Arab culture, thereby serving as an ambassador of Saudi heritage in the care and preservation of the Arabian Saluki in her country.
Professor Amro Abdelaziz Mounir, Advisor
Dr. Amro Abdelaziz Mounir is a distinguished scholar and historian specializing in the heritage of the Purebred Arabian Saluki. Serving as the Academic Advisor for Historical Research to the International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center (IAASC), Dr. Mounir brings a deep understanding of the Saluki’s historical and cultural significance in the Arabian Peninsula. With a rich academic background and extensive research experience, he has dedicated his career to documenting and preserving the lineage and heritage of this ancient breed. Dr. Mounir's expertise is instrumental in guiding the IAASC’s initiatives to protect and promote the Saluki’s legacy.
Antoan J. Hlebarov, Advisor
Antoan J. Hlebarov brings a wealth of experience to his role as an advisor for the International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center (IAASC). As the founder of the Bulgarian National Club for Afghan Hounds, Antoan has long been involved in promoting and preserving canine heritage. His international expertise, spanning over 50 countries where he has judged dog shows as an allrounder judge (FCI 15729), enriches his contributions to the IAASC’s mission.
Antoan’s extensive background in education, dog handling, and public relations allows him to provide invaluable guidance to the IAASC in promoting the heritage and cultural significance of the Arabian Saluki. Through his advisory role, he helps the center refine its international outreach strategies, ensuring it remains a global leader in preserving and celebrating the Arabian Saluki’s unique place in the region’s history. His commitment to education and heritage preservation aligns with the center's goal of fostering a deeper appreciation for this iconic breed across the world.
Max Scott, Advisor
Max Scott has extensive experience in history and heritage projects related to the Middle East. A graduate of Edinburgh University with a degree in Arabic Middle East Studies, supplemented by specialized courses in Cairo and Sana’a, he quickly transitioned into international publishing. His career began with US and UK publishing houses, before he founded Nomad Publishing, a venture focused on amplifying Middle Eastern heritage and history through media.
Max's deep understanding of Arab culture, combined with his expertise in media, makes him an indispensable advisor to the International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center. His role is crucial in fostering global awareness and appreciation of the region’s historical and cultural significance, particularly its rich connection to the Arabian Saluki. Through his media expertise, he helps position the center as a leading authority in preserving this important aspect of Arab heritage.
Malik Al Tahiri, Supervisor
Malik Al Tahiri serves as the Local Memberships Supervisor for the International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center (IAASC). In this role, he is responsible for managing and expanding IAASC’s membership base within the local community, ensuring active engagement and participation among members. Malik's deep understanding of the cultural significance of the Arabian Saluki, combined with his strong organizational skills, enables him to effectively connect with Saluki enthusiasts and foster a vibrant, dedicated community. His commitment to preserving the heritage of the Saluki and promoting its legacy makes him an invaluable member of the IAASC team.
IAASC Advisors
The International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center (IAASC) Advisory Board introduces a team of esteemed experts and leaders dedicated to guiding our mission of preserving the heritage and legacy of the Arabian Saluki. These advisors bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion, playing a crucial role in shaping the organization’s initiatives and ensuring that our efforts align with the highest standards of cultural preservation and excellence.
Karen Fisher, Advisor
Mrs. Karen Fisher is a respected consultant and breeder of Ruweis Salukis in the UK. Known for her dedication to preserving the breed’s heritage, she has been a key advisor to the IAASC, helping the organization develop its international presence.
Cathy Smith, Advisor
Mich loves taking on challenges. With his multi-year experience as Commercial Director in the software industry, Mich has helped the company to get where it is today. Mich is among the best minds.
Mrs Breda Dunne, Advisor
Mrs. Breda Dunne is a founding member and Hon Secretary of the Desert Sighthound Club of Ireland, and is a passionate advisor to the IAASC, contributing her expertise to the organization’s global initiatives.
The Saluki Club
The Saluki Club, an arm of the International Aseel Arabian Saluki Center (IAASC), is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of Saluki owners and enthusiasts. The club, offers a platform for members to connect, share knowledge, and celebrate the unique heritage of the Arabian Saluki. Through events, educational resources, and collaborative initiatives, the Saluki Club supports the preservation of this ancient breed's legacy while providing members with valuable guidance on care, training, and participation in shows and competitions. Whether you're a breeder or a new Saluki owner, the Saluki Club is your gateway to a deeper connection with this noble breed.
Ahamad Al Khaldi, Deputy Head
Ahmad Al Khaldi, the Deputy Head of the Saluki Club, plays a pivotal role in the organization. With a deep passion for the Arabian Saluki, his leadership and dedication ensure that the club continues to thrive and uphold the rich heritage of this noble breed.
Asaad Al Khaldi, Treasurer
Assad Al Khaldi, the Treasurer of the Saluki Club, ensures the financial stability and transparency of the organization. Assad manages the club’s finances, budgeting, and resource allocation, supporting its mission to preserve the Arabian Saluki heritage.