Mehdi Aoustin-Sellami

Bio: Mehdi Aoustin-Sellami is a cultural strategist and venue development expert with over 15 years of leadership in the global live events industry. He has overseen programming, operations, and mobilisation for some of the world’s most iconic venues, delivering large-scale cultural experiences that engage diverse audiences.

Currently with OVG Middle East, Mehdi leads the development of performing arts and cultural venues across Saudi Arabia and the region. His recent work includes key roles in events such as XP Music Futures, Balad Beast, F1 After-Race Concerts, Rush Festival, and Sneak.ME. He also served as COO of entertainment at Ajlan & Bros Holding, where he developed business strategies around venue management and programming.

As GM of Venue Mobilisation for Maraya in AlUla, he oversaw the concert hall’s launch in 2021, leading operations, recruitment, and programming.

At Dubai Opera, Mehdi directed a 100-person team and delivered a diverse cultural calendar, helping position the venue as a regional leader in the performing arts.

Previously, at London’s Royal Albert Hall, he programmed over 400 annual events and led corporate partnerships and revenue strategy. He has worked with global entities including Live Nation, AEG, Disney, Cirque du Soleil, BBC, and UTA, and contributed to major productions like the BAFTAs, Fashion Awards, Star Wars, James Bond, and Rocketman.

Mehdi’s collaborations span artists such as Adele, Coldplay, Elton John, and Kylie Minogue. With a strong international network and a proven track record, he is a trusted figure in delivering world-class cultural programming.

He holds an LLB Hons. from King’s College London.