Al-Awadhi assumed his current position in 2021. IATA acts as the main trade association supporting aviation and shaping industry regulations. Al-Awadhi represents IATA in 68 countries, overseeing 65 airlines across the MEA region from Amman. In 2025, IATA reported that the Middle East delivered the highest profit margins for airlines globally, generating $7.2 billion in net profit. Al-Awadhi previously served as CEO of Kuwait Airways.