Deni POREJ

Dr. Deni Porej is the Marine Conservation Director at NEOM, where he leads one of the world’s most ambitious marine conservation programs. Overseeing 4,000 km² of pristine northern Red Sea waters, he is driving efforts to protect globally significant biodiversity, restore critical habitats, and pioneer innovative approaches to nature-positive development. His work at NEOM includes advancing science-based management of endangered sea turtles, coral reefs, and fisheries, while ensuring conservation is fully integrated into the planning of this unique region.

Dr. Porej brings more than 25 years of international experience in conservation across the Mediterranean, Asia, and the Americas. Before joining NEOM, he served as Conservation Director at The Nature Conservancy, leading global initiatives on invasive species, small-scale fisheries, and coastal restoration. As CEO and Program Director of WWF Adria, he strengthened regional cooperation, expanded marine and terrestrial protected areas, and influenced EU conservation policies.

Originally from Serbia, Dr. Porej has combined field expertise with strategic leadership throughout his career, ranging from wetland creation to sustainable community enterprises. At NEOM, his vision is to establish a model where biodiversity conservation and human development reinforce one another, ensuring the Red Sea remains a global sanctuary for generations to come.