Overview

Forbes Middle East is excited to present a new edition of the Building the Future Summit presented by ONE Development, taking place in Berklee Abu Dhabi on the 26th – 27th May 2025. This event promises to serve as an exclusive platform for industry leaders, investors, architects, and innovators to explore the latest trends, technologies, and investment opportunities that are shaping the future of real estate.

The summit will delve into key topics such as the integration of smart city technologies, sustainable urban planning, and innovative design solutions that enhance livability, accessibility, and efficiency. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the dynamics of the MENA real estate market, emerging investment trends, and the transformative role of technology within the industry.

Through a series of engaging keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, the Building the Future Summit aims to foster collaboration and inspire new ideas that will drive the next wave of real estate development in the region. Join us as we collectively shape the future of urban landscapes!

Speakers

Moderators

Social Impact Guests

Workshops

Entertainment

Agenda

Building The Future Summit – Abu Dhabi

10:00 – 10:35 am

Registration & Networking

10:40 – 10:50 am

Performance by Berklee Abu Dhabi

10:55 – 11:00 am

Welcome Address & Opening Video by Forbes Middle East

11:05 – 11:10 am

Opening Address by ONE Development

11:15 – 11:20 am

Keynote Address: The Year of Community: Building a Connected & Sustainable Future (Arabic)

Discussing the role of collective effort and unity in creating thriving communities for a better, more prosperous 2025.
• H.E. Eng. Mohamed Almansoori, Director General, Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

11:25 – 11:35 am

Fireside Chat: AI-Driven Cities: Redefining Urban Living in Abu Dhabi

As cities worldwide compete to leverage emerging technologies, Abu Dhabi is redefining the future of urban living by embedding AI at its core; this fireside chat will explore how DMT is deploying advanced digital frameworks, pioneering smart mobility solutions and leveraging data-driven urban planning to transform Abu Dhabi into a sustainable and resilient city that sets a global benchmark for innovation and livability.
• H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, Department of Municipalities and Transport
• Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter, Forbes Middle East

11:40 – 11:45 am

Special Address: The Path to Prosperity: Infrastructure as a Pillar of Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030

Unpack the strategic significance of infrastructure development in achieving the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, driving economic resilience, sustainable growth, and long-term prosperity.
• H.E. Eng. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General, Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC)

11:50 – 12:00 pm

Fireside Chat: Pioneering Progress: Innovation, Expansion, and Vision in Real Estate Development

A conversation on bold leadership, strategic growth, and the evolving forces shaping the future of real estate in the region.
• Ali Al Gebely, Founder & Chairman, ONE Development
• Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

12:05 – 12:20 pm

Panel: Turning Vision into Reality- Designing the Ultimate Destination City

Understand how forward-thinking developers are conceptualizing cities that seamlessly integrate advanced infrastructure, luxury, hospitality, and entertainment. The discussion will also touch on the importance of preserving modern heritage and embracing architectural conservation as essential elements in creating enduring, culturally rich destinations.
• Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO, Marjan
• Jonathan Brown, Chief Portfolio Officer, Miral Group
• Moderator: Hoda Rachid Mouheydin, Sales Manager, Solo Gate Real Estate

12:25 – 12:40 pm

Fireside Chat: Redefining Real Estate: Legacy, Leadership, and the Leap into Proptech

An insightful conversation exploring how vision, innovation, and transformative leadership are shaping the future of real estate. From evolving business models to embracing new technologies, this session delves into what it takes to stay ahead in a rapidly transforming landscape.
• Amira Sajwani, Managing Director – Sales and Development, DAMAC Properties, Founder and CEO, PRYPCO, and Co-founder and COO, Amali Properties
• Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter, Forbes Middle East

12:45 – 12:55 pm

Fireside Chat: Foundations of Healthcare Infrastructure in Smart Cities

A focused discussion on the transformation of healthcare through advanced infrastructure, AI integration, and data-driven systems—shifting care beyond hospitals to more connected, patient-centric models
• Sherif Beshara, Group CEO, Mohamed & Obaid Almulla Group and American Hospital Dubai
• Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

1:00 – 1:20 pm

Panel: Shaping Tomorrow’s Skylines – Innovations in Real Estate Developments

Examining the critical intersection of urban innovation and real estate, where today’s ideas are building tomorrow’s skylines.
• Samer Ambar, Co-Founder & CEO, REEF Luxury Developments
• Zain Khan, CEO & Founder, Zane Developments
• Dr. Mohanad Alwadiya, Real Estate Thought Leader & Best-Selling Author
• Eng. Nour Morshedy, CEO, Morshedy Group
• Moderator: Hoda Rachid Mouheydin, Sales Manager, Solo Gate Real Estate

1:25 – 1:35 pm

Fireside Chat: Building Value with Purpose – Sustainability, Accessibility, and Community at the Core

An engaging discussion on how forward-thinking approaches are reshaping the real estate landscape with a focus on long-term impact and meaningful growth.
• Andrea Nucera, Managing Director & CEO, Reportage Group
• Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

1:40 – 1:55 pm

Fireside Chat: Defining the Future of Real Estate Through Vision and Leadership

A deep dive into the mindset, strategy, and ambition behind building not just properties—but defining landmarks that shape the UAE’s urban legacy.
• Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman, Danube Group
• Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter, Forbes Middle East

2:00 – 2:25 pm

Award Ceremony

2:30 – 3:30 pm

Networking Lunch

3:35 – 3:55 pm

Panel: From Concept to Construction: Prioritizing Community and the Planet

As the future of real estate shifts toward more inclusive and sustainable models, this session explores how integrated community living is redefining urban development. From mixed-use spaces and green infrastructure to thoughtful planning and design, our speakers will discuss how development can foster connected, resilient communities that prioritize well-being, inclusivity, and environmental harmony.
• Nadia Zaal, Co-Founder & CEO, Zaya & CEO, Al Barari Group
• Ahmed El Shamy, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Properties
• Adel Sajan, Group Managing Director, Danube Group
• Eng. Faisal Abdulrahman Alnasser, CEO, Alandalus Property Company
• Moderator: Paula Naoufal, Senior Reporter, CNN Business Arabic

4:00 – 4:15 pm

Panel: The Art of Interior Design: Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

Interior design shapes the way we experience spaces, blending aesthetics with functionality to create environments that inspire. This session delves into the transformative power of colour, lighting, and spatial planning—examining how thoughtful design enhances mood, productivity, and everyday living.
• Hany Saad, CEO & Founder, Hany Saad Innovations
• Paul Bishop, Owner & Founder, Bishop Design
Moderator: Nour Amache, Senior Business News Presenter, Asharq Bloomberg

4:20 – 4:40 pm

Panel: Designing Iconic Architecture - Blending Culture, Climate, and Technology

A conversation on how architecture is becoming a blend of culture, climate-conscious design, and cutting-edge technologies to create lasting landmarks.
• Will Plowman, Partner, Foster + Partners
• Christos Passas, Director, Zaha Hadid Architects
• Ignacio Gomez Gonzalez, Global Design Principal, Aedas
• Shahira Fahmy, Founder & Principal, Shahira Fahmy Architects (SFA)
• Moderator: Rula Al Tarawneh, Senior Presenter, CNBC Arabia

Building The Future Summit – Abu Dhabi

10:00 – 10:45 am

Registration & Networking

10-50 – 11:00 am

Sand Performance by Scream Entertainment

11:05 – 11:10 am

Welcome Address by Forbes Middle East Address

11:15 – 11:20 am

Special Address: Leading the Digital Age: Resilient, Secure, and Intelligent Cities of Tomorrow

Gain insight into navigating an increasingly interconnected world and explore how a bold vision—centered on security, intelligence, and resilience are shaping the cities of the future.
• H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, United Arab Emirates Government

11:25 – 11:40 am

Panel: Data-Driven Metropolitan Planning: Unlocking Insights for Tomorrow’s Cities

Exploring how data is transforming urban planning, enabling cities to make informed decisions that shape the future of infrastructure and development.
• Latifa Alshehhi, Director of Investment Data Department, Ministry of Investment
• Kholood Abdulla Alsuwaidi, Head of Smart Data Section, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
• Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter & Producer, Forbes Middle East

11:45 – 12:00 pm

Fireside Chat: Revolutionizing Real Estate Through the Power of AI

A deep dive into how AI is transforming real estate—driving innovation, enhancing decision-making, and shaping smarter, more responsive urban spaces.
• Ali Sajwani, Managing Director - DAMAC Group, Founder & CEO, Amali Properties
• Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter, Forbes Middle East

12:05 – 12:25 pm

Designing with Purpose: Elevating Community Living Through Integrated Innovations

A conversation on how purposeful design is shaping next-generation urban living—where aesthetics, functionality, and well-being converge to create connected, intentional living environments that elevate both people and place.
• Alex Zagrebelny, Founder & CEO, R.Evolution Real Estate Developer
• Mohammad Rafiee, CEO, Richmind Development
• Moderator: Mustafa Al Rawi, Group Director of Editorial Partnerships, IMI

12:30- 12:50 pm

Panel: The Power of Storytelling and the Art of Cinematic World-Building (Arabic)

Step into the minds of the region’s most visionary creatives as they explore how storytelling, design, and visual composition come together to craft powerful cinematic worlds. Learn how immersive environments are created to evoke emotion, deepen narrative, and leave a lasting cultural impact—both on and off screen
• Marwan Hamed, Filmmaker
• Ahmed Hafez, Film Editor
• Moderator: Lenah Hassaballah, Editor, CNN Business Arabic

12:55 – 1:15 pm

Panel: Unlocking Capital, Innovation & Buyer Confidence

From next-gen investment models and PropTech disruption to financing strategies and risk resilience, this session explores how investors, developers, and buyers are navigating a dynamic market to drive growth, innovation, and long-term stability in real estate.
• James Allan, CEO – Middle East & Africa, JLL
• Hassan Abdelnabi, CEO, Beltone Mortgage
• Wissam Nouhad Braidy, CEO, HRE Real Estate Development LLC
• Ali Musmar, CEO, Aram Group UAE
• Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter & Producer, Forbes Middle East

1:20 – 1:35 pm

Panel: Redefining Smart Living: AI and IoT Powering Homes of Tomorrow

Step into the future of living, where the fusion of AI and IoT is revolutionizing homes, setting new standards for comfort, efficiency, and personalized experiences.
• Abdelbasset Betraoui, Board Member & Partner - Land Sterling & CEO, Horton Interiors
• Ahmed El Sherbini, CEO, Think Human
• Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

1:40 -2:40 pm

Networking Lunch

2:45 – 3:05 pm

Panel: Future-Ready Cities – Building Resilience and Smart Mobility for Tomorrow

As climate change and rapid urbanization challenge traditional planning models, cities must evolve with agility. This session explores how future-ready urban infrastructure—rooted in climate resilience, smart mobility, and sustainable design—is shaping livable cities for the decades ahead. Experts will discuss how adaptive planning, integrated transport networks, and environmental foresight can drive more resilient, connected, and thriving urban environments.
• Eng. Aisha Alardhi, Engineering Expert in Federal Infrastructure Asset Management Sector, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
• Craig Thackray, Vice President, Environment, MEA, AECOM
• Harj Dhaliwal, Co-Founder & Chief Business and Capital Programs Officer, Nevomo
• Moderator: Dr. Benjamin Motte-Baumvol, Senior Researcher, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

3:10 pm – 3:25 pm

Panel: Co-Working, Co-Creating: The Next Chapter of Workspaces

From work-from-anywhere setups to community-driven hubs, discover how real estate is evolving to match the needs of a hybrid workforce- reshaping the way we collaborate, connect, and create.
• Kory Thompson, Country Head Middle East, IWG
• Malak Smejkalova, Senior Director, Cloud Spaces
• Moderator: Layan Abo Shkier, Editor & Researcher, Forbes Middle East

3:30 pm – 3:50 pm

Panel: Voices of Culture, Forces of Innovation: Shaping Cities Through Art and Identity

Cultural institutions are engines of transformation—preserving heritage, inspiring creativity, and shaping modern city identities. This session explores how leading institutions drive innovation, tourism, and community engagement, bridging tradition and the future.
• Manuel Rabaté, Director, Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Gael Hedding, Director, Berklee Abu Dhabi
• Mayssa Karaa, Artistic Director, Berklee Abu Dhabi
• Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter, Forbes Middle East

Partners

Access insights on how eHealth, digital tools, and wearables are integrating real-time insights into clinical practice, leading to more personalized treatments and improved patient experiences.

Location

Berklee Abu Dhabi

Berklee Abu Dhabi is a renowned institution celebrated for its dynamic and diverse curriculum in the performing arts. The venue reflects the spirit of creativity and innovation, offering an inspiring setting rooted in excellence. Berklee is also known for its wide range of specializations—from performance and songwriting to film scoring, music production, therapy, and business. This makes it not only a hub for artistic expression but also a unique and culturally rich venue.

Select Your Package

Limited seating is available, so don’t miss out on our exclusive early bird pricing! We offer a range of passes to suit your needs, so register now to
secure your spot and be part of this unique experience. Please select your desired package and click on next; if you wish to purchase
multiple tickets, please proceed with the “Group Member” option on the next page before submitting.

ALL YEAR PASS

EARLY BIRD PRICE

3300 $

PASS PRICE: 3800 $
Introducing the exclusive All-Year Pass for 2025, which includes the following access:

ALL ACCESS PASS

EARLY BIRD PRICE

300 $

PASS PRICE: 500 $

Unlock an unforgettable summit experience with the premium All Access Pass, which includes a range of special access :

GENERAL PASS

EARLY BIRD PRICE

200 $

PASS PRICE: 400 $

Explore a world of inspiration and connection with our General Pass, which includes the following benefits :

About Forbes Middle East

Forbes Middle East is a licensee of Forbes Media and extends the Forbes brand of journalism across the Arab world. Forbes Middle East’s distinctive editorial style attracts a readership of Arab leaders, entrepreneurs, C-level executives, government officials and investors united by a belief in the spirit of free enterprise and entrepreneurial values.Across the region, Forbes Middle East sets the pace for preemptive business journalism. By uncovering trends and anticipating opportunities in the regional marketplace, each monthly issue brings top executives the information critical to their success – in both Arabic and English language editions. The magazine researches and publishes original rankings, based on methodologies set by Forbes Media.