Overview

Forbes Middle East will make a landmark presence at the World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, from January 19–23, 2026, with the launch of the Forbes Middle East Hub — the region’s definitive media platform on the global stage. Positioned at the heart of Davos, the Hub will serve as an exclusive arena for visionary dialogue, strategic alliances, and global visibility, convening heads of state, pioneering innovators, influential policymakers, and leading investors for high-level exchanges and curated experiences that shape the future.

Speakers

Coming Soon

Agenda

Coming Soon

Sustainability Leaders Summit – Abu Dhabi

10:00 – 10:25 am

Registration and Networking

10:30 – 10:35 am

National Anthem

10:40 – 10:45 am

Voices of the Earth

10:50 – 11:00 am

Welcome Address by Khuloud Al Omian, CEO & Editor - in - Chief, Forbes Middle East & Opening Video

11:05 – 11:10 am

Opening Address by Eng. Yasser Zaghloul, Group CEO, NMDC Group

11:15– 11:20 am

Keynote Address: UAE’s Climate Action Leadership – Steering Towards a Net Zero Future

As the world accelerates toward net zero, discover how the UAE is taking centre stage, leading with a collective vision, transforming sustainability ambitions into tangible action.

  • H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment

  • 11:25 – 11:35 am

    Special Address: A Drop of Awareness... The Gateway to Abundance Begins with an Idea (Arabic)

  • H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma Mohammed Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Board of the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions

  • 11:40 – 11:45 am

    Special Address: Environment Vision 2030: A Model for Harmony Between Progress and Planet

    Explore how the UAE is driving climate action through the integration of environmental, economic, and social strategies, highlighting the emirate’s efforts in sustainable development, climate resilience, and advancing a low-carbon economy.

  • H.E. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD)

  • 11:50 am – 12:10 pm

    Interactive Q&A with H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment

    In this interactive session, youth representatives take the stage to engage directly with H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak. Through candid questions and meaningful dialogue, the next generation explores the UAE’s climate vision, the role of innovation in environmental stewardship, and how young people can actively contribute to building a more sustainable future.

    12:15 – 12:25 pm

    Fireside Chat: Aligning Ambitions - Powering Scalable Sustainability through Public-Private Synergy (Arabic)

    From policy to practice, discover how collaboration and partnership are key to unlocking scalable, game-changing sustainability solutions.

  • H.E. Eng. Alya Abdelrahim Alharmoodi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sustainable Communities Sector, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
  • Moderator: Budour Mousa, Journalist & Producer, Forbes Middle East

  • 12:30 – 12:40 pm

    Fireside Chat: ESG at the Core – Guiding the Next Wave of Climate-Conscious Growth

    A look at how ESG-led strategies are shaping impactful growth, driving environmental progress while advancing resilience, purpose, and community impact.

  • Eng. Yasser Zaghloul, Group CEO, NMDC Group
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 12:45 – 12:55 pm

    Individual Address: White Hydrogen - Nature’s Hidden Fuel for a Sustainable Future

    Explore the promise of naturally occurring white hydrogen as a scalable, low-cost, zero-carbon energy source, and how it could accelerate the global shift to a sustainable future.

  • Benjamin Mee, Executive Director, HyTerra Ltd

  • 1:00 – 1:20 pm

    Panel: Carbon Responsibility in Action: The Industrial Shift Towards Climate-Aligned National Growth

    Discover how heavy industries are cutting emissions at scale through innovation, circular practices, and cleaner production, aligning with national climate goals and redefining regional industrial sustainability across the region.

  • Mohamed Juma Ahmed Al Bawardi AlFalasi, CEO, EMDAD LLC
  • Eng. Ahmed Al Dhaheri, CEO, NMDC Energy
  • Hugo Losada, CEO, Emirates Cement - part of EMSTEEL Group
  • Moderator: Maya Hojeij, Senior Business Anchor, Asharq Business with Bloomberg

  • 1:30 – 2:30 pm

    Networking Lunch

    2:35 – 2:45 pm

    Fireside Chat: Catalysing Change – ESG, Community, and Lasting Impact (Arabic)

    Explore how purpose-led strategies can strengthen resilience, advance sustainability, and drive meaningful benefits for communities and businesses alike.

  • Hanaa Helmy, Group Chief Corporate Sustainability and Impact Officer of EFG Holding & CEO of the EFG Foundation
  • Moderator: Dr.Abubaker Musa Eltom, Scholar in Sustainability and Social Responsibility, Mostadam Project Management Services

  • 2:50 – 3:10 pm

    Panel: Climate, Commerce, and Collaboration: Rethinking Trade for a Greener Future

    Learn how mindful trade practices can forge robust economies that truly endure, safeguarding both prosperity and our planet.

  • Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO - Abu Dhabi Maritime & Chief Sustainability Officer, AD Ports Group
  • Peter Marvin, Chief Technical & Resource Pool Officer, NMDC LTS
  • Frank Clary, Vice President- Sustainability, Agility Global
  • Moderator: Lenah Hassaballah, Editor, CNN Business Arabic

  • 3:15 – 3:35 pm

    Panel: Powering the Transition: Resilient Systems for a Decarbonized Tomorrow

    Explore how leaders are reimagining how energy is produced, distributed, and consumed, driving the shift toward clean, efficient, and decarbonized systems through innovation, resilient infrastructure, and collaboration.

  • Khalid Bin Hadi, Managing Director Subregion UAE, Siemens Energy
  • Ibrahim Al-Zu'bi, Group Chief Sustainability & ESG Officer, ADNOC Group
  • Najeeba Hassan Al Jabri, Chief ESG & Sustainability Officer, Emirates Global Aluminium
  • Dr. Yousif Al Hammadi, Chief Asset Management Officer, Tabreed
  • Moderator: Razan Salman, Senior Economy & Government Reporter, CNN Business Arabia

  • 3:40 – 4:00 pm

    Panel: Planet-Proof Capital: Financing Innovation, Inclusion, and the Green Transition

    As climate imperatives reshape markets, this session explores how purpose-driven capital is financing climate tech, empowering SMEs, and delivering inclusive, long-term national value beyond financial returns.

  • H.E. Dr. Alanoud Abdulla Alhaj Al Ali, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Green Development and Climate Change Sector, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
  • Matthias Büchler, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)
  • Zohaib Ali Zahid, Head of Enterprise Project Management Office & ESG, Ajman Bank
  • Mohammad Alarbeed, Executive Manager Governance and Sustainability, Kuwait Finance House (KFH)
  • Moderator: Nouf Al Katheeri, Journalist & Presenter

  • 4:05 – 4:25 pm

    Panel: The Clean Power Pivot: Advancing Renewables for Long-Term Energy Security

    As the world leans into cleaner energy, this session explores how renewable power is reshaping energy systems to ensure long-term stability, independence, and sustainability.

  • Eng Aisha Mohamed Al Abdooli, Director of Green Development & Environment Affairs Department, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
  • Dr. Ibraheem Almansouri, Director, Engineering, Masdar
  • Derar Al Manaseer, Executive Director of Group Strategy & Sustainability, ADNEC Group
  • Moderator: Layan Abo Shkier, Editor & Researcher, Forbes Middle East

  • Sustainability Leaders Summit – Abu Dhabi

    10:00 – 10:25 am

    Registration and Networking

    10:30 – 10:35 am

    Performance by Jennie Carr

    10:40 – 10:45 am

    Welcome Address by Forbes Middle East

    10:50 – 11:00 am

    Special Address: The Leadership Horizon: Shaping Sustainable Legacies for Generations Ahead

    A call for leaders to embed longevity and care into sustainability, shaping legacies that balance progress with intergenerational well-being.

  • Shaikh Dr. Majid Sultan AlQassimi, Founding Partner & CEO, Soma Mater

  • 11:05 – 11:10

    Special Address: One Future, One Responsibility: Shaping an Inclusive and Sustainable Tomorrow

    A reflection on the UAE’s role in ensuring sustainability efforts are forward-looking, inclusive, and impactful for generations to come.

  • H.E. Abdulla Abdulalee Abdulla Al Humaidan, Director General, Zayed Authority for People of Determination

  • 11:15 – 11:35 am

    Panel: The Climate Code: Utilizing AI & Advanced Technologies to Predict, Prevent, and Protect

    We learn from experts on how cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, and advanced data systems are being harnessed to drive smarter, faster, and more effective solutions for a sustainable future.

  • H.E. Eng. Amal Abdulrahim, Assistant Undersecretary for The Support Services Sector, Chief AI and Innovation Officer, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
  • Eng. Niels de Bruijn, CEO, NMDC Dredging & Marine
  • Tareq Abdulla Al Marzooqi, CEO, SAFEEN Subsea
  • Khaled Ahmed Sharbatly, CEO, Desert Technologies
  • Moderator: Buthina Ahmed Almeraikhi, Marketing Manager, NMDC Group

  • 11:40 – 12:00 pm

    Panel: Nature’s Climate Toolkit: Restoring Ecosystems to Restore the Planet (Arabic)

    From oceans to deserts, this session explores bold strategies to restore ecosystems, strengthen biodiversity, and create lasting carbon sinks. Leaders will share how nature-based solutions are empowering communities and driving climate resilience across land and sea.

  • H.E. Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Biodiversity and Marine Life Sector, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
  • H.E. Ahmed Esmaeil Alsayed Alhashmi, Executive Director of Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity (TMBS), Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
  • Moderator: Budour Mousa, Journalist & Producer, Forbes Middle East

  • 12:05 – 12:15 pm

    Fireside Chat: The Critical Role of Facilities Management in Climate Change

    Exploring how facilities management is evolving to reduce emissions, optimize energy use, and embed sustainable practices that support climate resilience and organizational efficiency.

  • Joyveer Dutt, Senior General Manager, HSE & Sustainability, EFS Facilities Services Group
  • Moderator: Viwe Kunene, Presenter, Forbes Middle East

  • 12:20 – 12:40 pm

    Panel: The Smart City Blueprint: Leveraging Technology, Infrastructure, and Energy for a Climate Positive Tomorrow

    Uncover how the seamless integration of tech, infrastructure, and energy is paving the way for cities that are built to last and thrive sustainably.

  • H.E. Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Acting Director General of the Urban Planning & Permits Center, Department of Municipalities & Transport
  • Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman, BEEAH Group
    Ahmed Baghoum, CEO, Masdar City
  • Moderator: Layan Abo Shkier, Editor & Researcher, Forbes Middle East

  • 12:45 – 12:55 pm

    Fireside Chat: Beyond the Game – Championing Wellness, Sustainability, and Social Impact

    A dynamic conversation on how sports can inspire lasting impact—through community-driven programs, sustainability practices, and partnerships that foster wellness, inclusion, and environmental responsibility, while advancing the UAE’s vision for a healthier society.

  • Fouad Fahmi Darwish, CEO & Managing Director, Palms Sports PJSC
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 1:00 – 1:20 pm

    Panel: Building with Community in Mind: Redefining Urban Living Through Green Innovation

    A conversation on how purposeful design is shaping next-generation urban living. Discover how sustainable infrastructure, integrated mobility, and community-focused planning are transforming urban landscapes into thriving, inclusive, and resilient environments that prioritize well-being and harmony.

  • Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education & Culture and Chief of Human Resources, Terra, Expo City Dubai
  • Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director – MENA, LWK + PARTNERS
  • Dr. Abdulmajid Karanouh, Director and Global Head of Interdisciplinary Design Innovation, Drees & Sommer
  • Moderator: Dr. Miniya Chatterji, CEO, Sustain Labs Paris

  • 1:25 – 1:35 pm

    Fireside Chat: Leading the Next Era: AI, Innovation, and the Sustainable Frontier

    Join a forward-looking conversation on how AI and innovation are redefining sustainability. This session will explore how emerging technologies are transforming operations, enhancing safety and efficiency, and accelerating the journey toward Net Zero.

  • Dr. Aaesha Ali Hashem, NMDC Group Board Member
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 1:35 – 2:40 pm

    Networking Lunch

    2:45 – 2:55 pm

    Fireside Chat: Consumer Finance and Sustainability in the Digital Transformation Era

    A conversation on how digital innovation is reshaping consumer finance, driving financial inclusion, and enabling more sustainable, responsible growth in the sector.

  • John Saad, CEO and Managing Director, Contact Financial Holding
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 3:00 – 3:05 pm

    Individual Address by H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security Council, UAE Government

    3:10– 3:25 pm

    Panel: The Green Enterprise Era: Youth at the Helm of Innovation and Impact

    Meet the next generation of changemakers transforming bold ideas into real-world solutions. This inspiring discussion spotlights young entrepreneurs from the Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) community, who are proving that youth-led innovation can drive both environmental impact and enterprise success.

  • Zainab Al Ali, Director, Outreach and Stakeholder Relations, Masdar
    Binciya Salim, CEO & Founder, Wellington Campus & WEL.X
  • Moderator: Yousef Hasan Alfardan, Commercial Analyst, Emirates Water & Electricity & Future Sustainability Leader, Y4S

  • 3:30 – 3:50 pm

    Panel: Embedding ESG and Risk Resilience into National Development Goals

    Explore how organizational leaders across sectors are embedding ESG frameworks and risk resilience into their strategies to drive long-term sustainability, institutional stability, and economic competitiveness.

  • Safeya Borhan, Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer, Contact Financial Holding
  • Salma Oueida, Associate Vice President, American University of Beirut
  • Benoit Honnart, CEO, Electra Solutions
  • Saeed Al Shamsi, Human Capital & Communications Officer, ADNEC Group
  • Moderator: Viwe Kunene, Presenter, Forbes Middle East

  • 3:55 – 4:15 pm

    Panel: Scaling Agri-Innovation: Smart Solutions for a Food-Secure Future

    Join pioneers who are rethinking agriculture at scale- closing the gap between abundance and access - one smart solution at a time.

  • Fatima Al Dhaheri, Food and Water Cluster Lead (Agrifood Growth and Water Abundance cluster, AGWA), Abu Dhabi Investment Office
  • Hassan Halawy, CEO, Elite AgriTech
  • Dr. Josef Schmidhuber, Chief Sustainability Officer, Pure Harvest Smart Farms
  • Moderator: Natalie Brown, Founder and Group CEO, SELECT Training and Management Consultancy LLC

  • 4:20 – 4:40 pm

    Panel: Leveraging Advanced Analytics and Climate Resilient Strategies

    Exploring how data-driven insights are being transformed into actionable strategies that enhance resilience, optimize operations, and drive sustainable impact across sectors.

  • Basil Sulieman Al Ramahi, COO– Upstream and Business Development, EMDAD LLC
  • Willean Master, COO, Electra Solutions
  • Hany Aman, CEO, Eastern Company S.A.E.
  • Moderator: Layan Abo Shkier, Editor & Researcher, Forbes Middle East

  • 4:45 – 5:05 pm

    Panel: The Art of Sustainability – Creativity as a Catalyst for Change

    Exploring how artists are using creativity and innovation to inspire environmental awareness, promote sustainable practices, and reimagine the connection between art, society, and the planet.

  • Salim Abdullah Al Kaabi, Artist & Innovator of Eco-Friendly Products, Lubanium, UAE
  • James Matthews, Artist, UK
  • Afra Al Suwaidi, Artist, UAE
  • Moderator: Hind Khlaifat, General Manager, Deraya Speakers

  • Partners

    Coming Soon

    Delegate Pass

    Delegate Pass

    EARLY BIRD PRICE

    200 $

    PASS PRICE: 400 $

    Register today as a delegate to seize the opportunity to engage with influential leaders driving the future of sustainability. Build meaningful relationships, exchange forward-thinking ideas, and create powerful partnerships that open the door to unmatched business opportunities and long-term impact. As a delegate, you will enjoy exclusive access to all areas of the summit designed to inspire, connect, and empower sustainability leaders:

    Vistors Pass

    Vistors Pass

    0 $

    Free Pass

    Register today as a visitor to seize the opportunity to engage with influential leaders driving the future of sustainability. Build meaningful relationships, exchange forward-thinking ideas, and create powerful partnerships that open the door to unmatched business opportunities and long-term impact. The visitor pass is free of charge and will give you access to the following exhibition areas:

    Location

    Blumen & WohnWerke

    The Forbes Middle East Hub is strategically located just seven minutes away from the Davos Congress Centre, the official venue of the World Economic Forum’s 2026 Annual Meeting. The meeting will take place in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, from January 19–23, 2026. Set in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Davos is a renowned ski resort town that has long served as the traditional host of the World Economic Forum’s flagship gathering.

    Digital Reach

    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.