His Excellency Eng. Mohamed Ibrahim Almansoori serves as the Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure - UAE. With nearly three decades of leadership experience in the federal government, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the UAE’s infrastructure, transport, urban development, human settlements and government housing sectors, while representing the country regionally and internationally in the sector.

H.E. Almansoori is recognized as a strategic and results-driven leader with extensive expertise in mega infrastructure and housing developments, sustainable urban planning, transport systems, and government transformation. Throughout his career, he has led major national initiatives aimed at enhancing quality of life, strengthening infrastructure resilience, and advancing integrated transport and logistics systems across the UAE. An alumnus of Old Dominion University, Virginia, USA, H.E. Al Mansoori was among the pioneers in driving the full digital transformation of government operations within the infrastructure and housing sectors. His leadership in digitalization significantly enhanced operational efficiency and business continuity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, several transformative housing and infrastructure initiatives were launched to improve customer experience, optimize government resources, and strengthen public-private partnerships. These included innovative housing finance solutions developed in collaboration with the banking sector, as well as streamlined customer journeys that contributed to achieving customer satisfaction rates exceeding 92%. H.E. Al Mansoori also played a leading role in advancing sustainable and people-centric urban development models in the UAE. He contributed to the development and implementation of residential neighbourhood frameworks aligned with international sustainability standards, including LEED and Estidama Pearl Rating Systems, and supported the issuance of the Planning Guide for Vital Residential Communities 2018 in collaboration with the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing. Prior to his current role, H.E. Al Mansoori held several senior leadership positions, including Director general of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, CEO and Undersecretary roles in the UAE federal government between 2008 and 2020, overseeing nationwide mega infrastructure and housing projects. His contributions extended beyond the UAE through active representation in the GCC, the Arab League, UN-Habitat, and various bilateral international cooperation platforms. In addition to his government responsibilities, H.E. Al Mansoori has served on the boards of several major private sector companies and is an active member of engineering and professional societies locally and internationally. He was also the first Arab government CEO to become a member of the Arab Engineers Federation in 2019. Committed to empowering future generations, H.E. Al Mansoori has championed academic and youth-focused initiatives that encourage innovation, research, and sustainable development in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His distinguished contributions have earned him recognition and awards from numerous public and private entities.

H.E. Eng. Eisa Mubarak Al Mazrouei serves as the Director General of the Infrastructure Development Directorate in the Department of Municipalities and Transport, where he oversees the planning, delivery, and management of the city’s public assets. His role is centred on ensuring projects meet the highest international standards, supporting the government’s strategic objectives for sustainable urban growth and an enhanced quality of life. With more than two decades in senior leadership roles within Abu Dhabi’s municipal sector focusing on urban planning, public works, and transport systems, H.E. Al Mazrouei has overseen projects valued at AED 74 billion. These include extensive road networks, bridges, smart lighting systems, and the redevelopment of key urban districts such as Khalifa City, Shakhbout City, and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, in addition to landmark developments such as Sheikh Zayed Street and Tunnels, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Al Mafraq Bridge, and Al Ruwais Bridge. Throughout his career, he has advanced the development of technical standards and operational frameworks adopted as best practices within government, while leading the introduction of intelligent asset management systems that have improved efficiency and service delivery across the Emirate. His professional achievements include 40 local and international awards, participation in 34 conferences and workshops, and the launch of 50 innovation-focused initiatives aimed at enhancing sector performance. H.E. Al Mazrouei holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from UAE University.

Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti was appointed by the Cabinet as the Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government since 2020. As the Head of Cyber Security, his mandate includes responsibilities as the Chairman of the UAE Cyber Security Council, Managing Director of the National Data Center under the Supreme Council for National Security. As the Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government by investiture, Dr. Al Kuwaiti has legal authority over all aspects pertaining to securing the cyberspace for the entire Nation. In his current role, Dr. Al Kuwaiti is tasked with the responsibility of charting the cyber security strategy for the Nation that not only equips the UAE to enter the digital era with capabilities to deal with the new threat landscape exacerbated by the pandemic, but also ensures UAE’s leadership in cyber security globally; towards establishing the UAE as the world’s leading trusted digital hub and supporting the Nation’s digital transformation agenda and the digital future of all residents who made UAE their home. Towards that end, he leads the Council to outline an implementation plan to protect the UAE cyberspace through emerging technologies such as Cloud, Big Data, and AI in a whole-of-government approach, coordinating and orchestrating efforts between Emirates and government entities via a unified platform built and managed by the Council. Under Dr. Al Kuwaiti’s leadership, the United Arab Emirates ranked #1 in the Global Cybersecurity Index 2024. He has also led UAE to many firsts, including Guinness World Records for having the most users in a cyber capture-the-flag (CTF) competition, the largest bug bounty competition, and the largest cyber drill; all initiatives that aim at capacity building in cyber security and improving the technical competencies of cyber security professionals and enthusiasts. More importantly, he has been instrumental in advocating for realizing the value of cyber security by demonstrating cyber security as a critical business enabler. Since 2021, Dr. Al Kuwaiti has played the role of an ambassador for collaboration between the government and cyber agencies, helping to bridge the discussion between the two major stakeholders in the digital economy. Under his chaperone, key public-private partnerships were established between the UAE Cyber Security Council and leading local and international cyber security organizations with the goal of making a positive contribution to the UAE cyber agenda and being a major force that will benefit the global cyber security industry. Additionally, bilateral agreements established with countries both within the region and across the world contributed towards mutual information sharing, capacity development, and legal assistance aid treaties, all key outcomes as a result of the National Cyber Security Strategy that he has put in place to realize the vision of the UAE for the next 50 years. Underscoring the UAE’s leadership in cyber security on a global stage under Dr. Al Kuwaiti’s tutelage, UAE plays a pivotal role in the Arab Regional Cybersecurity Centre with UAE being elected as the Vice Chair of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Computer Emergency Response Team and cochairs the Information Sharing Committee in the White House Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI), a coalition of 37 international partners. His contributions to accelerate the cyber security maturity of the Nation and foster a vibrant cyber security ecosystem in the UAE have been recognized in multiple forums, including the (ISC)² Government Professional Award for EMEA, Cyber Security Excellence Awards

Ali Al Gebely is a visionary leader with over 20 years of experience across diversified industries, recognized for his strategic acumen and innovative approach to business. As a steward of his family legacy business, which has been pivotal in the energy sector for the past 43 years, Ali has driven growth and transformation across key areas such as real estate, energy, technology, and more. Among his notable achievements is spearheading Al Fanar Gas Group, Abu Dhabi’s largest LPG distributor. Under his leadership, the company secured ADNOC’s first city gas infrastructure EPC contract as part of the Abu Dhabi 2030 plan. Over the course of his tenure, Al Fanar has successfully completed over 1,500 projects, including developments on Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and other iconic landmarks. In addition to his role at Al Fanar, Ali served as Managing Director of a diverse conglomerate spanning eight sectors, including investments, real estate, technology, energy, hospitality, healthcare, financial services, tourism, and alternative investments. Currently, he channels his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise as the Founder and Chairman of Al Gebely Holding and ONE Development. ONE Development’s latest flagship project, Laguna Residence, exemplifies Ali’s forward-thinking vision in redefining modern living. Located in Dubai's City of Arabia, Laguna Residence is a landmark twintower development. Designed to be the region's first fully AI-integrated residential community, the project integrates smart home automation and AI-driven services for enhanced convenience and sustainability. Featuring approximately 1,600 units with panoramic views of the UAE's largest podiumlevel lagoon and the Dubai skyline. Building on his expertise in real estate and AI-driven concepts, ONE Development is now setting new benchmarks in the industry with the recent launch of Do Hotels, a dynamic joint-venture hospitality concept under the ONE/AD banner in partnership with the entertainment legend, Amr Diab. Do Hotels is set to disrupt the hospitality industry across the region as the first musical themed residence and hotel planned as a fusion of bold design, wellness, evocative music and AI. More than just a hospitality concept, it represents a significant step in support of the UAE’s Tourism Strategy 2031 and the broader ambitions of the countries it operates in, contributing to local and regional industry progress while boosting economic growth by attracting increased investment. By leading such ambitious projects, Ali Al Gebely demonstrates his dedication to pushing the boundaries of modern living, integrating cutting-edge technology to create unparalleled residential experiences. Ali holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Middlesex University, London, and dual Bachelor’s Degrees in International Business Administration. His leadership philosophy revolves around turning vision into actionable goals and cultivating a highperformance culture. He emphasizes accountability, and empowerment fostering an environment that encourages continuous learning and innovation. His belief in collective purpose and team ownership fuels creativity, enabling his organization to consistently push boundaries and deliver real projects that sets new industry benchmarks. He leads with transparency, integrity, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, ensuring his ventures stay true to their values while exceeding stakeholder expectations.

Louis Harding is an accomplished real estate leader with over two decades of experience in the UK and Dubai property markets. Before joining Betterhomes, he held key leadership roles at Foxtons and Strutt & Parker, where he spearheaded residential sales, strategic growth, and high-performance team leadership across London’s prime real estate sector.

Since moving to Dubai, Louis has brought his expertise to Betterhomes. As CEO, he is focused on driving innovation, enhancing client experiences, and shaping the future of Betterhomes as the most trusted and forward-thinking real estate brand in the region.

Ozdemir joined Siemens in 2014 as the director of strategy and business development in Turkey, after working for other prominent companies in the U.S., Germany and Turkey. He became Chief Executive Officer of Siemens in Qatar in October 2022. Ozdemir is a seasoned management professional with broad experience in industry, infrastructure, healthcare and technology. Prior to joining Siemens, he worked at AT&T and IMS Consulting Group. He held multiple positions of increasing responsibility at Siemens in Turkey – a company with over 4,500 employees involved in manufacturing, R&D and sales. In his role in strategy and government affairs, Ozdemir was involved in major projects in healthcare, high-speed rail, energy, and infrastructure valued at over €1 billion. Born in Munich, Ozdemir earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Boğaziçi University in Turkey, and a bachelor’s degree and Master of Business Administration from the University of West Georgia in the U.S.

Captain Pradeep Singh is a globally renowned entrepreneur, visionary leader, and philanthropist. His career spans three decades, with impactful contributions to the shipping, real estate, and technology sectors. With an extraordinary ability to identify and capitalize on high-potential opportunities, Captain Singh has established a portfolio of successful ventures, solidifying his place among the most influential business figures not only in the Middle East but Globally.

Greg Karpinski is the Chief Operating Officer & Partner at KEO International Consultants, where he is driving one of the Middle East’s most respected consultancies through a bold era of digital disruption and cultural transformation. With more than 22 years of management and investment experience across energy, banking, private equity, and technology, Greg brings a rare cross-sector perspective to the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.
Since joining KEO, Greg has challenged norms and pushed the firm to reimagine its future through KEO 4.0, a framework anchored on creativity, digitalization, diversification, and innovation. He has been the driving force behind initiatives such as the KEO Disrupts! and KEO Creates programs designed to embed entrepreneurial thinking and creativity into the company’s DNA.
As a speaker, Greg is engaging, provocative, and unapologetically candid. He is known for using vivid storytelling and sharp analogies to challenge complacency, spark debate, and inspire action. Whether addressing a boardroom, a conference, or a town hall, Greg leaves audiences with a fresh perspective on leadership, transformation, and the future of consultancy.

Ammar Al Assam is CEO of Dewan Architects + Engineers, leading its evolution into a
global, multidisciplinary design consultancy. Since 2014, he has driven expansion across
the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia, including the acquisition of Singaporebased DesignLab. Today, Dewan comprises more than 1,000 professionals across eight
offices, delivering residential, hospitality, commercial, mixed-use, education, cultural, and
urban planning projects for leading public and private sector clients.
Ammar holds both a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree and an MBA from McGill
University in Montreal

Daniel Hadi is the Chief Executive Officer of Engel & Völkers Middle East, a position he has held since September 2023. With nearly 20 years of experience in the real estate industry across Europe and the MENA region, he is widely recognized for his strategic leadership, entrepreneurial mindset, and deep market expertise.
Daniel began his career in London working there for a numebr of years before relocating to Dubai in 2010, working for a well regarded local company. His early exposure to both international and regional markets laid a strong foundation for his future leadership roles.
In 2014, Daniel founded Ascot & Co. Real Estate, successfully growing the company as Managing Partner until its acquisition by Betterhomes Group in 2019. Following the acquisition, he continued to play a pivotal role within Betterhomes, serving as Managing Director to a number of the groups companies, where he led large-scale operations and drove significant business growth.
In his current role, Daniel leads the company’s commercial operations across the Middle East, focusing on strategic expansion, operational excellence, and innovation within the real estate sector.
Daniel’s career is defined by his ability to scale businesses, build high-performing teams, and deliver sustained growth in competitive markets.

Mr Thierry Delvaux is the Chief Executive Officer of Equitativa (Dubai) Limited and is a seasoned executive with more than two decades of experience in the real estate industry.
Prior to joining Equitativa, Thierry was responsible for leading and managing JLL's MEA business as the CEO and was a member of the JLL EMEA Board and JLL’s European Strategy Board. He is experienced in building and nurturing high-performing teams and understands what motivates clients with his deep and broad real estate expertise.
Prior to holding a position of Chief Executive Officer of JLL’s MEA business, Thierry held a number of strategic and leadership positions around the world at JLL during his more than 25-year tenure. During this time, Thierry held the position of International Director and Global Head of the International Desk at JLL, based in Washington, DC. Thierry also served as the Chairman of the Global Tenant Representation Board and was a member of the Americas Executive Committee.
Thierry earned a Bachelor of Science with Honors (BS) in International Business and Japanese Studies from the Catholic University of Leuven in Brussels, Belgium, graduating in 1994.

As CEO of AESG, Saeed founded and built AESG into one of the Middle East and Europe’s largest and most respected specialist consultancy, engineering and advisory firms with a core focus on sustainable urban development. Under Saeed’s direction, AESG has developed a strong reputation for delivering the highest quality consultancy in sustainability, energy management, fire and life safety, façade engineering, environmental consultancy, waste management, commissioning, government advisory, project development and building consultancy and acoustic consultancy services.

In his role at AESG, Saeed has been involved in managing and directing some of the world’s most prestigious projects through design, construction, commissioning and operation. Projects have included large prestigious master plan developments, high rise buildings, housing development and critical infrastructure.

As well as his professional role as CEO of AESG, Saeed also served as Chairman of the Emirates Green Building Council between 2013-2020 and has been a Board Member of the World Green Building Council between 2015 – 2021 providing leadership to the global sustainable building movement. Saeed has been influential in the advancement of sustainable buildings and cities globally and in the MENA region by working with industry, academia and government departments to develop collaborative solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges.

Dr. Fadi Jabri joined Nikken Sekkei in 2000 as an Architect after earning a Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo, where his research focused on the aesthetics of shadows in traditional Japanese residential architecture. He was mentored by Professor Ohno Hidetoshi, Hisao Koyama, and the renowned architect Ando Tadao. In 2014, he became a member of the board of executives, overseeing and expanding Nikken Sekkei's international projects, with a particular emphasis on the MENA and CIS regions.

With experience spanning over 25 years in the region, Dr. Jabri has contributed to a wide range of projects, including urban planning, mixed-use high-rises, residential, hospitality, and unique projects. He played a pivotal role in winning major international competitions, such as One Zaabeel in Dubai, the Gazprom complex in St. Petersburg, and a multi-cultural complex for Sberbank in Moscow.

Currently, Dr. Jabri leads a design studio in Dubai as Executive CEO. He works closely with clients and design teams to blend contemporary reinterpretations of Japanese architectural design principles with cutting-edge technologies, always balancing respect for history with a vision for the future.

Fluent in English, Japanese, Arabic, and Russian, Dr. Jabri excels at bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, facilitating seamless communication across international teams and clients. He is a member of the JIA (Japan Institute of Architects), the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), and the AIA (American Institute of Architects).

Jonathan Ashmore is the Founding Principal at award-winning RIBA Chartered Practice ANARCHITECT, based in Dubai and London. A practicing architect and active design critic, Ashmore is a post-graduate of Bartlett School of Architecture, participant of the RIBA Gulf Chapter and a former British Council Cultural Excellence Fellowship Mentor.

In a short time, Ashmore has won an international following of design-conscious clientele and industry peers, thanks to his refined, yet progressive and contemporary aesthetics. With a signature approach of translating architecture across diverse scales of design with superlative craft, detail and materiality, Ashmore, together with his team, creates highly refined buildings, spaces, and objects beautifully balanced in form and function. Jonathan continuously pushes the boundaries of architectural discourse to deliver projects at the crux of understated luxury and contextually modern architecture.

His built projects span the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa, with work being a prominent winner across international design awards. Jonathan gained further recognition through invited creative collaborations with Burberry, Dubai Design Week and Wallpaper* Magazine, with projects and insights regularly published in the global design press.

Jonathan is frequently invited as a spokesperson for Middle Eastern modern architecture and interior design, drawing upon a decade’s experience, uncovering its opportunities and rich contextual vernaculars. His thought leadership and success in delivering projects with strong narratives continue to attract widespread print and digital coverage, which in turn fosters clients’ success beyond the design commission; extending to his practice’s committed social media following and its recent RIBA International Award.