Overview

The 2nd Edition of the Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit, taking place on 23rd and 24th June at Conrad Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, will bring together industry leaders, investors, architects, and innovators to explore the trends and technologies shaping the next era of real estate. The summit will spotlight smart city innovation, sustainable urban planning, and new investment opportunities transforming the MENA market.
 
Through focused keynotes, expert panels, and interactive discussions, the event will inspire collaboration and forward-thinking solutions that redefine the future of urban development.
 
Stay tuned for more updates.

Speakers

Moderators

Social Impact Guests

Entertainment

Agenda

Building the Future Summit – 2nd Edition | Abu Dhabi

9:00 – 9:45 am

Registration & Networking

9:50 – 9:55 am

National Anthem

10:00 – 10:05 am

Opening Ceremony

10:10 – 10:20 am

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

10:20 – 10:25 am

Presenting Partner Welcome Speech

  • Ali Al Gebely, Founder & Chairman, ONE Development & ONE Holding

  • 10:30 – 10:35 am

    Keynote Address by the Event Patron

  • H.E. Eng Sharif Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

  • 10:40 – 10:50 am

    Fireside Chat: Building the Future Narrative: How Media Shapes Nations, Cities, and Economies (Arabic)

    A high-level conversation on how media and strategic communication have become core instruments of nation-building, shaping global perception, attracting investment, and strengthening economic competitiveness, while advancing the long-term vision of future-focused nations.

  • H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohamed Bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority
  • Moderator: Budour Mousa, Journalist & Producer, Forbes Middle East Petroleum Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

  • 10:55 am – 11:00 am

    Keynote Address: Securing the Energy Foundations of Tomorrow's Economy

    A discussion on how forward-looking energy strategies are helping build resilient economies, support urban development, and meet the evolving demands of future generations.

  • H.E. Eng. Ahmed Mohammed Belajer Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary, Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE)

  • 11:05 – 11:10 am

    Keynote Address: Laying the Foundations of Tomorrow: Infrastructure at the Heart of National Transformation (Arabic)

    An exploration of how integrated infrastructure strategies are driving the UAE’s long-term ambitions, accelerating economic diversification, enhancing societal well-being, and boosting global competitiveness.

  • H.E. Eng. Mohamed Al Mansoori, Undersecretary of Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

  • 11:15 – 11:40 am

    Awards Ceremony

    11:40 – 11:45 am

    Official Group Picture

    11:50 – 12:00 pm

    Fireside Chat: Powering the Next Horizon: The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 in Action

    An insight into how the UAE is translating its long-term energy strategy into impactful outcomes by driving clean energy adoption, enhancing energy efficiency, and shaping a resilient, low-carbon economy for generations to come.

  • H.E. Eng Sharif Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
  • Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter & Producer Forbes Middle East

  • 12:05 – 12:20 pm

    Fireside Chat: Leadership, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Legacy and the Future of Urban Development

    A discussion on visionary leadership, a founder’s mindset, and its role in driving the future of cities, real estate, and sustainable urban growth

  • Rizwan Sajan, Founder & Chairman, Danube Group
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 12:25 – 12:45 pm

    Panel: Forging Public-Private Partnerships to Enable Future-Ready Projects (Arabic)

    A key discussion on the importance of strategic collaboration between government entities and private sector players to accelerate infrastructure development, foster innovation and efficiency, and deliver long-term value across key national projects.

  • H.E. Eng. Eisa Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Director General of Infrastructure Development Directorate, Department of Municipalities and Transport
  • Eng. Abdulla Al Abdouli, Group CEO, Marjan
  • Dr. Bahaa Salem, Group President, Al Salem Group
  • Moderator: Dr. Hani Albadri, Professor, Senior Producer, Presenter, And Academic Media Lecturer

  • 12:50 – 1:00 pm

    Fireside Chat: The Developer’s Edge: Elevating Skylines and Driving Urban Impact

    A focused discussion on how innovative real estate development and strategic urban planning drive economic growth, shape vibrant cityscapes, and support the region’s long-term vision for prosperity and sustainability.

  • Carlos Wakim, CEO, Bloom Holding
  • Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

  • 1:30 – 1:40 pm

    Fireside Chat: Integrated Living: Building Places that Connect, Empower, and Inspire

    This session explores how mixed-use developments, inclusive design, and people-centric planning are shaping vibrant urban spaces that foster belonging, accessibility, and holistic well-being.

  • Capt Pradeep Singh, Chairman & Founder, Karma Developers
  • Moderator: Stephen White, Senior Conference Manager, Forbes Middle East

  • 1:30 – 2:10 pm

    Networking Lunch

    2:15 – 2:35 pm

    Panel: City Icons in the Making: Designing Tomorrow’s Global Destinations

    Learn how visionary urban planning, architectural innovation, and cultural storytelling are coming together to create cities that aren’t just livable but unforgettable. From tourism and lifestyle to sustainability and heritage, discover what it takes to build the region’s next iconic destinations.

  • H.E. Mansour Alharbi, Acting Executive Director of Activation & Development Control, Sector, Department of Municipalities and Transport
  • Amin Al Arrayed, CEO, Naseej BSC (c)
  • Jonathan Brown, Chief Portfolio Officer, Miral
  • Moderator: Israa Ibrahim, Business Presenter & Producer, Moniify

  • 2:40 – 3:00 pm

    Panel: Defining Ultra-Luxury: The Future of High-End Living

    Explore how ultra-luxury real estate is evolving to meet the expectations of global high-net-worth buyers, from bespoke design and branded residences to privacy, exclusivity, and service excellence shaping the next era of high-end living.

  • Eng. Nour Morshedy, Owner & CEO, Morshedy Group
  • Daniel Hadi, CEO - Middle East, Engel & Völkers
  • Hamdan Mohamed Al Kaitoob, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Deyaar Development PJSC
  • Moderator: Viwe Kunene, Presenter, Forbes Middle East

  • 3:05 – 3:25 pm

    Panel: The Private Sector as a Pillar of Growth: Powering Innovation & Investment in the Region

    Explore how the private sector drives regional growth by fostering innovation, attracting investment, empowering SMEs, and shaping supportive policy frameworks to build resilient, future-ready economies.

  • Saad Faruk Maniar, CEO, Baker Tilly UAE
  • Gregg Welch, Senior Vice President - Strategy, Growth and Business Development, Parsons
  • Moderator: Bilal Sabouni, Managing Director - Head of MENAT, Guidepoint

  • 3:30 – 3:50 pm

    Panel: Investment Confidence in a Changing Market: Capital, Risk & Opportunity in Real Estate

    As market dynamics shift, this session explores how investors are recalibrating risk, deploying capital, and identifying high-value opportunities across the real estate landscape to drive the next phase of growth.

  • Thierry Delvaux, CEO, Emirates REIT, Equitativa
  • Louis Harding, CEO, betterhomes
  • Eng. Ahmed Abdalla Alhammadi, Director, Financial Sustainability & Investment Department, UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure
  • Moderator: Hisham Dally, EY MENA Assurance Government & Infrastructure Leader, EY

  • 3:55 – 4:10 pm

    Panel: Urban Futures: What Will Define the Next Decade of Development?

    A forward-looking discussion exploring the key trends, technologies, and policies that will shape the next era of urban development, balancing innovation, sustainability, and evolving societal needs.

  • Naseibah Almarzooqi, Director of Studies, Research & Development & Chief Innovation Officer, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
  • Dr. Mohamed Walid Lotfy, Chief Development Officer, Federal Engineering Consultants
  • Moderator: Manika Dhama, Partner, Infrastructure & Real Estate, Deloitte Middle East

  • Building the Future Summit – 2nd Edition | Abu Dhabi

    10:00 – 10:55 am

    Registration & Networking

    11:00 – 11:05 am

    Performance

    11:10 – 11:15 am

    Welcome Address & Recap Video by Forbes Middle East

    11:20 – 11:25 am

    Individual Address: Healthcare as Critical Infrastructure for National Development and Growth (Arabic)

    An insight into how healthcare is evolving from a service sector into a core pillar of national infrastructure. Explore how private sector leadership, innovation, and strategic investment are strengthening healthcare systems, enhancing resilience, and contributing directly to long-term national development and economic growth.

  • Omran Alkhoori, Chairman, Response Plus Holding PJSC (RPM)

  • 11:30 – 11:35 am

    Special Address: Financing the Future: The Role of Fiscal Policy in Enabling Sustainable Infrastructure and Economic Growth

    An overview of how fiscal policy, public investment, and strategic financing frameworks are supporting infrastructure development, economic resilience, and long-term sustainable growth.

  • H.E. Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, UAE Ministry of Finance

  • 11:35 – 11:55 am

    Panel: Building the Next Economy: Investment, Industry & National Competitiveness (Arabic)

    Explore how strategic investment, advanced manufacturing, and forward-looking policy frameworks are strengthening the UAE's industrial base, accelerating economic diversification, and enhancing long-term global competitiveness.

  • H.E. Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, CEO, Registration Authority (ADGM)
  • H.E. Abdulla Al Yazeedi, Executive Director of the Economic Strategy Oversight Sector, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development
  • Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities and Free Zones Cluster, AD Ports Group
  • Moderator: Dr. Nashwa Alruwaini, Media Consultant, National Media Authority

  • 12:00 – 12:10 pm

    Fireside Chat: Next Stop, Space: Charting the UAE’s Space Frontier

    Explore how the UAE is charting the next frontier in space, harnessing cutting-edge technology, visionary leadership, and human capital to drive innovation, economic growth, and the nation’s global ambitions.

  • H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre
  • Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter & Producer Forbes Middle East

  • 12:15 – 12:35 pm

    Panel: The Mobility Evolution: Smart, Sustainable, and Seamless Connectivity

    Explore how transportation, connectivity, and infrastructure are evolving to meet the demands of growing populations, support economic development, and create more efficient, sustainable, and liveable cities.

  • Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General, Integrated Transport Centre – Abu Dhabi
  • Capt. Saif Al Mheiri, CEO, Abu Dhabi Maritime, Group Chief Sustainability & Risk Officer, AD Ports Group
  • Frederico Justus, CEO, Middle East and South Asia, Egis
  • Moderator: Jayda Shoukry, Content Producer, Forbes Middle East

  • 12:40 – 12:45 pm

    Individual Address: Security in the Age of Smart Cities: Safeguarding Tomorrow’s Urban and Digital Ecosystems

    Discover how integrated cyber security strategies are protecting urban and digital ecosystems, ensuring resilient, connected, and future-ready cities.

  • H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, UAE Government

  • 12:50 – 1:00 pm

    Fireside Chat: Leading the Future of Real Estate: Vision, Strategy, and Market Evolution

    A conversation on leadership in real estate, evolving market dynamics, and the strategies shaping the future of the sector.

  • Amr Kandeel, Group CEO, ONE Development
  • Moderator: Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter Forbes Middle East

  • 1:05 – 1:25 pm

    Panel: The Digital Future of Cities: AI & Emerging Technologies Driving Urban Evolution

    Explore how artificial intelligence, digital twins, intelligent infrastructure systems, and next-generation energy innovations are reshaping urban environments. From smarter city management and real-time insights to AI-enabled infrastructure, resilient energy systems, and future-ready utilities, discover how technology is driving more intelligent, efficient, sustainable, and responsive cities.

  • Hakan Ozdemir, CEO at Siemens Qatar & CEO Smart Infrastructure, Siemens Middle East
  • Greg Karpinski, Chief Operating Officer & Partner, KEO Group
  • Dr. Ibraheem Almansouri, Senior Director of Engineering, Masdar
  • Moderator: Nouf Al Katheeri, Journalist and Vice Chairman, Forbes Middle East Youth Council

  • 1:30 – 1:50 pm

    Panel: Delivering National Impact: Strengthening Infrastructure Through Strategic Operations (Arabic)

    Bringing together perspectives from investment, project delivery, and transport safety, this session explores how strategic partnerships, operational excellence, and innovative approaches are enabling more resilient, efficient, and impactful infrastructure systems that support long-term national growth.

  • Maher Merehbi, CEO, Arabian Construction Company
  • Eid Alobeidli, Director of Musataha and PPP, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)
  • Dr. Eng. Sumaya Saeed Al Neyadi, Head of Traffic Safety at Integrated Transportation Center (ITC) & Chair of the International Road Federation (IRF Global)
  • Moderator: Budour Mousa, Journalist & Producer, Forbes Middle East

  • 1:50 – 2:50 pm

    Networking Lunch

    2:55 – 3:15 pm

    Panel: Architecture of Identity: Blending Culture, Climate, and Modern Vision

    As cities grow and evolve, architecture plays a vital role in expressing identity and purpose. Explore how are merging cultural context, environmental consciousness, and modern vision to create iconic, resilient spaces that resonate with community values and regional character.

  • Todd Pilgreen, Co-Managing Director & Principal, Gensler Middle East
  • Jason Burnside, Managing Director & Partner, Godwin Austen Johnson
  • Fadi Jabri, CEO, Nikken Sekkei Dubai
  • Moderator: Khalid Saeed, Presenter, Dubai One Tv

  • 3:20 – 3:40 pm

    Panel: The Future of Livability: Smart, Sustainable and Green

    Explore how cities and communities are evolving to enhance quality of life through sustainable development, innovative design, smart infrastructure, and integrated planning. Discover the strategies shaping more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready urban environments.

  • Saeed Al Abbar, CEO, AESG
  • Omar Shahzad, Group CEO, Meinhardt Group
  • Tauseef Khan, Founder and Chairman, Dugasta Properties
  • Moderator: Layan Abo Shkier, Editor & Researcher, Forbes Middle East

  • 3:45 – 4:05 pm

    Panel: Data-Driven Metropolitan Planning for Intelligent, Adaptive Cities

    A forward-looking discussion on how data analytics and intelligent modeling tools are transforming how cities anticipate growth, optimize resources, and build resilient infrastructure systems.

  • Thomas Pramotedham, CEO, Presight
  • Amel Chadli, President of the Gulf Cluster, Schneider Electric
  • Eng. Muayad Simbawa, Managing Director Middle East, Nemetschek Group
  • Moderator: Zaid Ghazaleh, Partner, McKinsey & Company

  • 4:10 – 4:25 pm

    Panel: The Talent Engine: Building the Human Capital for Tomorrow’s Economy

    As digitalization, sustainability, and innovation reshape industries, human capital must evolve. Explore how leaders are cultivating skilled, adaptable talent to power productivity, competitiveness, and long-term economic growth.

  • Moustafa Rashad, Group CEO & Managing Director, ONE Holding
  • Najeh Salah, Chief of Staff, Power International Holding (PIH)
  • Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor, Ajman University
  • Moderator: Ahmed bin Abdulrahman Al Ghardaqa, President, Arab Youth Council for Climate Change, Arab Youth Center, Head of Climate Diplomacy and Sustainability Affairs, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs

  • 4:30 – 4:45 pm

    Panel: Spaces That Inspire: Elevating Interior Design to Shape Function, Style, and Experience

    Exploring how interior design shapes function, style, and human experience, creating inspiring spaces that elevate modern developments and drive lasting impact.

  • Muhanad Ajinah, Director of Development, Al Ain Asset Management
  • Jonathan Ashmore, Founding Principal, ANARCHITECT
  • Kathryn Athreya, Managing Director, Roar
  • Moderator: Viwe Kunene, Presenter, Forbes Middle East

  • Previous Speakers

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    Location

    Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

    Hosted at Conrad Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, the summit convenes leaders and decision-makers in a refined setting built for strategic dialogue and professional networking.

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