Ideas that move the region forward.

Building the Future Summit – 1st Edition, 26-27 May 2025

Building The Future Summit – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi

Date
26-27 May 2025
Venue
Berklee Abu Dhabi
Format
In person event
Doors
Registration and networking from 10:00

Overview

Overview

Date
26-27 May 2025
Venue
Berklee Abu Dhabi
Format
In person event
Doors
Registration and networking from 10:00

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!

On stage

Speakers

Social Impact Guests

Social Impact Guests

Entertainment

Entertainment

Agenda · 26-27 May 2025

Building The Future Summit – Abu Dhabi

Registration & Networking

Break

Performance by Berklee Abu Dhabi

Welcome Address & Opening Video by Forbes Middle East

Address

Opening Address by ONE Development

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

Keynote

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

Fireside chat

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)

Address

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

Fireside chat

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

Panel

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

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

Fireside chat

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

Panel

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

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

Fireside chat

Award Ceremony

Networking Lunch

Break

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

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

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

Panel

Moderators

Moderators

Getting there

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.

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Berklee Abu Dhabi