His Excellency Mohamed Haji Al Khoori is the Director General of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation. He joined the Foundation at its inception in 2007. Previously, he established the Medical Department at the Crown Prince's Court of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan where he served as Medical Director, arranging for patients to travel overseas for treatment. Mohamed Haji Al Khoori graduated from California State University at San Bernardino, with a major in Economics.
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi has been appointed as the Director General of the Emirates Drug Establishment. Serving concurrently as the Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program (AD-BMT©) at Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center since 2019, Dr. Al Kaabi is a leading figure in UAE’s healthcare sector. She is also the Vice-Chair of the UAE National Multiple Sclerosis Society Board of Trustees and the Chairperson of UAE BIOTECH Research Center. Her academic journey includes earning an MPH from Johns Hopkins University in 2001 and an MSc in Cancer from University College London in 2012. Furthermore, she completed her fellowship in hematology in the Royal Free Hospital in the United Kingdom. Previously, Dr. Al Kaabi held multiple leadership positions including the Executive Director of Emirates Genome and Health Affairs at Abu Dhabi Executive Office (ADEO); Head of Adult Hematology/Oncology and Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) in Abu Dhabi. In her current roles, Dr. Al Kaabi continues to make significant contributions to the healthcare sector, leveraging her experience and dedication to drive positive change and advancements in the field.
His Excellency Ibrahim AlJallaf is the Executive Director of Digital Health at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (Chief Digital & AI Officer). He is an artificial intelligence expert and digital leader who is delivering on an ambitious Healthcare Digital vision for the Emirate. He is accelerating the Abu Dhabi Healthcare sector to be the most intelligent healthcare system globally, enabled by a portfolio of cutting-edge digital platforms.
Previously, AlJallaf held roles at G42, Emaar, Majid Al Futtaim, and McKinsey & Company. In each role, he held positions centred around artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and strategy. Most recently, his focus has been anchored on leading large data and AI teams and deploying digital & analytics implementations at-scale. AlJallaf holds a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Finance and Accounting from Bentley University, one of the top business schools in the United States.
Shaista Asif is the Group Chief Operating Officer at Pure Health, the largest integrated healthcare company in the UAE. Overseeing the Group’s diversified portfolio, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, health insurance, healthcare procurement, and health tech solutions, Shaista is at the forefront in changing the way healthcare is delivered in the country. She has spearheaded the largest number of healthcare acquisitions in the UAE over the last three years, making Pure Health the fastest-growing healthcare company in the region. With a strong track record in delivering transformational change, Shaista has led Pure Health’s consolidation, spearheading the execution of the Group’s strategy, quality distinction, growth, and development in the healthcare segment in the UAE since 2010. With over 17 years in senior leadership positions in the healthcare and technology domain, Shaista brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning and is recognised for her in-depth analytical ability to facilitate operational and procedural planning to focus on the Group’s growth and optimisation. Moving from sick care to preventive care, Shaista’s North Star is Longevity. Pure Health is working towards creating the ‘Healthcare in the Cloud’ as its enabler, where the company is focused on embracing the 4th Industrial Revolution. Shaista believes in Technological Singularity, and how the increase in compute power is bringing it closer. Pure Health is working towards creating a healthcare ecosystem where people don’t fall sick, but instead live healthier and fuller lives, for longer!
Her Excellency Mubaraka Ibrahim the acting CIO Emirates health services and a passionate technology enthusiast, has spearheaded the Digital Transformation Journey. She played a crucial role in the Riayati “Electronic Unified Medical Record” committee for securing pharmaceutical supply chains that uphold post-pandemic resiliency. As a seasoned health care IT leader with over 30 years' experience, she has a proven track record of leading government entities through complex changes, implementing innovative solutions, and improving patient care. Since her appointment as Acting CIO at EHS, Mubaraka has emerged as an architect in achieving impeccable achievements in sustainability goals aligned with the UAE's NET ZERO initiative. Mubaraka is an ardent advocate for emerging technologies to improve healthcare. She offered a pragmatic approach towards Implementing digital health technology, optimizing healthcare facility operations, reevaluating care pathways, and investing in advanced data analytics. Among the first members of HIMSS in the region, she achieved the HealthCare IT Leader Hall of Fame Award (HIMSS Middle East). Being a distinguished graduate of the UAE Government Leaders Program, she is currently a highly anticipated member of the UAE Government's Next 50. By setting the tone for other women and professionals in the region to follow, she is an inspiring leader blazing a trail for others to follow. She is the first leader in the region to achieve exponential conversion rates of physical patient visits to virtual resulting a phenomenal reduction of 15 Million Tonnes of CO2 emission. In its pursuit of addressing and adhering to sustainability in UAE health care, Mubaraka has proven to be an invaluable asset to the industry and has taken a leading role in utilizing technology to improve the quality of patient care.
Prior joining GLIDE, Dr. Farida played a pivotal role in establishing the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center in 2019, overseeing the development and implementation of strategic plans and served as Executive Director for Infectious Diseases. Her leadership spans critical areas such as communicable disease preparedness, environmental health, safety, and vector control. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Farida served as the Official Spokesperson for the UAE Health Sector, providing critical updates and leading public health and vaccination initiatives. Her contributions were instrumental in the UAE's globally recognized pandemic response. In 2022, she became the first Emirati woman to join the WHO’s Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework Advisory Group, where she currently serves as Chair, advising the WHO Director-General on global strategies for pandemic preparedness and response.
As a passionate advocate for innovation, research, and artificial intelligence in public health, Dr. Farida continues to contribute to infectious disease research and academic publications. She holds a Ph.D. and a master’s degree from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA, and a master’s degree in security and strategic studies from the UAE National Defense College.
Dr. Asma Al-Mannaei is an accomplished Executive Director of Health Life Science Executive Director, Research and Innovation Center in the Department of Health Abu Dhabi, with over 18 years of experience in Public Health, Strategy & Policy, Quality and Healthcare Research and Innovation. With an extensive background in healthcare Management, she is an expert in leading the transformation of healthcare life science in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Al-Mannaei is recognized for her innovative strategies and her ability to drive success in complex projects. She holds an MBBS from UAEU, a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins and Executive Education of Advanced Leadership and Management from Harvard Kennedy school.
Mr. Ayman Mokhtar is a global recognized executive, known for advancing innovative approaches that enable healthcare sectors to provide access to quality medications and innovative health solutions to all.
With more than twenty years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Mr. Mokhtar is an executive with a broad international experience having held strategic positions within multinational companies and lead regional operations covering Europe, Eurasia, the Middle East and Africa.
He is currently the Regional President for Viatris, leading its operations in the Middle East, North Africa and Eurasia Region. Viatris is the global healthcare company formed in November 2020 through the combination of Mylan and Upjohn, a legacy division of Pfizer. Viatris empowers people to live healthier at every stage of life. Viatris portfolio comprises more than 1,400 approved molecules across a wide range of therapeutic areas, spanning both non-communicable and infectious diseases.
As a business leader having served in multiple multinational companies across territories and regions (Sanofi, Pfizer, Upjohn , Viatris), Mr. Mokhtar has a passion for improving patient access to medications through innovative approaches, connecting stakeholders on common goals and driving meaningful partnerships.
He is also a seasoned strategist, driving growth, business development and return on investment. He focuses in his management approach on enabling efficient working environments. He is also the mentor of senior leaders and a global champion of diversity and inclusion and wellbeing in the workplace.
Mr Mokhtar is leading in the representation of the private healthcare sector with government entities and takes an active role in advocating for the policies and initiatives that would drive a sustainable environment for innovation and growth and optimize healthcare services and healthcare delivery in the Region.
He is a board member of leading trade and academia associations, [such as US-UAE business council, the US-Kuwait Business council, the American Chamber of Abu Dhabi, and the Harvard Business School GCC Club.
Beshara became CEO of the Mohamed & Obaid Almulla Group in 2018, having joined the group in 2017 as Group General Counsel. The group’s portfolio covers healthcare, travel and tourism, hospitality, and real estate. Beshara is also the CEO of American Hospital Dubai, the group's flagship brand. In 2021, the American Hospital Dubai announced a collaboration with Siemens Healthineers for enhanced diagnostic imaging and core diagnostics capabilities. In the same year, the American Health Academic Institute was launched as the education arm of American Hospital.
Dimitris Moulavasilis is the Group Chief Executive Officer of M42, a global health champion powered by artificial intelligence, technology and genomics to transform care for all. With over 30 years of international experience in healthcare services and medical technology, Dimitris is known for driving innovation and excellence across the industry.
Before stepping into his current role, Dimitris was the Chief Executive Officer of M42’s Global Patient Care platform, a central component of M42’s mission to transform healthcare on a global scale. Under his leadership, the Global Patient Care platform has integrated M42’s UAE and international healthcare assets, consisting of 480 clinics across 26 countries, and serving 15 million patients annually. The platform delivers comprehensive healthcare services, including Renal Care, Outpatient and Chronic Disease Management, Diagnostics, Women's & Children's Health, Specialty Surgery, and Long-Term Care.
A passionate advocate for digital healthcare transformation, Dimitris is committed to leveraging AI and technology to democratize and revolutionize healthcare, ensuring high-quality, personalized care is accessible to all.
Dr. Alireza Haghighi is a Pioneering leader transforming global health through groundbreaking advancements in life science and AI. He is internationally recognized for his leadership in projects aimed at improving health and well-being worldwide. Dr. Haghighi regularly advises government leaders and industry executives on national health policies and initiatives.
Dr. Haghighi is the Director and Principal Investigator of the Bahrain National Genome Program and has contributed to the design, development, and leadership of national projects in other countries. He is also the Founding President of the Advancement Initiative for Medicine and Science (AIMS), a global foundation dedicated to advancing medical science and healthcare worldwide, which has improved the health of people across the globe.
Dr. Haghighi has received numerous prestigious awards and prizes, including the Global Health Pioneer Award for his innovative strategies and initiatives to enhance the quality of life of people around the world and the International Genetic Disorders Prevention Award.
Dr. Haghighi is an American board-certified geneticist, and a clinician-scientist at Mass General Brigham. He completed his graduate and clinical training at the University of Oxford and Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Haleh Hamedifar is one of the most renowned leaders in the biopharmaceutical industry in the MENA region. Her leadership has transformed CinnaGen from a team of twelve people active in diagnostic kit development and manufacturing to a global biopharma powerhouse with sales in more than 40 countries and +5,000 employees. The group of companies has had a major impact on increasing access to advanced therapeutics, saving billions of dollars for the healthcare systems while expanding treatment options for patients and those who care for them.
Hein is a highly experienced healthcare executive with 20+ years of expertise in leadership, strategy, operations and business growth, across both local and global healthcare landscapes. He was appointed CEO of Mediclinic Middle East in 2023, prior to which he held the position of Chief Strategy Officer.
As CEO, Hein is responsible for overall executive oversight of Mediclinic Middle East including strategic planning, future growth strategy, policy setting, budgeting and financial and operational performance.
He is a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, UK (FIA), a Fellow of the Actuarial Society of South Africa (FASSA) and holds a BSc from the University of Stellenbosch.
Ousama Alhaj is Boehringer Ingelheim’s General Manager and Head of Human Pharma for the Near East and UAE. With a successful track record in leading business operations, setting innovative patient-centric strategies, and establishing relationships with authorities, Ousama is an expert in the multinational pharmaceutical industry, having proved himself as a transformational leader across the Gulf and Levant countries. In his current capacity, Ousama is focused on driving success through the implementation of effective financial performance, advanced stakeholder engagements, and innovative frontline execution that will help Boehringer Ingelheim continue serving the needs of patients, customers and stakeholders across the region. With over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical field, Ousama has held various leadership positions in the Gulf and Levant regions. Prior to assuming his role at Boehringer Ingelheim in June 2020, he served as AstraZeneca’s Country Director for UAE, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar after leading sales and marketing as Area Director for Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen. During his tenure, he successfully contributed to the company’s substantial growth in the Gulf and Levant markets and leveraged the company’s footprint in the region. He also served as GSK’s Head of Pharma in the UAE. Ousama holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Damascus University Syria, and an Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Ecole Superieure des Affaires (ESA) Business School in Beirut, Lebanon.
Sophie is the Founder and CEO of Nabta Health, a hybrid healthcare platform for women enabling the accelerated detection, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic diseases in women in emerging markets. Prior to founding Nabta, Sophie worked as a technology consultant for Accenture, and then launched a number of impact startups, including myZindagi (a doctor-finding platform in Pakistan) and Le Plastics (a waste-plastics-to-roads company in Sierra Leone). Earlier this year, Sophie founded the 2022 Female Angels movement to bring gender parity to the early-stage investment landscape by identifying and publicly listing 2,022 female angel investors for MENA by the end of 2022. Sophie’s lifetime ambition is to empower all women to effectively manage their health. Sophie read History at the University of Cambridge and completed an MBA with Quantic School of Business and Technology.
Mark Adams brings over 40 years of leadership experience in international healthcare, spanning health insurance, clinical operations, and hospital management across the UK, USA, and the Middle East. He has served as CEO of several major organizations including AXA PPP Healthcare, Denplan, Virgin Healthcare, Gulf Healthcare, and Anglo Arabian Healthcare. He also led the UK’s Community Integrated Care charity, where he was twice named Healthcare Leader of the Year. Mr. Adams currently holds board positions with Tibbiyah, New You Hospital, and Renovo Healthcare. He was previously a board member of NMC Healthcare, the NSPCC, and the British Quality Foundation, and played a key role in launching PruHealth (now Vitality) in the UK.
Dr. Georges Pascal Haber is the CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, professor of surgery, and a renowned urologist specializing in robotics. He leads a team of over 5,600 caregivers, focusing on strategic growth, innovation, and excellence in high-acuity care, and aligning with Cleveland Clinic and M42’s joint mission to drive innovation and implement tech-enabled health solutions. Dr. Haber is a surgical innovator, having performed several firsts in scar-free kidney and prostate surgery, robotic kidney transplant, and robotic IVC thrombectomy. He has a strong commitment to medical research and education, having authored over 250 peer-reviewed scientific articles, served as a visiting professor in over a dozen countries, and led the largest and top-ranked urology training program in the US. Dr. Haber completed his executive education at Wharton and Harvard Business Schools; his clinical fellowship in robotic urologic surgery at Cleveland Clinic; and his Master of Science in Surgical Oncology, PhD in Biotechnology, and medical training in France.
Dr. Marwan Al Kaabi is the acting chief executive officer (CEO) at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). With over 17 years of hands-on experience in successfully performing complex operations and leading large teams, Dr. Al Kaabi has earned a reputation as an expert in driving operational efficiency, improving customer care and enterprise risk management. Prior to joining SSMC, Dr. Al Kaabi played a pivotal role in safeguarding critical infrastructure and functions as PureHealth’s chief of critical infrastructure management and response. His role extended to developing and implementing incident and crisis management plans and establishing stringent security protocols and health and safety standards. Dr. Al Kaabi served as the chief operations officer (COO) at Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), where his visionary leadership steered the organization through multiple strategic initiatives. Driven by a commitment to advancing healthcare delivery, Dr. Al Kaabi brings a wealth of experience, expertise and a proven track record of success to SSMC. Additionally, he is a member of the Advisory Board of the United Arab Emirates University. Dr. Al Kaabi is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) and holds a Master’s degree in Health Emergency Management from Boston University, United States, and executive certificate in managing healthcare delivery from Harvard Business School. His academic pursuits have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of medical practice and healthcare management.
Expressive, other-centered, and determined to improve the lives of his patients, Dr. Mishal AlQasimi embraced the mandate of creating, developing and running Capital Health on behalf of the Board of Directors at ADCG.
He is a Key Opinion Leader in the healthcare industry and the driving force behind the transformation of rehabilitative medicine in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Mishal has influenced the healthcare scene in the region through various national and international presentations, TV appearances and medical workshops.
Dr. Mishal received his undergraduate, Medical School and Post-graduate training in the United States. He also achieved the status of Certified Physician Executive by the Certifying Commission in Medical Management from the American Association for Physician Leadership.
After completing his residency, Dr. Mishal served as Clinical Instructor at the State University of New York Downtown Medical Center, Director of Newborn Medicine at Lutheran Medical Center and Chief of Medical Education at Lutheran Health Centers. Upon returning to the region, Dr. Mishal served as the Chair of Pediatric Services for the Ambulatory Health Services (AHS) at Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) and the Medical Director for the Abu Dhabi Centre for Care and Rehabilitation at the Zayed Higher Organization (ZHO).
Dr. Yendry Ventura oversees Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center operations as its Chief Executive Officer. ADSCC is the first fully integrated medical and research center focused on attaining the most leading and ambitious scopes in the fields of cell therapy in the UAE. A skilled scientific researcher in preforming, conducting, and analyzing in vivo and in vitro assays, as well as preclinical studies related to cell biology, immunology, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. Dr. Yendry has developed new innovative methodology for harvesting stem cells through peripheral blood, this methodology was used in a clinical trial of COVID-19 patients and is known as UAECell-19 with Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center as its sole owner. He is also the executive director of the first bone marrow transplantation program in the UAE, known as AD-BMT. AD-BMT has intellectual property and is a comprehensive program designed to treat every patient in the UAE that may be eligible for the treatment. Dr Yendry Ventura implemented the very first CAR-T cells and Extracorporeal Photopheresis program. He is the Chairman of the Pharmacogenomics Flagship Program of Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center and the Principal Investigator of the randomized controlled clinical trials for Multiple Sclerosis, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and others. Dr. Yendry holds a Doctorate in Medicine in Immunology from the University of Havana- Cuba. He brings a wealth of leadership and clinical expertise, including performance in clinical sciences, managing clinical research and leading clinical trials. He has extensive knowledge in stem cell harvesting and isolation, using these techniques in the implementation of therapeutic and productive apheresis methods used in hematopoietic stem cells transplantations, as well as obtaining autologous stem cells for regenerative medicine. Dr. Yendry’s primary field of interest is in preclinical and clinical research such as clinical trials and compassionate protocols.
Ali Hashemi is the Co-Founder of meta[bolic] and Glucare.Health. He is an investor in early-stage ventures at the intersection of health and technology, with a particular focus on the application of deep learning and complex algorithms to solve challenging problems in healthcare. Ali was previously the founder of Amana Healthcare, the benchmark and fastest growing continuum-of-care hospital platform in the Middle East, acquired by Mubadala Healthcare in 2018 in what was among the largest deals in regional healthcare M&A. Ali previously founded and led the Middle East Healthcare Practice at Booz & Company, based out of Dubai. Prior to joining Booz&Co, Ali was a member of the Healthcare Practice and the Private Equity Practice at Bain & Company, based in New York City. Ali studied Medicine and received his MBA concurrently from McGill University. He received a B.S.E. with Distinction from Duke University with a dual major in BioMedical Engineering and Religion, and a minor in Chemistry.
Ayman is a Co-Founder at Altibbi, the leading Middle East digital health provider. His domain covers Operations, Marketing, Business Development & Business Intelligence to assist the company’s growth and sustainability. Prior to his Co-Founder role at Altibbi, Ayman was a Vice President at IMENA Group, an internet investor and operator. His area of focus was corporate development, which revolved around fund raising on the investment side; strategy, business intelligence and monetization on the operations side. Ayman also founded his own digital health company in the US in 2011. The company aimed at bridging the gap of healthcare quality between the US and the rest of the world through its global telehealth platform. Ayman holds an MBA from The Wharton School of Business and an MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School. He is passionate about entrepreneurship and believes that startups are the key to solving the most challenging global problems.
Christian Schuhmacher brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare management, holding leadership roles in prominent healthcare institutions worldwide, including the University Hospital in Basel, Switzerland; Mediclinic in Switzerland and the Middle East; King’s College Hospital London in the UAE; and as Managing Director International for VAMED. As the founder of Swissglobal Advisory, Christian leverages his expertise to facilitate market entry for healthcare investors and support turnarounds for established providers. Christian currently serves in multiple Non-Executive Director roles across the GCC, Africa and Europe. His advisory focus is on operational and financial restructuring for healthcare investors, and he notably chairs the Emirates Hospital Group in the UAE. Prior to establishing Swissglobal Advisory, Christian served as Managing Director International for VAMED Management and Services, an Austrian-based healthcare company active in over 100 countries. His work involved launching new projects across the Middle East, Africa, and APAC regions. During his tenure, he spearheaded VAMED’s significant entry into the Saudi Arabian market, managing four management agreements, expanding operations in Kuwait, and finalizing long-term development projects in Bahrain, Djibouti, and Algeria. As CEO of King’s College Hospital Dubai, Christian led the creation of a landmark healthcare provider in Dubai, integrating King’s College London’s clinical expertise with Middle Eastern hospitality. His leadership was instrumental in attracting top-tier medical professionals and achieving ambitious growth targets. In his role as Hospital Director at Mediclinic City Hospital, Christian oversaw pivotal milestones, including affiliation with Mohamed Bin Rashid University, the UAE’s first private-sector organ transplant, and the establishment of a Comprehensive Cancer Center. In Switzerland, Christian led a major turnaround and growth initiative for Hirslanden, Mediclinic Switzerland, building on his early experience with the University Hospital in Basel. Christian holds a Master of Law (MLaw) from the University of Basel, an Executive MBA from the University of St. Gallen, and an MBA from the University of Toronto. Committed to continuous learning, he has completed further education in Strategic Marketing Management and Digital Healthcare Management from Harvard University.
Dr. Brent Gibson is a board-certified Occupational Medicine physician executive with nearly 25 years of experience in healthcare quality and safety. A nationally recognized expert in healthcare delivery for underserved populations and austere environments, he has served as a Chief Medical Officer in the U.S. Army, Clinical Director for the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Chief Health Officer at the National Commission on Correctional Health Care, and Chief Population Health Officer for a national correctional services corporation. A former elected Fellow of the American College of Preventive Medicine, Dr. Gibson specializes in occupational, environmental, and correctional medicine, with expertise in care for at-risk populations.
Nicole Sirotin, MD is an award-winning Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine physician and the CEO of the Institute for Healthier Living Abu Dhabi. She also serves as a Staff Physician and is the former Chair of Preventive Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. Dr. Sirotin served in faculty positions at Weill Cornell Medical College and Albert Einstein College of Medicine and is currently serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. With a career spanning over 18 years, she is an accomplished physician thought leader and international speaker in Precision Lifestyle Medicine with a passion for building innovative programs, leading an effective team, and spreading the scientific message on how central lifestyle choices are to our health and longevity.
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi is Senior Vice President at TECOM Group PJSC, a champion of business
excellence that has contributed to Dubai’s diversified economic growth since 1999. With more than
two decades of professional experience, Janahi oversees assets within the Group’s Science and
Education Clusters, including Dubai Science Park, Dubai Knowledge Park, and Dubai International
Academic City.
At Dubai Science Park, Janahi has been instrumental in establishing the district as the region’s premier
hub for scientific research and innovation. The ecosystem comprises 500+ globally renowned
companies, including healthcare leaders such as Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Bayer. He also oversees Dubai
Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City, part of TECOM Group's Education Cluster and
home to more than 33,500 students across globally renowned universities, institutions, and academies
including the University of Birmingham, S P Jain School of Global Management, and the Protocol
School of Washington.
An avid proponent of innovation and entrepreneurship, Janahi leverages synergies in the science and
education sectors to support sustainable economic development as envisioned by Dubai Economic
Agenda 'D33'. Janahi represents Emirates Investment Authority as board member for Aster GCC, and
his commitment to advancing Dubai's healthcare sector is evident in his role as Chair of the
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment Taskforce, where he collaborates with the Executive Council
to bolster R&D, infrastructure, and manufacturing capabilities.
His early career foundation encompasses commercial success at Davidoff and analytical expertise
honed at DUBAL, showcasing a diverse skillset applicable to driving strategic initiatives.
Janahi holds a BBA in Marketing from the University of Texas in Arlington and has expanded his
professional horizons through the INSEAD-UAE Consortium for Executive Development, the Cranfield
General Management, and the UAE Future Leaders programmes. His industry development-focused
positions include leadership roles at the UAE Pharma Business Group and the UAE Rare Disease
Society.
Vincenzo Ventricelli, Chief Executive Officer of Philips Middle East, Türkiye and Africa (META), started his tenure at Philips 25 years ago in Italy. Drawing from his deep multi-regional experience across the Personal Health (consumer) and Health Systems (health tech) business, Ventricelli helps to create solutions that make a meaningful difference to the healthcare community. Ventricelli is inspired by Philips’ goal of improving 2.5 billion lives per year by 2030, which drives him to continue to realize growth across META with fit for purpose teams and solutions that hold Philips’ customers and partners at its core. Vincenzo Ventricelli was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Philips Middle East and Türkiye in 2020, which was expanded to include Africa from January 2021, as lead for the full META region. As a passionate business leader, with a proven track record, Ventricelli focuses on realizing the region’s strategic objectives to drive growth for Philips META. He also plays an active role in helping the brand create meaningful solutions for its customers and partners, in support of Philips’ global ambition of improving 2.5 billion lives per year by 2030. Ventricelli joined Philips in Italy, 25 years ago, where he took on various sales and marketing responsibilities; each priming him for his role as Marketing Director for Central & Eastern Europe ten years later, from 2006. From here, Ventricelli focused his energy on the Philips Consumer Lifestyle business based out of Dubai. First as Marketing Director for Philips Consumer Lifestyle, Middle East & Africa (2008), which catapulted him into the sales department as Senior Sales Director for Philips Personal Health Middle East and Türkiye (2011), before he became Market Leader for Philips Personal Health for Middle East and Türkiye (2015). His role included driving Philips’ Personal Health Strategy, which saw increased brand preference in the region, which in turn secured double digit business growth. In 2018, Ventricelli was appointed as Health Systems Market Leader at Philips Middle East and Türkiye. In this role, he built a strong team and accelerated Philips’ Health Systems transformation into a solutions business. Ventricelli holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Bocconi University of Milan. He has three children, and lives in Dubai where he enjoys reading, or playing tennis and beach sports.
Arya H. Bolurfrushan is the Chief Executive Officer of Applied AI, the company behind Opus, an AI platform driving intelligent automation and operational transformation across sectors including healthcare. A seasoned entrepreneur and investor, Arya also serves as Chairman and CEO of Bolur Holdings and General Partner at Acorde Capital, where he leads investments spanning technology, finance, and international ventures. Earlier in his career, Arya helped guide PAC Petroleum’s listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange at just 29 and began his professional journey at Goldman Sachs in New York. With degrees from Carnegie Mellon University and Harvard Business School, Arya combines global market insight with a deep focus on responsible AI adoption. His work centers on harnessing smart technologies to enable more efficient, connected, and human-centered systems in industries that shape the future — from finance to healthcare.
Arindam leads PureLab as its first CEO, who set up the organization structure and led the integration of the legacy business of PureHealth in the Northern Emirates by acquiring the biggest lab asset in Abu Dhabi, to create the largest lab network in the region. The business model comprises managing labs in multi-specialty hospitals, clinics, and primary healthcare centres, and handling large-scale national healthcare screening programs. He has played a pivotal role in shaping and establishing the PureLab brand, positioning us as an “Always Dependable” partner and paving the way for the future of PureLab. He has about three decades of business expertise in a range of executive positions. Throughout his professional career, Arindam has led companies and expanded portfolios in a variety of business verticals. His extensive experience includes key leadership roles across various facets of business management. His background encompasses CEO at Thyrocare Technologies Limited and SRL Diagnostics, India’s largest chain of branded labs. In addition, he has also served as Chief Marketing Officer at Sterlite Technologies Limited. and other significant roles across industry verticals.
Kareem Shahin is the Chief Executive Officer of M42’s Digital Health Solutions platform, with Abu Dhabi Health Data Services at its core. He leads the company’s efforts to scale digital health technologies and AI-driven innovations, advancing healthcare transformation through public-private partnership projects with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, such as Malaffi, the region's first Health Information Exchange (HIE). Kareem is also spearheading the international expansion of ADHDS, with regional initiatives including the digital transformation of Jordan’s healthcare system.
An ardent believer of personalized and multi-OMICS approach with more than 20 years of experience in the field of molecular biology and genomics. Leading the formulation and execution of comprehensive biotechnological strategies and operational business plans that drive scientific advancement and organizational growth.
Her work emphasizes the importance of building local capabilities to reduce outsourcing, creating cost-efficient healthcare systems while improving access to cutting-edge technologies. Dr. Kobus has been at the forefront of awareness and preventive strategies, ensuring sustainable advancements in healthcare through optimized resource utilization and localized expertise
Previously worked at prestigious governmental institutions such as Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Germany, Human Genetic Department at Charite University Hospital in Germany, National Genetic Centre at Ministry of Health in Oman, where conducted big data analytics and bioinformatics, using Array CGH, Next Generation Sequencing technologies.
Dr. Sherif Fahmy is a distinguished academic leader, entrepreneur, and innovator with over three decades of impact across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and higher education. He serves as Professor of Pharmacy and Dean for Scientific Affairs at the University of Nottingham, a role he has held since 2010, where he has driven academic excellence, research leadership, and global partnerships. As an entrepreneur, Dr. Fahmy co-founded Biocity Limited, the United Kingdom’s largest science incubator valued at $37M, and launched AI Pharma Ltd in 2020, now valued at $23M, where he continues to advance the application of artificial intelligence in the pharmaceutical sector. He also serves as Chief Research & Development Innovation Officer at Pfizer, overseeing a $110M portfolio dedicated to novel therapies and breakthrough medicines. Since 2021, he has served as President of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), championing the UK’s global leadership in pharmaceutical innovation and the development of next-generation vaccines and treatments. Internationally recognized as a pioneer in AI-driven healthcare and pharma, Dr. Fahmy has founded three successful biotech companies in both the UK and the UAE, positioning him at the forefront of innovation, science, and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Nina Tandon is the CEO and co-founder of EpiBone, the world’s first company growing personalized bone and cartilage from stem cells. Under her leadership, EpiBone became the first and only company with FDA-cleared, stem-cell-based bone and cartilage implants for clinical use in humans. The company has successfully treated patients with engineered bone grafts and is now expanding internationally through Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, collaborating with regional partners to advance regenerative medicine and clinical development.
An MIT- and Columbia-trained bioengineer, McKinsey alumna, and Fulbright Scholar, Nina has been recognized by Forbes 40 Under 40, Crain’s 40 Under 40, and Inc. 100 Female Founders. She has spoken at TED, Davos, the Milken Institute, and the Ramadan Majlis in Abu Dhabi, and currently serves on the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine’s Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Committee.
Yosra Badr is the Managing Director of Seha Healthcare, a leading mid-income healthcare operator in Egypt and the region. She has over 15 years of experience in driving digital vision, strategy, and large-scale transformation across the healthcare industry. She is also the Co-Founder of Grinta, a pioneering healthtech startup transforming primary healthcare in East Africa. Yosra Badr holds a master’s degree in computer science from The American University in Cairo (AUC).
Margo Jordan, MBA, is a trailblazing social entrepreneur, U.S. Army veteran, and one of the few Black women in tech to raise over $2 million in venture capital. As the Founder and CEO of Enrichly—a digital health platform pioneering self-esteem-focused behavioral health, she is redefining how the world approaches youth mental wellness.
A native of Milwaukee and holding a BA in Finance and an MBA, Margo has built Enrichly into a globally recognized solution backed by Google, Microsoft, IBM, and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority. Her work has reached over 200,000 youth and adults worldwide, delivering data-driven, culturally responsive interventions that foster self-worth and resilience.
In 2025, she was selected to participate in a forthcoming docu-series set to air in 2026 on a major network, spotlighting groundbreaking female founders in technology, alongside award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien. She also presented her work to renowned researcher Brené Brown, highlighting the transformative impact of self-esteem on mental health and educational outcomes.
Her platform has earned recognition from prominent figures such as the CFO of ADNOC Drilling, in acknowledgment of Enrichly’s contributions to youth mental health across the MENA region. Margo was selected to present at HLTH USA the largest health innovation conference in the U.S. and won the Prime Health Innovation Challenge for offering a novel, tech-driven solution in pediatric behavioral health.
Dr. Amr Hassan, Advisor to the Minister of Health and Population for Population and Family Development Affairs has been active in the field of population, reproductive health and development for more than fifteen years. He shared in drawing national policies and setting strategies to improve the social and health effects of reproductive health and family planning programs and in controlling the rapid population growth of Egypt. He contributes with concrete efforts in the integration of maternal health and population issues in national development and planning. He gained his experience through his previous works as Rapporteur of the National Population Council and from his effort in media and he supervised and contributed to the joint efforts of community activists, authorities, development agencies in the area of RH & Gender–Based Violence. He has an extensive experience in planning, implementation & evaluation of multi disciplinary public health programs in developing countries in the fields of family planning, reproductive health, maternal & child health, health reform & family medicine & extensive experience in training Religious Leaders, Pharmacists on RH issues. He has demonstrated skills in training (both didactic & clinical), strategic and program planning as well as experience in development projects related to civil society support and institutional strengthening programs.
Dr. Hinda Daggag joined PureHealth in October as Executive Director of Longevity, where she leads the organization’s precision health strategy, integrating longevity science and genomics to empower individuals to live healthier, longer lives. Her role focuses on expanding the longevity vertical and embedding proactive, data-driven healthcare frameworks across the PureHealth ecosystem.
With over 13 years of experience in the UAE’s healthcare landscape, Dr. Daggag brings deep expertise in genomics, precision medicine, and population health. Her insights are instrumental in shaping how longevity can be translated into meaningful health outcomes for communities, aligning with PureHealth’s vision of reaching its “North Star.”
Dr. Mohammad (“Mo”) Khodadadi is a global AI leader and the Executive of AI at PureHealth, the world's largest intelligent integrated health ecosystem, headquartered in Abu Dhabi. He is responsible for architecting the group's AI vision and the AI-powered operating model for the world's largest integrated health ecosystem. That is to drive innovation across an ecosystem of 100,000 clinicians and 40 million patients, redefining what's possible in intelligent medicine. His career is defined by scaling complex AI systems, from the leadership team at Babylon Health during its rise to a £2B valuation, to founding the personalized nutrition and chronic condition management ventures. Mo excels at bridging deep science with enterprise strategy to drive transformative clinical and business outcomes.
Joy Allen, PhD, MT-BC is a clinician, researcher, and educator whose work sits at the intersection of music, neuroscience, and health innovation. A leading voice in psychological health, pain management, and trauma-informed care, she has presented at regional, national, and international music therapy and music-and-health conferences. Dr. Allen is the editor of Guidelines for Music Therapy: Adult Medical Care and author of seminal chapters on adult oncology, pain, trauma-informed care, and medical music therapy. As Chair of Music Therapy and Founding Director of the Music & Health Institute at Berklee College of Music, she is advancing a global vision for integrating evidence-based music interventions into healthcare. She oversees cutting-edge training programs, a world-class research repository, and Berklee’s Music & Health Innovation Studio, a unique translational space designed to incubate and accelerate music-informed, neuroscience-driven solutions to some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.
Kristal is an American board certified music therapist. She has over 13 years of experience working in the U.S.A., Qatar and Kuwait supporting families through their pediatric palliative, hospice and bereavement journeys. Kristal's experience working within multidisciplinary teams in a variety of healthcare settings has allowed her opportunities to understand the needs of families in a unique way. From supporting families through some of their most difficult moments to celebrating tremendous healing, her approach to supporting families continues to remain holistic, within a dynamic healthcare team, through innovative evidence-based practice. Kristal sees the importance and necessity in utilizing music as a therapeutic tool to build resilient communities and looks forward to seeing the standardization and incorporation of the music therapy profession throughout the region.
Ahmad Wasef Ibrahim Alahmad Chief Executive Officer, Future Health GCC Ahmad Alahmad is the Chief Executive Officer of Future Health GCC, a pioneering biotechnology company specializing in stem cell banking and regenerative medicine. Based in Dubai Healthcare City, Future Health GCC operates one of the region’s most advanced GMP-certified facilities, dedicated to stem cell processing, cryogenic storage, and next-generation cell and exosome therapies. Under Ahmad’s visionary leadership, the company has achieved multiple international accreditations, including ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 15189 (Medical Laboratories), and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice). Driven by a passion for innovation and scientific excellence, Ahmad is leading Future Health GCC’s mission to transform the landscape of regenerative and personalized medicine, advancing safe, ethical, and cutting-edge healthcare solutions across the GCC and beyond.
Dr. Laila Abdel Wareth, is a physician executive. She is currently the Chief Executive Officer,
Diagnostics, Global patient Care Platform, M42, Chief Executive Officer at the National Reference
Laboratory, previous Chair of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute at the Cleveland Clinic Abu
Dhabi, Adjunct Clinical Professor, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences at
Khalifa University. Dr Laila also holds a position also as the President of The Emirates Clinical
Chemistry Society under Emirates Medical Association in the UAE.
Prior to joining the National Reference Laboratory, Dr. Abdel Wareth served as Chief Medical Officer
of SEHA Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Services and Chair of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine Institute at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City.
She brings more than twenty-eight years of experience in healthcare, also including roles at British
Columbia Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Vancouver, Canada and Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi,
UAE.
Dr. Abdel Wareth earned her medical degree from Ain Shams University Cairo, Egypt and completed
her postgraduate training at the University of British Columbia, Canada, in the specialty of Medical
Biochemistry and Clinical Pathology.
She obtained Canadian and American Boards accreditation in Medical Biochemistry and Clinical
Pathology and is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in Canada, the College of
American Pathologists. In addition to her clinical degrees, Dr. Abdel Wareth has an Executive
Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Zayed University, UAE.
She is an active member in various scientific societies and has several publications to her credit in the
field of Laboratory Medicine.
Leya brings more than 20 years of expertise in sustainability, finance, and corporate strategy, with a proven track record of integrating sustainable practices into core business operations, maximising social value, minimising environmental impact, and also delivering value to stakeholders. As PureHealth Chief Sustainability Officer, Leya play a pivotal role in shaping and advancing PureHealth’s sustainability agenda, ensuring we remain at the forefront of inspiring a sustainable future for our society, and the planet.
Dr. Zain Al Yafei is leading Sakina with the firm belief that mental health care should be accessible, comprehensive, and empathetic. His extensive background in Leadership and genuine passion for excellence have been the driving force behind our organization’s rapid success. Dr. Zain brings over 18 years of healthcare experience in leading and supporting healthcare programs. In his previous role as Chief Medical Officer at Purelab, he was overseeing the medical operations and clinical systems across the laboratories to develop strategies to enhance service delivery and improve the scope of work. He was instrumental in evaluating and optimizing the care management approach, patient, and customer satisfaction, as well as developing processes to assure the appropriateness of lab services. Prior to his role at Purelab, Dr. Zain was the Director of Pharmacy and Allied Health at SEHA, overseeing all allied health services including psychology, social workers, occupational health therapists, and speech-language therapists. He also managed the standardization of care, workforce planning, training, and upskilling programs, and was a member of the DoH COVID-19 Silver task force. Dr. Zain’s previous experience includes his work at SKMC as Technical Director and Deputy Service Lead. Dr. Zain holds a certification from the American Board of Medical Laboratory Immunology, a PhD in Immunology from the University of Bristol, UK, a MSc in Immunology and Immunogenetics from the University of Manchester, UK, and a BSc from the University of Utah, USA.
Dr. Aseel Takshe is a higher education leader and environmental economist, currently serving as the Acting Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Psychology at Canadian University Dubai. She holds a PhD in Environmental Economics and Management from the University of York, England.
With years of experience spanning academia, research, and policy advisory, Dr. Takshe has been at the forefront of advancing education for sustainability and public health leadership. Her expertise bridges the intersection of environmental policy, health systems, and economic management — driving transformative change in how institutions integrate sustainability into teaching, research, and governance.
Alejandro Helbling brings over three decades of international leadership experience in luxury hospitality and guest experience to his role as Group Chief People Officer at PureHealth.
Prior to joining PureHealth, Alejandro served as Vice President of Group Services at Jumeirah Group in Dubai, where he oversaw the quality, innovation, and delivery of the Group’s global hospitality offering. His career has spanned senior roles across The Ritz-Carlton, Bulgari, Capella, and Park Hyatt in regions including Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Puerto Rico, Indonesia, Spain, and the UAE, where he led teams dedicated to crafting exceptional guest journeys, driving service excellence, and enhancing employee engagement.
At PureHealth, Alejandro is responsible for advancing the patient and guest experience across the Group’s healthcare network, developing world-class service standards, and ensuring a consistent, human-centered approach to care. He also leads the design and implementation of all aspects of the end-to-end guest and patient journey, aligning PureHealth’s vision of holistic well-being with its service culture.
An Argentine national, Alejandro holds a Bachelor’s degree from EHL Hospitality Business School (École Hôtelière de Lausanne) and has completed an Executive Development Programme at IMD Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland. Fluent in Spanish, French, and English, Alejandro combines strategic insight with a deep passion for people, culture, and exceptional service.
Neil Warma has been a successful healthcare entrepreneur for over 25 years having managed and advised numerous biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies across the globe. He is the president, CEO, and board director of Mongoose Bio, a company recently spun out of the MD Anderson Cancer Center, and he focuses on transforming the treatment of both rare and common cancers with its unique cellular therapy technology. Additionally, Neil is the CEO and Board Director of ProMIS Neurosciences (Nasdaq:PMN), a publicly traded, clinical-stage company developing novel treatments for multiple neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s Disease, ALS, and Parkinson’s, based on revolutionary technology targeting misfolded proteins. Neil currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), GenrAb Inc. and Ridgeline Therapeutics. Mr. Warma obtained an honors Bachelor of Science degree specializing in neuroscience from the University of Toronto and an International MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto.
An inspired celebration of authentic self-expression.
Creating collective beats and shared energy.
Sally Mousa, Senior Presenter / Producer Forbes Middle East
Blending voice and vibration into a journey of inner awakening.
A look into how Dubai is seamlessly integrating next-generation healthcare innovation with its world-class tourism ecosystem to redefine global wellness travel.
Understand from visionary leaders how smart hospitals are streamlining every step of the medical travel journey, offering real-time coordination, digital integration, and personalized care for international patients.
Conversation on UAE’S growing medical value travel, integrating new therapies with robotic precision and AI for elective care.
Discover how integrated data, coaching and care navigation turn health platforms into measurable ROI and better health services.
A forward-looking discussion on how leading organisations in the MENA region align access, outcomes, and exceptional patient experience to attract international patients and strengthen medical travel growth.
Session on how evidence-based nutrition, microbiome literacy, and simple routines such as meal design and food safety practices can support recovery and long-term wellbeing.
A deep dive into how professionals are tailoring diagnostics and treatments to individual needs, for skin and surgery, to get the best results.
Session on couples working together, wellbeing, right partner etc
A look into the simple routines in mindset, movement, and gratitude that keep a public life grounded and build lasting wellbeing.
A session on building confidence and handling external triggers.
An inspired celebration of authentic self-expression.
Explore how sports, wellness and new technology are driving healthier communities, boosting tourism, and attracting global investment.
Athlete’s voices on purposeful training, injury care, recovery and support systems to shape their journeys and results.
Discussing the intersection of premium healthcare, wellness, and hospitality – from executive lounges to concierge medicine and personalized healing environments.
Session on how new wellness products, platforms, and services reach end users and conquer markets.
Discussion on how innovators in biologics are bringing next-generation therapies to patients efficiently and at scale.
A chat on reset using laughter and positive affirmations
How evidence-based protocols support pain control, anxiety reduction, sleep, and faster recovery from pre-op to rehab.
A discussion on the advanced service models transforming how patients’ access, navigate, and benefit from international healthcare.
An open conversation about navigating setbacks, building inner strength, and staying grounded.
Learn how hospitals and assistance partners align to deliver safe, timely treatment for patients.
Access strategic insights on the latest trends in longevity, biohacking, and health-tech are redefining travel for treatment, recovery, and optimized living.
An actor’s insights on how to unwind the nervous system after heavy roles and focus on mental and physical recovery.
Explore how the integration of world-class medical care and premium service experiences is setting new standards and transforming the future of global medical tourism.
A discussion on how destinations design women-first ecosystems, so women and families receive specialized, stigma-free support from clinic to community.
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Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers the perfect escape. The five-star hotel has a decades-old history and is a shining example of Dubai’s commitment to fine hospitality and the beloved property stands out for its sweeping design that represents a breaking wave.
Janat Bahar Garden, located within the luxurious Jumeirah Beach Hotel and set along the pristine beachfront, offers a breathtaking setting beneath moonlit skies. The expansive garden provides an ideal backdrop for elegant dining and stylish gatherings, framed by the iconic Burj Al Arab. Surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sounds of the sea, it delivers a serene and unforgettable atmosphere.
The first property by the homegrown Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, Jumeirah Beach Hotel stands out for its sweeping design that represents a breaking wave.

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.
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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.