Manal AlBayat is an internationally experienced transformational leader and
strategist with over 25 years of experience in real estate, business
development, and investment promotion. She excels at scaling organizations
and driving commercial strategies to enhance revenue and market
positioning in complex, high-profile environments, driven by an innovation
mindset for sustainable growth and long-term value.
As Chief Operating Officer at Edamah, the real estate arm of Bahrain's
sovereign wealth fund, Manal drives the commercial and operational success
of the company's diverse real estate portfolio. Her broad oversight includes
leading strategic execution, enhancing market presence through dynamic
engagement and communications, and spearheading the organization's digital transformation.
Manal was a key architect of Expo 2020 Dubai’s success and is the first GCC national to hold a
comprehensive, end-to-end leadership role in a mega global event. Her involvement was pivotal at every
stage, from spearheading the initial feasibility study and securing Dubai’s winning bid to the strategic
planning and successful delivery of the first World Expo in the region.
Following the event, she served as Chief Commercial & Engagement Officer for Expo City Dubai, leading
strategic programmes to drive business growth and optimize the city’s assets. Previously, as Group CEO
of Falcon and Associates, she focused on enhancing Dubai's global positioning, delivering programmes to
attract investment and shape the national events and communication strategy.Manal serves on the board of directors for the Bahrain Development Bank and the University of
Wollongong in Dubai. She is a Doctorate candidate at SDA Bocconi in Italy, holds an MBA from DePaul
University, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University in Organizational Behavior
& Leadership.
Manal is a prominent speaker on panels across the globe on a wide range of topics, including fostering
innovation in key economic sectors, strategies for attracting global investment, and the future of urban
and master planning.
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