Dubai Past Speakers

Darryl Custer

Managing Director at KEO Design, UAE

Darryl has over 35 years of global design and management leadership experience and is a global expert in large planning projects and commercial urban mixed-use developments. As the Managing Director of the Design division, Darryl is responsible for bringing excellence to KEO and the Design division and all its associated disciplines, from early concept designs to final construction documents. He is also a member of KEO’s Executive Leadership Management Board. A talented designer with strong communication skills, Darryl is focused on supporting his client’s goals and overall community benefit. Before joining KEO, he spent 18 years with a global architecture, planning, and design practice, where his focus was primarily project management and design studio leadership with an emphasis on client and team development through the entire design process. Today, Darryl thinks of himself as a teacher, working with his teams to create designs that push boundaries, and projects that address issues of sustainability, using architecture to create community-driven, smart, urban mixed-use environments for today, and tomorrow. Currently based in the UAE, Darryl’s experience is truly global, spanning China and Southeast Asia, the US, the GCC, and North Africa. Darryl holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the US. He is a licensed architect and member of the American Institute of Architects, NCARB certified and is also a LEED Green Associate Member.

Mindaugas Skardžius

CEO at Doleta Windows, Dubai

Mr. Mindaugas Skardžius is the CEO of Doleta, a European manufacturer of high-end bespoke wooden, wood-aluminium and aluminium window, door and facade systems. He leads the company’s strategic development and international growth, working in close collaboration with a curated global network of leading architects, developers and construction partners. Doleta’s portfolio features exceptional, design-led projects in New York, Japan, Australia and across Europe, where architectural expression, advanced window profiles and sustainability are essential to creating long-term real estate value. Mr. Mindaugas is focused on shaping future-ready window solutions that unite architectural precision, performance and sustainability.

Cristina Savian

CEO and Founder at BE-WISE, Dubai

Cristina Savian is the managing director of BE-WISE, an international consultancy based in Dubai that specialises in digital transformation and digital twins for the built environment. She is a recognised thought leader in construction technology, regularly chairing prominent industry events, serving as an independent judge for international awards, and lecturing at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Cristina is an experienced panelist and event chair and contributes thought leadership on industry trends to several industry publications.

Casey D Rutland

Chief Data & Digital Officer at PropertyCortex, Dubai

Casey is a global digital transformation leader in the built environment. As Chief Data & Digital Officer at Property Cortex, he helps organisations embrace innovation, smart data, and open standards to drive better outcomes.

An architect by background and digital strategist by nature, Casey contributed to ISO 19650 and co-authored the CDBB Digital Twin Business Toolkit. As Chair of buildingSMART UK & Ireland, he advocates for digital twins, open data, and interoperable tech.

Known for bold insights and real-world relevance, Casey speaks worldwide, from the GCC to the US, on sustainability, digital futures, and doing things better through data. His keynotes cut through hype and spark action across industries.

Khaled Galal Ahmed

Professor at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), UAE

Prof. Dr. Khaled Galal Ahmed is Professor and Coordinator of Architectural Engineering Master’s and PhD Programs at the Architectural Engineering Department. Prof. Khaled got his PhD from the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University, UK. He worked as an architect and urban designer in Egypt and the Arabian Gulf region for several years. His research interests are in the fields of Sustainable and Resilient Urbanism, Urban Modeling Simulation, and Urban Morphology Analysis. He published his research in international journals, conference proceedings, edited books, and book chapters. Prof. Khaled teaches undergraduate and graduate courses related to architectural and urban design. He has supervised several Master theses and PhD Dissertations. Prof. Khaled has also several articles and interviews in local and regional media, including National Geographic Arabia, Al Fujairah TV, Al Bayan newspaper, etc. He has been honored for his contributions by the Minister of Happiness and Wellbeing, Abu Dhabi Municipality, Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, Al Ain Municipality, Fujairah Municipality, Directorate of Planning and Survey in Sharjah, etc. Prof. Khaled won the UAEU Chancellor’s Innovation Award in Education in the 2020-2021 Academic Year. He also won the College of Engineering Excellence Award in Services in the 2020-2021 Academic Year. In the 2022-2023 Academic Year, he won both the UAE University Excellence Award and the College of Engineering Excellence Award in Teaching. Prof. Khaled and his team of UAEU students won the Sharjah Sustainability Award twice in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 Cycles.

Gisela Steiger

Founder & Creative Director at Autentico Architectural & Engineering Lighting Design, Spain

Founder and Director of Autentico Architectural & Engineering Lighting Design, an Independent International Lighting Firm based in Spain, Saudi Arabia and Singapore. With a team of over 12 architects and engineers specialized in lighting design, control system engineering, and collaborative BIM work systems, she has been in the lighting field for over 15 years and has completed around 150 large-scale projects. She lives between Barcelona and Dubai, combining his role as CEO of Autentico Architectural & Engineering Lighting Design with teaching at renowned universities Master's Degrees, as well as regularly publishing and speaking at major industry media and events. Collegiate Superior Architect and Certified Lighting Designer with a Master's Degree in Architectural Lighting from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC Tech School).

Alaa Basamh

Business Development Manager

Alaa has been leading the Business Development of Group AMANA’s Manufacture division by DuBox & DuPod for 10 years since it’s launch in United Arab Emirates and currently the expansion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Mr. Basamh holds a Bachelor Honorary degree in Civil & Structural Engineering – University of Bradford (2010) and a Master of Science degree in Construction Project Management – Loughborough University (2011), UK. Bringing to the group vast knowledge and experience in Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) & Lean Construction. His contribution to the growth of DuBox & DuPod in the region has been vastly recognized in executing prestigious projects in the UAE & KSA that led to the group winning multiple awards in off -site Construction and Construction Innovation.

Marwan Houry

Principal, Vice President of Strategy, Head of Business Development, Board of Directors at AE7, Dubai (UAE)

Marwan Houry - AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, is a Principal, Vice President of Strategy, Head of Business Development, Board of Directors at AE7, responsible for setting the company’s Strategy and heading Business Development team. He is an energetic and proactive leader certified to Facilitate, Speak, Coach and Train professionals to help them become successful leaders. Marwan is an experienced and well-rounded US licensed and registered Architect with over 25 years in the fields of Leadership, Buildings and Architecture. His experience spans the fields of Leadership and Management, Business Operations, Business Development, Project Management, Architectural Design, Technical Project Development, Construction Administration and Closeout Procedures. Marwan’s experience includes working on projects in multiple building sectors like Healthcare, Higher Education, k-12 Schools, Science & Technology, Libraries, Commercial, Industrial, Multifamily Residential and Civic Buildings with international companies both in the US and Mena region. Marwan is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member licensed to Coach, Speak, Train and Facilitate on approved personal and professional development Maxwell Leadership content. Marwan has been regularly invited to speak and be the host or chairperson of the day, train and coach on Leadership, Growth, Development and career paths at schools, universities, leadership events, conferences, seminars, coaching events and nonprofit organizations events both in the US and in the Middle East. Marwan is a leader that develops other leaders to grow their organizations by raising their leadership potential, and empowering others to grow into leaders in their own right.

Jeronimo van Schendel

Director, Master in Business for Architecture and Design and Circular Cities' Board Member at IE University. Co-founder of Estudio Península

Jeronimo van Schendel is an architect, entrepreneur, and educator shaping the future of the built environment. A Harvard GSD graduate with honors (2016), he directs the Master in Business for Architecture and Design at IE University, where he has mentored hundreds of teams worldwide. His career spans architectural practice, tech startup founding, and strategic consultancy, blending technical expertise, creative vision, and entrepreneurial acumen to drive transformative change at the intersection of design, business, and technology.

Azmi S. Aboulhoda

CEO at EMergy, Dubai

Azmi S. Aboulhoda leads EMergy Consultancy; a privately held corporation specialized in the built environment field with focus on energy and sustainability, measurement and verification of energy optimization projects, enhancing and troubleshooting building performance, design of special solutions in the built environment industry, outdoor comfort design and modeling, commissioning process, and environmental services. In addition, Azmi is an Adjunct Professor in the Architectural Engineering School at Heriot-Watt University Dubai. He is also an active member of ASHRAE and several other local and international organizations, with more than 25 years' experience in the built environment field in international and multinational companies. Azmi holds a Bachelor's Degree of Mechanical Engineering (1998) and a Graduate Professional Degree in Green Technologies (2017) both from the American University of Beirut. He is certified by the Association of Energy Engineers as Energy Manager (CEM), Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP), and Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP). He is also certified by ASHRAE as Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP), HVAC Designer (CHD), and Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP).

Benoit Meulewaeter

Director at Accuracy, Dubai, UAE

Benoit is a Civil Engineer from Belgium, Member of Society of Engineers in the UAE and active ASTM and PIANC Workgroup Member. He has 19 years of design and construction industry experience. Benoit’s portfolio in the Middle East, Europe and Africa includes Oil and Gas Marine Developments, Harbours, signature high-rise residentials, office and hotel towers, mixed-use developments, Industrial Buildings and Renewable Energies developments as well as 3D concrete Printing projects. Benoit was leading until September 2024 the Engineering Department at BESIX Middle East and is a Co-Founder of BESIX3D. Benoit believes that engineering is key to any projects’ success and a key to support the Construction Market adoption of the Industry 4.0 including 3D Printing with noble targets such as safety, efficiency, economy and sustainability. Benoit recently joined Accuracy as a Director.

Elena Boheme

Director of Development and Advisory Services at Coldwell Banker, Riyadh

Elena Boheme is a project strategist specializing in complex real estate, hospitality and localization ventures across Saudi Arabia. With a foundation in design and a career spanning from interior execution to large-scale project delivery, Elena bridges vision and execution—helping developers, investors, and public-sector stakeholders bring bold ideas to life.

As Director of Development and Advisory Services in Coldwell Banker Saudi Arabia, she spearheads cross-sector growth strategies, aligning multidisciplinary teams around a unified project lifecycle—from early feasibility to final delivery. Elena is also a passionate advocate for localization, women’s leadership, and purposeful project structuring aligned with global sustainability and impact goals.

Elena’s mission is to shape spaces—and systems—that empower people and possibilities.

Isabella Bhoan

Global Head of Landscape at WW+P, UK

Isabella Bhoan is a chartered landscape architect and the Global Head of Landscape at WW+P, London. Her work operates at the intersection of ecology, technology, and social equity—reimagining landscape architecture as a tool for environmental justice and urban rewilding. With a global portfolio spanning diverse climate zones and urban conditions, Isabella brings a systems-based approach to sustainable design that is both data-driven and deeply contextual. She is the co-developer of Landscape Information Modelling (LIM), a digitally enabled planning tool that quantifies ecological benefits and integrates them into digital design workflows. Developed in collaboration with in-house BIM teams, LIM enables more responsive, regenerative, and inclusive landscape strategies, particularly in resource-constrained or ecologically sensitive contexts. Isabella’s practice foregrounds collaborative, nature-positive futures—advocating for technological innovation that enhances biodiversity, supports public health, and empowers communities through landscape-led development..

Antonio Moll

Director at Moll Architects, London UK

Antonio studied in Valencia and Barcelona before moving to London in 2010. Since then he has been involved on high profile projects across Europe, Middle East and the United States comprising airports, headquarters, commercial buildings, high end residential developments and laboratories. His texts have been published in international magazines, he has been a guest lecturer in European universities such as Zaragoza and Barcelona and is a course tutor at the Architectural Association in London.

Samit Sheth

EMEA Director & AI Adoption Lead at JLL, Dubai

Samit Sheth is a visionary in the future of real estate and the built environment, specializing in the integration of technology to enhance tenant and resident experiences. With a background in high-profile mixed-use developments, hospitality, residential, and corporate real estate, he focuses on leveraging digital innovation to redefine how people interact with their living and working environments.

Tarika Jain

Co-Founder and Head of Business at nCircle Tech, London

Tarika Jain is the Co-Founder and Head of Business at nCircle Tech, a global leader in AEC technology serving 200+ clients. Honored as "Business Woman of the Year 2023" by The CEO Magazine - India, she champions digital transformation and innovation. As UK Chapter Lead for Women in Construction Tech, she fosters a global community of women innovators. A dynamic speaker at platforms like Autodesk University and DCW, Tarika advocates for tech adoption in AEC. Her strategic vision, problem-solving skills, and passion for travel enrich nCircle Tech’s global impact and culture.

Mahdi Hosseinkhaniha

Founder at Ario Arteh, Dubai

Mahdi Hosseinkhaniha is the founder and design director of Ario Arteh, a Dubai-based architectural firm with over 13 years of experience and a diverse portfolio across residential, commercial, hospitality, and mixed-use sectors. While Ario Arteh covers a wide range of project types, Mahdi personally specializes in luxury villa design and working closely with premium clients. He created Magic Tour, an AI-powered visualization tool that allows clients to experience their homes before construction. His deep focus on integrating technology into architecture has led many to mistakenly assume the company is called “Ario Artech” instead of “Ario Arteh.”

George Zakhary

Head of MEP BIM at Innovo Group, UAE

George is a seasoned leader and expert in Building Information Modeling (BIM), with focus on (MEP) systems. With a proven track record as the Head of MEP BIM at Innovo Group, George orchestrates innovative solutions that optimize project efficiency and quality. His comprehensive understanding of BIM technologies and methodologies with strong technical background has enabled him to successfully lead diverse teams and deliver exceptional results on multiple iconic complex projects. In recognition of his leadership, George was awarded the 2023 Team of the Year across the whole Middle East, cementing his reputation as a dynamic and influential figure in the industry. Additionally, George has received multiple recognitions from various clients, underscoring his commitment to excellence and his ability to deliver outstanding outcomes

Ihab Dabouh

Board Member at ICH ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY, Dubai

Dr. Ihab Dabouh is an accomplished architect, academic, and CEO with over 20 years of experience in sustainable architecture, engineering consultancy, and development management. Dr.Dabouh serves as CEO of Concreative Consultancy and Board Member of ICH Engineering Consultancy, leading award-winning projects across the MENA region. Dr. Dabouh holds a PhD in Architecture Technology with a focus on sustainability and nanotechnology for heritage conservation. As a Professor of Architecture at the French University in Egypt, he integrates advanced technologies and environmental strategies into architectural education and practice. He is a certified consultant in architecture and real estate appraisal and has led numerous initiatives focused on smart building systems, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsive design. His work bridges academic research with real-world innovation, promoting future-ready, intelligent, and sustainable urban development.

Amy Elshafei

Founder, Executive Director at Amy Elshafei + Associates, UK

Amy is a distinguished professional with a BSc in Architecture Engineering and a MSc in Adaptive Architecture and Computation from University College London. Her illustrious career trajectory includes a pivotal role at the renowned Foster + Partners, where she honed her skills and contributed to a multitude of groundbreaking projects. Amy leveraged her wealth of experience and visionary leadership to establish Amy Elshafei + Associates, a distinguished architectural practice formed alongside a group of her esteemed former colleagues. Throughout her career, Amy has made contributed to a diverse range of projects, encompassing masterplans, schools, towers, office buildings, residential complexes, metro stations, museums, stadiums, hotels, and hospitals.

Paul Kelly

Managing Director at C-Quest International, Dubai

Paul Kelly is Managing Director of C-Quest, leading the firm's regional growth and strategic positioning in cost consultancy while serving on KEO's Executive Leadership Membership Board. A Chartered Quantity Surveyor with over 20 years in the Middle East and US, Paul has shaped landmark projects across hospitality, residential, high-rise, aviation, and infrastructure sectors. His previous roles at Turner & Townsend and Currie & Brown established a strong commercial foundation, complemented by his long-standing role as an APC Chair and Assessor for the RICS. Paul is known for driving cost certainty, commercial integrity, and cross-sector value for blue chip clients.

Youssef Khattar

Ceo at Coldwell Banker Saudi Arabia, Riyadh

Youssef Khattar is a seasoned real estate executive with over 18 years of leadership experience across Saudi Arabia and the UAE. As CEO of Coldwell Banker Saudi Arabia, he drives the firm’s strategic direction in real estate consulting and capital markets, focusing on high-impact development projects. His expertise spans master-planned communities, mixed-use, residential, commercial, and hospitality assets. Previously, Youssef was Development Director at Samama Holding, leading major projects from concept to execution. He also served as a Board Member of Hertfordshire London College, supporting cross-border academic initiatives. Youssef holds a Postgraduate Diploma in International Business Management from the University of Cumbria and a BA in Public Administration and Political Science from the Lebanese University. He has completed certifications from MIT, Cornell, PMI, and the World Bank in real estate finance, development, and sustainability. Recognized for his strategic foresight and dynamic leadership, Youssef plays a key role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector in alignment with Vision 2030.

Carlos Pueyo

Innovation Director at ADORAS Atelier Arquitectura, Spain

Carlos Pueyo is an architect and International Development & Innovation Director at ADORAS Atelier Arquitectura, a multidisciplinary architecture and consultancy firm based in Spain, working on large-scale residential and mixed-use projects.His professional background combines architectural design, construction technology, and innovation management, with a strong focus on 2D offsite panelized systems, Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), and scalable industrialized housing solutions.Carlos has led multiple R&D initiatives and pilot projects related to industrialized housing, offsite panelization, and 3D concrete printing, and regularly participates in international forums and expert panels discussing the transition from traditional to industrialized construction systems.

Nidhi Aggarwal

Associate Director-Design at Mace, Dubai

Nidhi Aggarwal is an Urban Designer and planning leader with nearly two decades of experience across the Middle East and Asia. She specializes in master planning, urban regeneration, and large-scale mixed-use and industrial developments, with a strong focus on creating balanced, future-ready environments for living, working, mobility, and recreation. Nidhi currently serves as Associate Design Director at Mace, where she leads comprehensive planning and concept development for major estates and complex urban projects. Her career spans senior roles at AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs, CallisonRTKL, and AECOM, where she has successfully led multidisciplinary teams, managed diverse stakeholders, and delivered high-impact projects from vision through execution. She holds a Master’s degree in Project Management from the University of Greenwich and remains deeply engaged with forward-looking themes such as smart cities, sustainability, and human-centric urbanism. Strategic and results-driven, Nidhi is known for translating complex challenges into integrated, buildable solutions that shape resilient and thriving communities.

Nitin Gupta

Founder & CEO at Vavetek AI, India

Nitin Gupta is the Founder and CEO of Vavetek AI, a B2B SaaS company dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. A seasoned architect, building technologist, and cost optimization specialist with over three decades of experience leading architectural innovation across Asia, Nitin has designed more than 100 high-rise towers (up to 70 floors), as well as mega hotels and commercial developments. Through intensive value engineering and cost optimization strategies, he has saved hundreds of millions of dollars for clients worldwide. Nitin holds two technology patents developed in collaboration with Professor Anjana Gupta, a renowned Mathematics and AI scientist. He is fully focused on harnessing AI to revolutionize the AEC sector, driving cost efficiency, sustainability, and innovation through Vavetek AI's cutting-edge solutions.

Okan Kizilirmak

Regional Director at Aksa Power Generation, Dubai

After graduation from Mechanical Engineering degree at Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, he had continued his education in Texas A&M, USA. (1998 -2004 ) He served to Turkish Armed Forces as Engineer Officer at N.A.T.O Infrastructure Department during mandatory military service ( 2005) He is Regional Director and Board Member of Aksa Power Generation & Managing Middle East and Africa Operations /Investments since 2018. In addition, he had various top management duties in China, U.S.A., and Istanbul (HQ ) within Global Organisation of Aksa during last 20 years. Dubai Ambassador of D.T.I.K ( World Turkish Business Council ) which is under patronage of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkiye since 2024 Board Member at Turkish Business Council, Dubai under Dubai Chamber of Commerce since 2023 Joint Founder of Yildiz Technical University Gulf Alumni Organization , 2023 Board Member at Turkiye- U.A.E. Business Council of DEIK (Foreign Economic Relations Board of Turkiye ) which is under patronage of Ministry of Trade , Turkiye. (2022-2024) Board Member of Energy Business Council of U.A.E. which was built by Multinational Task Force with leadership of American Chamber of Commerce , 2021 He is also providing consultancy to Aarhus University (Denmark) and Basel University (Switzerland) for their scientific studies about international trade dynamics of Africa and Far East as volunteer basis since 2017.

Kulvinder Singh

Group Chief Asset Management Officer at Adeeb Group

Kulvinder Singh has over 20 years of experience in asset management, developing and managing diverse multi-class asset portfolios in leadership capacities in the private and public sector, spanning higher education, luxury hospitality and residential, high-end retail, leisure and commercial. Kulvinder has managed assets of significant value adopting a whole-life value approach from inception of planning to design development, project management, construction, transition management to operations, service design, facilities management, sustainable asset renewal and disposal. He is regarded as a trusted C-suite advisor and seasoned operator in executing vision, shaping policy and strategy, leading complex transformational projects, and deploying bespoke operating models and value-chain frameworks. Presently, serving as co-founder and Executive Director at W&S Co LLC an asset management advisory firm, and prior to this, Kulvinder served as Group Advisor and Asset Management Officer at Adeeb Group, a facilities and asset management service organisation in the UAE. Kulvinder has held senior asset management roles at New York University Abu Dhabi and Tamkeen Abu Dhabi LLC, a subsidiary of the Executive Affairs Authority of Abu Dhabi. Kulvinder has been admitted to the Register of Asset Management Professionals and recognised as top 50 Real Estate professional by REM Times 2023. As a Certified Member of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), a Committee Member of the UAE Chapter of IWFM and Member of the Institute of Asset Management, Kulvinder actively contributes to the professional community. His academic accomplishments include a Masters in Sustainability Leadership from University of Cambridge, a Masters in Facility Management from Heriot Watt University, a Diploma in Asset Management, as well as LEED and NEBOSH qualifications.

Yasmine Gardiner

Chief Executive Officer at ClearSet.AI

Yasmine Gardiner is a 2X tech founder and CEO of ClearSet.AI and DataScrubber.AI. DataScrubber.AI is backed by global hubs such as NVIDIA Inception, Google for Startups Cloud, KiwiTech, and the Idea Village: IDEAinstitute. With over six years of experience in data science and AI, as a senior data scientist, cloud data specialist, and lead data engineer for Accenture, USSOCOM, NTT Data, and startups. She is currently the Director of Data Science at Electus Global Education. Yasmine serves on the board of two nonprofits: Oasis Opportunities and Inside Reach Ministries. She has received accolades and recognitions such as the 2025 Caribbean Excellence Award nominee, 2023 & 2024 40 Under 40 honoree by the Tampa Club, Startup of the Year nomination, and features in Tampa Bay Inno, 10 Tampa Bay, and Voyage Tampa. She has been featured in the Tampa Bay Connects first issue magazine as the “Rising Star in Tech” innovation impact recognition.

Patrick E. Murphy

Founder & CEO at Togal.AI, US

Former Congressman Patrick Erin Murphy serves as CEO and Founder of Togal.AI, overseeing the company’s day to day operations. Additionally, he currently serves an Chief Innovation Officer of Coastal Construction, the largest General Contractor in Florida. Patrick was appointed to serve on the President’s Export Council in 2023 under President Joe Biden, where he advises the president on strategies to promote American exports and support job creation through trade. Patrick is proud to be the only appointee from the construction industry. Having been raised in the business, Patrick first started in the construction industry as a laborer, then project engineer, estimating assistant and accounting manager. After graduating from the University of Miami, Patrick worked at Deloitte where he earned his CPA license that he maintains today. Patrick served in U.S. Congress, representing Palm Beach and Treasure Coast in the House of Representatives for four years (2013-2017) and was the nominee for the U.S. Senate in 2016. After leaving office in 2017, he was named chair of the Future Forum Foundation, a nonprofit organization that researches key issues impacting millennials, such as automation, artificial intelligence and the sharing economy. Patrick proudly serves as a board member of the Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, a homeless shelter for children. Under Patrick’s leadership, Togal.AI won first place at the 2022 eMerge Americas Global Startup Showcase and the Big 5’s 2022 Startup City Global Pitch Competition. Togal.AI was named 2023 Associated General Contractors National Innovation of the Year.

Dr. Issam Ezzeddine

Managing Director/ Founder at IEA Architecture & Design Services, Dubai

lssam is a Dubai based Canadian architect & urban planner with more than 40 years of diverse experience in the Middle East and GCC region (Kuwait, UAE, Qatar). lssam is a prominent figure in architecture and has been an active lead in the design of many prestigious landmark buildings in Dubai. lssam has been the Project Director/ Principal Design Architect with top ranked Consultancy Firms in UAE since 1991. During his employment journey, Issam has achieved several flagship architectural projects, and this gives him varied experience across project control & leadership. His architectural design direction, touches & themes show across his award-winning project portfolio. lssam has been ranked no. 40 in "Power 100 most influential Architects in the Middle East".

Mostafa Saber

Design Manager at Studio 360, Dubai, UAE

Mostafa Saber is a Project Manager – Design at Studio 360, the design arm of Azizi Developments, with over 20 years of experience in architecture, BIM implementation, and multidisciplinary design management across the GCC. He leads complex residential and mixed-use projects, ensuring coordination, quality, and compliance from concept to delivery. A PMP-certified professional and BSI-accredited BIM Practitioner, Mostafa promotes a process-driven approach to design that reflects Studio 360’s and Azizi’s vision of efficiency, integration, and innovation. His approach, “System Over Stunt,” underscores structured design management as the foundation for smarter and more effective project delivery.

Benjamin Sjölander

Standardisation Manager at ETIM International, Sweden

Benjamin is a recognised authority and driving force in the global standardisation of technical product data, and the critical importance that structured product data has in unlocking AI, digital twins, and genuine digital transformation across the built environment. A construction engineer by education, with over 15 years of hands-on experience spanning BIM engineering, product data specialisation, technical sales and now international standards leadership. Benjamin delivers a unique combination of practical experiences across the entire supply chain, from manufacturers and software vendors to contractors and facility owners. He is a global speaker that delivers clear insights on product data quality, open standards, and AI in construction. Recent stages include the buildingSMART International Summit in Singapore, ETIM Valencia Forum, national events in Norway and Sweden, and invited talks for external organisations in various countries. Benjamin thrives in making complexity simple, and to show how essential standardised product data, both has and will, become as the non-negotiable foundation for smarter buildings, faster projects and sustainable outcomes.

Rowan Elselmy

Lecturer in Architecture at De Montfort University Dubai, UAE

Rowan Elselmy is an award winning Architect and a Lecturer in Architecture at De Montfort University Dubai, specializing in computational design, AI-augmented workflows, and advanced 3D printing systems. Alongside her academic role, she has extensive industry experience leading AI-integrated design strategies, mass-customization workflows, and robotic fabrication for large-scale architectural and product design projects. Rowan’s work focuses on bridging AI, parametric modeling, and material innovation, with previous roles involving the development of automated systems for 3D concrete printing and digital fabrication. Her current research explores AI-driven cymatic architecture, sound-data transformations, and multi-objective optimization for 3D-printed façade systems.

Paul Paterson

CEO & Founder at Elevation Carbon, Abu Dhabi

Paul Paterson is the founder of Elevation Carbon, a performance-led advisory helping developers and design teams make sustainability decisions that actually work, on site, in operation, and over time. His work focuses on cutting through compliance-led thinking and replacing it with clear targets, verified outcomes, and accountability from day one. Paul works with some of the Middle East’s most ambitious clients on complex, high-stakes projects, where energy, carbon, and cost decisions need to hold up in the real world, not just on paper. Outside the boardroom, Paul is an ultra-endurance athlete with multiple 100-mile races completed. That mindset shapes how he leads: disciplined, systems-focused, and comfortable operating under pressure. Whether in business or sport, his focus is the same - building things that last and deliver when it matters.

Danilo Petta

Founding Partner & Chief Design Officer at Mask Architects, Italy

Danilo Petta is an internationally recognized Italian luxury industrial designer, architect, and inventor, and the Founding Partner and Chief Designer of MASK Architects. He is widely known in the high-end watchmaking world for creating complex mechanical systems and signature products for leading global maisons, including iconic pieces such as Bvlgari’s Serpenti and Jacob & Co.’s Astronomia Sky. In recognition of his multidisciplinary influence, he has been honored among the prestigious Europe 40 Under 40® emerging design leaders. As a founding partner of MASK Architects, Danilo co-leads one of Europe’s most innovative multidisciplinary practices, where architecture, industrial design, and advanced technology converge under a unified creative and strategic vision. Guided jointly with his partner, Öznur Pınar Çer, by the mission Invent. Integrate. Innovate., he contributes through his expertise in high-end watchmaking, mechanical and movement design, precision engineering, invention, and luxury industrial design, enhancing the development of intelligent, adaptive, and technology-driven systems that address global challenges and environmental transformations. With internationally published work in more than 25 languages, Danilo is recognized as a leading figure shaping the future of design, engineering, and architecture alongside his partner.

Oznur Pinar Cer

Founder, Founding Partner & Chief Architect at MASK Architects, Italy

Öznur Pınar Çer, RIBA, is an internationally recognized architect, inventor, and strategist, and the Co-Founder and Chief Architect of MASK Architects. Honored among the prestigious Europe 40 Under 40®, she is acknowledged as one of the most promising emerging architectural leaders in Europe. As an equal founding partner, she co-leads one of Europe’s most innovative multidisciplinary practices, where architecture, industrial design, and advanced technology converge under a unified creative and strategic vision, redefining architecture as a technology-driven, living-organism system. Her expertise spans architectural design at both micro and macro scales, the integration of advanced technologies, the invention of new systems, and the transformation of architecture into living-organism environments. She strengthens MASK Architects’ multidisciplinary identity by merging conceptual design thinking, technological innovation, and future-oriented problem-solving strategies. Guided jointly with her partner, Danilo Petta, by the mission Invent. Integrate. Innovate., Öznur contributes to developing intelligent, adaptive, and regenerative systems that address global crises, climate pressures, world-scale challenges, and local environmental issues. With innovations published internationally in more than 25 languages, she is recognized as a leading figure shaping the future of architecture, design, and technology alongside her partner.

Sarah Jaber

Associate Director of Sustainability at Trivandi, Dubai

Sarah Jaber is the Associate Director of Sustainabilty at Trivandi, leading their sustainability offering in the MENA region. She brings over 14 years of experience working on sustainable strategies, design and delivery with expertise in energy, water, carbon, circular economy, climate resilience, and social impact. Her key clients include major developers in the region such as Dubai Holding, Diriyah Company, Seven Entertainment Ventures and others. With a strong background in the built environment sector, Sarah has successfully lead the sustainability strategies and certifications of landmark projects in the region including Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre in Riyadh, Natural History Museum in Abu Dhabi, Diriyah masterplan and many others.

Shawn Lamrock

Dubai

Shawn Lamrock is a digital delivery and transformation leader based in Dubai, focused on improving how complex infrastructure and built-environment projects are planned, coordinated, and delivered through integrated delivery systems, information-led coordination, and leadership-grade project intelligence. With a background in construction management and architecture, enhanced by an Executive MBA, Shawn brings a uniquely holistic industry lens that integrates technical expertise, business strategy, and AI-driven transformation across large, multidisciplinary project environments. He specializes in modernizing project delivery through automation and high-integrity data workflows that elevate both design outcomes and operational performance. Shawn advises organizations on building future-ready digital ecosystems that strengthen decision-making, improve business outcomes, and accelerate delivery at scale. Passionate about industry evolution, he champions responsible AI adoption to help organizations position themselves competitively in Dubai’s rapidly advancing infrastructure and construction landscape.

Dr Saed Hasan

Founder & Director at SIDC Solutions Ltd, UK

Dr Saed Hasan is a UK-based digital construction leader with extensive experience across Dubai, the wider GCC, and the UK construction markets. He has led BIM and Digital Twin implementation on landmark mega-projects in the UAE and internationally, supporting contractors and developers in transitioning to data-driven, digitally enabled delivery models. He has directed enterprise-wide digital transformation programmes on projects exceeding $3.9B in value, delivering measurable gains in productivity, cost control, and schedule reliability. Dr Hasan brings a unique perspective that bridges Middle Eastern mega-project delivery with UK best practice in BIM governance, ISO 19650, and lifecycle asset management. He specializes in real-time construction planning, Digital Twin integration, and AI-enabled analytics to improve predictability, sustainability, and commercial performance. As Founder and Director of SIDC Solutions Ltd (UK), he works closely with industry leaders, academic institutions, and training organizations to accelerate digital adoption across both Dubai and London markets.

Andy Shaw

Managing Partner at AMA,Dubai

Andy Shaw RIBA is an architect based in Dubai. Andy is passionate about how combining innovative technology such as AI and sustainable design can improve the built environment for all citizens. He is the Managing Partner at AMA (www.ama.design). AMA is a boutique design studio, designers of the landmark ‘Yacht Club’ in Dubai Harbour, the Nobu Hotel and Residences in Abu Dhabi, and over 2000 homes for the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority. He is currently working on new hotel resorts and housing communities in KSA, UAE and the broader Middle East. He is the Chair of the RIBA Gulf Chapter since being elected in 2019, helping to grow the design community and create events including the regionally focused Sustainability Series, and led the team delivering the Sustainability - Past, Present and Future exhibition in London and Dubai during COP28. He has been using AI technology to further the design process in the studio, and has his AI generated work featured in the RIBA Journal and Building Design Magazine. He has lectured about AI and city design at the Big 5, AI Week, various tech conferences and run panels and workshops in Design Week, INDEX and Everything Architecture focused on AI and the future of construction industry. He is active online and in practice promoting architecture for the benefit of all the community of designers and citizens.

Wees Abraham

Managing Partner at Shade Corporation Ltd, Saudia Arabia

Mr. Wees is a Managing Partner with over 20 years of experience in large-scale construction delivery, project management, and operational transformation, including more than a decade as Vice President of Operations & Strategy at Shade Corporation, a Tier-1 EPC contractor in Saudi Arabia. He has led complex projects across the Kingdom and internationally, combining on-site execution with disciplined PMO governance and performance control and the founding Partner of Elēkrŏn Ventures, he focuses on strategic investments and digital enablement, bridging operational excellence with technology-driven transformation.

Hayder Al-Beer

Founder | Computational Design Architect at Hayder Al-Beer Lab, Dubai

Hayder Al-Beer is a Computational Design Architect specializing in BIM automation, parametric design systems, and data-driven workflows for architectural and engineering practice. His work focuses on developing computational tools that enhance design coordination, documentation accuracy, and project delivery efficiency across the built environment. With professional experience spanning architectural design, BIM implementation, and computational research, Hayder has worked extensively with Revit API, Rhino/Grasshopper, Dynamo, Python, and C# to translate complex design and construction challenges into scalable digital solutions. His expertise includes automated documentation systems, BIM analytics, custom configurators, and workflow optimization for multidisciplinary design teams. Alongside professional practice, Hayder actively contributes to the discourse on computational design through research, competitions, and knowledge sharing, bridging the gap between architectural intent and construction logic. His work emphasizes computation not as a representational tool, but as a strategic framework for decision-making, efficiency, and adaptability in contemporary architecture.

Andrea Peschiera

Partner and Director at Tectoo, Italy

Andrea Peschiera is an architect and co-founding Partner at tectoo, with an international background shaped by more than two decades of experience within leading global practices. His professional path began with early international experience in Shanghai, where he worked with KFStone International, and London then, with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and Robin Partington Partners, contributing to large-scale urban and mixed-use projects in Europe and the Middle East. A significant part of his professional formation took place at Renzo Piano Building Workshop, where he contributed to complex, large-scale projects integrating architectural quality, urban strategy, and long-term social value. At RPBW, Andrea worked on the masterplan of the former Falck industrial areas in Milan—at the time the largest post-industrial regeneration project in Europe—taking responsibility for the design of the residential towers and the architectural guidelines of the City of Health and Research hospital district. His experience within the studio also included major international projects across Asia, North America, Australia, and Africa. In Sydney, he acted as Project Architect for the three residential towers of One Sydney Harbour, now completed, leading the project from competition through design development. Building on this international foundation, Andrea co-founded tectoo in 2015, where he currently serves as Partner and Director. At tectoo, he leads the studio’s design vision across a range of award-winning projects, including the VP22 Office Building, recognized in several international contexts, the new Marina Porto Carlo Riva in Rapallo near Portofino, and the Linate Airport District. For Linate, tectoo developed the masterplan and is currently designing two landmark buildings shaping a new urban centrality defined by pedestrianized public spaces and green infrastructures seamlessly connected to the airport.

Malak Ali Yaslam

Founder & CEO at Malak Ali Yeslam Architecture Consultancy

Malak Ali Yaslam is an Emirati executive leader with over 22 years of experience in architecture, urban development, and real estate. She has founded and led multiple private sector firms, including MAY Architects, and has served on the boards of directors for various organizations. With a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning and currently pursuing a PhD in 3D-printed architecture, Malak brings a wealth of strategic insight and leadership to high-value projects. Her extensive career includes working with public, private, and governmental entities, consistently driving innovative solutions and sustainable development in the built environment.

Sergio Toro

Structural Director at P&T Group, Dubai

Sergio Toro is the Structural Director at P&T Group in Dubai, with over 30 years of international experience spanning the UK, the Middle East, and Asia. A graduate of University College London, Sergio is a Chartered Engineer with both the Institution of Structural Engineers (UK) and the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers. Throughout his career, he has contributed to a wide range of landmark projects across the UK, UAE, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Nigeria, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia, working across the commercial, residential, hospitality, retail, institutional, industrial and sport sectors. His project portfolio includes high-profile developments such as FIVE Palm Jumeirah, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Dubai CommerCity, where close collaboration between structure, architecture and construction was critical to project success. Sergio is known for his design-led approach to structural engineering, with a focus on developing simple, efficient and economical solutions to complex challenges. His work prioritises clarity, buildability and sustainability, while supporting architectural intent and responding sensitively to environmental and site conditions.

Mohamed Al Aradi

Founder & Managing Architect at TerraForma, Bahrain

Mohamed Alaradi is the founder of TerraForma, an architect-led execution studio based in Bahrain focused on translating design intent into built reality. The studio operates at the intersection of architecture and construction, with a strong emphasis on buildability, detailing, and informed on-site decision-making in live projects. Mohamed has delivered residential, commercial, and public-sector projects, working closely with designers, consultants, and contractors to bridge the common gap between drawings and construction. His work prioritizes practicality, material honesty, and execution quality, particularly in projects where sustainability and performance depend on how ideas are implemented on site, not just how they are designed. Through TerraForma, he advocates for earlier integration between design and execution to ensure architectural intent, performance, and longevity are preserved through construction.

Jad El Boustani

Partner at Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), Beirut

Prior to joining MEVP 11 years ago, Jad worked as Project Manager at Truffle Capital as part of the Venture Capital Tech Team in Paris during which, he assisted in fundraising efforts and in the expansion of a build-up of startups specialized in mobile services. Prior to that, Jad worked as a financial analyst in the M&A department of Bank Lazard Brothers with a focus in EMEA Telecom and Technology. In 2010, he served as an auditor in the Finance division of General Electric Healthcare. Jad's experience in Lebanon includes working as an analyst and developer at NavLink and as an IT developer at Societe Generale. Jad holds a degree in Telecom and Computer Engineering from the Lebanese University, and an MBA (with a finance and private equity emphasis) from the Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Economiques et Commerciales, ESSEC (France).

Mohamad Al Ilani

Founder & Managing Director at The Line for Engineering & Contracting , Lebanon

Mohamed Ilani is the Founder and Managing Director of The Line for Engineering and Contracting, a multidisciplinary firm providing integrated engineering, architecture, interior design, and BIM services. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering and is the holder of a registered patent, reflecting his strong commitment to research, innovation, and technical advancement. Since establishing The Line in 2018, he has led the company’s growth into a full-service consultancy serving clients across the region. Driven by sustainability, precision, and excellence, Mohamed focuses on delivering future-ready engineering solutions while empowering teams and advancing innovation in the built environment.

Carlo Bonanno

Vice President at Paghera Group, Italy

Carlo Bonanno is an entrepreneur, project manager and international speaker working at the intersection of architecture, nature, and human wellbeing. As Vice President of Paghera Group, he collaborates with leading international architecture studios on high-end private villas, luxury hospitality, eco-hotels, and farm-to-hotel destinations, integrating landscape, architecture, and green systems into a single regenerative vision. His work focuses on how natural systems, spatial quality, and environmental performance can enhance human experience, health, and long-term wellbeing. Alongside his professional practice, Carlo speaks worldwide on sustainability, ESG-driven design, neuro-architecture, and regenerative wellbeing, bridging scientific research with real-world projects. He is also the founder of Lympha, a startup dedicated to biophilic, regenerative, and neuroscience-informed design, exploring how spaces can actively support cognitive performance, balance, and longevity.

Faisal Arain

President at Willowbank, Canada

Dr. Faisal Manzoor Arain is an experienced academic leader and construction project management professional with an MS and PhD in Construction Project Management. He has extensive experience of working at management and leadership positions in industry and academia in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Canada. Dr. Arain completed a Leadership Development Program from Harvard University, Boston. He successfully led the development of numerous baccalaureate, and diploma programs including Canada’s first Bachelor of Science in Construction Project Management degree at SAIT in Calgary, Alberta. He was appointed by the Saskatchewan Higher Education Quality Assurance Board (SHEQAB), Government of Saskatchewan, as the chair of quality review panel for new baccalaureate degree program evaluation and participated in institutional review. Dr. Arain has a wealth of technical knowledge and experience as he worked in numerous professionals roles as an Architect, Project Coordinator, Project Manager, Director Projects, and Consultant with construction industry in Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Canada. He has also consulted, researched and published widely in the discipline of Project Management, Architecture and Design and Construction Management. He has authored over 120 research publications, 2 book chapters, and 12 books (http://www.amazon.com/- /e/B0028ORPJK). Dr. Arain serves on editorial boards of several international research journals. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Construction Project Management published by Nova Science Publishers Inc., USA. He is an expert member of the World Association for Sustainable Development, UK. He has also served as director on a couple of national and provincial level professional boards including Value Analysis Canada, Canadian Green Building Council, and Alberta Centre of Excellence from BIM. Dr. Arain worked as Chair, Construction Project Management with Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), Calgary, Alberta. He served as the Associate Dean of the School of Sustainable Building and Environmental Management at NAIT, Edmonton, Alberta. He also assisted Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Regina, SK providing educational, administrative and strategic leadership for a new baccalaureate degree program in construction management. Dr. Arain worked as the Senior Principal/Senior Dean, Niagara College (NC) Campuses in KSA. He recently served as the Vice President, Academic of Northern Lakes College (NLC), Alberta and as Vice President Academic and Administration of KLC College, Ontario. Dr. Arain is the President of Willowbank School of Restoration Arts, Niagara Region, Ontario, and CEO and Co-founder of AM Management Global Inc. Alberta.

Mahmoud Tarek

CEO at BIM Hive, Egypt

Mahmoud Tarek is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital transformation expert with over 12 years of professional experience in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector. He is the Founder and CEO of BIM Hive, an engineering consultancy specializing in BIM frameworks, Digital Twin methodologies, and data-driven construction processes. He is an Autodesk Certified Instructor and a BIM Instructor at the Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, where he plays an active role in shaping BIM education and professional practice, focusing on the practical implementation of digital workflows that improve coordination, decision-making, and control across the project lifecycle.

Khayati Mitra

Sustainability Specialist, Dubai

Khayati Mitra is a Sustainability Specialist working at the intersection of the built environment, energy systems, and net-zero delivery. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture (graduated with distinction) from Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore and a Masters in Sustainable Environmental Design from Architectural Association, London, providing a strong technical foundation in building physics, energy performance, and systems integration. Her expertise enables her to bridge sustainable environmental design with operational energy, construction-phase carbon management, electrification strategies, and performance-led net-zero frameworks. With over a decade of experience in the GCC, Khayati has delivered design, sustainability and energy-related projects with direct involvement with leading real estate developers, lasset portfolios, refurbishments, and global event programmes such as COP28. Her approach combines technical analysis, project management, AI integration and stakeholder coordination, supporting clients, contractors, and authorities in translating energy and carbon targets into measurable, auditable outcomes. In addition to project delivery, she contributes to capacity building through training, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration, strengthening energy & carbon-literate decision-making across project teams.

Albert Bicol

Principal | Owner at Alberto Bicol Consulting Inc, Canada

Albert brings innovation and creativity to his projects; he also conveys his ideas with passion and clarity. Albert champions the use of sustainable solutions in all his projects and has extensive expertise in Sustainable Master Planning (SMP), Smart Cities, High Performance and Net-Zero (NZ) Buildings including district/renewable energy analysis, passive building design, modelling building energy usage, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality conditions. He has a wide range of experience in Canada, USA, and Asia including the SMP for several communities, resorts and university campuses, and consulting services for mixed-used developments in North America and Asia. He played a role in 65 Net- Zero Energy buildings/development projects around world. Albert brings not only technical expertise but recognizes the importance of business case and value analysis. Albert is an advisor to the Re!maging Cities Foundation (Smart Cities). He has performed reviews for the USGBC and CaGBC on projects applying for LEED certification. He previously sat on the City of Vancouver Urban Design Panel – only the second mechanical engineer to serve in this capacity. In addition, Albert has delivered over 300 presentations and has been a keynote speaker on sustainable building design, SMP and the “NZ” approach in Canada, the US, and Asia and has volunteered to educate elementary school children on climate change. He was one of the first people who presented on NZ Building design at the Greenbuild Conference in 2006. Albert was named as one of Building, Design and Construction’s 2007 ‘Top 40 Under 40’. Before forming Alberto Bicol Consulting Inc. (Parent Company of AB Net-Zero Designs Inc.), Albert was a partner at Cobalt Engineering/Integral Group for 9 years. Albert spearheaded Cobalt’s leading edge sustainable projects (several NZ buildings and resort/campus/community plans).

Martin Jochman

Principal Founder & Design Director at JADE+QA, Dubai

Martin is an Architect and Design Director with over 30 years of experience in designing and constructing major projects worldwide, including the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East. Currently based in Dubai, he is a Founding Principal and Senior Design Director at Architectural and Urban Planning studio JADE+QA, established in China, Hong Kong, UK, and the UAE. His expertise spans master planning, architecture, landscape design from concept to construction for large-scale prestigeous national and international ventures across sectors such as hospitality, residential, office, retail, industrial, healthcare, and education. Notable works include concept to completion of award-winning innovative Wonderland Intercontinental Hotel in a Quarry in Shanghai, leading the design team of Dubai's Jumeira Beach Resort hotel, creating concept and schematic design for the award winning Wild Wadi water park, awardwinning Joe Lalli Resort hotel in Moganshan, Wuhan Pebble towers in China and others. Martin has shared his insights at international conferences throughout Asia and received multiple awards, including the MIPIM Asia Gold Prize and MIPIM Silver Award for the Wonderland Intercontinental Quarry Hotel as well as numerous awards for his Joe Lalli Resort hotel in Moganshan and recognition as Best Hotel Design Architect of the Year in China in 2021. The Wonderland Intercontinental Hotel has been featured on TV programmes by National Geographic and BBC's Amazing Hotels, with Martin serving as presenter. Martin emphasizes sustainability in his work, advocating for early integration of passive green energy-saving strategies and applying his 'Sensitive Design' philosophy to all his projects.

LJ Wu

Design Lead at PNC Architects, Dubai

LJ is a UK-registered architect with international professional experience in China and the UK, working across hospitality, residential, and commercial projects from masterplanning to interior design. Her work spans Asia, the Middle East, the UK, and Europe, including high-profile projects delivered through RIBA Stages 0–5 and international design competitions, with direct relevance to rapidly growing urban contexts. Her research focuses on discrete architecture within the second digital turn, with particular emphasis on architectural frameworks and platform-based design approaches. Grounded in housing research—from affordable models to luxury developments—and informed by discourse on the UK housing crisis, her work explores how digital systems, modular logics, and design platforms can support adaptable, scalable, and user-centred housing. This research aligns with emerging opportunities in Dubai’s housing market, where flexibility, speed of delivery, and differentiated residential products are increasingly critical to urban growth and long-term livability.

George Smithies

Co-Founder at innDex, London, UK

George Smithies: After spending years on-site buried in paperwork rather than building, he co-founded innDex to bring much-needed digitalisation to construction. As a Civil Engineer, he understands the industry's pain points and is now committed to driving change through technology that enhances efficiency and productivity.

James Ainsbury

Operations Director innDex, Dubai, UAE

James Ainsbury is Head of Operations at innDex, combining a first-class Master’s in Civil Engineering with hands-on site experience. He champions construction innovation, streamlining workflows and driving digital adoption across projects. James is known for operational leadership, field expertise, and promoting smarter, safer, and more efficient construction practices.

Gauri Lamb

CEO at FHP Group, UK

Gauri is Chief Executive of FHP Group, leading a 70+ strong team generating across 7 offices across UK whilst spearheading 28+ M&A transactions across her distinguished 20-year career. A Cambridge Institute of Sustainable Leadership alumna with UK Masters degrees, she founded boutique PE firm Iolas Capital eight years ago and served as the youngest member on Hugo Boss's leadership board. Winner of both the Great British Business Women Award and National Building & Construction Award, Gauri hosts the acclaimed "Business of Building" podcast and also served as visiting faculty at her engineering alma mater. Her expertise spans real estate development, private equity, and brand management, whilst pioneering AI-enhanced construction technology solutions that are transforming industry standards and operational excellence.

Mohammed Shehata

CEO at PropTech.Works, UAE

Mohammed Shehata is an executive, entrepreneur, and systems architect working at the intersection of real estate, cities, technology, and capital. With over 25 years of global experience across large-scale real estate, mission-critical infrastructure, and smart city environments, he advises at board and executive level on long-duration asset performance, operational intelligence, and the redesign of real estate operating models in the intelligence age. His work focuses on what he describes as the Lifecycle Economy - the shift from development- and transaction-led real estate toward systems that create value through continuous performance, adaptability, and human-centric outcomes over decades. Mohammed has led and advised on multi-billion-dollar portfolios and developments, including Expo-scale projects, and brings a cross-industry perspective that connects technology, governance, and capital allocation to long-term asset resilience and competitiveness.

Mohammad Alfaour

Director at Egnyte MENA, Dubai

Mohammad is Egnyte’s Director for the Middle East and North Africa, based in Dubai, UAE. He leads the expansion of Egnyte’s presence and support across the MENA region, helping organisations define and accelerate their digital transformation journeys. By connecting customers with the right solutions, consultants, and partners, he helps translate mandates and aspirations into phased, scalable strategies. Mohammad has supported organisations around the world, with experience spanning the US, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His background includes roles across capital planning, master development, construction, engineering, banking, healthcare, and technology.

Michel Nseir

Founder and Chairman at Dolphin Solutions FZ-LLC, UAE

Michel Nseir is a seasoned leader in the software industry with over three decades of experience in technology innovation and business management. As the Founder and Chairman of Software Design Consulting Group SAL in Lebanon, Software Design Consulting Group Ltd in the UAE, and Dolphin Solutions FZ-LLC, he has built and expanded companies that deliver cutting-edge software solutions across the Middle East and Africa. From his early beginnings in 1985, Michel transformed Software Design Consulting Group SAL into a leading consulting firm, recognized for its commitment to quality, innovation, and client success. His entrepreneurial vision later drove the establishment of operations in the UAE, extending services to Saudi Arabia and African markets, and solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in regional software development. Michel’s leadership style blends strategic foresight with hands-on management. He has overseen complex projects across diverse industries, cultivated long-term client relationships, and fostered company cultures rooted in teamwork and continuous learning. His ventures have consistently delivered innovative solutions tailored to evolving business needs, positioning his companies as trusted partners in digital transformation. Michel’s expertise spans software engineering, business strategy, project management, and organizational growth. Today, he continues to drive technological innovation, empowering businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Arsen Safaryan

Managing Director at BIMMONT, UAE

Arsen is a digital project delivery and construction technology expert with over 21 years of experience in the contracting, consulting and asset owner/operator business. He helped deliver over 16 entertainment destinations in Saudi Arabia as well as a number of notable mega projects in the UAE such as the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Expo2020, Al Maktoum Airport Expansion and Dubai Hills Mall. He is now leading his own consulting practice with a focus on contech adoption for owners and contractors as well integration, automation and ai enabled services.

Omar El Hachem

Investment Associate & ESG Lead at Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), US

Omar is an Investment Associate & ESG Lead at Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), a leading MENA-focused venture capital firm investing in early to growth-stage technology companies. He works across deal sourcing, due diligence, financial modeling, portfolio support, and fundraising, while leading MEVP’s ESG strategy, including the development of ESG frameworks, scoring methodologies, and sustainability reporting across the portfolio. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Lebanese American University and a Master’s degree in International Sustainability Management from ESCP Business School. Omar has a background in sustainability and consulting, and is particularly interested in fintech, proptech, and data-driven business models in the MENA region and beyond.

Ismail Azam

CPO, WhiteHelmet, Saudi Arabia

Ismail Azam is the Chief Product Officer at WhiteHelmet, where he leads AI-driven construction technology at giga-project scale. A former Silicon Valley executive with experience at Microsoft and New Relic, Ismail now works in Saudi Arabia building next-generation construction platforms supporting some of the world’s largest infrastructure projects. He previously was Head of Construction Technology at NEOM, the $500B giga-project, spanning computer vision, generative AI, and real-time project intelligence. Ismail holds a degree in engineering from University of California, Berkeley and a masters in data science from Harvard University, is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and has been recognized as Construction Technology Leader of the Year for advancing AI in the built environment.

Mhd Daoud Ajek

Architect at Elev8 Architects, Dubai

Daoud is a dynamic Architect with over 8 years of experience, specializing in Building Information Modelling (BIM) and end-to-end architectural design. He brings proven expertise in leading complex projects across luxury residential, hospitality, airports, and infrastructure in the UAE and abroad, with in-depth knowledge in design and BIM workflows, streamlining production processes, digital transformation, and developing parametric libraries for LOD400/450 deliverables. He excels in managing cross-disciplinary teams to deliver projects that enhance efficiency and uphold high-quality standards. Daoud is also skilled in training and mentoring, fostering a collaborative learning culture that ensures team proficiency in Architectural BIM tools and methodologies.

Antonio Marseglia

Founder – Principal & City Meta Lab, Dubai

Antonio Marseglia is an Italian architect with over fifteen years of international experience across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. A graduate of the School of Architecture in Ferrara, he developed early on a strong interest in large-scale urban systems, infrastructural complexity and the transformative role of architecture. He joined Studio Fuksas in 2011, where he spent a decade working on major international projects, including the Napoli Duomo Station, the NEOM Resort in Saudi Arabia, Dubai Global Connect, Sveta Nedelya Square in Sofia, Xiaoshan Airport in China and the Is Molas Resort. During this period he progressed into roles of increasing responsibility, from architect to project manager and senior architect, leading multidisciplinary teams and overseeing all phases from competition design to construction coordination. In 2018 he was appointed to open and direct the first Fuksas office in Dubai, supporting the firm’s expansion in the Gulf region. This role strengthened his hybrid approach, combining European architectural sophistication with Middle-Eastern strategic pragmatism, and refined his focus on large-scale, high-impact developments. In 2023 he founded City Meta Lab (CML), with offices in Rome, Dubai and New York. CML operates as a design and research laboratory dedicated to contemporary spatial challenges at the intersection of architecture, urban strategy, technology and social vision. Under his leadership, the studio works with clients such as EMAAR, Tecom and Retal Urban Development, as well as public institutions, private clients and international competitions. Its portfolio spans private villas, mixed-use districts, museums, innovation campuses, hospitals, residential towers and urban masterplans across cities from Dubai to Helsinki, Riyadh to Dammam. His architectural approach merges rigorous technical expertise with a refined spatial sensibility, producing work that is both conceptually strong and operationally precise. He is a registered architect in Italy and the UAE, fluent in Italian and English, and leads a globally oriented practice capable of navigating contemporary urban complexities while imagining new ways of living and building the future.