B2B Business Insights & Industry Impact | Podcasts & Stories – GBB Venture
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Mohamed Laghrari, Chairman & CEO, ALH Holding
Greg Truen, Founding Member & Director at SAOTA
James White, Co-Founder, MAWD
Firas Alsahin, Co-founder & Design Director at 4SPACE Design
Jorge Neto Morgado, Chairman & CEO of Viriato
Jimmie Karlsson, Director & Owner - Jimmie Martin
Jana Bader and Ashraf Qasem | Saudi Hospitality | Investment Talk
Dr. Andreas Wieser, Senior Physician – Smart United GmbH
Jochen Benkert, CEO – Benkert Bänke
Julio Corredor, CEO – Shaden Hospitality
John Williamson, CEO – Abacus Tables
Hany Amin, President & CEO – Hanimex
Ron Bakker, Founding Partner - PLP Architecture
Christos Passas, Director - Zaha Hadid Architects
Mounir Kronful, Managing Director, C & B Consultant
Paul Boldy, Head of Hospitality Futures - Benoy
Ankita Jha - Co-Founder, Tripod Global
Rahhul Vadera, Founder & CEO - Renovation Facttory
Pablo M. Vidarte Gordillo, CEO - Bioo
Stuart Allen, Managing Director - Allen Architecture Interiors Design
Rakan Jandali, Design Principal | Creative Director - KCA International
Founder Stories - Mohammed Azhar Sajan, Director - Casa Milano
Founder Stories - Marvin George, Founder - Foundry
Tay Stanley, Director/CEO & Principal Lighting Consultant at Illuminating Asia SG Pte Ltd
Osan Ghaddaf, Founder & Creative Director - Artevo Consulting
Nathalie Rozencwajg, Director - NAME Architecture
Hisham Khashoggi, President - HAK Engineering
Dr. Francesca Arici, Chief of Planning and Development - Aseer Development
David Nikuradze, Managing Partner - SPECTRUM Architecture
Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director - Sarovar Hotels & Resorts
Mohamed Shehata, Group CDO - Abu Soma Development Company
Will Hosikian, Design Principal & Partner - Killa Design
Turab Saleem, Partner - Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure MEA, Knight Frank
Pallavi Dean, Founder and CEO - ROAR
Justin Wells, CEO - Wells International
Joe Tabet, Managing Director at JT+Partners
Tarek Hegazy, CEO & Creative Director - Living Design of Sweden
Sir Peter Cook, Director of Cook Belacevic Haffner and Partners
Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director, LWK+PARTNERS
Kristina Zanic, CEO, Kristina Zanic Consultants
Mohammed Adib, Chief Design Officer, Dewan Architects & Engineers
Charles Constantin, Corporate Director B.D, Gutmann ME Group
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News & Blogs

19th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia highlights Vision 2030 momentum and $2tn pipeline

The 19th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia – Luxury Edition concluded after two days of high-level dialogue, deal-making and strategic collaboration, bringing together more than 800 leaders, investors and decision-makers shaping the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving built environment.

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19th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia – Luxury Edition A Landmark Gathering Shaping the Future of Real Estate, Investment, Sustainability & Design

The 19th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia – Luxury Edition successfully concluded after two days of high-level exchange, strategic collaboration, and global networking

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19TH REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT SAUDI ARABIA – LUXURY EDITION

The 19th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia – Luxury Edition successfully concluded after two days of high-level exchange

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Saudi real estate market transforms on back of government projects, policy reforms

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector is witnessing strong growth, driven by government-led projects, new regulations, and shifting

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RED Summit explores design ideas and forges connections for Vision 2030

The 17th Real Estate Development (RED) Summit Saudi Arabia | Europe Edition, hosted by GBB Venture, took place in Lisbon, Portugal .

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GBB Venture’s 17th RED Summit Bridges Saudi Ambitions with European Excellence

The 17th Real Estate Development (RED) Summit – Saudi Arabia | Europe Edition, hosted by GBB Venture, turned the spotlight on Lisbon as it welcomed some of the most influential names from Saudi Arabia’s evolving real estate sector for two days of purpose-driven exchange, global synergy, and fresh perspectives.

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GBB VENTURE’S 17TH RED SUMMIT BRIDGES SAUDI AMBITIONS WITH EUROPEAN EXCELLENCE

The 17th Real Estate Development (RED) Summit – Saudi Arabia | Europe Edition, hosted by GBB Venture, turned the spotlight on Lisbon as it welcomed some of the most influential names from Saudi Arabia’s evolving real estate sector for two days of purpose-driven exchange, global synergy, and fresh perspectives.

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GBB Venture’s 17th RED Summit

The 17th Real Estate Development (RED) Summit – Saudi Arabia | Europe Edition, hosted by GBB Venture, turned the spotlight on Lisbon

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Pablo Vidarte on GBB Stories

In a world that often feels disconnected from nature, Bioo is rewriting the rules.

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4th Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit-Post Event Article

The 4th Edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit – Saudi Arabia & UAE, powered by GBB Venture, took place on February 26-27, 2025, at the Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City.

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Driving Strategic Collaboration in Real Estate

Saudi Projects interview with GBB Venture's visionary leader, Ravi Kumar Chandran, Founder & Managing Director.

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What Happened at the 4th Edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit

he summit was a resounding success providing a high-profile, invitation-only platform to foster collaboration, strategy, and synergies in the region’s hospitality market.

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Hilton And OSUS Team Up For Exceptional Hospitality At ‘OSUS EYE’

In a new step to solidify its position as a leading national real estate developer, OSUS has announced a strategic partnership with Hilton (NYSE: HLT) to manage and operate a hotel and a residential tower within its flagship project, ‘OSUS Eye’. The signing ceremony took place at the 4th Hospitality Innovation Summit with OSUS’ Chairman, Abdullah Al-Majid and CEO, Anas Al-Majid, in attendance. Representing Hilton at the ceremony were VP Development, MEA, Carlos Khneisser and Managing Director, Development MENA, Alain Osta.

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OSUS and Hilton Join Forces to Offer World-Class Hospitality at “OSUS EYE”

In a new step to solidify its position as a leading national real estate developer, OSUS has announced a strategic partnership with Hilton (NYSE: HLT) to manage and operate a hotel and a residential tower within its flagship project, ‘OSUS Eye’. The signing ceremony took place at the 4th Hospitality Innovation Summit with OSUS’ Chairman, Abdullah Al-Majid and CEO, Anas Al-Majid, in attendance. Representing Hilton at the ceremony were VP Development, MEA, Carlos Khneisser and Managing Director, Development MENA, Alain Osta.

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Hilton to launch Garden Inn, Curio Collection properties in Riyadh

Global hospitality major Hilton has entered into a deal with Saudi real estate developer Osus to introduce two of its award-winning brands - Hilton Garden Inn and Curio Collection by Hilton branded residences - to the ‘Osus Eye’ project in Riyadh.

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Gearing up for the Hospitality Innovation Summit

Taking place from February 26-27, 2025, at Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, the fourth Hospitality Innovation Summit is on track to welcome thousands of visitors.

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Get Ready For The 4th Hospitality Innovation Summit Saudi Arabia & UAE

On February 26 and 27, 2025, Dubai will become the epicenter of hospitality innovation with the 4th edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit (HIS) – Saudi Arabia & United Arab Emirates. The event, hosted at Hilton Al Habtoor City, is organized by GBB Venture and has established itself as a key platform for strategic networking, industry insights, and high-impact business partnerships.

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GET READY FOR THE 4TH HOSPITALITY INNOVATION SUMMIT SAUDI ARABIA & UAE

The 4th Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit (HIS) – Saudi Arabia & UAE is set to take place on February 26th and 27th, 2025, at the Hilton Al Habtoor City, Dubai. Hosted by GBB Venture, this premier event has established itself as the definitive platform for strategic business networking, industry insights, and high-impact collaborations.

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The 4th Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit (HIS) – Saudi Arabia & UAE is set to take place on February 26th and 27th, 2025

The 4th Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit (HIS) – Saudi Arabia & UAE is set to take place on February 26th and 27th, 2025, at the Hilton Al Habtoor City, Dubai. Hosted by GBB Venture, this premier event has established itself as the definitive platform for strategic business networking, industry insights, and high-impact collaborations.

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Africa’s Hospitality Ecosystem United – A Glimpse into the Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa

The 3rd Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa, held on December 4–5, 2024, at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai,

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Africa’s Hospitality Ecosystem United – A Glimpse into the Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa

The 3rd Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa, held on December 4–5, 2024, at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai,

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16th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia | Luxury Edition

Prepárate para la 16ª Cumbre de Desarrollo Inmobiliario de Arabia Saudí | Edición de Lujo, que tendrá lugar los días 20 y 21 de noviembre de 2024 en

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16th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia Luxury Edition

This prestigious event brought together over 90 global suppliers, 170+ project companies, and representatives from more than 7,000 projects

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LWK + PARTNERS at the 16th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia

LWK + PARTNERS was proud to be part of the 16th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia | Luxury Edition, held at the Ritz Carlton,

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GBB Venture announces the 16th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia: Luxury Edition

GBB Venture will host the 16th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia: Luxury Edition, taking place on November 20-21, 2024, at the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah.

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16th Edition Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse in real estate development, with ambitious projects and innovative initiatives transforming its urban landscape.

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16th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia | Luxury Edition

SBJBC is pleased to be a supporting partner for the 16th Real Estate Development Summit. The event will spotlight luxury real estate projects, PIF initiatives...

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3rd Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit – Africa

Africa hotel market is a promising one with an expected market surge from US$12.10bn in 2024 to US$14.83bn by 2028...

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16th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia | Luxury Edition

The world of real estate has found a new place to converge: Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom, fueled by the Vision 2030...

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REI Partners with GBB for successful 3rd edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit at JW Marriott, Dubai

The 3rd edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit (HIS), held at the JW Marriott in Dubai, proved to be an outstanding success...

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16th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia | Luxury Edition

Este evento de prestígio é uma plataforma única que reúne investidores internacionais e líderes do setor...

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3rd Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit – Africa

Este evento dedica-se a explorar as inovações e tendências emergentes no setor da hospitalidade em África, oferecendo uma plataforma...

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GBB Venture’s Summit Eyes New Opportunities in Africa’s Booming Hospitality Sector

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S+S Studio Speaking at 3rd Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa

The 3rd Edition Hospitality Innovation Summit Africa, held on December 4-5, 2024, at the JW Marriott Dubai, was filled with incredible energy!

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The 2018 Real Estate Development Summit to Hold Its Second Edition in Accra, Ghana

TechInAfrica — The 2018 of Real Estate Development Summit is soon to be held at the Grand Kempinski Gold Coast City in Accra, Ghana. The second edition of the event will take place for two days, from 29 October and 30 October 2018.

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Dubai, Hospitality Innovation Summit 2024

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‘Private-public partnerships driving investment in Saudi Arabia’s booming real estate market’

RIYADH: Private-public partnerships have become a cornerstone for attracting substantial investment to Saudi Arabia’s real estate market over the past five years,

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Saudi and European businessmen increase their collaboration in real estate development

With a very appropriate motto: Connecting beyond borders, this edition brought together more than 350 decision makers representing the main projects in Saudi Arabia.

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GBB VENTURE

A beacon in the real estate industry of the Kingdom, 14th REDS brings over 500 senior, decision makers from some of the top residential, commercial and hospitality projects

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Palma congress opens up possibilities for Saudi investment in Mallorca

The fifteenth Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia-Europe is taking place in Mallorca for the first time.

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Key takeaways from the Hospitality Innovation Summit 2024

The second edition of the Hospitality Innovation Summit for Saudi Arabia & UAE, which took place on the 6th and 7th of March 2024, was graced by exceptional speakers and engaging presentations from industry leaders who shared precious perspectives on the primary opportunities and challenges in the hospitality industry

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Mallorca prepares the 15th Real Estate Development Summit Saudi Arabia-Europe

Saudi Business Council together with Atalayar will present one of the most important real estate events in Saudi Arabia and Europe...

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Saudi projects to take spotlight at 15th Real Estate Development Summit in Spain

RIYADH: Saudi real estate projects will take center-stage at a two-day summit in Spain featuring over 100 companies,

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Experts weigh in on Saudi architecture at RED Summit

As this year’s media partner, Arab News hosted a panel discussion at the 11th Real Estate Development Summit — Saudi Arabia..

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real estate development summit, milan, explores saudi architecture projects

or 13th edition of the Real Estate Development Summit, the event once again continues to provide it’s attendees with networking,

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11th Real Estate Development Summit — Saudi Arabia/ Europe Edition set for this month

RIYADH: The 11th Real Estate Development Summit — Saudi Arabia/ Europe Edition is set to take place on June 29-30 at Hotel Barceló Sants, Barcelona, Spain. The event will bring together a

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UNLOCKING THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY INNOVATION & TRANSFORMATION

The Hospitality and Innovation Summit 2023, Saudi Arabia and UAE, which took place 15-16 March 2023, featured world-class keynote speakers and engaging presentations by industry leaders who shared valuable insights into the key opportunities and challenges in the industry.

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Real estate development summit, milan, explores saudi architecture projects

For 13th edition of the Real Estate Development Summit, the event once again continues to provide it’s attendees with networking, knowledge sharing and marketing opportunities in the industry.

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Omrania Meets Stakeholders at Real Estate Development Summit

At the Real Estate Development (RED) Summit Saudi Arabia, Omrania joined over 250 top project owners, designers, architects, and contractors who are shaping the future of tourism and development in KSA and the Middle East.

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Elsaeed Albially
Executive Director-RUA Al-Madinah Holding
PIF Company
Elsaeed is leading the Design Development for all Rua Al-Madinah Holding (RUA) projects, the biggest Hospitality Project in the World.RUA is developing and managing portfolios that will deliver various built and infrastructure assets and provide a differentiating factor within Madinah’s real estate sector while contributing towards achieving Vision_2030 goals with 47 thousand keys.In addition to Managing the Masterplan for Dar Al Hijra Mixed- Use project that envisions a culturally rooted, sustainable urban destination in Madina, integrating residential, hospitality, retail, education, healthcare and community - focused uses across one million sqm sitewide.Elsaeed previously led the team of Projects development for Knowledge Economic City Company who is developing a mega Mixed - Use Development across 6.8 M SQM in Al Madinah Al Munawara City with an aggregate investment of SAR 94 billion.Elsaeed managed the development of large - scale Retail / Hospitality / Entertainment Hub, TOD development, Mega Hospitality development for Hajj / Umrah / Visitors to Madinah, Villas Residential Compound, mid / high - rise Residential Apartments, Strip - Mall, Business Park, International School, sub - developers’ plots and all related infrastructure utilities.
Elsaeed Albially
Executive Director-RUA Al-Madinah Holding
PIF Company
Elsaeed is leading the Design Development for all Rua Al-Madinah Holding (RUA) projects, the biggest Hospitality Project in the World.RUA is developing and managing portfolios that will deliver various built and infrastructure assets and provide a differentiating factor within Madinah’s real estate sector while contributing towards achieving Vision_2030 goals with 47 thousand keys.In addition to Managing the Masterplan for Dar Al Hijra Mixed- Use project that envisions a culturally rooted, sustainable urban destination in Madina, integrating residential, hospitality, retail, education, healthcare and community - focused uses across one million sqm sitewide.Elsaeed previously led the team of Projects development for Knowledge Economic City Company who is developing a mega Mixed - Use Development across 6.8 M SQM in Al Madinah Al Munawara City with an aggregate investment of SAR 94 billion.Elsaeed managed the development of large - scale Retail / Hospitality / Entertainment Hub, TOD development, Mega Hospitality development for Hajj / Umrah / Visitors to Madinah, Villas Residential Compound, mid / high - rise Residential Apartments, Strip - Mall, Business Park, International School, sub - developers’ plots and all related infrastructure utilities.
Khalid Hassan Al Gahtani
Chairman-HAKA Group Holding-RIKAZ Properties-Radian Oil & Gas
Adeem Capital and Natixis Bank Saudi Arabia
Is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. A graduate of Northampton University, UK, with advanced studies from Harvard Business School and Wharton Universities. He is the Chairman of HAKA Group Holding, RIKAZ Properties, Radian Oil & Gas, Adeem Capital and Natixis Bank Saudi Arabia. He held various positions in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Chamber of Commerce including Chairman of the National Real Estate Committee, Eastern Chamber representative in the Council of Chambers. He was a board member in various councils at the Chamber of Commerce & Industry in the Eastern Province including the Saudi-Chinese Friendship Council, the Arabian-American National Chamber Council, the Saudi-Irish Business Council, the Saudi-Japan Business Council and the Saudi-Russian Business Council and a member of the G20 Saudi trade taskforce. Al Gahtani is a strong advocate of corporate social responsibility and is actively involved in many charitable and social activities. As the president of Arabian Salayel Group for Horse Riding, he co-founded Asharqiya International Arabian Horse Festival. He is the chairman of HAKA Charitable Foundation, a founding member of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz Charity Foundation and the Saudi Association for Cancer Fighting. Among many, he received the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Award for Philanthropy, the International Knight Golden Order, the 3rd Middle East CEO of the Year Award and was honored as the Ambassador for Saudi Companies at the International Leadership Conference in Dubai.
Khalid Hassan Al Gahtani
Chairman-HAKA Group Holding-RIKAZ Properties-Radian Oil & Gas
Adeem Capital and Natixis Bank Saudi Arabia
Is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. A graduate of Northampton University, UK, with advanced studies from Harvard Business School and Wharton Universities. He is the Chairman of HAKA Group Holding, RIKAZ Properties, Radian Oil & Gas, Adeem Capital and Natixis Bank Saudi Arabia. He held various positions in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Chamber of Commerce including Chairman of the National Real Estate Committee, Eastern Chamber representative in the Council of Chambers. He was a board member in various councils at the Chamber of Commerce & Industry in the Eastern Province including the Saudi-Chinese Friendship Council, the Arabian-American National Chamber Council, the Saudi-Irish Business Council, the Saudi-Japan Business Council and the Saudi-Russian Business Council and a member of the G20 Saudi trade taskforce. Al Gahtani is a strong advocate of corporate social responsibility and is actively involved in many charitable and social activities. As the president of Arabian Salayel Group for Horse Riding, he co-founded Asharqiya International Arabian Horse Festival. He is the chairman of HAKA Charitable Foundation, a founding member of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz Charity Foundation and the Saudi Association for Cancer Fighting. Among many, he received the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Award for Philanthropy, the International Knight Golden Order, the 3rd Middle East CEO of the Year Award and was honored as the Ambassador for Saudi Companies at the International Leadership Conference in Dubai.
Mohammed Adib
Chief Design Officer
Dewan Architects + Engineers
Designing the Future: How AI Is Transforming Interior Architecture Mohammed discusses tools like Quible and how AI is reshaping design workflows, creativity, and sustainability in commercial interiors. Crafting Culturally Rooted Luxury Insights into projects like La Mer by Elie Saab and Oceano, and how to balance high-end aesthetics with local identity and context. From the Red Sea to Thailand: Leading Global Hospitality Design Behind the scenes of designing for AMAALA, Qiddiya, and Layan Verde—and the role of storytelling in destination architecture. Mentoring the Next Generation of Designers The importance of leadership, inclusivity, and Dewan’s Young Leaders program in shaping the industry’s future talent. Building in the Metaverse and Beyond Why Mohammed launched Dewan’s MAD Lab, and how architects can prepare for hybrid digital-physical environments in commercial design.
Mohammed Adib
Chief Design Officer
Dewan Architects + Engineers
Designing the Future: How AI Is Transforming Interior Architecture Mohammed discusses tools like Quible and how AI is reshaping design workflows, creativity, and sustainability in commercial interiors. Crafting Culturally Rooted Luxury Insights into projects like La Mer by Elie Saab and Oceano, and how to balance high-end aesthetics with local identity and context. From the Red Sea to Thailand: Leading Global Hospitality Design Behind the scenes of designing for AMAALA, Qiddiya, and Layan Verde—and the role of storytelling in destination architecture. Mentoring the Next Generation of Designers The importance of leadership, inclusivity, and Dewan’s Young Leaders program in shaping the industry’s future talent. Building in the Metaverse and Beyond Why Mohammed launched Dewan’s MAD Lab, and how architects can prepare for hybrid digital-physical environments in commercial design.
Elias Abou Samra
CEO
RAFAL Real Estate Development Company
Elias Abou Samra is a seasoned real estate development executive specialized in mixed-use projects and urban regeneration. He possesses a successful track record in corporate transformations and restructuring. Over the past 15 years, Elias has played a leading role in the conceptualization, structuring and delivery of projects with Gross Development Value (GDV) in excess of USD 12 billion across the region.Elias assumed the position of CEO at Rafal Real Estate Development Company since September 2021. He is leading the transformation of Saudi’s leading private developer to play a pivotal role in the various PPP project under vision 2030. Most recently, Elias has led the repositioning of the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, under RCRC, introducing 16 different projects ranging from lifestyle and culture to education and healthcare. (2020-2021) Elias has played an instrumental role in the inception of some of the most ambitious mega projects under Vision 2030 in his capacity as Executive Advisor for PIF projects under Strategy&. (2018-2019) He brings a solid experience in transactional services, having led the flagship deal involving the restructuring of King Abdullah Financial District and the transfer of its ownership from the Public Pension Agency to PIF. (2016-2017) Other projects under Elias’s portfolio include Wadi Qortuba, a high-end residential compound in Riyadh, and Golden Tower, a luxury residential tower on Jeddah’s corniche, in addition to three executed master plans with total land area of 2.5 million SQM in Riyadh and Jeddah, under Solidere International (2009-2015). Elias worked extensively in investment banking and private equity under regional and multinational firms such Morgan Stanley (2007-2008).He holds a degree in Finance & Economics from the American University in Beirut (2002).
Elias Abou Samra
CEO
RAFAL Real Estate Development Company
Elias Abou Samra is a seasoned real estate development executive specialized in mixed-use projects and urban regeneration. He possesses a successful track record in corporate transformations and restructuring. Over the past 15 years, Elias has played a leading role in the conceptualization, structuring and delivery of projects with Gross Development Value (GDV) in excess of USD 12 billion across the region.Elias assumed the position of CEO at Rafal Real Estate Development Company since September 2021. He is leading the transformation of Saudi’s leading private developer to play a pivotal role in the various PPP project under vision 2030. Most recently, Elias has led the repositioning of the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, under RCRC, introducing 16 different projects ranging from lifestyle and culture to education and healthcare. (2020-2021) Elias has played an instrumental role in the inception of some of the most ambitious mega projects under Vision 2030 in his capacity as Executive Advisor for PIF projects under Strategy&. (2018-2019) He brings a solid experience in transactional services, having led the flagship deal involving the restructuring of King Abdullah Financial District and the transfer of its ownership from the Public Pension Agency to PIF. (2016-2017) Other projects under Elias’s portfolio include Wadi Qortuba, a high-end residential compound in Riyadh, and Golden Tower, a luxury residential tower on Jeddah’s corniche, in addition to three executed master plans with total land area of 2.5 million SQM in Riyadh and Jeddah, under Solidere International (2009-2015). Elias worked extensively in investment banking and private equity under regional and multinational firms such Morgan Stanley (2007-2008).He holds a degree in Finance & Economics from the American University in Beirut (2002).
Naji Syriani
Hospitality Development Director
Diriyah Company
Naji serves as the Hospitality Development Director of the Diriyah Company and works as development lead on the planned 40 hotels within the 14 square kilometer USD 63Bn mixed-use development anchored onto the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif. His role focuses on ensuring hotels are successfully completed, overseeing the coordination of internal and external stakeholders including hotel operators, consultants and construction firms, and Diriyah Company’s project departments. He is an experienced hospitality design and development professional with 25 years’ experience in mixed-use projects development across the GCC and EMEA working for companies including Rotana Hotels. There he set up the Tech Services & Project Dept delivering the company’s ambitious expansion plans and growing portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and branded residences. Prior to joining Diriyah he was the Corporate Vice President Projects for Rotana, heading a team of architects, interior designers and engineers monitoring the aggressive expansion plans of the company, as well as various renovation projects across the portfolio. During his tenure, the team delivered 80 new hotels across the region. He is the holder of a master’s degree in architecture from the Lebanese university, an Executive MBA from INSEAD, and a Certificate in Commercial Real Estate Analysis & Investment from MIT SA+P.
Naji Syriani
Hospitality Development Director
Diriyah Company
Naji serves as the Hospitality Development Director of the Diriyah Company and works as development lead on the planned 40 hotels within the 14 square kilometer USD 63Bn mixed-use development anchored onto the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif. His role focuses on ensuring hotels are successfully completed, overseeing the coordination of internal and external stakeholders including hotel operators, consultants and construction firms, and Diriyah Company’s project departments. He is an experienced hospitality design and development professional with 25 years’ experience in mixed-use projects development across the GCC and EMEA working for companies including Rotana Hotels. There he set up the Tech Services & Project Dept delivering the company’s ambitious expansion plans and growing portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and branded residences. Prior to joining Diriyah he was the Corporate Vice President Projects for Rotana, heading a team of architects, interior designers and engineers monitoring the aggressive expansion plans of the company, as well as various renovation projects across the portfolio. During his tenure, the team delivered 80 new hotels across the region. He is the holder of a master’s degree in architecture from the Lebanese university, an Executive MBA from INSEAD, and a Certificate in Commercial Real Estate Analysis & Investment from MIT SA+P.
Arjan Pit
Managing Director MEA
UNStudio Middle East FZ LLC
Arjan Pit is the Managing Director of UNS Dubai, specializing in strategic leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stakeholder engagement. With extensive international experience across Europe, China, and the Middle East, he ensures projects align with client ambitions while driving innovation and sustainable growth. Arjan is an innovator in architecture and urban planning, combining a big-picture mindset with a people-first approach. He has led and contributed to large-scale urban developments, mixed-use complexes, hospitality, residential, and cultural projects, creating impactful environments tailored to diverse cultural and economic contexts. He also works closely with government entities, investors, and private developers, offering advisory services on design excellence, project feasibility, and execution strategies. At UNS Dubai, Arjan focuses on expanding the firm’s presence in the Middle East, cultivating key partnerships, and shaping the built environment through visionary design and strategic business development.
Arjan Pit
Managing Director MEA
UNStudio Middle East FZ LLC
Arjan Pit is the Managing Director of UNS Dubai, specializing in strategic leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stakeholder engagement. With extensive international experience across Europe, China, and the Middle East, he ensures projects align with client ambitions while driving innovation and sustainable growth. Arjan is an innovator in architecture and urban planning, combining a big-picture mindset with a people-first approach. He has led and contributed to large-scale urban developments, mixed-use complexes, hospitality, residential, and cultural projects, creating impactful environments tailored to diverse cultural and economic contexts. He also works closely with government entities, investors, and private developers, offering advisory services on design excellence, project feasibility, and execution strategies. At UNS Dubai, Arjan focuses on expanding the firm’s presence in the Middle East, cultivating key partnerships, and shaping the built environment through visionary design and strategic business development.
Harmen De Jong
Regional Partner – Head of Consulting
Knight Frank
Professional Experience Harmen has been involved in real estate development advisory in the Middle East since 2006 and joined Knight Frank as a Partner in 2014 where he leads the Consulting Solutions Group in the Middle East with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia.Harmen established and/or oversees more than 10 service lines covering specialist areas of expertise ranging from hospitality to retail and from Property Asset Management to ESG. He is a member of the firm’s Saudi Steering Group. Harmen advised Clients on optimum investment strategies pertaining to capital projects with a combined value of over USD 500 bn. in geographic markets such as the Middle East, Asia, CIS and South America on behalf of investment funds, real estate developers and hotel management companies. His strengths include real estate development strategy, feasibility assessments and highest and best use analyses. Relevant Skills / Experience Development Strategy: Involved in a number of large scale mixed-use projects with leading real estate developers and (semi) government authorities. The size of projects he advised on varied from standalone hotel resorts to new city developments with an anticipated population of more than 100,000 inhabitants.Transactional Support: Financial assessment and bid support to a private sector developer to develop high quality, sustainable housing communities and facilities for the employees of various government entities. Financial Feasibility Assessment: Involved in various engagements including a number of giga projects in Saudi Arabia which required market sizing and in depth financial analysis.
Harmen De Jong
Regional Partner – Head of Consulting
Knight Frank
Professional Experience Harmen has been involved in real estate development advisory in the Middle East since 2006 and joined Knight Frank as a Partner in 2014 where he leads the Consulting Solutions Group in the Middle East with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia.Harmen established and/or oversees more than 10 service lines covering specialist areas of expertise ranging from hospitality to retail and from Property Asset Management to ESG. He is a member of the firm’s Saudi Steering Group. Harmen advised Clients on optimum investment strategies pertaining to capital projects with a combined value of over USD 500 bn. in geographic markets such as the Middle East, Asia, CIS and South America on behalf of investment funds, real estate developers and hotel management companies. His strengths include real estate development strategy, feasibility assessments and highest and best use analyses. Relevant Skills / Experience Development Strategy: Involved in a number of large scale mixed-use projects with leading real estate developers and (semi) government authorities. The size of projects he advised on varied from standalone hotel resorts to new city developments with an anticipated population of more than 100,000 inhabitants.Transactional Support: Financial assessment and bid support to a private sector developer to develop high quality, sustainable housing communities and facilities for the employees of various government entities. Financial Feasibility Assessment: Involved in various engagements including a number of giga projects in Saudi Arabia which required market sizing and in depth financial analysis.
Henrique Dias
Principal I Middle East Hospitality & Mixed-Use Design Director
DLR Group
Henrique Dias is an award-winning architect and Design Director at DLR Group Middle East with over 20 years of international experience across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His portfolio spans hospitality, mixed-use, and residential projects for leading clients. Known for blending practical functionality with visionary design, Henrique brings a global perspective to every project with a design ethos centered on human experience environmental stewardship, and timeless architecture that harmonizes with its cultural and physical context.
Henrique Dias
Principal I Middle East Hospitality & Mixed-Use Design Director
DLR Group
Henrique Dias is an award-winning architect and Design Director at DLR Group Middle East with over 20 years of international experience across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His portfolio spans hospitality, mixed-use, and residential projects for leading clients. Known for blending practical functionality with visionary design, Henrique brings a global perspective to every project with a design ethos centered on human experience environmental stewardship, and timeless architecture that harmonizes with its cultural and physical context.
John Fekete
General Manager – Saudi Arabia
CBRE | Middle East
John joins CBRE from Qiddiya, where he served as the Executive Director of Real Estate Strategy, spearheading the Office, Retail and Residential Strategy of one of Saudi Arabia's most ambitious projects as part of the Vision 2030 initiative. Prior to this, he held senior positions at JLL in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, where he played a crucial role in shaping real estate strategies across the Middle East and North Africa.Throughout his career, John has demonstrated expertise in urban planning, transactions, property management, investment management, and strategic planning. In his previous roles, he managed real estate strategies across multiple countries in the EMEA region including his role at Citigroup as EMEA Head of Real Estate. In his role at CBRE, John will oversee CBRE MENA’s Advisory Operations in the Kingdom, collaborating closely with the local, regional and global teams to ensure the delivery of exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients.
John Fekete
General Manager – Saudi Arabia
CBRE | Middle East
John joins CBRE from Qiddiya, where he served as the Executive Director of Real Estate Strategy, spearheading the Office, Retail and Residential Strategy of one of Saudi Arabia's most ambitious projects as part of the Vision 2030 initiative. Prior to this, he held senior positions at JLL in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, where he played a crucial role in shaping real estate strategies across the Middle East and North Africa.Throughout his career, John has demonstrated expertise in urban planning, transactions, property management, investment management, and strategic planning. In his previous roles, he managed real estate strategies across multiple countries in the EMEA region including his role at Citigroup as EMEA Head of Real Estate. In his role at CBRE, John will oversee CBRE MENA’s Advisory Operations in the Kingdom, collaborating closely with the local, regional and global teams to ensure the delivery of exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients.
Sanjay Tanwani
Regional Director
AECOM
Sanjay leads the Urbanism + Planning studio at AECOM for the Middle East and Africa, steering large-scale development strategies across dynamic and rapidly evolving markets. A masterplanner and urban designer by training, he is also instrumental in shaping AECOM’s entry and positioning in emerging international markets. With over two decades of experience across 25 countries—including key projects in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Latin America—Sanjay specializes in unlocking value through integrated planning, urban regeneration, and destination development. His portfolio spans strategic masterplans, transport-oriented development, and heritage-led urban renewal—often at the intersection of public ambition and private capital. Recognized as a trusted advisor to sovereign wealth funds, REITs, multinational developers, and venture capital-backed platforms, Sanjay brings both design vision and commercial insight to complex, high-stakes urban initiatives. Before joining AECOM, Sanjay led the international planning portfolio at Atkins UK, where he oversaw the London studio's global operations. Beyond his professional commitments, he has served as a Governor of Goodenough College (a Royal Charity) and as Chair of its International Relations Society—reflecting a longstanding commitment to cross-cultural dialogue and leadership.
Sanjay Tanwani
Regional Director
AECOM
Sanjay leads the Urbanism + Planning studio at AECOM for the Middle East and Africa, steering large-scale development strategies across dynamic and rapidly evolving markets. A masterplanner and urban designer by training, he is also instrumental in shaping AECOM’s entry and positioning in emerging international markets. With over two decades of experience across 25 countries—including key projects in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Latin America—Sanjay specializes in unlocking value through integrated planning, urban regeneration, and destination development. His portfolio spans strategic masterplans, transport-oriented development, and heritage-led urban renewal—often at the intersection of public ambition and private capital. Recognized as a trusted advisor to sovereign wealth funds, REITs, multinational developers, and venture capital-backed platforms, Sanjay brings both design vision and commercial insight to complex, high-stakes urban initiatives. Before joining AECOM, Sanjay led the international planning portfolio at Atkins UK, where he oversaw the London studio's global operations. Beyond his professional commitments, he has served as a Governor of Goodenough College (a Royal Charity) and as Chair of its International Relations Society—reflecting a longstanding commitment to cross-cultural dialogue and leadership.