Speakers UAE
Lt. Colonel Dr. Essa Almutawa
Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Dubai Civil Defense (DCD)
Lt. Colonel Dr. Essa Almutawa
Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Dubai Civil Defense (DCD)Lt. Colonel Dr. Essa Almutawa is the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, the Head of Global Indicators for Fire Incidents, and the Director of the Department of Monitoring and Inspection at Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) in the United Arab Emirates. In his current position, Dr. Essa leads the development and implementation of strategic initiatives for the Department of Monitoring and Inspection at the DCD, ensuring that all safety protocols, inspection procedures, and regulatory practices comply with international and national standards of excellence and quality. As Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, he has established a new strategic approach for AI integration within Dubai Civil Defense, focusing on fostering a culture that prioritizes and accelerates the adoption of AI technologies across the organization. Dr. Essa has an extensive background in proactive and progress monitoring, information security governance, and crisis management. He holds a Master's in Crisis and Disaster Management from the University of Modern Sciences and a Master's in Digital Governance and Innovation from the University of Central Lancashire. He also holds a Diploma in Leadership and Digital Transformation, as well as a Doctor of Business Administration and Leadership from the University of Gloucestershire. Known for his strategic leadership, Dr Essa has been instrumental in driving innovation and excellence within Dubai Civil Defense, positioning the organisation at the forefront of safety and technological advancement in the region.
Hussain Alharthi
Data Platforms Director, Department of Government Enablement
Nasser Matar Alneyadi
Head of Digital Security Department, Ministry of Interior, UAE
Nasser Matar Alneyadi
Head of Digital Security Department, Ministry of Interior, UAEI am an Information Security technocrat passionate about transforming industry risks into strategic technology roadmaps and robust security programs. Currently, I head the Digital Security Department at the Ministry of Interior (UAE) and serve as an Advisory Board Member at ESAFE. My expertise lies in integrating people, processes, and technology to develop proactive defense strategies and enhance security maturity, aligning with key cybersecurity frameworks. I believe in integrity, transparency, and collaboration. Honesty and clear communication are central to my leadership approach. I value diverse perspectives, fostering an inclusive environment where teamwork thrives. I am highly adaptable and continuously seek opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge. My passion for cybersecurity drives me to tackle every challenge with a forward-thinking mindset, ensuring digital resilience and security innovation in every initiative I lead
Saif Bamadhaf Al Katheeri
Director of IT and Smart Government Services, Department of Energy- Abu Dhabi
Saif Bamadhaf Al Katheeri
Director of IT and Smart Government Services, Department of Energy- Abu DhabiMr. Saif started his career as a network engineer at ADNOC HQ in Abu Dhabi in 1995 and since then he has lead a career in Information & communication Technology to become Head of IT Dept. in ADNOC HQ. He later joined Higher Colleagues of Technology as the Chief Technology Officer, 4 years later he was appointed as Chairman Advisor to the Department of Municipalities and Transport. Currently he is the Digital lead in Abu Dhabi Government.
Awadh AlMur
Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation
Marwan Mohamed Al Marzooqi
IT Director, Tadweer Group
Munther Bin Amro
CIO, Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council
Linoy Kidd
CIO | Markets & Securities Services MENAT, HSBC Bank Middle East Limited
Linoy Kidd
CIO | Markets & Securities Services MENAT, HSBC Bank Middle East LimitedLinoy is the MSS CIO of Markets Security Services MENAT and is based in Dubai. She has worked for HSBC for 17 years and worked in Mexico, London, Hong Kong and China building teams. On the side she builds schools in – she has built 7 so far in Malawi, Senegal, Haiti, Mexico and Nicaragua.
Dr. Abrar Abdulnabi
Director of Artificial Intelligence, Saal.ai
Dr. Haroun Dharsey
Chief Information Officer– IT & Operations, Deem Finance
Dr. Haroun Dharsey
Chief Information Officer– IT & Operations, Deem FinanceDr. Haroun Dharsey is a distinguished leader in the field of information technology and operations within the banking sector. Currently serving as the Chief Information Officer at Deem Finance, Dr. Dharsey brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role, driving innovation and strategic initiatives in financial technology. Prior to his tenure at Deem Finance, Dr. Dharsey was the Manager of Group Operations at Emirates NBD, one of the largest banking groups in the Middle East. In this position, he played a crucial role in optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing the overall performance of the organization. Dr. Dharsey's extensive career also includes 17 years at Dubai Islamic Bank, where he held prominent positions as the Head of Information Technology and the Head of Technology and Projects. His leadership was instrumental in implementing cutting-edge technology solutions and overseeing major projects that advanced the bank's operational capabilities. In addition to his corporate roles, Dr. Dharsey served as the Chairman of the IT Committee at the UAE Banking Federation. In this capacity, he contributed significantly to shaping the IT landscape of the banking sector in the UAE, fostering collaboration and innovation among financial institutions. Dr. Dharsey's contributions to the field of technology and banking have been recognized throughout his career, and he continues to be a driving force in enhancing the digital transformation of the financial services industry.
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Information Security Engineering, Leading International UAE Bank
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Information Security Engineering, Leading International UAE BankAhmed Nabil has more than 20 years of experience in the field of Information Security, Technology/Systems, Infrastructure, Project Management, Cyber Defense, Application Automation, Cloud Architecture, IT management and holds several professional certifications from Microsoft, CISCO, ISACA, ISC2, PMI, IAPP, CWNP, PECB, CSA and EC- Council. Ahmed is an industry expert in Information Security and Digital Transformation, public speaker at several international conferences (Microsoft Ignite the Tour, ITCamp Cluj, CISO Africa Summit, GISEC UAE, Egypt CSCAMP, Cyber in Africa, Arab Security Camp, SAYA, SharePoint Saturdays, CloudWeekend, Credence, Global CISO Forum…..etc.) and author of several international published articles and a book on M365 Security technologies co-authored with other fellow MVPs. Ahmed Nabil has a BS in Electrical and Control Engineering, MSc in Business Information Technology and Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Muhammad Azam
Digital Transformation Manager, Abu Dhabi National Takaful Co. PSC
Aditya Kaushik
Director Of Information Communication Technology (ICT Head), ZMI Holdings
Aditya Kaushik
Director Of Information Communication Technology (ICT Head), ZMI HoldingsDirector of Information Communication Technology (ICT) at Zakher Marine International Inc (ZMI Holdings), a leading provider of offshore marine services in the Middle East. With over 23 years of cross-functional experience in Information Technology and Aviation (Operations & Business Development), I have a strong background in IT Strategy, IT Service Delivery, Business Transformation, Digital Transformation, New Business Development, and Key Account Management. I hold an MBA degree and several certifications, including Certified Digital Transformation Practitioner (CDTP) and Certified Chief Information Security Officer (C-CISO). In my current role, I lead a strategic initiative to evaluate and bridge the technology enablement gaps within the business, develop and execute a technology roadmap to transform the business functions through the adoption of the right technology, and work as a technology business partner to design and deliver an adoption framework that provides the optimum returns through the mix of effective business applications, enhanced integrations, and efficient decision insights. My mission is to leverage my IT and business expertise to enable and empower the business outcomes and growth of an Organization and its stakeholders. I have successfully led and managed IT projects, IT operations, IT transformations, and IT services across various industries, including Aviation, Construction, Oil & Gas, and ManufacturingI am driven by a high level of self-motivation, problem-solving, analytical thinking, effective leadership, and communication skills.
Harsh Daftary
Head of Cloud Security and Compliance, Leading bank in UAE
Harsh Daftary
Head of Cloud Security and Compliance, Leading bank in UAEHarsh Daftary is a Cloud Security Architect renowned for his innovative approach to designing and securing advanced, scalable, and high-performance computer systems with a strong emphasis on compliance. Beyond his professional expertise, he is a public speaker, skydiver, and licensed private pilot. At the age of 20, he achieved the remarkable feat of climbing Kanchenjunga, the highest mountain in India. In his current role, Harsh serves as the Head of Cloud Security and Compliance at one of the leading banks in the Middle East. His contributions to the field have been recognized by industry peers; notably, he was honored at various Security conferences globally for his research papers, 0 day vulnerabilities and overall stratigic initiatives for improving cyber security. He holds patent on "AI Powered secure in-memory Database" Harsh's diverse interests and achievements reflect his multifaceted personality and commitment to excellence in both his personal and professional endeavors.
Awad Ahmed Ali El-Sidiq
Head of Artificial Intelligent & Analytics, ADNOC Distribution
Awad Ahmed Ali El-Sidiq
Head of Artificial Intelligent & Analytics, ADNOC DistributionMr. Awad Ahmed Ali El-Sidiq (Chief Data Officer of the year 2023 , Award Winner of Best AI Project Implementation for Energy and Utilities Sector 2022 – 2023 & Award Winner of Oracle Worldwide DBA Excellence Award for EMEA Region at Open World USA 2013) is Head of Artificial intelligence & Analytics at ADNOC Distribution – U.A.E, Key Member on Data warehouse – Big Data Worldwide Leader Program. With more than 15 years of IT Industry experience in architecting and managing large enterprise Database Applications and Advance Analytics Solutions for delivering services to more than 10,000 users and millions of customers across all ADNOC Distribution businesses. Pioneer in Implementing BI & Advance Analytics (AI/ML) Solutions in Oil and Gas industry in Middle East & Africa region (MEA). His dedication and initiatives has been recognized globally. Has led major AI/ML Use Cases Development and Deployment with huge Business Revenues and Benefits. One of the First Globally to Implement and Consolidate Successfully Enterprise Critical Production Databases using Oracle Exadata , Exalogic and Private Cloud Appliance in EMEA Region.
Dr. Munir Majdalawieh
Head of the Information Systems and Technology Management Department, Zayed University
Dr. Munir Majdalawieh
Head of the Information Systems and Technology Management Department, Zayed UniversityDr. Munir Majdalawieh is the chair for the Information Systems and Technology Management Department (ISTM) in the College of Technological Innovation at Zayed University (ZU). Prior to joining ZU in 2012, he worked at the American University of Sharjah for 6 years and at Booz Allen Hamilton, Hewlett-Packard HP, Compaq, and Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) in the USA for more than 22 years. He has been teaching in the undergraduate and graduate programs. He has published several peer-reviewed papers in international journals and conference proceedings and received several research funds to carry out research in several topics related to IS/IT and IS management.
Kevin Neogy
Group Head of Digital Transformation & AI, The Kanoo Group
Kevin Neogy
Group Head of Digital Transformation & AI, The Kanoo Group
Srinivasa Narasimaiah
IT Director, Julphar Gulf Pharmaceuticals
Srinivasa Narasimaiah
IT Director, Julphar Gulf PharmaceuticalsSrinivasa N is a distinguished IT executive with over two decades of experience in driving digital transformation and enhancing business growth through innovative technology solutions. His career is marked by a series of strategic roles in leading global corporations, where he has consistently demonstrated his expertise in ERP SAP, AI, IoT, data analytics, IT security, and project management. Early Life and Education Srinivasa's journey in the field of technology began with a strong educational foundation. He holds a Diploma in Electronics & Communications Engineering, a bachelor’s in business administration, and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). His commitment to continuous learning is evident from his participation in the Strategic Leadership Program at Harvard Business School and the Digital Strategies for Business program at Columbia Business School. Professional Career Julphar Gulf Pharmaceuticals UAE (2020 – Present) Currently, Srinivasa serves as the Director of IT (CIO) at Julphar Gulf Pharmaceuticals in the UAE. In this role, he has been instrumental in transforming the organization towards a digital, data-driven, and Pharma 4.0/Industry 4.0 environment. His strategic initiatives include devising the IT strategy for 2030, implementing SAP S4 HANA, and leading AI and analytics projects. Under his leadership, Julphar has successfully completed several core transformations in SAP ERP, data governance, and IT security. Novo Nordisk Service Center India Pvt. Ltd. (2016 – 2019) As the Director of IT Global Business Service Centre at Novo Nordisk, Srinivasa directed global IT platforms, business integration, and robotic process automation (RPA). He managed overall transformation and technology operations, leading a team of over 100 IT specialists. His efforts in establishing IT strategy and managing IT operations significantly contributed to the organization's success. Novo Nordisk Service Centre (India) Private Limited (2012 – 2015) In his role as VP Corporate IT India, Srinivasa spearheaded the IT Global Service Centre in Bangalore, growing it to over 400 IT professionals. He closely monitored various IT services, including system management, project management, and compliance management. His leadership was pivotal in supporting the growth of Novo Nordisk in a cost-effective manner. Novo Nordisk (2006 – 2012) Srinivasa's tenure at Novo Nordisk saw him in various strategic roles, including Head of Information Technology for the ROFE/BAOS region and Manager of Systems and Network Security. He was responsible for setting up the IT Shared Service Centre in India and implementing ITIL processes. His contributions were crucial in devising and implementing international operations business IT strategies. Achievements and Awards Srinivasa's exceptional contributions to the field of IT have been recognized with numerous awards, including:
- CIO 100 Award (IDG UAE) – 2024
- Business Transformation Top Executive Award UAE – 2022, 2023
- SAP Digital Supply Chain Award UAE – 2021
- World CIO 200 UAE – 2021, 2022, 2023
Abdel Kader Es Slami Houssine
Director of Ai, e& Enterprise
Abdel Kader Es Slami Houssine
Director of Ai, e& EnterpriseKader holds a PhD degree in Physics from Valladolid University (Spain). He has over 23+ years of experience in ICT / Digital, Data and Analytics, working in different position on Digital transformation, Business intelligence technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Big Data, e-Government and Educational Technologies. He is considered as an International and multicultural leader with an extensive experience in business management, innovation in digital services, disruptive business models and growth strategies combined with a strong commercial, financial and technical background. He is participating in Developing and executing Data strategy to leverage emerging technologies such as AI and Machine Learning as a strategic competitive advantage He has a master degree in Management and Business Administration from Madrid University. Currently he is leading the Artificial Intelligence and Smart Data practice in e& enterprise.
Ezgi Selcuk
Business Development Manager, LimonCloud IT Services FZE
P. Sathyamurthy
Sales Director, IDM Technologies
P. Sathyamurthy
Sales Director, IDM TechnologiesSathya’s extensive sales and business development capabilities in Identity & Access Management (IAM) solutions & services, for over fifteen years, to commercial and public sector organizations across the Middle East are remarkable. With his pleasing approach and management style, Sathya’s track record in engaging with clients proves complete client trust and satisfaction. His understanding of local customs and culture, and his longevity in the GCC marketplace are of immense value. Before joining IDM Technologies, Sathya held key positions at multi-national companies including Simeio, Magirus, Novell, and Tech Data. In 1992, Sathya graduated from the Hindustan Institute of Engineering Technology.
Vishal Anand
Head of Digital Excellence, Sinyar Hospitality
Vishal Anand
Head of Digital Excellence, Sinyar HospitalityA senior management professional with more than 26 years of experience in managing multiple disciplines across Information Technology (IT), Destination Management(DMC) , Retail, Hospitality and Human Resources (HR) in a world class organisations. This includes 16+ years of experience in creating business & IT strategies, operational planning, building high performance teams and implementation of change across the entire Human Resources and Leisure domains. • Currently the Head of Digital Excellence at Sinyar Hospitality responsible for driving digital transformation – digital channels & backoffice, workplace productivity tools, analytics and driving innovation, change and business enabling technology outcomes for the Hospitality vertical of Sinyar • Performed Head of IT function at Dubai Holding Hospitality Asset Management and Jumeirah Restaurants responsible for driving digital transformation and change. • Recognized as Top 100 Future CIO 2023 by HotTopics, an award which have been nominated by a community of 15,000 global executives and selected by esteemed panel of judges. This recognizes the top global executives leading business transformation efforts in their respective organisations. • Recognized as the Top 100 Digital Transformation Leader in UAE for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to advancing technology in the region and have demonstrated outstanding skills, vision, and innovation, propelling the digital transformation landscape of the UAE to new heights. • Led the business process definition, solution architecture , Integration Landscape and data management, overseeing IBM ( integration partner) and implementation of SAP ERP suite of products as part of Group Transformation at Emirates Group • Managed the corporate HR systems across Emirates Group – a 90 million AED portfolio covering Hire to Retire lifecycle systems • Implemented Business solutions, multiple innovations and managed change for multiple disciplines across operations and Backoffice functions includes Oracle suite of products. • Established and managed on-going services/contracts of Offshore Centres with Infosys, CSC and NIIT • Provided leadership & guidance to 40 project mgrs delivering transformation projects across the Group • An industry leader having won external awards (MUSE gold winner 2018, MEA Platinum winner 2017, IDC 2022, HotTopics 2023, DT100 2023 ) and many internal awards for implementation of innovative projects. • Recognized industry expert - Keynote speaker and panel member at numerous industry events and forums
Ammara Aftab
Founder & CEO, PRO AI GLOBAL
Ammara Aftab
Founder & CEO, PRO AI GLOBALAmmara Aftab (AI Lady) is a trailblazer reshaping the AI landscape both within the country and on a global stage. She is leading one of the world’s fastest-growing AI communities, Pro AI Global, with a presence in 26 countries, uniting AI experts, researchers, and professionals to drive innovation, collaboration, and AI adoption worldwide. Through her leadership, Pro AI Global is bridging the gap between AI enthusiasts, startups, and established industry leaders, fostering a thriving ecosystem where knowledge-sharing and technological advancements go hand in hand. Ammara is the visionary founder and CEO of Pro AI Global, an organization dedicated to fostering a global AI community that connects AI professionals, policymakers, and businesses across borders. She works closely with embassies and international organizations to harness AI’s potential across diverse industries, ensuring that AI solutions are not just developed but effectively implemented for societal and economic impact. By organizing global AI events, training sessions, and networking opportunities, Ammara is creating a platform where AI experts and enthusiasts can collaborate, exchange ideas, and shape the future of AI together. As a certified chief AI officer and an AI advisor to the Cambridge Teachers Network, Ammara is at the forefront of integrating AI into education and inspiring innovation. She believes in AI for all and works tirelessly to create opportunities that enable individuals and businesses to leverage AI for growth and transformation. Ammara’s commitment to empowering others is evident through her work as a corporate AI trainer. With over 20 certifications in AI, she designs and delivers tailored training programs that equip professionals with cutting-edge skills in this rapidly evolving domain. Her efforts continue to inspire countless women in tech, solidifying her position as a leading female figure in AI in Pakistan. In addition to her corporate training, Ammara hosts Pakistan’s first AI podcast, a platform that promotes Pakistani AI businesses internationally. Through this initiative, she helps local businesses expand their reach, export expertise, and boost their market presence. Her impressive academic foundation, including a master’s degree in applied statistics, complements her extensive experience in data-driven strategies, digital marketing, and organizational growth. Ammara has worked on significant projects, such as CPEC initiatives, gaining invaluable global insights into the AI sector. Her vision for Pro AI Global is to make it the world’s largest AI community, bringing together AI pioneers to create a more connected and AI-driven world.
Salman Ikram
CEO, Future AI (Factory for EMS)
Salman Ikram
CEO, Future AI (Factory for EMS)Experienced & result-oriented Telematics Consultant with expanded experience in management of high-level business process strategies having extensive expertise in developing Vehicle Tracking Solution, ERP & CRM covering end-to-end Integration with multiple products. Excellent organizational skills and proven leadership ability. Hands on experience in diverse start-ups of Tracking/ IOT Industry in the UAE, Russia, Oman, Qatar, Pakistan, Jordan and Saudi Arabia with proven success stories to solve immediate needs of communities at larger scale globally. Proven track record of managing IT operations covering Systems, Network (LAN, VLAN, WAN, IP-VPN), NOC, Data Center, Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity Planning, Risk Assessment & Management, Storage Capacity Planning, Information Security Framework, Data Backup Strategy, Anti-Virus management, Help Desk & Support functions. Experience working with end users to create business analysis and business process mappings in addition to development of testable system requirements, functional specifications and test cases. Evaluate, design and implement new technological developments. Proven skills in working with cross-functional teams with dynamic business requirements to identify innovative solutions that anticipate and effectively address the future impact of changing business needs and objectives Strong team-building, motivational and conflict resolution skills along with pro-active Information Technology Infrastructure monitoring with expertise in Information Technology Strategy formulation & Business Alignment. Certifications: MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) and Practiced PMP (Project Management Professional) Page 1 of 3 Experience Future AI Factory Chief Executive Officer June 2024 - Present (9 months) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Trackingme Ltd Co-Founder & COO September 2023 - Present (1 year 6 months) Toronto, Ontario, Canada Tracking 4 years 8 months Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer August 2022 - June 2024 (1 year 11 months) Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi ArabiaCo Founder & Technical Director January 2021 - August 2022 (1 year 8 months) Dubai, United Arab Emirates General Manager November 2019 - January 2021 (1 year 3 months) Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia Arabitra EPC-KSA COO & Head of Telematics Division January 2017 - October 2019 (2 years 10 months) Al-Khobar Governorate, Saudi Arabia TRACK-KEEPER TECHNOLOGIES LTD Regional Director January 2014 - December 2016 (3 years) Dubai, UAE EURO TRACK Chief Technology Officer June 2012 - January 2014 (1 year 8 months) Moscow, Moscow City, Russia Page 2 of 3 Trakker Middle East Head of IT & Project Manager December 2007 - June 2012 (4 years 7 months) Dubai, United Arab Emirates Seidco General Contracting Company Senior System Analyst July 2006 - December 2007 (1 year 6 months) Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Com Technologies Research Development Software Engineer October 2004 - June 2006 (1 year 9 months) Lahore District, Punjab, Pakistan Arslogica Sistemi Srl Researcher February 2005 - September 2005 (8 months) Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy National Development Complex Researcher February 2004 - September 2004 (8 months) Islamabad, Islāmābād, Pakistan Taza Technologies Software Engineer June 2001 - July 2003 (2 years 2 months) Lahore District, Punjab, Pakistan Education UCAM Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia Doctor's Degree, Artificial Intelligence · (January 2025 - June 2027) COMSATS Institute of Information and Technology Master’s Degree, Computer Science · (2002 - 2004)
Ahmed Mahmoud
Founder, CEO, DXwand
Ahmed Mahmoud
Founder, CEO, DXwandAt industry giants, such as Microsoft and Vodafone, Ahmed led major digital transformations such as the modernization of national legacy systems. This required mastering complex technologies while navigating stakeholder expectations, securing cross-functional buy-in, and driving rapid executions. 𝐃𝐗𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 Ahmed founded DXwand in 2018, with a mission to bridge the region gap in AI and empower businesses with AI that understands the region's unique cultural and linguistic landscape. Ahmed secured 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 $6 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 in funding, including a pivotal round during the 2023 downturn, that validates both our innovative solutions and the region's readiness for our tailored AI.
Ali Katkhada
Group CIO, DEPA Group
Ali Katkhada
Group CIO, DEPA GroupAli Katkhada, Group CIO at Depa Group (public listed corporate), is a seasoned executive specializing in digital transformation and corporate innovation. With a proven track record in global markets, Ali excels at board-level engagement and cross-functional team leadership. His expertise spans IT Governance, Enterprise Architecture, and emerging technologies like Web 3.0, Blockchain and DeFi. A multi-certified professional, Ali is also an influential advisor and public speaker. He is a recipient of the Top CIO Award.
