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Hicham Hassouni is the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Boutique Group, a hospitality company fully owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. In his current role, Hassouni is dedicated to elevating standards with strategic insights and an innovative approach to drive growth and contribute to the Boutique Group’s continued success. With a sharp understanding of market trends and a customer-focused mindset, he integrates analytical thinking with an unwavering commitment for the hospitality industry. Hassouni has more than two decades of experience in the ultra-luxury hospitality and real estate sectors across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He previously held leadership positions and advisory roles at top-tier companies, including MEA and Indian Ocean Vice-President at Rosewood Hotel Group and Vice-President of MEA for luxury brands at AccorHotels. Hassouni also served in key roles at Jones Lang LaSalle as the Vice President of Hotels, and Senior Manager and Member of the Executive Committee at Colliers International. Hassouni holds a master’s degree in management from NEOMA Business School, an AMBA-accredited institution in France.
Hicham Hassouni Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer
Hicham Hassouni is the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Boutique Group, a hospitality company fully owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. In his current role, Hassouni is dedicated to elevating standards with strategic insights and an innovative approach to drive growth and contribute to the Boutique Group’s continued success. With a sharp understanding of market trends and a customer-focused mindset, he integrates analytical thinking with an unwavering commitment for the hospitality industry. Hassouni has more than two decades of experience in the ultra-luxury hospitality and real estate sectors across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He previously held leadership positions and advisory roles at top-tier companies, including MEA and Indian Ocean Vice-President at Rosewood Hotel Group and Vice-President of MEA for luxury brands at AccorHotels. Hassouni also served in key roles at Jones Lang LaSalle as the Vice President of Hotels, and Senior Manager and Member of the Executive Committee at Colliers International. Hassouni holds a master’s degree in management from NEOMA Business School, an AMBA-accredited institution in France.
Hicham Hassouni Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer
Joe Tabet is an innovative visionary architect wearing different hats, with +20 years of professional experience in worldwide architecture and construction industry. Joe founded JT&Partners in 2015, starting with a handful of staff in a +100sqm office in Business Bay, Dubai. The company became an “overnight success”, earning recognition as an acclaimed international multidisciplinary consultant with impressive projects located in global destinations. He creates buildings and communities that transcend design and encompass social and environmental issues. Joe, JT&Partners and its projects received awards and recognitions from Cityscape, MEA, Arabian Property, UAE Business Awards, UAP Dubai. Recent completed projects include hotels in RAK, Seychelles and Egypt. Ongoing and upcoming projects include residential towers and villas, hotels, resorts, golf course, waterpark and hospital in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, RAK, Sharjah, Egypt, Greece and KSA. Always alert to the latest trends and with eyes towards the future, he pushes his staff into looking at innovation, Internet of Things, digital twin, 3D printing, modeler construction and invests in the newest multi-media technology and up-to-date state-of-the-art tools. n the span of seven years, despite economic slumps and pandemic challenges, Joe persevered, formulated vision/ mission, planned everything around the future, from business strategy to financial situation and started exploring for work in different geographies and other sectors like healthcare. Subsequently, JT&Partners grew to more than twice its original size. His initial staff rose to +125, its Dubai office increased to +1000sqm and the company expanded its practice to Abu Dhabi and Beirut. Taking advantage of multi-skilled resources availability in the region, Joe employed people from multi-cultural backgrounds, of +15 different nationalities with diverse professional experiences. Thus, JT&Partners has an energetic, collaborative, creative team of innovative individuals with their fingers on the pulse of global architecture and construction, from latest technologies and trends, to oldest traditions, producing bespoke designs that reflect diversity in culture, experience and understanding. Joe is a firm believer of applying innovation at different levels: design, business, client approach, project approach and good support team. He uses “unconventional” management strategies for JT&Partners to sustain its reputation as a world-renown consultant, delivering iconic, environmental and socially sustainable projects world-wide as well as retaining and expanding his clientele and contacts. A talented, insightful and creative architect, he has the gift of being able to understand, interpret local cultural requirements/ aspirations and reflecting all these into cost-effective building design solutions Proactive in his commitments to CSR, Joe is heavily involved in raising awareness on sociable/sustainable communities, giving his team good health/financial benefits, fostering future generation, conducting business ethically/fairly, supporting worthy causes. Outside of the practice, he attends international industry related exhibits, actively participates in university lectures/ panel discussions and grants interviews to share his knowledge, experiences, viewpoints. Joe is an inspiration to designers and architects. He achieved success through his innovative ideas in design and management, creativity to “think outside of the box” and being a flexible and adaptable visionary. To be ranked amongst the most powerful architects and influencers in the Region is an honour for Joe.
Joe Tabet Managing Director
Joe Tabet is an innovative visionary architect wearing different hats, with +20 years of professional experience in worldwide architecture and construction industry. Joe founded JT&Partners in 2015, starting with a handful of staff in a +100sqm office in Business Bay, Dubai. The company became an “overnight success”, earning recognition as an acclaimed international multidisciplinary consultant with impressive projects located in global destinations. He creates buildings and communities that transcend design and encompass social and environmental issues. Joe, JT&Partners and its projects received awards and recognitions from Cityscape, MEA, Arabian Property, UAE Business Awards, UAP Dubai. Recent completed projects include hotels in RAK, Seychelles and Egypt. Ongoing and upcoming projects include residential towers and villas, hotels, resorts, golf course, waterpark and hospital in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, RAK, Sharjah, Egypt, Greece and KSA. Always alert to the latest trends and with eyes towards the future, he pushes his staff into looking at innovation, Internet of Things, digital twin, 3D printing, modeler construction and invests in the newest multi-media technology and up-to-date state-of-the-art tools. n the span of seven years, despite economic slumps and pandemic challenges, Joe persevered, formulated vision/ mission, planned everything around the future, from business strategy to financial situation and started exploring for work in different geographies and other sectors like healthcare. Subsequently, JT&Partners grew to more than twice its original size. His initial staff rose to +125, its Dubai office increased to +1000sqm and the company expanded its practice to Abu Dhabi and Beirut. Taking advantage of multi-skilled resources availability in the region, Joe employed people from multi-cultural backgrounds, of +15 different nationalities with diverse professional experiences. Thus, JT&Partners has an energetic, collaborative, creative team of innovative individuals with their fingers on the pulse of global architecture and construction, from latest technologies and trends, to oldest traditions, producing bespoke designs that reflect diversity in culture, experience and understanding. Joe is a firm believer of applying innovation at different levels: design, business, client approach, project approach and good support team. He uses “unconventional” management strategies for JT&Partners to sustain its reputation as a world-renown consultant, delivering iconic, environmental and socially sustainable projects world-wide as well as retaining and expanding his clientele and contacts. A talented, insightful and creative architect, he has the gift of being able to understand, interpret local cultural requirements/ aspirations and reflecting all these into cost-effective building design solutions Proactive in his commitments to CSR, Joe is heavily involved in raising awareness on sociable/sustainable communities, giving his team good health/financial benefits, fostering future generation, conducting business ethically/fairly, supporting worthy causes. Outside of the practice, he attends international industry related exhibits, actively participates in university lectures/ panel discussions and grants interviews to share his knowledge, experiences, viewpoints. Joe is an inspiration to designers and architects. He achieved success through his innovative ideas in design and management, creativity to “think outside of the box” and being a flexible and adaptable visionary. To be ranked amongst the most powerful architects and influencers in the Region is an honour for Joe.
Joe Tabet Managing Director
Jacob Rinard is a Vice President and Program Director at Parsons’ Saudi Arabian operations, known in the Kingdom as Saudi Arabian Parsons Limited (SAPL), which operates as a unit of the US-based Parsons Corporation. Jacob is a distinguished leader with over 25 years of experience in delivering complex international projects across private and government sectors. His expertise lies in program and contract management, where he has demonstrated a keen focus on initiation, execution, and completion while ensuring optimum performance. With a remarkable ability to lead diverse teams, both direct and indirect, spanning domestic and international arenas, Jacob has managed teams reaching upwards of 500 individuals. His proficiency in procurement and contracting is evident in his ability to formulate, manage, and ensure compliance throughout the project lifecycle. Noteworthy is his skill in building strong relationships, fostering trust, and promoting collaboration with clients, stakeholders, and partners across various international markets, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, India, Australia, Jamaica, Panama, and the USA. Once an Enlisted Airman in the United States Air Force, from 1998 to 2001, Jacob embodies the values of commitment, service, and leadership. He has contributed significantly to various projects, including currently leading the $26.7 billion Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI) mega-project in Saudi Arabia, which has had a substantial impact on job creation and economic growth. Throughout his career, Jacob has managed international projects exceeding $30 billion in value, showcasing his adeptness in handling large-scale initiatives. With a team of more than 500 employees in JCPDI, our professionals bring expertise across multiple disciplines including project management, engineering, construction, port operations, urban planning, sustainability, and landscape architecture for our client in Jazan, KSA.
Jacob Rinard Vice President, Program Director
Jacob Rinard is a Vice President and Program Director at Parsons’ Saudi Arabian operations, known in the Kingdom as Saudi Arabian Parsons Limited (SAPL), which operates as a unit of the US-based Parsons Corporation. Jacob is a distinguished leader with over 25 years of experience in delivering complex international projects across private and government sectors. His expertise lies in program and contract management, where he has demonstrated a keen focus on initiation, execution, and completion while ensuring optimum performance. With a remarkable ability to lead diverse teams, both direct and indirect, spanning domestic and international arenas, Jacob has managed teams reaching upwards of 500 individuals. His proficiency in procurement and contracting is evident in his ability to formulate, manage, and ensure compliance throughout the project lifecycle. Noteworthy is his skill in building strong relationships, fostering trust, and promoting collaboration with clients, stakeholders, and partners across various international markets, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, India, Australia, Jamaica, Panama, and the USA. Once an Enlisted Airman in the United States Air Force, from 1998 to 2001, Jacob embodies the values of commitment, service, and leadership. He has contributed significantly to various projects, including currently leading the $26.7 billion Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI) mega-project in Saudi Arabia, which has had a substantial impact on job creation and economic growth. Throughout his career, Jacob has managed international projects exceeding $30 billion in value, showcasing his adeptness in handling large-scale initiatives. With a team of more than 500 employees in JCPDI, our professionals bring expertise across multiple disciplines including project management, engineering, construction, port operations, urban planning, sustainability, and landscape architecture for our client in Jazan, KSA.
Jacob Rinard Vice President, Program Director
Maroun leads the Project & Development Services team in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. He has over 21 years of experience in the property and construction industry, having led and delivered many complex PMO, large-scale urban planning and mixed-use development schemes across GCC and the Middle East. His involvement in projects has varied from working with private and Government sector clients, contractors, project management consultants, architecture firms and client-side developers. Maroun is renowned for his collaborative leadership approach, engaging with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to deliver better project outcomes. He is also a trained Architect and a Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
Maroun Deeb Head of Project and Development Services
Maroun leads the Project & Development Services team in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. He has over 21 years of experience in the property and construction industry, having led and delivered many complex PMO, large-scale urban planning and mixed-use development schemes across GCC and the Middle East. His involvement in projects has varied from working with private and Government sector clients, contractors, project management consultants, architecture firms and client-side developers. Maroun is renowned for his collaborative leadership approach, engaging with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to deliver better project outcomes. He is also a trained Architect and a Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
Maroun Deeb Head of Project and Development Services
Qualifying in 2003 Seif worked in the Middle East, Asia and Europe on several high-profile projects. Joining the practice in 2010 Seif worked on notable projects such as Haramain High Speed Rail Stations, Queen Alia International Airport, Slussen masterplan, Stockholm. In 2016 he was Project Architect for the competition winning design for the Jabal Omar development in Makkah, KSA. Born in London and growing up across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Seif is a keen traveller with an interest in discovering cultures and places.
Seif Bahaa-El-Din Senior Partner
Qualifying in 2003 Seif worked in the Middle East, Asia and Europe on several high-profile projects. Joining the practice in 2010 Seif worked on notable projects such as Haramain High Speed Rail Stations, Queen Alia International Airport, Slussen masterplan, Stockholm. In 2016 he was Project Architect for the competition winning design for the Jabal Omar development in Makkah, KSA. Born in London and growing up across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Seif is a keen traveller with an interest in discovering cultures and places.
Seif Bahaa-El-Din Senior Partner
Professor Sir Peter Cook, a pivotal figure in the global architectural world for over half a century. He is the director of Cook Belacevic Haffner and Partners (CBH) and the founder of the world-renowned architectural group Archigram. Notable roles include leading the Institute for Contemporary Art, London, and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London; recognized for his innovative contributions, he received an honorary doctorate from Lund University in 2010 and the Royal Gold Medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2002 for his work with Archigram. Knighted in 2007, he holds esteemed positions such as Royal Academician and Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et Lettres. Currently a Senior Fellow at the Royal College of Art, London, he also holds professorships at institutions including the Royal Academy and the Hochschule fur Bildende Kunste, Frankfurt-Main. His architectural projects span the globe, including Osaka, Berlin, Frankfurt, Madrid, the Kunsthaus in Graz (with Colin Fournier), and university buildings in Vienna, the Gold Coast Australia, and Bournemouth. Peter’s continuing work as a lecturer of considerable renown makes him a familiar voice within cultural institutions around the world, where many have enjoyed an opportunity to hear Peter expound (among other subjects) upon his love affair with the slithering, the swarming and the spooky.
Sir Peter Cook Director
Professor Sir Peter Cook, a pivotal figure in the global architectural world for over half a century. He is the director of Cook Belacevic Haffner and Partners (CBH) and the founder of the world-renowned architectural group Archigram. Notable roles include leading the Institute for Contemporary Art, London, and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London; recognized for his innovative contributions, he received an honorary doctorate from Lund University in 2010 and the Royal Gold Medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2002 for his work with Archigram. Knighted in 2007, he holds esteemed positions such as Royal Academician and Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et Lettres. Currently a Senior Fellow at the Royal College of Art, London, he also holds professorships at institutions including the Royal Academy and the Hochschule fur Bildende Kunste, Frankfurt-Main. His architectural projects span the globe, including Osaka, Berlin, Frankfurt, Madrid, the Kunsthaus in Graz (with Colin Fournier), and university buildings in Vienna, the Gold Coast Australia, and Bournemouth. Peter’s continuing work as a lecturer of considerable renown makes him a familiar voice within cultural institutions around the world, where many have enjoyed an opportunity to hear Peter expound (among other subjects) upon his love affair with the slithering, the swarming and the spooky.
Sir Peter Cook Director
Mario Cucinella was born in Palermo in 1960 and graduated in Architecture at the University of Genoa in 1986. In 1992, in Paris, he founded Mario Cucinella Architects, an architecture firm now based in Bologna and Milan, and of which he is also the creative director. In 2015 he founded SOS - School of Sustainability, a postgraduate program focused on sustainable architecture. The importance of his work and continued commitment as an architect and educator on environmental and social issues have been recognized with the International Fellowship of the Royal Institute of British Architects (2016) and with the Honorary Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects (2017). In 2018 he was curator of the Italian Pavilion de La Biennale di Venezia 2018 with the exhibition “Arcipelago Italia”. He is the author of many publications including: “The future is a journey to the past. Ten stories about architecture” (2021, published by Quodlibet), “Architecture of Education” (2021, published by Maggioli), “Building Green Futures” (2020, published by Forma).
Mario Cucinella Founder & Design Director of MCA
Mario Cucinella was born in Palermo in 1960 and graduated in Architecture at the University of Genoa in 1986. In 1992, in Paris, he founded Mario Cucinella Architects, an architecture firm now based in Bologna and Milan, and of which he is also the creative director. In 2015 he founded SOS - School of Sustainability, a postgraduate program focused on sustainable architecture. The importance of his work and continued commitment as an architect and educator on environmental and social issues have been recognized with the International Fellowship of the Royal Institute of British Architects (2016) and with the Honorary Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects (2017). In 2018 he was curator of the Italian Pavilion de La Biennale di Venezia 2018 with the exhibition “Arcipelago Italia”. He is the author of many publications including: “The future is a journey to the past. Ten stories about architecture” (2021, published by Quodlibet), “Architecture of Education” (2021, published by Maggioli), “Building Green Futures” (2020, published by Forma).
Mario Cucinella Founder & Design Director of MCA
Born in Sao Paulo in 1974 and raised in Lisbon, where he moved in 1977, João Branco studied Architecture and Town Planning at Lisbon Technical University’s Faculty of Architecture (UTL), Portugal, and Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura del Vallés, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Spain, as an Erasmus student. He graduated in 2000. Working as a town planner and urban designer, he discovered the water features theme as a powerful urban design tool to enhance public spaces. So, from an early stage, he started working on integrating the water element into architecture, landscape design and public art projects. During the last 20 years, he has conceived, developed and supported hundreds of multi-scale water feature projects worldwide, primarily for retail, hospitality, public plazas, roundabouts and theme parks. Also, having worked in international companies, such as GHESA and now OASE, has been crucial to building a solid worldwide experience, allowing him to speak at several professional events, attend multiple international exhibitions and constantly support global partners in the conception of innovative & memorable fountain experiences.
João Branco Senior Architect
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Born in Sao Paulo in 1974 and raised in Lisbon, where he moved in 1977, João Branco studied Architecture and Town Planning at Lisbon Technical University’s Faculty of Architecture (UTL), Portugal, and Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura del Vallés, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Spain, as an Erasmus student. He graduated in 2000. Working as a town planner and urban designer, he discovered the water features theme as a powerful urban design tool to enhance public spaces. So, from an early stage, he started working on integrating the water element into architecture, landscape design and public art projects. During the last 20 years, he has conceived, developed and supported hundreds of multi-scale water feature projects worldwide, primarily for retail, hospitality, public plazas, roundabouts and theme parks. Also, having worked in international companies, such as GHESA and now OASE, has been crucial to building a solid worldwide experience, allowing him to speak at several professional events, attend multiple international exhibitions and constantly support global partners in the conception of innovative & memorable fountain experiences.
João Branco Senior Architect
Mohammed Adib serves as the Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers, having joined the firm in 2017. In his role, he is responsible for establishing the firm’s design language. He holds a degree in architectural studies from the AA School of Architecture in London and pursued interior architecture studies at EINA University School of Design and Art in Barcelona. In 1993, Mohammed established Intercon in London as a niche design company specialising in large-scale commercial interior design. Currently, it is based in Barcelona and Dubai. Over the course of his career spanning more than three decades, Mohammed has overseen projects in various regions, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. His portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, with a notable presence in the GCC region. Some prominent projects he has been involved in encompass The Avenue Hotel, Shaza Mecca Hotel, Cayan Cantara Towers, Zaharam Apartments, and Shatt Al Arab Hotel, among others. Furthermore, Mohammed's expertise extends to Dewan internal projects, including the firm’s head office in Dubai Design District. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in Dewan’s expansion into Southeast Asia, overseeing the establishment of an office in Vietnam and successfully delivering various residential and master planning projects. Mohammed also plays a crucial role in shaping the firm's Artificial Intelligence and Web 3.0 strategy, which includes forming its Metaverse Architecture Department (MAD).Mohammed Adib serves as the Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers, having joined the firm in 2017. In his role, he is responsible for establishing the firm’s design language. He holds a degree in architectural studies from the AA School of Architecture in London and pursued interior architecture studies at EINA University School of Design and Art in Barcelona. In 1993, Mohammed established Intercon in London as a niche design company specialising in large-scale commercial interior design. Currently, it is based in Barcelona and Dubai. Over the course of his career spanning more than three decades, Mohammed has overseen projects in various regions, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. His portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, with a notable presence in the GCC region. Some prominent projects he has been involved in encompass The Avenue Hotel, Shaza Mecca Hotel, Cayan Cantara Towers, Zaharam Apartments, and Shatt Al Arab Hotel, among others. Furthermore, Mohammed's expertise extends to Dewan internal projects, including the firm’s head office in Dubai Design District. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in Dewan’s expansion into Southeast Asia, overseeing the establishment of an office in Vietnam and successfully delivering various residential and master planning projects. Mohammed also plays a crucial role in shaping the firm's Artificial Intelligence and Web 3.0 strategy, which includes forming its Metaverse Architecture Department (MAD).
Mohammed Adib Chief Design Officer
Mohammed Adib serves as the Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers, having joined the firm in 2017. In his role, he is responsible for establishing the firm’s design language. He holds a degree in architectural studies from the AA School of Architecture in London and pursued interior architecture studies at EINA University School of Design and Art in Barcelona. In 1993, Mohammed established Intercon in London as a niche design company specialising in large-scale commercial interior design. Currently, it is based in Barcelona and Dubai. Over the course of his career spanning more than three decades, Mohammed has overseen projects in various regions, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. His portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, with a notable presence in the GCC region. Some prominent projects he has been involved in encompass The Avenue Hotel, Shaza Mecca Hotel, Cayan Cantara Towers, Zaharam Apartments, and Shatt Al Arab Hotel, among others. Furthermore, Mohammed's expertise extends to Dewan internal projects, including the firm’s head office in Dubai Design District. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in Dewan’s expansion into Southeast Asia, overseeing the establishment of an office in Vietnam and successfully delivering various residential and master planning projects. Mohammed also plays a crucial role in shaping the firm's Artificial Intelligence and Web 3.0 strategy, which includes forming its Metaverse Architecture Department (MAD).
Mohammed Adib Chief Design Officer
Reina Takla is a seasoned business editor at Arab News, with a talent for strategic planning and crafting engaging editorial content across various platforms. She leads teams of reporters and editors and produce impactful storytelling that resonates with targeted audiences. Her expertise extends to conducting interviews with senior figures in both public and private sectors, covering a broad spectrum of topics including energy, renewables, mining, cybersecurity, AI, financial markets, defence, hospitality and aviation, real estate, etc… Prior to her editorial career, Reina excelled in the banking sector as a relationship and wealth manager, catering to high-net-worth individuals and non-corporate entities. With an impressive two-decade tenure in the industry, she brings a wealth of experience and insight. Reina is also a certified corporate and academic instructor, drawing upon over a decade of practical knowledge in finance and economics to deliver engaging and informative educational sessions. Her passion for sharing knowledge enriches the learning experiences of her students, making complex topics accessible and comprehensible.
Reina Takla Business Editor
Reina Takla is a seasoned business editor at Arab News, with a talent for strategic planning and crafting engaging editorial content across various platforms. She leads teams of reporters and editors and produce impactful storytelling that resonates with targeted audiences. Her expertise extends to conducting interviews with senior figures in both public and private sectors, covering a broad spectrum of topics including energy, renewables, mining, cybersecurity, AI, financial markets, defence, hospitality and aviation, real estate, etc… Prior to her editorial career, Reina excelled in the banking sector as a relationship and wealth manager, catering to high-net-worth individuals and non-corporate entities. With an impressive two-decade tenure in the industry, she brings a wealth of experience and insight. Reina is also a certified corporate and academic instructor, drawing upon over a decade of practical knowledge in finance and economics to deliver engaging and informative educational sessions. Her passion for sharing knowledge enriches the learning experiences of her students, making complex topics accessible and comprehensible.
Reina Takla Business Editor
William McDonough is a globally recognized leader in sustainable design and development, and his influential ideas have been shared with audiences worldwide. He co-authored Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things (2002), widely recognized as a seminal text of both the sustainability and the Circular Economy design movements, followed by The Upcycle: Beyond Sustainability–Designing for Abundance (2013). McDonough is the architect of many notable landmark buildings in the sustainability movement, including Nike’s European headquarters in Hilversum, The Netherlands; the YouTube corporate campus and headquarters in San Bruno, California; the first Net-Zero Verified building, Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies at Oberlin College; NASA Sustainability Base for the NASA Ames Research Center; Ford’s River Rouge plant in Dearborn, Michigan; and Hero MotoCorp’s Garden Factory in Neemrana, India; His architecture and community design practice, William McDonough + Partners, continues to design major projects for leading corporate, institutional, not-for-profit, and residential clients globally. Through McDonough Innovation, McDonough advises commercial and government leaders worldwide on ESG, sustainability, Circular Economy, and in the design of products and facilities. He has worked with CEOs from companies such as Ford Motor Company, Gap, Google, Herman Miller, Hero MotoCorp, Proctor & Gamble, Starbucks, Unilever, and Walmart. McDonough has played a key role in advancing sustainability on major projects and national initiatives and advancing the Circular Carbon Economy within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, advising on NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Soudah, as well as creating the sustainability framework and implementation protocols at AlUla for the Royal Commission for AlUla. In addition to contributing to innovative building materials research and development as a Distinguished Research Professor at KAUST, McDonough has also led sustainability for KAPSARC's new educational campus, a net zero project, and the development of sustainability guidelines and implementation for new communities like New Murabba and its centerpiece project - the Mukaab. Through McDonough’s third firm, MBDC, he created the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program. Cradle to Cradle Certified® is an independent, science-based, third-party, multi-attribute product standard recognized by the world’s leading retailers, including Amazon, Home Depot, Walgreens, and Walmart. He has been active with the World Economic Forum for 25 years and served as the inaugural chair of the WEF Meta-Council on the Circular Economy. He has co-founded other not-for-profit organizations, including GreenBlue, Sustainable Packaging Coalition, and Fashion for Good, a joint-industry initiative aiming to transform the global apparel chain into a force for good. In 2016, McDonough articulated a "New Language for Carbon" for human use as living, durable, and fugitive carbon in the journal Nature as "Carbon is Not The Enemy." He also articulated the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) as a design framework at the G20 meeting in 2020, and is developing a granular approach to applying CCE principles to products.
William McDonough Chief Executive
William McDonough is a globally recognized leader in sustainable design and development, and his influential ideas have been shared with audiences worldwide. He co-authored Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things (2002), widely recognized as a seminal text of both the sustainability and the Circular Economy design movements, followed by The Upcycle: Beyond Sustainability–Designing for Abundance (2013). McDonough is the architect of many notable landmark buildings in the sustainability movement, including Nike’s European headquarters in Hilversum, The Netherlands; the YouTube corporate campus and headquarters in San Bruno, California; the first Net-Zero Verified building, Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies at Oberlin College; NASA Sustainability Base for the NASA Ames Research Center; Ford’s River Rouge plant in Dearborn, Michigan; and Hero MotoCorp’s Garden Factory in Neemrana, India; His architecture and community design practice, William McDonough + Partners, continues to design major projects for leading corporate, institutional, not-for-profit, and residential clients globally. Through McDonough Innovation, McDonough advises commercial and government leaders worldwide on ESG, sustainability, Circular Economy, and in the design of products and facilities. He has worked with CEOs from companies such as Ford Motor Company, Gap, Google, Herman Miller, Hero MotoCorp, Proctor & Gamble, Starbucks, Unilever, and Walmart. McDonough has played a key role in advancing sustainability on major projects and national initiatives and advancing the Circular Carbon Economy within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, advising on NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Soudah, as well as creating the sustainability framework and implementation protocols at AlUla for the Royal Commission for AlUla. In addition to contributing to innovative building materials research and development as a Distinguished Research Professor at KAUST, McDonough has also led sustainability for KAPSARC's new educational campus, a net zero project, and the development of sustainability guidelines and implementation for new communities like New Murabba and its centerpiece project - the Mukaab. Through McDonough’s third firm, MBDC, he created the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program. Cradle to Cradle Certified® is an independent, science-based, third-party, multi-attribute product standard recognized by the world’s leading retailers, including Amazon, Home Depot, Walgreens, and Walmart. He has been active with the World Economic Forum for 25 years and served as the inaugural chair of the WEF Meta-Council on the Circular Economy. He has co-founded other not-for-profit organizations, including GreenBlue, Sustainable Packaging Coalition, and Fashion for Good, a joint-industry initiative aiming to transform the global apparel chain into a force for good. In 2016, McDonough articulated a "New Language for Carbon" for human use as living, durable, and fugitive carbon in the journal Nature as "Carbon is Not The Enemy." He also articulated the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) as a design framework at the G20 meeting in 2020, and is developing a granular approach to applying CCE principles to products.
William McDonough Chief Executive
“Political, ethical, subversive, ecological, humorous: this is how I see my duty as a creator.” Philippe Starck. Despite more than 10 000 creations - completed or in the making - his global fame and his tireless protean inventiveness, he never forgets the essential. Philippe Starck has a mission and a vision: creation, whatever shape it takes, must make life better for the largest number of people possible. Starck believes this highly poetic, political, rebellious, benevolent, pragmatic and subversive duty must be borne by all and he resumes it with the humor that has accompanied his approach since the earliest days: “No one is forced to be a genius, but everyone has to take part.” This citizen of the world, who considers it his duty to share his ethical and subversive vision of a fairer planet, creates unconventional places and objects whose purpose is to be “good” before being beautiful. His profound comprehension of contemporary mutations, his enthusiasm for imagining new lifestyles, his determination to change the world, his devotion to positive de-growth, his love of ideas, his desire to defend the intelligence of usefulness - and the usefulness of intelligence - have accompanied one iconic creation after the other… From everyday products such as furniture and citrus-squeezers, to revolutionary mega-yachts, hotels and restaurants that aspire to be wondrous, stimulating and intensely vibrant places, Starck never ceases in pushing the boundaries and requirements of contemporary design. From individual windmills, to a smart thermostat, electric bikes, or innovative and ecological wooden prefabricated houses – soon to be followed by solar boats and space habitation modules, his technological miracles are vectors of democratic ecology, focused on action and a respect for the future of both humans and nature. Predicting the phenomena of convergence and dematerialization, Philippe Starck has always devised objects that demand the most from the least. The solutions provided by his dreams are so vital, so essential that he was the first Frenchman to be invited to speak at the legendary TED conferences. Inventor, creator, architect, designer, artistic director, Philippe Starck is all of the above, but above all he is a man of honesty, in the purest tradition of the Renaissance artists.
Philippe Starck Founder
“Political, ethical, subversive, ecological, humorous: this is how I see my duty as a creator.” Philippe Starck. Despite more than 10 000 creations - completed or in the making - his global fame and his tireless protean inventiveness, he never forgets the essential. Philippe Starck has a mission and a vision: creation, whatever shape it takes, must make life better for the largest number of people possible. Starck believes this highly poetic, political, rebellious, benevolent, pragmatic and subversive duty must be borne by all and he resumes it with the humor that has accompanied his approach since the earliest days: “No one is forced to be a genius, but everyone has to take part.” This citizen of the world, who considers it his duty to share his ethical and subversive vision of a fairer planet, creates unconventional places and objects whose purpose is to be “good” before being beautiful. His profound comprehension of contemporary mutations, his enthusiasm for imagining new lifestyles, his determination to change the world, his devotion to positive de-growth, his love of ideas, his desire to defend the intelligence of usefulness - and the usefulness of intelligence - have accompanied one iconic creation after the other… From everyday products such as furniture and citrus-squeezers, to revolutionary mega-yachts, hotels and restaurants that aspire to be wondrous, stimulating and intensely vibrant places, Starck never ceases in pushing the boundaries and requirements of contemporary design. From individual windmills, to a smart thermostat, electric bikes, or innovative and ecological wooden prefabricated houses – soon to be followed by solar boats and space habitation modules, his technological miracles are vectors of democratic ecology, focused on action and a respect for the future of both humans and nature. Predicting the phenomena of convergence and dematerialization, Philippe Starck has always devised objects that demand the most from the least. The solutions provided by his dreams are so vital, so essential that he was the first Frenchman to be invited to speak at the legendary TED conferences. Inventor, creator, architect, designer, artistic director, Philippe Starck is all of the above, but above all he is a man of honesty, in the purest tradition of the Renaissance artists.
Philippe Starck Founder
Pablo Vidarte is the Chief Executive Officer, inventor and developer of Bioo, a ground-breaking company creating the first biotech buildings and cities in the world, with unique proprietary technologies including bioluminescent plants, biological batteries generating energy and water from soil, liquid trees, and bioactivators among others. He has also led the development of geo-localization tracking hardwares, evolutionary artificial intelligence softwares, and systems for the organic generation of hydrogen in rivers for clean fuel applications. Vidarte was listed in the Forbes list at the age of 20. He’s led his company to prestigious recognitions including the Most Innovative Company of Europe by the European Parliament, and the World’s Most Disruptive Company of the Year by Google and South Summit. He’s won more than 100 internationally recognised prizes for innovation and entrepreneurship in Europe, America and Asia.
Pablo Vidarte CEO & Founder
Pablo Vidarte is the Chief Executive Officer, inventor and developer of Bioo, a ground-breaking company creating the first biotech buildings and cities in the world, with unique proprietary technologies including bioluminescent plants, biological batteries generating energy and water from soil, liquid trees, and bioactivators among others. He has also led the development of geo-localization tracking hardwares, evolutionary artificial intelligence softwares, and systems for the organic generation of hydrogen in rivers for clean fuel applications. Vidarte was listed in the Forbes list at the age of 20. He’s led his company to prestigious recognitions including the Most Innovative Company of Europe by the European Parliament, and the World’s Most Disruptive Company of the Year by Google and South Summit. He’s won more than 100 internationally recognised prizes for innovation and entrepreneurship in Europe, America and Asia.
Pablo Vidarte CEO & Founder
🔴 Vice President of the Planning and Development General Department of AlUla County, accountable for strategic direction and leadership for the Strategic Planning, Development Approvals, the Land and Real Estate Departments and the GIS Departments. Part of the senior leadership team responsible for developing local government, policies and strategies, delivering sound governance and sustainability in support of the AlUla Vision. 🔴 Professional Expert in Master Planning and City Development with 25 years’ experience in public and private sectors in four different countries including currently leading the Master Plans for the Royal Commission of AlUla, Saudi Arabia, to help preserve and sustainably develop the world’s largest cultural oasis with 200,000 years of heritage. 🔴 Successful delivery of large-scale key projects with diverse mandates, financial outcomes and attracting investors and partners while delivering quality of life to the community. This includes the Western Sydney's Aerotropolis project, a multi-billion-dollar that leveraged the Australian Government’s $5.3 billion investment in the new Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird-Walton) Airport and the Aerotropolis City, ICT projects entailing tendering, planning, implementation and commissioning such as the multi-billion-dollar Street Addressing project for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Planning and execution of Abu Dhabi’s Vision, including multibillion dollar Yas & Saadiyat Island development projects. 🔴 Extensive range of direct experience in core City delivery areas including organizational transformation & Business Process reengineering, Transport Infrastructure, Land and Real Estate Management and initiating creative digital and geospatial improvements and dashboards. Incorporating the interests of the community in the development and design process by providing a service through the AlUla design process & comprehensive service centre that allows residents to be active participants in the development of AlUla. 🔴 Thought leader and public speaker with extensive networks in her subject matter. Presented as a panel member at various prestigious events like World economic forum (WEF) at Davos, Switzerland and Detroit, Michigan. Also been a leader in initiation of real estate development sectors, real estate indices & governance in various organizations and presented as a panel member in Cityscape events multiple times. Also led the delivery & implementation of the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Law to enable international property investment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 🔴 Education Masters of Urban & Regional Planning 2004 - 2007 - University of Sydney, NSW, Australia Executive Leadership programs at Insead Business School and HEC Paris.
Navdeep Hanjra Vice President of the Planning and Development
🔴 Vice President of the Planning and Development General Department of AlUla County, accountable for strategic direction and leadership for the Strategic Planning, Development Approvals, the Land and Real Estate Departments and the GIS Departments. Part of the senior leadership team responsible for developing local government, policies and strategies, delivering sound governance and sustainability in support of the AlUla Vision. 🔴 Professional Expert in Master Planning and City Development with 25 years’ experience in public and private sectors in four different countries including currently leading the Master Plans for the Royal Commission of AlUla, Saudi Arabia, to help preserve and sustainably develop the world’s largest cultural oasis with 200,000 years of heritage. 🔴 Successful delivery of large-scale key projects with diverse mandates, financial outcomes and attracting investors and partners while delivering quality of life to the community. This includes the Western Sydney's Aerotropolis project, a multi-billion-dollar that leveraged the Australian Government’s $5.3 billion investment in the new Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird-Walton) Airport and the Aerotropolis City, ICT projects entailing tendering, planning, implementation and commissioning such as the multi-billion-dollar Street Addressing project for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Planning and execution of Abu Dhabi’s Vision, including multibillion dollar Yas & Saadiyat Island development projects. 🔴 Extensive range of direct experience in core City delivery areas including organizational transformation & Business Process reengineering, Transport Infrastructure, Land and Real Estate Management and initiating creative digital and geospatial improvements and dashboards. Incorporating the interests of the community in the development and design process by providing a service through the AlUla design process & comprehensive service centre that allows residents to be active participants in the development of AlUla. 🔴 Thought leader and public speaker with extensive networks in her subject matter. Presented as a panel member at various prestigious events like World economic forum (WEF) at Davos, Switzerland and Detroit, Michigan. Also been a leader in initiation of real estate development sectors, real estate indices & governance in various organizations and presented as a panel member in Cityscape events multiple times. Also led the delivery & implementation of the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Law to enable international property investment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 🔴 Education Masters of Urban & Regional Planning 2004 - 2007 - University of Sydney, NSW, Australia Executive Leadership programs at Insead Business School and HEC Paris.
Navdeep Hanjra Vice President of the Planning and Development
Fadi holder of a dual degree Engineer and Executive MBA with over 25 years of extensive experience in real estate development and project management across Europe and KSA. He has leveraged his multi-generational expertise to drive portfolio growth, realize visions, and convert challenges into profitable opportunities. With a background encompassing development, project management, and construction across various asset classes leading projects from inception to completion, and prioritizing operational excellence. Fadi has demonstrated a proven track record in managing prestigious hospitality and commercial projects in Europe and the Middle East.
Fadi Yanni JASARA Program Management Company
Fadi holder of a dual degree Engineer and Executive MBA with over 25 years of extensive experience in real estate development and project management across Europe and KSA. He has leveraged his multi-generational expertise to drive portfolio growth, realize visions, and convert challenges into profitable opportunities. With a background encompassing development, project management, and construction across various asset classes leading projects from inception to completion, and prioritizing operational excellence. Fadi has demonstrated a proven track record in managing prestigious hospitality and commercial projects in Europe and the Middle East.
Fadi Yanni JASARA Program Management Company
Edward McIntosh is Regional Design Director for the Middle East Region at Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, his main role at Atkins is to bring client’s visions to life Ed has more than 20 years of experience in the design & construction industry, having worked in the US, UK, Europe, China and the Middle East Since the start of his career, Ed has had the opportunity to work in the conception and delivery of large, complex, high profile buildings that are renowned as icons and architectural landmarks, collaborating with architectural legends like Sir Peter Cook, his personal mentor from his years of study at Columbia University Ed is extremely passionate about the intersections of technology, entertainment, urbanism, futurology, activation and architectural design and has lectured and written about the subject in different institutions and publications Ed describes his approach to design as “Feel Crafting” – a vision that seeks to create very detailed, crafted and unique solutions for each project, focusing on understanding the client’s vision and helping to bring said vision to life Ed has been fortunate to be able to create visions for some of the Middle East most exciting projects and thrives in complex stakeholder scenarios where decisiveness and fast response have allowed him to move high-profile projects through complex approval processes within tight program deadlines From his early work in South America, where he researched and developed eco-conscious bamboo resorts to his current work creating landmarks with very well grounded sense of identity and connection to their context, Ed has interest has always centred on the crafting of unique architectural solutions that are intimately linked to their natural surrounding , culture and social context
Edward McIntosh Regional Design Director
Edward McIntosh is Regional Design Director for the Middle East Region at Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, his main role at Atkins is to bring client’s visions to life Ed has more than 20 years of experience in the design & construction industry, having worked in the US, UK, Europe, China and the Middle East Since the start of his career, Ed has had the opportunity to work in the conception and delivery of large, complex, high profile buildings that are renowned as icons and architectural landmarks, collaborating with architectural legends like Sir Peter Cook, his personal mentor from his years of study at Columbia University Ed is extremely passionate about the intersections of technology, entertainment, urbanism, futurology, activation and architectural design and has lectured and written about the subject in different institutions and publications Ed describes his approach to design as “Feel Crafting” – a vision that seeks to create very detailed, crafted and unique solutions for each project, focusing on understanding the client’s vision and helping to bring said vision to life Ed has been fortunate to be able to create visions for some of the Middle East most exciting projects and thrives in complex stakeholder scenarios where decisiveness and fast response have allowed him to move high-profile projects through complex approval processes within tight program deadlines From his early work in South America, where he researched and developed eco-conscious bamboo resorts to his current work creating landmarks with very well grounded sense of identity and connection to their context, Ed has interest has always centred on the crafting of unique architectural solutions that are intimately linked to their natural surrounding , culture and social context
Edward McIntosh Regional Design Director
Zak is an Executive Development and Design director with 27 years of professional experience working in leading roles on the client as well as the consultants’ side. He has managed and delivered high end projects worldwide and has worked with renowned multinational consultants, Foster + Partners in London and leading regional real estate developers, Meraas Holding in Dubai and Amaala , Red Sea Global in Saudi Arabia and currently with Nakheel, Dubai.
Zak Ayache Executive Director
Zak is an Executive Development and Design director with 27 years of professional experience working in leading roles on the client as well as the consultants’ side. He has managed and delivered high end projects worldwide and has worked with renowned multinational consultants, Foster + Partners in London and leading regional real estate developers, Meraas Holding in Dubai and Amaala , Red Sea Global in Saudi Arabia and currently with Nakheel, Dubai.
Zak Ayache Executive Director
Jason began Architectural studies in at the Architectural Association in Bedford Square, London, where he qualified with diploma honours, later successfully completing his chartership to become RIBA and ARB registered. Jason won the AA travel scholarship to Arata Isozaki’s office in Tokyo, and then secured a job with Sir Norman Foster and partners, working on the New Airport terminal in Hong Kong. Upon returning to London, Jason moved to SR architects to work on commercial, residential science and education projects and completed several RIBA award winning projects such as 272,600 sqft Mitre Square commercial office tower in the City of London, the BBC at Broadcasting House, and the Bristol University Biological Sciences building. Jason joined Atkins Global Architects in 2010 as technical and design director, working with a variety of team sizes, delivering both National and International projects including the competition winning ‘Prestige Residential Tower’ development in Dubai, and also the delivery of Atkins own new £56m Headquarters building from inception through to completion. Jason’s remit on the headquarters project included managing all client and staff input. He led the technical teams, co-ordinating inputs from the structural, MEP, fire safety, building control, transport, environmental and sustainability consultants and led the Internal fit out of the project.Since leaving Atkins, after their take over by the Canadian civil engineering company SNC, Jason has worked on a 50 unit residential project from concept to completion in July 2023. Profession Jason is an architect with experience in a variety of sectors and he has worked both in the UK and Internationally. He is confident with all stages of the design and technical delivery of both complex and large scale projects He enjoys collaborating with both internal teams, and the variety of professional consultants required to deliver great projects, and he is technically highly competent. Jason is a confident (but not overly confident) team player, as well as having a track record for being a passionate and very focused hard worker with the ability to manage and work effectively with high profile clients, internal teams, and enjoys guiding and nurturing junior team members.
Jason Speechly Design Director
Jason began Architectural studies in at the Architectural Association in Bedford Square, London, where he qualified with diploma honours, later successfully completing his chartership to become RIBA and ARB registered. Jason won the AA travel scholarship to Arata Isozaki’s office in Tokyo, and then secured a job with Sir Norman Foster and partners, working on the New Airport terminal in Hong Kong. Upon returning to London, Jason moved to SR architects to work on commercial, residential science and education projects and completed several RIBA award winning projects such as 272,600 sqft Mitre Square commercial office tower in the City of London, the BBC at Broadcasting House, and the Bristol University Biological Sciences building. Jason joined Atkins Global Architects in 2010 as technical and design director, working with a variety of team sizes, delivering both National and International projects including the competition winning ‘Prestige Residential Tower’ development in Dubai, and also the delivery of Atkins own new £56m Headquarters building from inception through to completion. Jason’s remit on the headquarters project included managing all client and staff input. He led the technical teams, co-ordinating inputs from the structural, MEP, fire safety, building control, transport, environmental and sustainability consultants and led the Internal fit out of the project.Since leaving Atkins, after their take over by the Canadian civil engineering company SNC, Jason has worked on a 50 unit residential project from concept to completion in July 2023. Profession Jason is an architect with experience in a variety of sectors and he has worked both in the UK and Internationally. He is confident with all stages of the design and technical delivery of both complex and large scale projects He enjoys collaborating with both internal teams, and the variety of professional consultants required to deliver great projects, and he is technically highly competent. Jason is a confident (but not overly confident) team player, as well as having a track record for being a passionate and very focused hard worker with the ability to manage and work effectively with high profile clients, internal teams, and enjoys guiding and nurturing junior team members.
Jason Speechly Design Director
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Tareq attended Northeastern University in Boston and graduated as an Industrial Engineer (Bsc.) in 1992. Having started his carrier in Amman, Jordan and later moved to Abu Dhabi, UAE in 1996 where his extensive knowledge in the manufacturing, construction and real estate development helped shape his career. Tareq’s extensive experience towards the regional construction and development environment helped shape and tone the overall knowledge he has gained in the industry. His hands on leadership and drive is well demonstrated in the various internationally recognized projects he has led and delivered, from exclusive high end resort developments to city center high-rise mixed-use projects completed over the years. Over the year, Tareq has worked with well-established and renowned entities from around the region, including the private office of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed to the region largest Islamic bank AL RAJHI BANK. Tareq is well known within his peers as a mentor to the industry, and his people approach to leading the teams to deliver projects has been well documented and respected within many of the proprietors of real-estate in the region.
Tareq Nabulsi CEO – Development & Projects
Jason began Architectural studies in at the Architectural Association in Bedford Square, London, where he qualified with diploma honours, later successfully completing his chartership to become RIBA and ARB registered. Jason won the AA travel scholarship to Arata Isozaki’s office in Tokyo, and then secured a job with Sir Norman Foster and partners, working on the New Airport terminal in Hong Kong. Upon returning to London, Jason moved to SR architects to work on commercial, residential science and education projects and completed several RIBA award winning projects such as 272,600 sqft Mitre Square commercial office tower in the City of London, the BBC at Broadcasting House, and the Bristol University Biological Sciences building. Jason joined Atkins Global Architects in 2010 as technical and design director, working with a variety of team sizes, delivering both National and International projects including the competition winning ‘Prestige Residential Tower’ development in Dubai, and also the delivery of Atkins own new £56m Headquarters building from inception through to completion. Jason’s remit on the headquarters project included managing all client and staff input. He led the technical teams, co-ordinating inputs from the structural, MEP, fire safety, building control, transport, environmental and sustainability consultants and led the Internal fit out of the project.Since leaving Atkins, after their take over by the Canadian civil engineering company SNC, Jason has worked on a 50 unit residential project from concept to completion in July 2023. Profession Jason is an architect with experience in a variety of sectors and he has worked both in the UK and Internationally. He is confident with all stages of the design and technical delivery of both complex and large scale projects He enjoys collaborating with both internal teams, and the variety of professional consultants required to deliver great projects, and he is technically highly competent. Jason is a confident (but not overly confident) team player, as well as having a track record for being a passionate and very focused hard worker with the ability to manage and work effectively with high profile clients, internal teams, and enjoys guiding and nurturing junior team members.
Jason Speechly Design Director
Saeed Al Nahdi CEO
Jason began Architectural studies in at the Architectural Association in Bedford Square, London, where he qualified with diploma honours, later successfully completing his chartership to become RIBA and ARB registered. Jason won the AA travel scholarship to Arata Isozaki’s office in Tokyo, and then secured a job with Sir Norman Foster and partners, working on the New Airport terminal in Hong Kong. Upon returning to London, Jason moved to SR architects to work on commercial, residential science and education projects and completed several RIBA award winning projects such as 272,600 sqft Mitre Square commercial office tower in the City of London, the BBC at Broadcasting House, and the Bristol University Biological Sciences building. Jason joined Atkins Global Architects in 2010 as technical and design director, working with a variety of team sizes, delivering both National and International projects including the competition winning ‘Prestige Residential Tower’ development in Dubai, and also the delivery of Atkins own new £56m Headquarters building from inception through to completion. Jason’s remit on the headquarters project included managing all client and staff input. He led the technical teams, co-ordinating inputs from the structural, MEP, fire safety, building control, transport, environmental and sustainability consultants and led the Internal fit out of the project.Since leaving Atkins, after their take over by the Canadian civil engineering company SNC, Jason has worked on a 50 unit residential project from concept to completion in July 2023. Profession Jason is an architect with experience in a variety of sectors and he has worked both in the UK and Internationally. He is confident with all stages of the design and technical delivery of both complex and large scale projects He enjoys collaborating with both internal teams, and the variety of professional consultants required to deliver great projects, and he is technically highly competent. Jason is a confident (but not overly confident) team player, as well as having a track record for being a passionate and very focused hard worker with the ability to manage and work effectively with high profile clients, internal teams, and enjoys guiding and nurturing junior team members.
Jason Speechly Design Director
Wessel van Beerendonk Co-Founder
Wessel van Beerendonk is an architect and co-founder of Studio RAP. Studio RAP is an award-winning architectural design and 3D printing firm based in Rotterdam (NL). They are on a mission to design expressive luxury experiences materialised in 3D printed ceramics to inspire people everywhere around the world.
Wessel van Beerendonk is an architect and co-founder of Studio RAP. Studio RAP is an award-winning architectural design and 3D printing firm based in Rotterdam (NL). They are on a mission to design expressive luxury experiences materialised in 3D printed ceramics to inspire people everywhere around the world.
Wessel van Beerendonk Co-Founder
Nishan Suvarna CEO
Nishan Suvarna is the CEO of Bluestream, a Dubai-based leader in transformative and sustainable urban design and manufacturing. As a growth and impact-focused entrepreneur with over 17 years of dedicated experience at Bluestream, Nishan has been at the forefront of driving innovation, revenue growth, and the development of pioneering products and services that redefine sustainable urban living for the region. His mission is to accelerate sustainable urbanism, with the belief that Bluestream is the catalyst for this transformation. He envisions the firm as a global leader in providing bespoke, world-class solutions that enhance urban living while promoting environmental stewardship. Nishan is deeply passionate about integrating local design and manufacturing with sustainably sourced materials to set new standards for urban environments locally and globally. Their recent addition of coconut wood, bamboo, and granite into their sustainability-focused material palette is a testament to this. Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and Dubai’s net-zero target 2040, Nishan is committed to contributing to the Kingdom's goals of local manufacturing and value addition, accelerated and sustainable world-class city development, and local innovation. Looking forward, he aims to expand Bluestream's impact, designing and manufacturing innovative waste systems and urban design elements that will shape the cities of tomorrow. His goal is to create a lasting, positive impact on urban landscapes worldwide, fostering sustainable and vibrant communities
Nishan Suvarna is the CEO of Bluestream, a Dubai-based leader in transformative and sustainable urban design and manufacturing. As a growth and impact-focused entrepreneur with over 17 years of dedicated experience at Bluestream, Nishan has been at the forefront of driving innovation, revenue growth, and the development of pioneering products and services that redefine sustainable urban living for the region. His mission is to accelerate sustainable urbanism, with the belief that Bluestream is the catalyst for this transformation. He envisions the firm as a global leader in providing bespoke, world-class solutions that enhance urban living while promoting environmental stewardship. Nishan is deeply passionate about integrating local design and manufacturing with sustainably sourced materials to set new standards for urban environments locally and globally. Their recent addition of coconut wood, bamboo, and granite into their sustainability-focused material palette is a testament to this. Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and Dubai’s net-zero target 2040, Nishan is committed to contributing to the Kingdom's goals of local manufacturing and value addition, accelerated and sustainable world-class city development, and local innovation. Looking forward, he aims to expand Bluestream's impact, designing and manufacturing innovative waste systems and urban design elements that will shape the cities of tomorrow. His goal is to create a lasting, positive impact on urban landscapes worldwide, fostering sustainable and vibrant communities
Nishan Suvarna CEO
Eng. Nawaf Mohamed AlFaydi Specification & Business Development Manager
A Chemical Engineer with years of experience in MENA paints. His unique co-major in Chemical & Engineering disciplines fuels his expertise in developing innovative, sustainable paint solutions specifically tailored to the needs of the MENA market.
A Chemical Engineer with years of experience in MENA paints. His unique co-major in Chemical & Engineering disciplines fuels his expertise in developing innovative, sustainable paint solutions specifically tailored to the needs of the MENA market.
Eng. Nawaf Mohamed AlFaydi Specification & Business Development Manager
Eng. Bakr Sindi Chief Supply Chain Officer – Consultant
As a visionary, solutions-driven Chief Supply Chain Officer, I bring over 20 years of expertise across supply chain management, logistics, procurement, and contracting. My strategic thinking and analytical abilities have allowed me to optimize the end-to-end supply chain process and achieve significant cost savings while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. I have built a proven track record of implementing supply chain best practices and driving process improvements across diverse industries. My proficiency in lean principles and continuous improvement has enabled me to streamline operations, enhance quality control, and reduce risks. As an expert in supplier relationship management, I have established global partnerships with key suppliers, leading to optimized inventory management, on-time delivery, and overall cost efficiency. As a seasoned Executive Leader, I possess strong team-building, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration skills. I have extensive experience in managing large and diverse teams, both domestically and internationally. My negotiation skills have resulted in favorable terms and pricing agreements for the company. I am also experienced in change management, having led several organizational changes and technology implementations throughout my career. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from King Abdul Aziz University (KAU). Also, I possess numerous certifications, including Certified Professional Purchasing, Certified International Purchasing Consultant, and International Commercial Contracts Manager, among others.
As a visionary, solutions-driven Chief Supply Chain Officer, I bring over 20 years of expertise across supply chain management, logistics, procurement, and contracting. My strategic thinking and analytical abilities have allowed me to optimize the end-to-end supply chain process and achieve significant cost savings while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. I have built a proven track record of implementing supply chain best practices and driving process improvements across diverse industries. My proficiency in lean principles and continuous improvement has enabled me to streamline operations, enhance quality control, and reduce risks. As an expert in supplier relationship management, I have established global partnerships with key suppliers, leading to optimized inventory management, on-time delivery, and overall cost efficiency. As a seasoned Executive Leader, I possess strong team-building, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration skills. I have extensive experience in managing large and diverse teams, both domestically and internationally. My negotiation skills have resulted in favorable terms and pricing agreements for the company. I am also experienced in change management, having led several organizational changes and technology implementations throughout my career. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from King Abdul Aziz University (KAU). Also, I possess numerous certifications, including Certified Professional Purchasing, Certified International Purchasing Consultant, and International Commercial Contracts Manager, among others.
Eng. Bakr Sindi Chief Supply Chain Officer – Consultant
Dr. Ahmed Khan Alhashimi Executive Director of Engineering Affairs
Dr. Ahmed Khan Alhashimi serves as the Executive Director of Engineering Affairs at Sumou Real Estate, bringing a prolific 16-year background in sustainable architecture and urbanism to his leadership role. His expertise is grounded in strategic planning, policy formation, and organizational leadership across both industry and academic settings. In the international arena, Dr. Ahmed has been instrumental in shaping architectural and urban design projects, beginning with a significant role at Poly Rythmic Architecture in France since 2009, influencing developments across Europe and the Middle East. His thought leadership in urban design was highlighted at the AFEX workshop during Expo Dubai 2020, and he continues to contribute as a jury member for various prestigious architectural competitions. In academia, Dr. Ahmed has a rich history of engagement, having served as a lecturer at Bordeaux University and as Vice Dean at the Faculty of Architecture and Planning for Development at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. Additionally, he holds the respected position of PhD examiner at Bordeaux University, Lyon University, and Delft University, further cementing his status in the academic community. At the helm of engineering affairs at Sumou Real Estate, Dr. Ahmed is driving the creation of a Quantitative Urban Design Platform, to provide robust analytical tools for urban design projects, ensuring sustainable and innovative development practices. His commitment to excellence in the engineering sector is matched by his contributions to academic scholarship and examination.
Dr. Ahmed Khan Alhashimi serves as the Executive Director of Engineering Affairs at Sumou Real Estate, bringing a prolific 16-year background in sustainable architecture and urbanism to his leadership role. His expertise is grounded in strategic planning, policy formation, and organizational leadership across both industry and academic settings. In the international arena, Dr. Ahmed has been instrumental in shaping architectural and urban design projects, beginning with a significant role at Poly Rythmic Architecture in France since 2009, influencing developments across Europe and the Middle East. His thought leadership in urban design was highlighted at the AFEX workshop during Expo Dubai 2020, and he continues to contribute as a jury member for various prestigious architectural competitions. In academia, Dr. Ahmed has a rich history of engagement, having served as a lecturer at Bordeaux University and as Vice Dean at the Faculty of Architecture and Planning for Development at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. Additionally, he holds the respected position of PhD examiner at Bordeaux University, Lyon University, and Delft University, further cementing his status in the academic community. At the helm of engineering affairs at Sumou Real Estate, Dr. Ahmed is driving the creation of a Quantitative Urban Design Platform, to provide robust analytical tools for urban design projects, ensuring sustainable and innovative development practices. His commitment to excellence in the engineering sector is matched by his contributions to academic scholarship and examination. As a seasoned Executive Leader, I possess strong team-building, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration skills. I have extensive experience in managing large and diverse teams, both domestically and internationally. My negotiation skills have resulted in favorable terms and pricing agreements for the company. I am also experienced in change management, having led several organizational changes and technology implementations throughout my career. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from King Abdul Aziz University (KAU). Also, I possess numerous certifications, including Certified Professional Purchasing, Certified International Purchasing Consultant, and International Commercial Contracts Manager, among others.
Dr. Ahmed Khan Alhashimi Executive Director of Engineering Affairs
Amr F. Younes Head of City Design & Construction
Amr Younes is a goal oriented and self-motivated with over 17 years of success in team management, development management, and real estate business development provided by a diversified background and exposure. Currently at KAEC, a publicly listed joint stock company with a mandate to develop a city positioned 70km north of Jeddah (King Abdullah Economic City – KAEC) including a world class sea port, a 60M sqm Special Economic Zone and over 24km of shore line on the Red Sea. He participates in the rebuilding and restructuring of the development and Construction Management functions. Overseeing all real estate development activities including Conducting Feasibilities and 3rd party developers’ engagement he also manages ongoing development partnerships. He is responsible for communication and coordination with city regulators Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority and internal and external stake holder management. Prior to this, he has held various executive roles in leading organizations, including Head of Real-Estate & Business Development and Head of Hospitality Asset Management at Thakher Development Co. Real-Estate Development Director at Jeddah Central Development Company and Jabal Omar Development Company.
Amr Younes is a goal oriented and self-motivated with over 17 years of success in team management, development management, and real estate business development provided by a diversified background and exposure. Currently at KAEC, a publicly listed joint stock company with a mandate to develop a city positioned 70km north of Jeddah (King Abdullah Economic City – KAEC) including a world class sea port, a 60M sqm Special Economic Zone and over 24km of shore line on the Red Sea. He participates in the rebuilding and restructuring of the development and Construction Management functions. Overseeing all real estate development activities including Conducting Feasibilities and 3rd party developers’ engagement he also manages ongoing development partnerships. He is responsible for communication and coordination with city regulators Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority and internal and external stake holder management. Prior to this, he has held various executive roles in leading organizations, including Head of Real-Estate & Business Development and Head of Hospitality Asset Management at Thakher Development Co. Real-Estate Development Director at Jeddah Central Development Company and Jabal Omar Development Company.
Amr F. Younes Head of City Design & Construction
Elias Abou Samra CEO
Elias is a seasoned real estate development executive specializing in mixed-use projects and urban regeneration. He possesses a successful track record in corporate transformations and restructuring. Over the past 17 years, Elias has been leading in conceptualizing, structuring, and delivering projects with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of over USD 12 billion across the region. 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, as he led the major 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, as well as three master plans with a total land area of 2.5 million SQM in Riyadh and Jeddah, under Solider International (2009-2015). Elias worked extensively in investment banking and private equity under regional and multinational firms, including Morgan Stanley (2007-2008). Elias Abou Samra holds a finance & economics degree from the American University in Beirut (2002)
Elias is a seasoned real estate development executive specializing in mixed-use projects and urban regeneration. He possesses a successful track record in corporate transformations and restructuring. Over the past 17 years, Elias has been leading in conceptualizing, structuring, and delivering projects with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of over USD 12 billion across the region. 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, as he led the major 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, as well as three master plans with a total land area of 2.5 million SQM in Riyadh and Jeddah, under Solider International (2009-2015). Elias worked extensively in investment banking and private equity under regional and multinational firms, including Morgan Stanley (2007-2008). Elias Abou Samra holds a finance & economics degree from the American University in Beirut (2002)
Elias Abou Samra CEO
Sam Achampong Regional Managing Director
Sam is a senior executive with extensive experience across the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. He has held senior roles for organisations such as Land Securities in the UK, Abu Dhabi Municipality in the Middle East and MTN across Africa. He also holds various non executive board director roles, for entities such as the British Business Group (Dubai). An active member of the procurement and supply chain fraternity, Sam is currently Regional Director of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) for the MENA Region. He holds a Masters Degree in International Procurement from the University of Glamorgan in the UK, MSc in Facilities Management from the University of Westminster (UK) and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He is a regular speaker at industry events and an advocate for professional standards in business, procurement and supply chain management.
Sam is a senior executive with extensive experience across the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. He has held senior roles for organisations such as Land Securities in the UK, Abu Dhabi Municipality in the Middle East and MTN across Africa. He also holds various non executive board director roles, for entities such as the British Business Group (Dubai). An active member of the procurement and supply chain fraternity, Sam is currently Regional Director of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) for the MENA Region. He holds a Masters Degree in International Procurement from the University of Glamorgan in the UK, MSc in Facilities Management from the University of Westminster (UK) and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He is a regular speaker at industry events and an advocate for professional standards in business, procurement and supply chain management.
Sam Achampong Regional Managing Director
Alejandro Gadea Principal Architect
Alejandro is currently working as Principal Architect at AtkinsRealis (Dubai), where he is dedicated to delivering the Mukaab, future landmark of the city of Riyadh to be completed by 2030. With a focus on design and rationalization strategies, he ensures the project will provide a world-class experience with enhanced human comfort and optimized constructability. Alejandro’s design approach has been shaped through over 10 years experience leading design and computational strategies from concept to tender across all different stages, He specializes in the design, development, and coordination of complex geometries, in particular building envelopes. Alejandro has also been involved since the start of his career on computational design and digital fabrication academia. He is currently leading one of the Design Studios at the Master in Computational and Advanced Design by DesignMorphine and since 2017 has been tutoring multiple international workshops organized by the AASchool, UCL Barlett School of Architecture, Design Morphine, CEU Madrid and the Middle East Architecture Lab. Alejandro holds a post-professional MArch in Architecture and Urbanism from AA Design Research Lab (co-founded by Patrik Schumacher) and a 6 years BArch Degree in Architecture from University of Alicante. He has previously worked at several international firms including Dar Al-Handasah (Dubai), Zaha Hadid Architects (London), HKS Architects (London), Grimshaw Architects (London) and b720 Arquitectos (Barcelona).
Alejandro is currently working as Principal Architect at AtkinsRealis (Dubai), where he is dedicated to delivering the Mukaab, future landmark of the city of Riyadh to be completed by 2030. With a focus on design and rationalization strategies, he ensures the project will provide a world-class experience with enhanced human comfort and optimized constructability. Alejandro’s design approach has been shaped through over 10 years experience leading design and computational strategies from concept to tender across all different stages, He specializes in the design, development, and coordination of complex geometries, in particular building envelopes. Alejandro has also been involved since the start of his career on computational design and digital fabrication academia. He is currently leading one of the Design Studios at the Master in Computational and Advanced Design by DesignMorphine and since 2017 has been tutoring multiple international workshops organized by the AASchool, UCL Barlett School of Architecture, Design Morphine, CEU Madrid and the Middle East Architecture Lab. Alejandro holds a post-professional MArch in Architecture and Urbanism from AA Design Research Lab (co-founded by Patrik Schumacher) and a 6 years BArch Degree in Architecture from University of Alicante. He has previously worked at several international firms including Dar Al-Handasah (Dubai), Zaha Hadid Architects (London), HKS Architects (London), Grimshaw Architects (London) and b720 Arquitectos (Barcelona).
Alejandro Gadea Principal Architect