Speakers | 3rd Saudi Forum for 4IR 2025

Meet Our Speakers

Join us to hear from world-class leaders, tech pioneers, policymakers, and innovators who are at the forefront of advanced and frontier technologies. Over two days of expert-led, high-impact discussions, our speakers will share insights, tackle today’s toughest challenges, and present bold ideas shaping tomorrow. Be part of the conversation driving the future.

H.E. Dr. Esam AlWagait

Director

National Information Center

H.E. Dr. Esam AlWagait

Director

H.E. Dr. Esam bin Abdullah Alwagait is the Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), He previously served as CEO of the National Digital Transformation Unit, Secretary of the National Committee for Digital Transformation, Deputy Minister for Technical Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and many senior positions at King Saud University. With over two decades of experience, he has significantly contributed to advancing the Kingdom’s digital services, and developing SDAIA’s digital infrastructure. Dr. Alwagait was honored with the Order of King Abdulaziz of the First Class. He earned a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Polytechnic University of Valencia, Spain, in 2011. H.E. serves as the chairman or a member of various boards and committees spanning government entities and leading national companies.

H.E. Dr. Munir ElDesouki

President / Board Chairman

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology / Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

H.E. Dr. Munir ElDesouki

President / Board Chairman

H.E Dr. Munir M. Eldesouki is currently the President of KACST. His 22+ years of experience spans the spheres of R&D, Innovation, and Digital Transformation, where he played influential roles at different levels as seasoned researcher, inventor and leader setting national strategies, policies, and regulations, driving execution and shaping Saudi Arabia’s R&D, innovation, and ICT ecosystems. As a government official, H.E. Dr. Eldesouki played several leadership roles holding senior positions in the Saudi government, such as the Assistant Minister of MCIT. He is also the Chairman of the BoT of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Award to honour inventors and talented individuals, Chairman of the BoT of Almarai Award for Scientific Innovation, Chairman of the BoD for the Saudi-WEF Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and member of a number of boards including the BoT of Hevolution, the Governing Board for Global Research Council (GRC) as Vice-Chair, Ilmi Science Discovery & Innovation Centre as Vice-Chair, the Saudi Space Agency, the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, the Premium Residency Centre, the General Organization for Military Industries, the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information, the Riyadh Charitable Science Foundation, and the King Salman Science Oasis. In recognition of his scientific excellence, he received several awards such as the King Abdul-Aziz Order of Merit Excellence Medal of the First Class and the King’s Prize for Inventors, and was elected as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors in the USA.

H.E. Prof. Mohammed AlHayaza

President

Alfaisal University

H.E. Prof. Mohammed AlHayaza

President

HE Professor Mohammed Alhayaza became the first president of Alfaisal University on 1 March 2015. As president, HE Dr. Alhayaza has championed academic excellence and research as well as innovative teaching. With a focus on both domestic and global challenges, his initiatives have fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, bolstered opportunities for experiential learning, and secured funding for cutting-edge research and visionary ventures, both on the campus of Alfaisal and abroad. These initiatives have served to hasten the ascent of Alfaisal in the world rankings for universities: from one of the Top 800 (2017) to one of the Top 300 (2020) universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Within the Kingdom, the 2020 Times Higher Education Rankings has ranked Alfaisal: 1st in medicine, 2nd in life sciences, and 2nd overall in both the Kingdom and in the Arab Region. HE Dr. Alhayaza began his illustrious career at King Saud University the newly opened King Khalid University appointed him dean of the College of Science. During his tenure at King Khalid University, he established both the College of Engineering and the College of Computer Science and served as the acting dean of both colleges until his promotion to vice president for Post Graduate Studies and Research (2002-2007). Prior to joining Alfaisal, HE Dr. Alhayaza served as president of Jazan University (2007-2014) by order of Royal Decree. At the time of his appointment, Jazan University had only three colleges and 3,000 students; under his exemplary leadership, it expanded to 40 colleges with an enrollment of 70,000. By order of Royal Decree, issued during the reign of the Late King Abdullah, HE Dr. Alhayaza departed from Jazan to accept his appointment as the Minister of Health. Upon the ascension of King Salman, HE Dr. Alhayaza was appointed to the Shoura Council by Royal Decree where he served until 2016. Dr. Alhayaza earned his Bachelor of Science degree from King Saud University, and earned his Master and PhD in chemistry from Boston University.

H.E. Bandar AlKhorayef

Minister

Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources in Saudi Arabia

H.E. Bandar AlKhorayef

Minister

H.E. Bandar bin Ibrahim Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, brings over 27 years of leadership experience in the industrial, commercial, and investment sectors. He chairs several key national entities including the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, Royal Commissions for Jubail and Yanbu, Saudi Industrial Development Fund, MODON, Saudi EXIM Bank, and the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority. His extensive public and international roles reflect his pivotal contribution to advancing Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation under Vision 2030.

Prof. Edward Byrne

President

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Prof. Edward Byrne

President

Professor Sir Edward Byrne is a renowned neuroscientist and clinician. He served as president and principal of King’s College London (2014–2021), leading Vision 2029 and chairing King’s Health Partners. Previously, he was president and vice chancellor of Monash University (2009–2014), advancing its global standing. He earned his medical degree in Tasmania and trained in Adelaide and London. A fellow of several prestigious medical colleges, he is also a member of UK and Australian science academies. He has received numerous honors, including the AO (2006), AC (2014), and a Knighthood in 2020 for services to higher education and research.

Dr. Majid AlGwaiz

Deputy Minister

Ministry of Energy

Dr. Majid AlGwaiz

Deputy Minister

Dr. Majid Algwaiz is the Deputy Minister of Development and Project Management at the Ministry of Energy, spearheading Innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Organizational Excellence, and Project Management in the Ministry. With 25 years of experience across public, private, and academic sectors, Dr. Algwaiz has contributed to various topics including energy systems optimization, digital transformation, and advanced manufacturing & innovation.

Dr. Basma AlBuhairan

Managing Director

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

Dr. Basma AlBuhairan

Managing Director

Dr. Basma AlBuhairan is a transformative Saudi leader with over 20 years of impact in healthcare, education, innovation, investment, and technology. She has held key roles at King Abdulaziz Medical City Riyadh, IBM, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, and the Ministry of Investment, leading major projects, establishing healthcare facilities, and attracting global life sciences organizations. As Managing Director of C4IR Saudi Arabia, a WEF Affiliate Centre, she drives responsible governance of advanced and frontier technologies. Serving on prominent global councils and advisory boards, Dr. Basma is a passionate mentor and lifelong learner, inspiring future generations through strategic, inclusive leadership.

Jeremy Jurgens

Managing Director & Head of the Forum's Centre for Frontier Technologies and Innovation and Centre for Cybersecurity

World Economic Forum

Jeremy Jurgens

Managing Director & Head of the Forum's Centre for Frontier Technologies and Innovation and Centre for Cybersecurity

Jeremy Jurgens is Managing Director & Head of the Forum's Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Centre for Cybersecurity. His responsibilities include oversight of the Forum’s global network of C4IR centers, emerging technologies and innovation and technology pioneer communities. He has served in various functions since 1999 including Chief Business Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Representative China, the head of the Annual Meeting in Davos and the architect of the Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Platform.

Dr. Saeed AlShihri

Vice President for Energy and Industry Sector

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Dr. Saeed AlShihri

Vice President for Energy and Industry Sector

Dr. Saeed Alshihri is currently the vice president for Energy and Industry at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology. He’s also a board member of The Saudi Geological Survey, and he is also a board member of the Oil Sustainability Program.He’s also a board member of The Saudi Geological Survey, and he is also a board member of the Oil Sustainability Program.Dr. Alshihri received his PhD degree in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London in the United Kingdom.

Dr. Mariam Nouh

VP Economies of the Future Sector

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Dr. Mariam Nouh

VP Economies of the Future Sector

Dr. Mariam Nouh is a distinguished leader in cyber security and digital technology with over 15 years of experience. As Vice President of the Economies of the Future sector at KACST, she drives R&D in space tech, future cities, and emerging technologies, including AI, robotics, and quantum. She’s a member of the World Economic Forum’s Council on the Connected World, Dr. Nouh contributes to global cyber research and governance. A sought-after speaker and advisor, she is dedicated to advancing innovation, collaboration, and technology-driven impact on a global scale.

Dr. Batoul Baz

VP Health Sector

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Dr. Batoul Baz

VP Health Sector

Dr. Baz is the VP of Health Sector at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). Before this role, she was the Director of the National Centre for Genomic Technologies and Bioinformatics. Dr. Baz is a licensed consultant in molecular genetics and is the chairperson of the national committee of bioethics and the national committee for biosafety and biological diversity. She holds a PhD from the University of Queensland School of Medicine (Australia) and has completed her postdoctoral training at KFSHRC. Additionally, she holds an MBA from London Business School(LBS) with a focus on strategy, leadership, and organizational behavior.

Dr. Talal AlSedairy

Senior Vice President, R&D

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Dr. Talal AlSedairy

Senior Vice President, R&D

Dr. Talal bin Ahmed Alsedairy is a distinguished figure in Saudi Arabia's scientific and technological landscape, known for his dedication to advancing innovation and progress. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President for Research and Development at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), where he oversees the National Lab function. With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Dr. Alsedairy was among Saudi Arabia's pioneering engineers in the field of 5th-generation mobile communications and research.

Dr. Ibrahim AlMojel

Founding Partner

Khwarizmi Holding

Dr. Ibrahim AlMojel

Founding Partner

Ibrahim Almojel is the founding partner of Khwarizmi Holding. Khwarizmi holding owns specialized investment companies in venture capital, private equity, industrial, and real estate. In VC, Khwarizmi invests in early-stage technology companies in MENA. In PE, the focus is on SMEs in Saudi Arabia in sectors impacted by Vision 2030. In real estate, Khwarizmi, through its affiliate Urbium Capital, invests in specialty housing the UK focusing on senior living and student accommodation. In industrial, Khwarizmi is focusing the vision 2030 sectors as defined by the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program. Dr. Almojel sits on multiple boards including the Saudi National Bank (SNB), Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Hassana Investment Company, Awqaf Investment Company, Saudi Budget, Saudi EXIM bank, and the Saudi Integrated Logistics Zone company. He is a member of the 2019 Young Global Leaders of the World Economic Forum. Dr. Almojel was the CEO of the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF), where he led the transformation of SIDF to align with Vision 2030. That was achieved through expanding the fund’s mandate include logistics, mining, and renewables and its offering to include a variety of financial programs and products and increased its capital from $17B to $28B. During his tenure, Dr. Almojel was recognized by Forbes as one of the top CEOs in MENA in 2021 and 2022 and the King Abdulaziz Award for Quality at its gold level. Previously he worked at Saudi Aramco as the CEO of Wisayah, the investment management arm of Saudi Aramco’s captive fund. Before that, he worked at multiple functions in Saudi Aramco’s corporate strategy, transformation program, and Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures and was recognized by Saudi Aramco’s corporate excellence award. He completed his BS in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics from Vanderbilt University, then an MS in Electrical Engineering, an MS and a PhD in Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University.

Salih AlSubai

Vice President of Technology Strategy and Architecture

Saudi Telecom Company

Salih AlSubai

Vice President of Technology Strategy and Architecture

Salih AlSubai is Vice President of Technology Strategy and Architecture at stc, leading the company’s enterprise-wide technology vision and future-state architecture. With 20+ years in telecom and technology, he drives innovation, strategic initiatives, and partnerships that enable sustainable growth and organizational agility. Previously, he served as General Manager of Digital Enablement at stc and held senior executive roles at Mobily, including SVP of Digital Development and Analytics. A two-time ICMG Global Enterprise Architecture Award winner, Salih holds a master’s degree and executive education from INSEAD and Esade, and contributes to global technology policy through SASO and ISO committees.

Dr. Ibrahim AlShunaifi

Expert Researcher / Project Lead

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology / Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

Dr. Ibrahim AlShunaifi

Expert Researcher / Project Lead

Dr. Ibrahim AlShunaifi is Lead Project at the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia (C4IR Saudi Arabia), a World Economic Forum affiliate supporting Vision 2030. He specializes in digital transformation, Industry 4.0, and technology governance, leading initiatives such as the SMEs project and the Lighthouse initiative. Formerly Expert Researcher at KACST’s advanced Manufacturing technologies Institute, he is also a Certified SIRI Assessor. With a PhD in Energy from Paris X, Dr. Ibrahim has published extensively, holds patents, and has served in both diplomatic and engineering roles for Saudi Arabia.

Prof. Mohamed AlKawi

Director, Research Ethics Monitoring Office

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Prof. Mohamed AlKawi

Director, Research Ethics Monitoring Office

Prof. Muhammad Zuheir Alkawi is a distinguished neurologist, holding board certifications in Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, and Vascular Neurology from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He currently serves as Director of the Research Ethics Monitoring Office at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), bringing decades of clinical, academic, and research expertise to the field of neuroscience. He contributed to the Stroke Council of the American Heart Association between 1998 and 2002 and has authored or co-authored over 60 original research articles published in both local and international journals. With a longstanding career spanning clinical care, research, and bioethics, Professor Alkawi continues to play an influential role in the development of neurological sciences, both regionally and internationally.

Alaa Abdulaal

Chief of Digital Economy Intelligence

Digital Cooperation Organization

Alaa Abdulaal

Chief of Digital Economy Intelligence

Alaa Abdulaal is the Chief of Digital Economy Intelligence at the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), an intergovernmental organization advancing inclusive and sustainable digital economy growth. She leads pioneering initiatives such as the Digital Economy Navigator, which assesses maturity across 50 countries representing 86% of global GDP. With expertise in digital strategy, transformation, and international cooperation, Alaa drives forward-thinking technology policies and cross-sector collaborations. Previously, she directed IT Strategy at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transport and Logistics and held leadership roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She holds a Master’s in Applied Computing from the University of Toronto.

Dr. Akram Awad

Managing Director and Partner

Boston Consulting Group

Dr. Akram Awad

Managing Director and Partner

Dr. Awad holds an MDP role at BCG. He is a core senior leadership member of BCG's Public Sector and Technology Advantage practices with 15+ year experience in consulting, telecommunications and technology. He has deep expertise in large transformations, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, technology strategy, big data and analytics, Agile product management, and change management, through working globally with clients, primarily in public sector and TMT. He is an innovator with several granted and files patents.

Prof. Ahmed AlJedai

Vice Chairman and Managing Director

SPIMACO

Prof. Ahmed AlJedai

Vice Chairman and Managing Director

Ahmed Al-jedai, Pharm.D., M.B.A., BCPS, FCCP, FAST, FASHP, FCCP, BCTxP | Vice Chairman and Managing Director, SPIMACO

Abdurahman Jubairy

Digital Transformation Lead

Aramco

Abdurahman Jubairy

Digital Transformation Lead

Abdulrhman Jubairy is a passionate digital transformation advisor and YLAB member at Saudi Aramco's Global Manufacturing Excellence division. Starting his career as a frontline operator, he built a decade of experience that now helps him bridge industrial know-how with executive strategy. Jubairy leads major digital initiatives that boost efficiency, drive innovation, and inspire teams across Aramco's downstream operations. Recognized for guiding WEF Lighthouse achievements and award-winning programs, he is known for mentoring future leaders and sharing knowledge widely. Driven by a belief in empowering people, Jubairy champions youth engagement and projects that support Saudi Vision 2030's ambitious goals.

Dr. Ammar AlNahwi

Director

Saudi Aramco

Dr. Ammar AlNahwi

Director

Dr. Ammar Al-Nahwi is the Director of Corporate Innovation Management at Saudi Aramco, leading efforts to strengthen the company’s innovation ecosystem and drive its long-term transformation. With two decades of experience in research, technology, and strategy, he has held several senior leadership roles, including Manager of the Research & Development Center and Chief Executive Officer of Dhahran Techno Valley Company (DTVC). Earlier in his career, he was part of the founding team of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where he served as Vice President for Research & Development Management. A recipient of the ASME Gas Turbine Award, Dr. Al-Nahwi holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and has completed executive education at Stanford University.

Prof. Amany AlShawi

Chief Executive Officer

Academy 32

Prof. Amany AlShawi

Chief Executive Officer

Prof. Alshawi is a seasoned strategic leader with over 20 years of experience driving enterprise transformation across government, research, and innovation sectors. She has led large-scale initiatives in strategy execution, organizational excellence, and capability building. A pioneer in cybersecurity and digital transformation, Prof. Alshawi established the first specialized research team in data encryption and advanced technology development at KACST. Her influence extends across national and international platforms, where she is recognized for shaping visionary strategies and delivering impactful results aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Ali Alkhashan

General Manager of Eastern Sector

Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON)

Ali Alkhashan

General Manager of Eastern Sector

Ali Alkhashan is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of cross-industry experience in leadership, operations, and strategy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Marine Engineering from Southampton Institute, UK. Currently serving as Eastern Sector general manager at MODON, he drives strategic initiatives that enhance industrial development and operational excellence. Previously, he was CEO of SRACO Company, where he spearheaded transformative growth, and Regional Director at Almajal Service Masters. His career also includes leadership roles at Saudi Ready-Mix Concrete Co. Ali is recognized for fostering innovation, building strong teams, and delivering sustainable results

Ali AlAsiri

Chairman & Founder

GeneEra AI

Ali AlAsiri

Chairman & Founder

Ali Alasiri is a seasoned executive leader with deep experience across the public and private sectors in the areas of digital transformation, digital economy, health ecosystem, strategic planning, and growth. Over a career spanning 23+ years, he has worked across the Middle East and North America with large corporates, start-ups and government institutions to help them plan and execute on mission-critical changes to their operating infrastructure and corporate strategy. Currently, he is leading several companies including Meila Digital for GovTech which is focused in creating the next generation platforms in government technologies, SmartWay for digital learning and creating an innovative learning experience for communities, FinxHub as an incubator for fintech startups, BlackBaz as an investment holding company to establish JVs and companies, GeneEra a deep digital health platform to build a digital human with focus on Science and Digital, Tathabbat for Financial Crime powered by A.I. as the first in the region. Mr. Alasiri is the former Director General of Yesser the eGovernment program and Chief Executive Officer of National Digitization Unit, he spearheads the Smart Government initiative – one of the cornerstones of the Saudi Arabian government’s priority to digitize the public sector.

Ayman AlJohani

CEO

IIoT Solutions

Ayman AlJohani

CEO

Ayman Aljohani is the founder of IIoT Solutions, a company dedicated to advancing digital transformation and smart manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. With expertise in Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, and industrial IoT, he helps manufacturers integrate cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Ayman has led projects across both government and private sectors, bridging strategy with hands-on implementation. Passionate about building the future of Saudi industry, he focuses on creating scalable solutions that empower manufacturers to compete globally and embrace the opportunities of intelligent, connected, and sustainable production.

Arunima Sarkar

Head of Frontier Technologies

World Economic Forum

Arunima Sarkar

Head of Frontier Technologies

Arunima is Head of Frontier technologies leading the Forum’s communities and initiatives and shaping global, regional, and industry conversations around the responsible adoption of frontier technologies like autonomous mobility and robotics, biotech and quantum.Arunima has 25+ years of experience in corporate growth and strategy initiatives and technology policy with special focus on data, analytics and artificial intelligence, quantum . She has led the Global Applied intelligence Research of Accenture and also worked in technology consulting and research roles in organizations like Gartner.

Prof. Andreas Cangellaris

Founding President, NEOM University

NEOM

Prof. Andreas Cangellaris

Founding President, NEOM University

Professor Andreas Cangellaris is Founding President of NEOM University, NEOM, Saudi Arabia. Before joining NEOM, Andreas served as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. During his 25-year tenure with Illinois, he served in several leadership roles, including Dean of the Grainger College of Engineering. A renowned expert in applied electromagnetism and computational science, Prof. Cangellaris’ research has contributed to the advancement of modeling methodologies and computer-aided design tools for state-of-the-art computing and communication systems. Professor Cangellaris is a Life Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

Prof. Alina Matyukhina

Global Head of Cybersecurity

Siemens

Prof. Alina Matyukhina

Global Head of Cybersecurity

Prof. Dr. Alina Matyukhina is the CSO and Global Head of Cybersecurity for the largest Business Unit at Siemens, where she leads cybersecurity efforts across more than 28,000 employees worldwide. She advises senior executives on strategic cybersecurity decisions and teaches MBA and EMBA students as a Visiting Professor. Alina is a recognized expert and frequent speaker at international conferences, as well as a jury member at the Global Cyber Conference. She has been named Cybersecurity Woman of the Year, featured on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, and her work has been highlighted in Forbes, Bilanz, and NZZ.

Prof. David Keyes

Senior Associate to the President, Strategic Projects

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Prof. David Keyes

Senior Associate to the President, Strategic Projects

David Keyes is professor of applied mathematics, computer science, and mechanical engineering at KAUST, where he was founding dean in 2009 and founding director of the Extreme Computing Research Center. He earned a BSE from Princeton, a PhD from Harvard, and has taught at Yale, Old Dominion, and Columbia. He has twice received ACM’s Gordon Bell Prize, IEEE’s Sidney Fernbach Award, is a fellow of SIAM, AMS, and AAAS, and was named a “legend of HPC” by HPCWire in 2024. He has helped bring three globally top20 supercomputers to KAUST and led KAUST to four Gordon Bell Prize finalist nominations.

Dana Kawas

CEO and Co-Founder

Thynkli

Dana Kawas

CEO and Co-Founder

Dana Kawas is a global leader in digital transformation with 25+ years of experience driving innovation at the intersection of technology, strategy, and business. As CEO of Thynkli, she has led large-scale Digital Twin and AI initiatives across infrastructure, aviation, government, and smart cities. A recognized voice in the field, Dana serves as a Digital Twin Consortium Ambassador for the Middle East and advises global leaders on future-ready technology strategies. With an MBA in Strategy and executive education from Harvard Business School, she is a frequent speaker and contributor on the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

Cassidy Lyon

Managing Director

Emerging Markets Intelligence & Research

Cassidy Lyon

Managing Director

Cassidy Lyon is Managing Director for Saudi Arabia at Emerging Markets Intelligence & Research (EMIR), where she leads a CEO network. She advises senior leaders through closed-door roundtables and private briefings, convening multinational executives, Saudi business leaders, and government stakeholders on issues shaping the Kingdom’s economic transformation. Based in Riyadh, Cassidy works at the intersection of policy and business to foster meaningful dialogue and strategic partnerships. She previously served as an Economist at Oxford Economics and with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Cassidy holds a Master’s in International Economics and Middle East Studies from Johns Hopkins SAIS.

Dr. Brynne Stanton

Bioeconomy Lead

World Economic Forum

Dr. Brynne Stanton

Bioeconomy Lead

Brynne Stanton, PhD, is the Bioeconomy Lead at the World Economic Forum. Together with her team, Brynne is building a global community across public and private sectors to accelerate the global transition to a biobased economy. Prior to joining the Forum, Brynne had a rich history in venture building; as an early member of Ginkgo Bioworks, she built and ran high performing R&D teams. After Ginkgo she co-founded a joint venture with Bayer and established a platform for sustainable agricultural products. Brynne's dedication to realizing the full potential of the tech-driven bioeconomy remains the central focus of her career.

Dr. Faris AlSalamah

Founder

ResearchX

Dr. Faris AlSalamah

Founder

Dr. Faris Alsalamah is an innovation strategist and the Vice-Curator of the Riyadh Global Shapers, advancing a human-led intelligent age through research-driven policy frameworks. From National Science Olympiad Champion (2013) and International Medalist (2016) to founding ResearchX (2023), a global non-profit RDI network, he drives cross-border collaboration among researchers and innovators from leading universities worldwide. Combining medical expertise with AI and emerging technologies, his thought leadership spans peer-reviewed publications and prestigious forums, including the FII. While pursuing advanced studies in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship at KAUST, he designs future-ready solutions that deliver transformative, human-centered impact across sectors, industries, and cultures.

Faisal Hamady

Managing Director and Partner

Boston Consulting Group

Faisal Hamady

Managing Director and Partner

Faisal Hamady is a Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) focusing on the intersection of economic development and technology innovation.In this capacity, Faisal is the global lead for Digital Economy, the global lead for Innovation for Economic Development, and the Middle East lead for DeepTech Innovation.Faisal's portfolio of work includes growth strategies, go-to-market approaches, and large scale transformations for private and public sector clients across several international markets including Europe, US, SE Asia, and Middle East.

Eid AlHarbi

President of Connectivity

Aramco Digital

Eid AlHarbi

President of Connectivity

Dr. Dominic Gorecky

Executive Board Member

Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne AG

Dr. Dominic Gorecky

Executive Board Member

Dominic Gorecky is a partner and executive board member at Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne AG. He co-founded and leads the Swiss Smart Factory, Switzerland’s first and foremost test and demonstration platform for Industry 4.0 as well as the Swiss HeathTech Center.He also founded the International Smart Factory Academy (IFSA) and co-founded the Swiss Cobotics Competence Center (S3C), where he serves as President of the Board. S3C is a national hub for industrial and academic partners to collaboratively develop and test next-generation cobotic solutions.In 2022, he was recognized as a Digital Shaper in Switzerland.

Hani AlHemsi

Director of Technology Development

Ministry of Communication and Information Technology

Hani AlHemsi

Director of Technology Development

He is an electrical engineer from KFUPM, holding a Master's in Engineering in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from McMaster University, Canada. With a focus on Microelectronics and Photonics, he has conducted extensive applied research. For over four years, he has led transformative projects in research, development, and innovation in emerging technologies within the technology deputyship at MCIT in KSA. Currently, he serves as the Director of Technology Development. He oversees national deep tech and emerging technology directions and frameworks.

Sir Prof. Gabriele Andreoli

President

Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation

Sir Prof. Gabriele Andreoli

President

Sir Prof. Dr. Gabriele Pao-Pei Andreoli MD, is an academic, and humanitarian leader, with a multidisciplinary career and a background in law, medicine and multimedia. Professor of diplomacy at the University of International Relations "Anania Shirakatsi" and President of the "Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation," (IASC) he leads the Longevity lab, merging AI with cellular regenerative medicine. Sir. Andreoli is a liaison representative of the Vatican, Pontifical Academy of Theology, as well as founder and director of the "IASC World Changers Summit," an international networking platform for scientific inclusion and development.

Dr. Fernando Gomez Fernandez

Head, Future of Materials Program

World Economic Forum

Dr. Fernando Gomez Fernandez

Head, Future of Materials Program

At the Center for Energy and Materials of the World Economic Forum, Fernando oversees initiatives to increase the sustainability, accessibility and productivity of materials systems used in our economy. Through most of his Forum career, Fernando led the Chemical industry team and programs addressing pollution and waste. Fernando’s expertise includes partnerships for technology development, technology strategy, and corporate innovation. After his doctoral and postdoctoral work in chemistry, Fernando was at AkzoNobel in technical development and venture relations.

Dr. Fatmah Baothman

CEO / Board Member

FI-Holding Saudi Arabia / Global Center for AI Excellence in London

Dr. Fatmah Baothman

CEO / Board Member

Dr. Fatmah Baothman is a trailblazing AI leader and the first woman in the Middle East to earn a doctorate in Modern Artificial Intelligence (2003, UK). The CEO of FI-Holding, Chairwoman, and board member of several international companies. She drives growth in AI business, education, and policy. Dr. Baothman established for women the KAU Computer Science Department, the Saudi Engineering Committee, IEEE Chapter, and the Saudi AI Society. Recognized member of the WEF Council on AI, the G20-S20, and represented Saudi women at the UN. Her legacy includes global recognition, quality publications, remarkable projects, transformative leadership, and advising major firms.

Prof. Imed Gallouzi

Prof. of Bioscience & Chair of the Center of Excellence for Smart Health

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Prof. Imed Gallouzi

Prof. of Bioscience & Chair of the Center of Excellence for Smart Health

Imed Gallouzi is a prominent biochemist and professor whose research focuses on mRNA metabolism and its regulation during the cell cycle and differentiation. He is currently a Professor of Bioscience and Chair of the KAUST Center of Excellence for Smart Health in KSA. Prior to this, he spent two decades at McGill University where he was a Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biology.

Dr. Huda Al Fardous

CEO

HealthGena

Dr. Huda Al Fardous

CEO

Dr. Huda Alfardus is a visionary leader in scientific entrepreneurship, innovation, and venture investment. With over a decade of experience, she has played a transformative role in Saudi Arabia’s tech and biotech ecosystems. As the Founder and CEO of HEALTHGENA, Dr. Huda is driving healthcare and life sciences innovation, leading one of the most recognized incubators and accelerators across the MENA region. Her focus on creating sustainable and globally competitive ecosystems aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Prof. Hoda AlKhzaimi

Associate Vice Provost of Research Translation and Innovation / Strategic Economic, Technology, and Investment Advisor, and National Expert on Advanced Sciences and Future Economy

New York University Abu Dhabi / UAE Presidential Program

Prof. Hoda AlKhzaimi

Associate Vice Provost of Research Translation and Innovation / Strategic Economic, Technology, and Investment Advisor, and National Expert on Advanced Sciences and Future Economy

Prof. Dr. Hoda Alkhzaimi is Associate Vice Provost for Research Translation and Entrepreneurship at NYU Abu Dhabi, Founding Director of EMARATSEC, and Founding Partner of Bluverse Ventures. A scientist, economist, and strategic advisor, she has over two decades of experience building industries, advancing cybersecurity, AI, quantum security, and emerging technologies, while shaping global policy and investment strategies. She co-chairs the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Cybersecurity and contributes to multiple international councils on technology and economics. Recognized as a thought leader bridging science, strategy, and diplomacy, she empowers innovation ecosystems and fosters future-ready global industries.

Hazleen Ahmad

Founder

Neuropower (Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, Philippines)

Hazleen Ahmad

Founder

Hazleen is a global impact investor and ecosystem builder with 30 years of leadership across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. She focuses on ventures blending purpose with performance, particularly women-led innovation and sustainable brands likeReady Set Jet, which conducts beauty science experiments aboard the International Space Station. Hazleen founded World Kindness Trust, supporting ventures prioritising empathy and equity, and Neuropower World, promoting inclusive systems for neurodiverse talent. As Global Deputy CEO of the Institute of Neurodiversity, she drives policy and advocacy, applying neuroscience to society and advancing brain capital in the economy to transform inclusion & sustainability into measurable systems for change.

Khalid Al Homoud

Executive Vice President

National Industrial Development Center

Khalid Al Homoud

Executive Vice President

Khalid Alhomoud is an Executive Vice President of Machinery & Equipment. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, he is passionate about building investment opportunities, attractive investments & develop public policies. Khalid a Bachelor Degree in Computer Engineering and a Master Degree in Operations & Supply Chain Management.

Kelly Richdale

Senior Advisor

SandboxAQ

Kelly Richdale

Senior Advisor

Kelly Richdale is Senior Advisor for SandboxAQ, Alphabet's spin off combining AI + Quantum techniques to develop critical advances in life sciences, financial services, navigation, and other sectors. She is Venture Partner at Amadeus Capital Partners where she advises or chairs various deeptech portfolio companies. Additionally, she is board member of a number of European regulated financial services and health insurance companies. Previously Kelly held roles as Executive Fellow at the World Economic Forum; as member of the Innovation Council of Innosuisse, the Swiss federal government's innovation agency; and as EVP of ID Quantique, a leader in quantum cryptography.

Karan Soni

Associate Partner

McKinsey & Company

Karan Soni

Associate Partner

Karan is an Associate Partner with QuantumBlack, AI by McKinsey. He leads at-scale digital and AI transformations for clients across the Middle East. Beyond organizational transformations, Karan specializes in helping ecosystems ideate and implement foundational data and AI initiatives to bring about end-to-end change across the AI value chain.Karan has more than 10 years’ experience serving institutions from a variety of sectors including national planning councils, government entities and private corporations across technology, insurance, and oil and gas.

Prof. Janet Godsell

Dean

Loughborough University

Prof. Janet Godsell

Dean

Jan Godsell is Dean of LB and Professor of Operations and Supply Chain (SC) Strategy at Loughborough University. Jan’s work focuses on the design of end-to-end SCs to enable, responsibility, sustainability, resilience and productivity.As a chartered engineer, Jan has over three decades of combined industry experience in product development, innovation, SC strategy, and process improvement working for ICI, Astra Zeneca and Dyson. She has advised government and industry on SC strategy and its relationship to industrial and business strategy. Jan is a member of the advisory group for the Made Smarter Innovation challenge and the UK National Manufacturing Forum.

Dr. Mahmoud AlYamany

Sector Head, Health and Wellbeing

NEOM

Dr. Mahmoud AlYamany

Sector Head, Health and Wellbeing

Dr. Mahmoud AlYamany is a distinguished healthcare leader with extensive executive experience in governance, strategy, and transformation. He currently serves as Sector Head of Health&Wellbeing NEOM, where he is building a futuristic health ecosystem. He is Co-Chairman of the Western Healthcare Clusters Board, overseeing care for 10 million people and a Board Member of the Northern Healthcare Clusters and Tibbiyah Company. Previously, he was CEO of Riyadh’s Second Health Cluster and CEO of King Fahad Medical City. He has consistently driven operational excellence, payer-provider integration and innovative healthcare models, positioning himself as a transformative leader in Saudi Arabia’s Health sector

Maha Taibah

Founder and CEO

RUMMAN

Maha Taibah

Founder and CEO

Maha Taibah is the Founder of RUMMAN, a boutique human-centric design firm focused on bringing wellbeing to the workplace. She is also an independent board member on PWC MENA advisory board. With over 20 years of experience in Human capital development between government, private sector and academia, Maha is a strategic advisor, investor, speaker and wellbeing advocate. She has worked for over 10 years in government leading national level initiatives that empower professionals in the Saudi labor market and encourage healthy organization cultures. Maha sits on many local and global boards, was the only sharkette on Shark Tank Arabia.

Lolwah Binsaedan

Founder & CEO

Juthor

Lolwah Binsaedan

Founder & CEO

Lolwah Binsaedan holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Alfaisal University and brings a strong background in management consulting with Accenture. She is the CEO and Founder of Juthor, an omni-sales channel platform that empowers retailers to seamlessly manage products, inventory, and orders across multiple channels.

Kimberly Washington

Co-Founder

Deep Space Bio

Kimberly Washington

Co-Founder

Kimberly Washington is a visionary serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Co-Founder -CEO of Deep Space Biology, pioneering the use of AI to transform healthcare and space R&D. She leads Yotta, the first AI space biotech platform translating decades of NASA microgravity data into breakthrough digital twin disease models and discoveries with partners like Mayo Clinic and MD Anderson. Under her leadership, DSB has been recognized as a NASA Success Story, a Top 10 SpaceTech startup, and winner of the Care In Space Challenge. Founder of Space4Girls and a global keynote speaker, Kimberly champions purpose-driven innovation for humanity’s future.

Memia Fendri

Lead, Resilient and Sustainable Value Chains; Content Curator

World Economic Forum

Memia Fendri

Lead, Resilient and Sustainable Value Chains; Content Curator

Memia Fendri leads the Resilient and Sustainable Value Chains portfolio at the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains, overseeing the development of new global insights and tools that can help navigate shifts impacting global value chains for a positive economic, societal and environmental impact. Previously, she worked at Novartis across various engineering roles globally. Memia holds an M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the Swiss Institute of Technology (EPFL) with trainings and research at Carnegie Mellon University and UC Berkeley.

Dr. Mazen Melibari

Founder & CEO

DEEP.SA

Dr. Mazen Melibari

Founder & CEO

Dr. Mazen Melibari is the CEO & Founder of DEEP.SA and the Chief Technology Officer & Partner at TAM Development. He earned his Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Waterloo, Canada, and has served in senior roles at SITE, MiSK Foundation, and Umm Al-Qura University. His work bridges academia, government, and industry, focusing on machine learning, reasoning under uncertainty, and natural language processing. He has published in top AI conferences and journals, including AAAI, IJCAI, ICML, and AAMAS, and continues to lead initiatives that advance artificial intelligence research and its application to real-world challenges.

Manish Pant

Executive Vice President, International Operations

Schneider Electric

Manish Pant

Executive Vice President, International Operations

Manish Pant is the Executive Vice President of International Operations at Schneider Electric and a member of the Executive Committee, a role he has held since November 2022. Based in Singapore, he oversees a multi-billion Euro operation across the Global South, leveraging over 25 years of experience at Schneider Electric. Manish earned his MBA from the Asian Institute of Management and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology. He has also completed leadership training at Harvard Business School and INSEAD.

Prof. Manahel Thabet

Advisor

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology

Prof. Manahel Thabet

Advisor

Prof. Manahel Thabet is a pioneering Saudi quantum scientist and advisor to the President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). She serves as Director of the National Centre for Quantum Technologies, leading national efforts in quantum cognition, sensing, and quantum resonance. With a distinguished track record in science diplomacy, she served as the Special Envoy for Science and Technology to the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, advancing multilateral science cooperation across 56 nations. Her leadership bridges cutting-edge research with national strategy, positioning Saudi Arabia as a rising global hub for quantum innovation and sustainable scientific development.

Dr. Muhamad Felemban

Director/Assistant Professor

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals

Dr. Muhamad Felemban

Director/Assistant Professor

Dr. Muhamad is the Director of the Intelligent Secure Systems research center at KFUPM, where he hold a position of Assistant Professor in the Computer Engineering and the Information and Computer Science departments. He earned his PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Purdue University in 2018, MSc in Computer Science from KAUST, and BSc in Computer Engineering from KFUPM. He is the coordinator of the Quantum Computing programs at KFUPM, where he is also spearheading several research initiatives. He is a co-founding board member of the Saudi Quantum Computing Association.

Mohammad Jalaly

Manager

Saudi Accelerated Innovation Lab (AramcoSAIL)

Mohammad Jalaly

Manager

Mohammad is a visionary technology leader with a strong background in managing digital and IT projects at Saudi Aramco. He has a diverse educational background, including degrees in electrical engineering, data analytics, and an MBA. He also holds certifications in project management and leadership. His career spans key roles in data center operations, digital transformation, and innovation. Mohammad is particularly passionate about how digital innovation can transform enterprise operations.

Mohammad AlSaiyari

Senior Technology Consultant

Saudi Aramco

Mohammad AlSaiyari

Senior Technology Consultant

Mohammad is the Chairman of the Saudi Quantum Computing Association and a Senior Technology Consultant at Saudi Aramco, where he advances quantum technologies and drives industrial adoption of next-generation solutions. With 25 years of experience in business solutions and Digital Transformation, he also serves as a Senior Project Fellow at the World Economic Forum’s Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Geneva, contributing to the Quantum Economy Network. He holds academic degrees in Systems Engineering and Quantum Computing and has authored multiple publications on Quantum Algorithms and their industrial applications.

Meshal AlMashari

Director Corporate Venturing

Aramco Ventures

Meshal AlMashari

Director Corporate Venturing

Meshal Almashari is Director of Digital Strategy & Investment at Saudi Aramco, with 25 years of experience in technology, digital transformation, innovation, and venturing. He led the establishment of Aramco’s Digital Transformation Program in 2017, including initiatives such as digital benchmarking, portfolio governance, value realization, and citizen development. He also led the establishment of Aramco Digital and serves as a board member of Plant.Digital, NextEra, and WEF C4IR KSA. Meshal represents Aramco in 2 World Economic Forum centers, securing five WEF Global Lighthouse Network awards, and has also served as Acting CDO of Aramco and CEO of Aramco Ventures.

Othman AlMoamar

Co-Founder

Edad

Othman AlMoamar

Co-Founder

Othman Almoamar is a leadership expert at the intersection of culture, youth affairs, and human capital. His work includes leading the Global Youth Index (GYI), one of the largest youth research projects globally, and developing over 10 whitepapers. Othman has also led multiple youth leadership and engagement programs, impacting thousands of young people locally and globally. In addition to chairing the Y20 in Saudi Arabia, he is a board member at multiple nonprofits and a co-founder of Edad Consulting.

Prof. Omaimah Bamasag

Deputy of Transportation Enablement

Transport General Authority

Prof. Omaimah Bamasag

Deputy of Transportation Enablement

Omaimah Bamasag is a Professor of Cybersecurity with 25+ years of experience in both academia and government. She is a research fellow at MIT's Mechatronics Research Lab, where she had conducted research led to a patent in authentication in IoT. Currently, she is the Deputy of Transport Enablement at the Transport General Authority in Riyadh, responsible for advancing land, rail, and maritime transport through research, innovation, and human capacity building. Prof. Bamasag is also a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Autonomous Mobility. She is now leading efforts toward smart, sustainable transport in the kingdom.

Naif AlDhaban

AI Product Manager / Curator

Lite / Global Shapers Riyadh Hub

Naif AlDhaban

AI Product Manager / Curator

Naif AlDhaban is an AI Product Lead at Scalers and the Curator of the Global Shapers Riyadh Hub, an initiative of the World Economic Forum. He leads 30+ changemakers across 20+ projects on sustainability, skills development, and youth empowerment, and has pioneered technology solutions with social impact. As a founding member of Project1932, he helped connect 600+ youth with 250+ senior leaders across Saudi Arabia. Internationally, he has represented Saudi Arabia at forums in China and India, and his work has been recognized globally, including top awards in AI and coding competitions.

Nadia AlAmoudi

Executive Director for Strategy and Operational Excellence

National Center for Environmental Compliance

Nadia AlAmoudi

Executive Director for Strategy and Operational Excellence

Nadia Alamoudi is the Executive Director for Strategy and Operational Excellence at the National Center for Environmental Compliance. She leads institutional strategy, annual planning, KPIs, risk, and business continuity, while overseeing the Project Management Office. Previously, she advised the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources on business development and served as General Manager of Economic Programs at the Ministry of Economy and Planning. With an MBA, she has lectured in management and economics and held leadership roles at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce. Passionate about knowledge exchange, she founded “Coffee and Know” to foster dialogue on management, economics, and society.

Dr. Raneem AlSelaimi

Deputy Managing Director

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

Dr. Raneem AlSelaimi

Deputy Managing Director

Dr. Raneem AlSelaimi is a distinguished leader in both the public and private sectors, currently serving as the Deputy Managing Director of C4IR Saudi Arabia. With a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from Curtin University, Dr. AlSelaimi brings a wealth of expertise in international relations, economic planning, and academia. In 2019, Dr. AlSelaimi joined the Ministry of Economy and Planning, where she played a pivotal role in spearheading Saudi Arabia's engagement with the World Economic Forum. Her strategic vision and leadership were instrumental during the G20 Summit in 2020, where she served as an advisor to the L20 group on labor market policy. Prior to her tenure at the Ministry, Dr. AlSelaimi was the MBA Director at Prince Sultan University, where she was recognized for her innovative approach to business education. Her collaboration with the World Bank on various public-private policy recommendations further underscores her commitment to fostering sustainable economic development.

Rami AlOtaibi

Director of North Ghawar Producing

Aramco

Rami AlOtaibi

Director of North Ghawar Producing

Raed AlFayez

Deputy Governor of Technology Sector

Communications, Space and Technology Commission

Raed AlFayez

Deputy Governor of Technology Sector

Eng. Raed Al-Fayez is the Deputy Governor for Technology at CST. With over two decades of expertise spanning IT, Internet services, Cloud computing, Emerging technologies and Cybersecurity, he stands as a pioneering force in bringing the Internet to Saudi Arabia in 1998 when he was at KACST. Beyond his previous pivotal roles as Director of SaudiNIC and General Manager of Internet Services at CST, Eng. Alfayez contributions extend to a multitude of research papers on Arabic domain names and DNS security. His current role focuses on stimulating growth of the technology market by shaping strategies, innovative regulations, and enabling initiatives.

Purushottam Kaushik

Head - Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution India

World Economic Forum

Purushottam Kaushik

Head - Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution India

Purushottam Kaushik (Puru) joined the World Economic Forum in March 2020, bringing with him twenty-five years of experience in the telecom and information technology sectors, where he held leadership roles in sales and management consulting. Puru holds a Bachelor of Engineering and an MBA. He began his career in 1995, working in various telecom companies, including Alcatel Systems, Lucent Technologies, and Nortel Networks, in sales leadership roles until 2009. Puru worked at Cisco Systems India, where he served as Managing Director before joining World Economic Forum.

Dr. Rudiger Ahrend

Head of Division

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development

Dr. Rudiger Ahrend

Head of Division

Dr. Rudiger Ahrend is Head of Economic Analysis, Data and Statistics Division in the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions & Cities, also overseeing the OECD Laboratory for Geospatial Analysis and the Trento Laboratory for Spatial Productivity. He has been leading numerous projects, including on industrial transitions, AI, economic resilience, supply chains, regional and urban innovation, SME scaling-up, and green growth. Dr Ahrend has published widely in academic journals and newspapers. He holds a PhD in Economics from the London School of Economics, and degrees in Social Sciences and Mathematics from the University of Göttingen, Paris-IX Dauphine, and the Sorbonne.

Prof. Rosario Fazio

Head of Condensed Matter and Statistical Physics Section

The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics

Prof. Rosario Fazio

Head of Condensed Matter and Statistical Physics Section

Rosario Fazio received his PhD in Physics in 1990 at the University of Catania. He is currently Head of the Condensed Matter and Statistical Physics Section of the Abdus Salam International Center for Theoretical Physics (Trieste) and Professor of Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics at the University of Naples "Federico II" . He is the Director of the Institute for Quantum Theoretical Technologies of Trieste. His reseach interests are in theoretical condensed matter and quantum information processing.

Richard Traherne

Head of Next Frontiers

Capgemini Invent

Richard Traherne

Head of Next Frontiers

Richard leads Capgemini Invent’s Next Frontiers, driving transformative innovation through the company’s market-leading science, deep tech, design, and digital capabilities. He also heads Capgemini’s Bioengineering business, a lab and advisory-based capability helping clients accelerate the development of bio-based solutions, by enhancing predictability and reducing costs, with breakthrough technologies inspired by innovation beyond the biotech sector.Previously Chief Commercial Officer at Cambridge Consultants, Richard has worked across consumer, industrial, and healthcare sectors. He is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Bioeconomy Steering Group and specialises in partnering with ambitious businesses committed to genuine, market-changing innovation.

Dr. Reem Taibah

Project Lead

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

Dr. Reem Taibah

Project Lead

With both R&D and consultancy experience, Dr. Reem leads innovative solutions in sustainability and advanced technology.

Prof. Tristan Farrow

Vice President for Research and Innovation, and Head of Innovation Services

NEOM

Prof. Tristan Farrow

Vice President for Research and Innovation, and Head of Innovation Services

Professor Tristan Farrow is Head of Innovation Services at NEOM ERI and Vice President for Research and Innovation at NEOM University, supporting Saudi Arabia’s research and innovation ecosystem in line with Vision 2030. Prior to this he was Professor of Physics at Oxford University and Senior Research Fellow at NUS; he pioneered quantum communication technologies at Toshiba Research, including the world’s first telecom-band single-photon LEDs for practical cryptography. He was a member of the team that founded Singapore’s Centre for Quantum Technologies and combines technical expertise with strategic leadership, advising governments, global organizations, and industry on innovation and commercialization.

Tammy Bui

Consultant

17a

Tammy Bui

Consultant

Tammy Bui is a global health‑equity champion and digital‑health innovator bridging East and West. Trained in Canada and tested in China, she has advised the Public Health Agency of Canada, evaluated Beijing’s COVID‑19 response with China CDC, and supports digital transformation across Southeast Asia as a health‑tech consultant. Co‑founder of WeCanVax, she has advanced vaccine confidence in marginalized communities. A Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua, she offers firsthand insight into how public‑health crises drive technological progress. Passionate about community‑led policy, Tammy brings a dynamic lens to tech‑driven, equity‑focused health systems.

Prof. Selwa AlHazzaa

CEO / Founder

SDM Tech

Prof. Selwa AlHazzaa

CEO / Founder

Recognized as a trailblazing pioneer in ophthalmology and one of Arabs world most influential leaders. With 40 years of medical expertise, she has advanced retinal imaging, and eye health on a global scale. She was the first Saudi woman to serve on the Shura Parliamentary Council holding prestigious fellowships from UK, US, KSA. In 2005/2006, Forbes named her among “The Most Powerful Arab Women.”As Founder/CEO of SDM, Saudi deep-tech startup, she is transforming healthcare by applying artificial intelligence to make early detection of chronic diseases more efficient, sustainable, and accessible, positioning KSA as a pioneer in digital health innovation.

Dr. Sami Mahroum

Director / Founder

Oliver Wyman / SparkX

Dr. Sami Mahroum

Director / Founder

Founder and CEO of Spark X, Sami is a Director in our Government and Public Institutions Practice in Dubai. With 25 years at the intersection of public policy, innovation and strategic advisory, he has advised governments, organisations and executives across Canada, Europe and the GCC regions. Sami builds decision-intelligence tools—logic models, scenario frameworks and impact systems—to help leaders navigate complexity. He led think-tank and innovation centre launches in Brussels and Dubai and focuses on AI governance, automation and future-of-work transitions. Prolific author, his book Black Swan Start-Ups introduced “place surplus.” He holds a PhD and speaks English, Arabic and Norwegian.

Zainab AlAmin

VP National Digital Transformation

Microsoft

Zainab AlAmin

VP National Digital Transformation

VP. National Digital Transformation at Microsoft Saudi, with over 20 years of experience. She focuses on leveraging AI and digital transformation to drive innovation and create positive impact. Zainab is known for her work in promoting AI applications and supporting developers and data scientists through Microsoft platforms and tools. She is also one of the founders for the National Saudi CIO Club for the public sector and co-founder for Tech Saudi Advocates.Zainab was honored with the Science and Technology Person of the Year award at the Arabian Business KSA Women Excellence Awards.

Dr. Waleed Gowharji

General Manager for Projects & Initiatives

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia

Dr. Waleed Gowharji

General Manager for Projects & Initiatives

Waleed Gowharji leads projects and initiatives at the Centre for The Fourth Industrial Revolution. He has previously lead the Centre's autonomous mobility initiatives and served as an autonomous mobility fellow at the World Economic Forum.