What an incredible event! I was thrilled to be among the 350+ attendees at “Future Forward,” the annual London Business School (LBS) Middle East Conference on January 31, 2025. The energy was electric! It was a privilege to not only attend but also contribute to the discussions. This region is truly becoming a global powerhouse in innovation and AI, driving some of the most ambitious transformations we’ve seen in how we work, build, and live. The conference brought together so many influential voices from government and industry, creating a truly enriching experience.

The program was packed with captivating conversations and keynote speeches. Dean Sergei Guriev masterfully guided discussions with key figures like H.E. Jassem Al Zaabi (DLEMBA2010), Chairman at Department of Finance – Abu Dhabi, Chairman of e& UAE, and Chairman of Modon Real Estate, exploring the UAE’s strategic moves to attract global investment and talent. His conversation with Ahmed Galal Ismail (MBA2002), CEO of Majid Al Futtaim, about Davos insights and the complexities of succession planning was equally fascinating.

The panel on the future of entrepreneurship and startups, featuring Muhammed Mekki, Sheikha AlMheiri (EMBADJ2018), and Nadine Benchaffai (MBA2005), offered diverse and insightful perspectives on the current landscape and future opportunities. Jeremy Lester’s keynote on NEOM and the development of future cities was truly inspiring, and the subsequent panel discussion with Andrew Nichol (DLEMBA2010), H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa (DEMBAS2011), Jehad Alkadi, and Jeremy Lester further explored the critical elements of creating long-term value in these urban centers.

The conference also delved into the dynamic media landscape with Sulaiman Al-Rubaie (MBA2008) and Joe Kawkabani, who discussed the “Crossing the Rubicon” journey of the OSN and Anghami merger.

I was pleased to participate in the conversation about the future of tech and its impact on business, alongside Vibhor Mundhada, and Dalal AlRayes (MBA2014) and moderator Ramzi Qannati (EMBADJ2019). We explored the evolving technological landscape and its implications for how we operate.

The presentations on Abu Dhabi’s AI journey, including Talal M. Al Kaissi’s overview of G42’s ambitious investment plans and the conversation with H.E. Tariq Bin Hendi (EMBA2009) from Astra Tech, were truly impressive.

A huge thank you to LBS for organizing such a stimulating event. It was wonderful to connect with so many alumni, students, and friends of LBS from across the region and beyond. “Future Forward” was a truly enriching and thought-provoking experience, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s conference.