14 - 16 APRIL 2025
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh
2024 Agenda
- FHS - tracks covering hospitality investment, industry entrepreneurship, sustainable development and human capital
- Restaurant Invest (GRIF) - tracks covering F&B investment & workshops
- The Welcome Remarks and Official Opening begins on the Summit Stage at 15:00 on Day One with plenty of sessions before and after.
- Floor Plan
- All times listed are in Saudi Arabia's GMT+3 timezone
Programme is subject to change.
Monday 29 April
08:00 - 12:30 4 hours 30 minutes
Registration
Restaurant Investment
09:00 - 09:10 10 minutes
Innovation Stage
Global Restaurant Investment Forum - Welcome
Restaurant Investment
Jennifer Pettinger
Co-Founder, Global Restaurant Investment Forum, Partner,
THINK Hospitality
09:10 - 09:40 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
GRIF Intelligence - Understanding the Saudi Consumer - The New Codes of Luxury:
Harnessing hospitality opportunities in Saudi Arabia
Restaurant Investment
Martin Raymond
Co-Founder, The Future Laboratory
Editor-in-Chief, LS:N Global
Christopher Sanderson
Co-Founder
The Future Laboratory
09:40 - 10:10 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
New Horizons in Food & Beverage:
Unlocking the Potential in a Transformational Marketplace
Restaurant Investment
Moderator: Christopher Sanderson, Co-founder, The Future Laboratory
Michael Flanagan
Chief Business Development Officer
Al Khozama Investment Company
Christopher Sanderson
Co-Founder
The Future Laboratory
Hicham Hassouni
Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer
Boutique Group
Ada Renedo
Regional CEO, Middle East
Together Group
10:10 - 10:50 40 minutes
Innovation Stage
The Changing F&B Landscape and What it Means for the Future of Dining & Spaces in KSA
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Simon Wright
Founder & Chairman
TGP International
In conversation with
Talar Keshishian
Senior Manager Leasing – Retail Development
Red Sea Global
Madan Manjeshwar
Director of Finance
AlMoajil Hospitality
Vikram Natarajan
Chief Executive Officer
Kayanee
10:50 - 11:05 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
GRIF Data Report - Using Data to Competition Proof your Business and Invest in the Right Places
TalksRestaurant Investment
Gustavo De Hostos
Founder & Managing Partner
Forsite Creative
11:05 - 11:20 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
TENX Leadership Talks:
Mohammed Islam, Host & Founder, The Mo Show Podcast, one on one with Mohammed Jawa, Founder and Chairman, MJS Holding on The future of Saudi’s restaurant market. How is the market diversifying and what is the long term vision?
TalksRestaurant Investment
Moderator
Mohammed Islam
Host & Founder
The Mo Show Podcast Saudi Arabia
In conversation with
Mohammed Jawa
Founder & Chairman
MJS Holding
11:20 - 11:30 10 minutes
Innovation Stage
Short Coffee break
Restaurant Investment
11:30 - 11:50 20 minutes
Innovation Stage
Unlocking the culinary potential of Saudi’s secondary and tertiary cities - helping Saudis discover Saudi through the power of culture and food
Restaurant Investment
Moderator: Jana Bader, Advisor, The Bench
Jana Bader
Advisor
The Bench
Nawal AlKhalawi
Founder & CEO
Asfar Experience
Mawadah Bajrai
Food Innovator and Researcher
11:30 - 13:00 1 hour 30 minutes
Yanbu Breakout Room
USALI 11th Edition – Tips and Tricks
Investment & Development
Giuliano Gasparini, FRICS, CRE, HAMA, IoH, CHIA
Head of Hospitality Asset Management
WASL Group
11:45 - 12:00 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
GRIF Signing Ceremony
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:50 - 12:15 25 minutes
Innovation Stage
Digital Evolution in F&B and Hospitality:
Leveraging Influencer and Gaming Trends for the Next Five Years
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Georgina Clair Woollams-Edwards
Founder & Managing Director
Katch International
In conversation with
Jasniya Badsha
Co-Founder
RiyadhConnect
Oli Thomas
Founder
Hatchin
12:00 - 13:00 1 hour
Al Omsiat B
Speed Networking
Networking
12:15 - 12:30 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
Case study:
What is your North Star? Profit with Purpose - From Restaurants to Global Media Powerhouse & Force for Good, learning from The José Andrés Group’s transformation
Restaurant Investment
Sam Bakhshandehpour, President and Board Member, JOSÉ ANDRÉS GROUP © in conversation with Ada Renedo, Regional CEO of Together Group, Middle East
Sam Bakhshandehpour
Global Chief Executive Officer
José Andrés Group
Ada Renedo
Regional CEO, Middle East
Together Group
12:30 - 13:00 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
Maintaining bottom-line efficiency at scale
TalksRestaurant Investment
Ashish Tulsian, Co-Founder & CEO of Restoworks in conversation with restaurant CEO on how they are leveraging the latest innovations to drive efficiency and growth.
Ashish Tulsian
Co-founder & CEO
Restroworks
Mateo Ramos
Chief Executive Officer
Foodvest Holding WLL
Faisal Younes
CEO F&B
Cenomi Retail
Sherif M. Elsherif
Managing Director - MENA
Olayan Food Services Company
13:00 - 15:00 2 hours
Yanbu Breakout Room
Your Path to Red Sea Global:
Exploring Projects and Partnership Opportunities
Investment & Development
On Invitation Only
Ben Edwards
Group Head of Cost, Commercial, and Procurement
Red Sea Global
13:00 - 14:00 1 hour
Networking Lunch
NetworkingRestaurant Investment
13:30 - 13:35 5 minutes
Summit Stage
Welcome to the Data Talks
Talks
Data Talks are focused on providing a snapshot of key hospitality data trends as they relate to the hospitality sector and understanding the fundamentals underpinning the market and future trends. The Talks allows each speaker 10 minutes presentation followed by Q&A.
Fritz Dickamp
Managing Director
Studio 49
13:35 - 13:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Data Talks:
Global Challenges and Market Resilience - KSA Vision & Government Initiatives
TalksInvestment & Development
Martin Berlin
Partner, Real Estate, PwC Middle East
PwC
13:50 - 14:05 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Data Talks:
The Future of Wellness - New Data on Wellness Travel
Talks
Moderator: Aradhana Khowala, CEO & Founder, Aptamind Partners
Susie Ellis
Chair & CEO
Global Wellness Institute and Global Wellness Summit
Aradhana Khowala
CEO & Founder
Aptamind Partners
14:00 - 14:30 30 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Announcement #1
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
14:05 - 14:20 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Data Talks:
Optimising Restaurant Financial Performance Through Revenue Management
TalksRestaurant Investment
Rohit Sachdev
Chief Executive Officer
Soho Hospitality
14:20 - 14:35 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Data Talks:
An Overview of Factors Impacting Hospitality Construction Costs in KSA
TalksInvestment & Development
Waleed M. Abualnadi
Commercial Director
Saudi Icon Company
14:30 - 14:45 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #1
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
14:35 - 14:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Data Talks:
Why ESG data and benchmarking is key to continuing the Hospitality sector's global growth.
TalksESG & Human Capital
Glenn Mandziuk
CEO
Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
14:50 - 15:00 10 minutes
Summit Stage
Coffee Break
Networking
15:00 - 15:15 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Welcome Remarks
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
Jonathan Worsley
Chairman & CEO
The Bench
15:30 - 15:40 10 minutes
Summit Stage
Opening Address
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
Khalid Abuhaimed
CEO
Alkhozama Investments Group
15:40 - 15:55 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Invest, enable, prosper:
empowering saudi tourism destination through hospitality sector
FHS Opening, Awards & SigningsInvestment & Development
Mahmoud Abdulhadi
Deputy Minister, Destination Enablement
Ministry Tourism of Saudi Arabia
15:45 - 16:00 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #2
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
15:55 - 16:10 15 minutes
Summit Stage
The Power of Tourism - Saudi Arabia's Global Standing in Perspective
Brand & Destination
Moderator
Reina Takla
Head of Business Section
Arab News
In conversation with
HE Gloria Guevara Manzo
Chief Special Advisor
Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia
16:10 - 16:30 20 minutes
Summit Stage
Setting the Scene for Hotel Performance and Development in Saudi Arabia
TalksInvestment & Development
Thomas Emanuel
Senior Director
STR, a CoStar Group Company
16:30 - 17:05 35 minutes
Summit Stage
Investing in Saudi Arabia:
A Blueprint for Successful Market Entry and Investment
Investment & Development
Moderator
Edie Rodriguez
Member of the Board of Directors
Saudi Tourism Authority
In conversation with
Guy Hutchinson
President, Middle East & Africa
Hilton
Haitham Mattar
Special Advisor, UN Tourism
Managing Director MEA & South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts
Dr. Fahad bin Mushayt
Chief Executive Officer
ASFAR
17:05 - 17:20 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
How the Private Sector is driving Growth Through Strategic Synergy
TalksInvestment & Development
Sultan Bader Al-Otaibi
Chief Executive Officer
Taiba Investments
17:20 - 18:00 40 minutes
Summit Stage
Case Study - Private and Public Sector Collaborate to Accelerate Lifestyle Developments and Promote New Destinations #Vision2030
Brand & DestinationInvestment & Development
Moderator
Mohammed Islam
Host & Founder
The Mo Show Podcast Saudi Arabia
In conversation with
Khalid Al Gahtani
Chairman
Rikaz Properties
Osama AlOthman
Chief Executive Officer
Aseer Investment Company
Marloes Knippenberg
Chief Executive Officer
Kerten Hospitality
18:00 - 20:00 2 hours
Welcome Reception on the Green by Maiz
Networking
Hosted by Al Khozama at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh
Tuesday 30 April
09:00 - 09:05 5 minutes
Summit Stage
Welcome to the Digital Talks
TalksTechology & AI
Digital Talks are focused on providing a snapshot of key hospitality digital trends as they relate to the hospitality sector and understanding the fundamentals underpinning the market and future trends. The Talks allows each speaker 10 minutes presentation followed by Q&A.
Fritz Dickamp
Managing Director
Studio 49
09:00 - 09:15 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
GRIF Performance Report - How is F&B Performing within Hotels in Saudi?
TalksRestaurant Investment
Kathrin Cockhill
Commercial Director
HotStats
09:00 - 11:00 2 hours
Yanbu Breakout Room
Millennium MEA Breakfast Networking
09:05 - 09:20 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Digital Talks:
Leveraging Digital Trends to Enhance Hospitality Investment and Operations
TalksTechology & AI
Sarah Gasim
Senior Vice President, Head of Hotels KSA
JLL
09:15 - 09:45 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
Utilising Independent F&B Operators to Revitalise a Hotel Asset
Restaurant Investment
Where are the opportunities to leverage F&B brands to enhance the footfall, ADR, revenue and the value of your property?
Moderator
James Hacon
Founding Partner
Think Hospitality
In conversation with
Sam Bakhshandehpour
Global Chief Executive Officer
José Andrés Group
Lynne Bellinger
Director of Food & Beverage Design & Development
Marriott International EAME
Rizwan Kassim
Founder & Managing Partner
RIKAS Hospitality Group
09:20 - 09:35 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Digital Talks:
Strategic Potential - Mastering Digital Platforms
TalksTechology & AI
Oli Thomas
Founder
Hatchin
09:35 - 09:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Digital Talks:
How AI and Digital can optimise end-to-end procurement
TalksTechology & AI
Ankur Agrawal
CEO & Founder
Inhabitr
09:45 - 10:00 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
Four Levers of Revenue Optimisation for Restaurants and Hotel F&B, with Practical Advice on Maximising Sales and Profitability
TalksRestaurant Investment
James Hacon
Founding Partner
Think Hospitality
09:50 - 10:05 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Digital Talks:
The Hotel of the Future
TalksTechology & AI
Turab Saleem
Partner - Hospitality,Tourism & Leisure Advisory Services - MENA
Knight Frank
10:00 - 10:30 30 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Announcement #2
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
10:00 - 10:20 20 minutes
Innovation Stage
Case Study:
Continuing the Conversation - Real Facts, Figures and Take Aways that Prove Sustainability can be a Commercial Success
TalksRestaurant Investment
Emma Banks, VP of F&B Strategy & Development for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton followed by a conversation with Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Co-Founder, Global Restaurant Investment Forum; Partner, THINK Hospitality
Moderator
Jennifer Pettinger
Co-Founder, Global Restaurant Investment Forum, Partner,
THINK Hospitality
In conversation with
Emma Banks
VP, F&B Strategy and Development EMEA
Hilton
10:05 - 10:30 25 minutes
Summit Stage
Coffee Break
Networking
10:30 - 10:40 10 minutes
Summit Stage
Let's meet the Future with Desi
Techology & AI
Jonathan Worsley
Chairman & CEO
The Bench
Desdemona (Desi)
Humanoid Robot
Lead Vocalist of the Desdemona Dream Band
10:30 - 10:45 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #3
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
10:40 - 11:00 20 minutes
Summit Stage
Diversifying the Economy:
Strategies for Attracting Foreign Direct Investment and Achieving Vision 2030 Objectives through Innovative Funding Mechanisms
Investment & Development
Amr El Nady
Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and Managing Director, Global Hotel Desk
JLL
Hossam Al-Basrawi
General Manager Corporate Banking Group
Alrajhi Bank
Coley Brenan
Partner & Head of Europe
KSL Capital Partners
10:45 - 11:00 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #4
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:00 - 11:40 40 minutes
Summit Stage
Crafting a Diverse Portfolio:
Maximizing Financial Resilience Through Multi-Asset Allocation
Investment & Development
Moderator
Edie Rodriguez
Member of the Board of Directors
Saudi Tourism Authority
In conversation with
Khalid Abuhaimed
CEO
Alkhozama Investments Group
Siew Kim Beh
Chief Financial & Sustainability Officer, Lodging
CapitaLand Investment Limited / The Ascott Limited
Ahmed Bin Madhi
Chief Investment Officer
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company
Ashraf Qasem
Chief Hospitality Officer
Al Othaim Investments
11:00 - 11:15 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #5
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:15 - 11:30 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #6
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:30 - 11:45 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Announcement #3
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:30 - 11:55 25 minutes
Innovation Stage
Giving people purpose:
What is the secret to attracting and retaining the best talent in F&B? What do you need to consider when building and managing your team?
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Greg Wright
Co-Founder & Managing Partner
Food People
In conversation with
Roaya Saleh
Founder, Villa Mamas
President & Founder, RS Management WLL
Lyndsey Scott
Director
MJS Investment
Henrik Winther
Founder
Tigrus Holding
11:40 - 11:55 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Leveraging the Momentum of Developments in the Kingdom towards Vision 2030 Success
Investment & Development
Moderator
Nicolas Mayer
Industry Leader Hospitality and Tourism EMEA; Managing Partner Global Center of Excellence Tourism & Hospitality
PwC
In conversation with
Jean-Jacques Morin
Group Deputy CEO and Premium, Midscale & Economy Division CEO
Accor
11:45 - 12:00 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Announcement #4
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
11:55 - 12:25 30 minutes
Summit Stage
Yanbu Unveiled:
Turning Saudi Towns into Exciting Destinations
Brand & Destination
Moderator
Edie Rodriguez
Member of the Board of Directors
Saudi Tourism Authority
In conversation with
Abdulrahman Albassam
Board Member
Baheej
Marloes Knippenberg
Chief Executive Officer
Kerten Hospitality
Eng. Abdulaziz M. Al-Shanqiti
Director General, Investment Development Division
Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY).
Dr. Fahad bin Mushayt
Chief Executive Officer
ASFAR
11:55 - 12:10 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
Founder Chat:
GRIF Case study "V Modern Italian”
TalksRestaurant Investment
Designing your operations and outlet to maximise efficiency and save cost without sacrificing on guest experience.
Benjamin Calleja
Founder
Livit Design & Fast Fine Restaurant Group
12:00 - 12:15 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #7
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
12:00 - 12:30 30 minutes
Yanbu Breakout Room
Workshop:
How to Navigate the Path to Hotel Brand Search and Selection
Mubarak Alsufayan
Hospitality BD Manager Investment and Asset
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company
12:10 - 12:25 15 minutes
Innovation Stage
Founder Chat:
In conversation with Ashish Tulsian on understanding how to leverage AI & Power of data for your restaurant business
TalksRestaurant Investment
Moderator
James Hacon
Founding Partner
Think Hospitality
In conversation with
Ashish Tulsian
Co-founder & CEO
Restroworks
12:15 - 12:30 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #8
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
12:25 - 12:50 25 minutes
Summit Stage
Sustainable Horizons:
Catalyzing Change Through Green Investments
ESG & Human CapitalInvestment & Development
Glenn Mandziuk
CEO
Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim
Chief Executive Officer
Millennium Hotels & Resorts & Lakhraim Group
Richard Williamson
Chief Operating Officer
Considerate Group
12:25 - 12:35 10 minutes
Innovation Stage
Bringing Riyadh’s culinary heritage back to life
TalksRestaurant Investment
Da Pino was Riyadh’s first Italian restaurant and the stepping stone to where Riyadh’s dining scene is today. Why is Al Khozama bringing it back now?
Jennifer Pettinger Haines In conversation with Cladys Magagna, Corporate Director of Food and Beverage, Al Khozama
Moderator
Jennifer Pettinger
Co-Founder, Global Restaurant Investment Forum, Partner,
THINK Hospitality
In conversation with
Cladys Magagna
Corporate Director of Food & Beverage
Al Khozama Investment Company
12:30 - 12:45 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #9
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
12:30 - 13:00 30 minutes
Yanbu Breakout Room
Workshop:
The Evolution of Branded Residences
Rafael Espeja
Asset Manager
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company
12:45 - 13:00 15 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Signing Ceremony #10
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
12:50 - 13:05 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
An All-Inclusive Transformation of an Iconic Brand while Staying True to its Roots
Brand & DestinationTalks
Moderator
Rana Tabbara
Reporter
CNN Business Arabic
In conversation with
Henri Giscard D’Estaing
President
ClubMed - All-Inclusive beach and mountain Resorts
13:00 - 14:00 1 hour
Networking Lunch
Networking
13:30 - 14:00 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
The future of investment into Saudi F&B – what are the emerging vehicles and opportunities to bring investment into the market?
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
James Hacon
Founding Partner
Think Hospitality
In conversation with
Abdulaziz Alkhudair
Managing Director, Majd Alaamal
CEO, Yakoon Invest Company
Uday Mukundan
Chief Executive Officer
The Food District Company
Mohamed Siam
Chief Operating Officer
Trofi
14:00 - 14:25 25 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
The Longevity Revolution and what the 100-year Life means for You and the Future of Hospitality
TalksESG & Human Capital
Aradhana Khowala
CEO & Founder
Aptamind Partners
14:00 - 14:15 15 minutes
Future Stage
14:15 - 14:30 15 minutes
Future Stage
Tenx Leadership Talks:
The Future Normal - A People-First AI Strategy
TalksTechology & AI
Henry Coutinho-Mason
Author & Speaker, The Future Normal
Co-founder, 3Space
14:15 - 15:45 1 hour 30 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Start-Up Den
Startup Den
Judges
- Salma Arafa, Innovation Specialist - Department of Innovation, Education and Investment, UNTO
- Maya Ayoub, Founder & CEO, District 12 and Women in Tech Ambassador for Saudi Arabia
- Jonathan Worsley, Chairman and CEO, The Bench
- Nouf Alarthi, Business Development Manager, TDF Grow
Finalist
- Sam Payrovi, Co-Founder, ARKHAUS
- Girish Prabhu, Founder, Instio Experiences
- Mohamed Zran, Founder, Tenance
- Simone Mundy Clowry & Ulpa Chauhan, Beyond Bamboo
- Sharan Bhinder, Co-Founder, SPARKLEHAZE
- Lorelei Regragui, Founder, StayK
Moderator
Son-Trang Nguyen
Production Manager
The Bench
In conversation with
Nouf Alharthi
Manager of Business Development
TDF Grow
Salma Arafa
Senior Innovation Specialist
UN Tourism
Maya Ayoub
Founder & CEO
District Twelve
Sharan Bhinder
COO & Co-Founder
SPARKLEHAZE
Ulpa Chauhan
Chief Solutions Officer
Beyond Bamboo
Simone Mundy Clowry
Chief Operating Officer
Beyond Bamboo
Sam Payrovi
CEO & Co-Founder
ARKHAUS
Girish Prabhu
CEO & Co-Founder
Instio Experiences
Lorelei Regragui
Founder & CEO
StayK
Jonathan Worsley
Chairman & CEO
The Bench
Mohamed Zhran
CEO & Founder
Tenance
14:25 - 14:55 30 minutes
Summit Stage
Wellness:
On the Edge of Structural Transformation? Will it be led by the Kingdom?
Moderator: Susie Ellis, Chair & CEO, Global Wellness Institute
Dr. Khalid Alshaibani
Chief Executive Officer
Health Sector Transformation Program
Dr. Hamad Abuhaimed
Chief Executive Officer
Shatha Company
Susie Ellis
Chair & CEO
Global Wellness Institute and Global Wellness Summit
Ingo Schweder
Founder & CEO
GOCO Hospitality
Rosanna Chopra
Executive Director – Destination Development
Red Sea Global
14:30 - 15:00 30 minutes
Future Stage
Navigating Tomorrow's Hospitality:
The Evolutionary Intersection of AI, IT, and Human Touch for Unparalleled Guest Experiences
Techology & AI
Moderator
Nicolas Nasra
Director - Head of Hotel Advisory
Colliers MENA
In conversation with
Janet Adams
Chief Operating Officer
SingularityNET
Henry Coutinho-Mason
Author & Speaker, The Future Normal
Co-founder, 3Space
Tatiana Labaki
Director Innovation & Technology at Hotel Division
NEOM
14:30 - 14:50 20 minutes
Innovation Stage
Partnerships that work - Leveraging Saudi expertise for global growth
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Simon Wright
Founder & Chairman
TGP International
In conversation with
Marcello Distefano
Chief Executive Officer
San Carlo Restaurant Group
Faisal Shaker
Co Founder, Board Member & CEO
Modern Food Company (MFC) & Modern Elite Company
14:50 - 15:10 20 minutes
Innovation Stage
The Importance of F&B Master Planning for Building the Future Communities of KSA
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Nichola Beskine-Taylor
Partner
TGP International
In conversation with
Jihad Dirani
VP New Development Leasing
Cenomi Centers
Andrew Williamson
Senior Director - Retail Development
Red Sea Global
14:55 - 15:35 40 minutes
Summit Stage
Travelling for Good:
Innovations in Luxury Travel for Responsible Tourism Development
ESG & Human Capital
Moderator
Ali Manzoor
Senior Director Head of Hospitality, Hotels & Tourism
CBRE MENA
In conversation with
Stephen Ansell
Managing Director – Middle East and Africa
Hyatt
Sebastien Carre
Group Head of Hospitality
Red Sea Global
Maria Pichon
Brand Development Director Hotel Division
NEOM
Agnès Roquefort
Global Chief Development Officer Luxury & Lifestyle
Accor
15:00 - 15:20 20 minutes
Future Stage
The Power of AI in Hospitality:
Practical Solutions for Investors
Techology & AI
Moderator
Nicolas Nasra
Director - Head of Hotel Advisory
Colliers MENA
In conversation with
Ankur Agrawal
CEO & Founder
Inhabitr
Ahmed Zeeshan
Technical Consultant
HPE Aruba Consulting Systems Engineer
15:00 - 16:00 1 hour
Yanbu Breakout Room
Workshop:
Investing in Saudi Arabia
Investment & Development
Ahmad Almutawa
Investment Management Executive Director
ASFAR
Abdulrahman AlMalik
Investment Development Executive Director
ASFAR
15:10 - 15:30 20 minutes
Innovation Stage
Lessons learned from tough times – opening in challenging markets and what tactics you can employ to overcome the hurdles
TalksRestaurant Investment
Moderator
James Hacon
Founding Partner
Think Hospitality
In conversation with
Kurt Zdesar
Chef, Founder & Owner
Chotto Matte
15:20 - 15:35 15 minutes
Future Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
To the Metaverse with Hospitality
TalksTechology & AI
Joe Tabet
Founder & Managing Director
JT+Partners
Markus Schreyer
Chairman
META Foundation
15:30 - 16:00 30 minutes
Innovation Stage
Insights from Asia:
What lessons can be learnt from other fast growing markets around the world?
Restaurant Investment
Moderator
Ben Baseley-Walker
Founder & Managing Partner
Andart Global
In conversation with
Dominique Backhouse
Founder & Managing Director - Hong Kong & Singapore
Companion Communications
Peggy Li
Managing Partner
SPS Affinity
15:35 - 15:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Global Ambitions - Bridging Cultures and Markets
TalksCulture & Heritage
Jonathan Worsley
Chairman & CEO
The Bench
Oliver Bonke
Chief Executive Officer, H World International
Managing Director, Steigenberger Hotels GmbH
15:35 - 16:15 40 minutes
Future Stage
The Future of Hospitality Investments in Branded Residences, Co-Living, and Serviced Apartments in the Kingdom
Brand & DestinationInvestment & Development
Daniel von Barloewen
Regional Vice President, Accor One Living
Head of Mixed-Use (EMEA), Global Development Lead, Accor
Scott Antel
Founder & Owner
Scotts FZ LLE
Serena Lim
Chief Growth Officer
The Ascott Limited
Julien Laloye
Director, Mixed-Use Development, EMEA
Marriott International
Paul Bridger
Chief Operating Officer
Rove Hotels
15:50 - 16:10 20 minutes
Summit Stage
Transforming Palaces:
Embracing Heritage and Showcasing New Luxury
Culture & Heritage
Moderator
Rana Tabbara
Reporter
CNN Business Arabic
In conversation with
Mark De Cocinis
Chief Executive Officer
Boutique Group
Suma Venkatesh
Executive Vice President - Real Estate & Development
The Indian Hotels Company Limited
16:10 - 16:35 25 minutes
Summit Stage
How Lifestyle Hotel and F&B Brands are Disrupting the Future of Hospitality in the Kingdom
Brand & DestinationTalks
Moderator
Louis Abboud
Chief Development Officer, Deputy Head MEAT & Global Head F&B Development
Ennismore
In conversation with
Christoph Hoffmann
Founder
25hours Hotels
Rizwan Kassim
Founder & Managing Partner
RIKAS Hospitality Group
16:15 - 16:30 15 minutes
Future Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Evaluating the Shift to Mid-Market Hotel Development in Saudi Arabia
Brand & DestinationTalks
Moderator
Anton Bawab
Independent Hospitality Advisor
In conversation with
Falih Motasim Hajaj
Chief Executive Officer
Tashyid Urban Development
16:30 - 17:10 40 minutes
Future Stage
Economic Resurgence:
The rise of Mid-Scale Hotels in Cities across the Kingdom
Brand & Destination
Moderator
Anton Bawab
Independent Hospitality Advisor
In conversation with
JS Anand
Founder & CEO
Leva Hotels
Adil Jabrayilov
Development Director MENA
Louvre Hotels Group
Amir Lababedi
Managing Director Development MENA
Hilton
Panos Loupasis
Market Managing Director Türkiye, Middle East & Africa
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
16:30 - 17:00 30 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Fireside Chat with Desdemona The Robot
Techology & AI
Facilitator: Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, the bench
Desdemona (Desi)
Humanoid Robot
Lead Vocalist of the Desdemona Dream Band
Janet Adams
Chief Operating Officer
SingularityNET
Ali Shahid
Marketing Director
The Bench
16:35 - 16:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
Brand Dilemma:
Navigating the Pros and Cons of Launching New Brands – An unbiased Perspective
Brand & Destination
Moderator
Catherine Edwards
Chief Strategy Officer
QUO
In conversation with
Hala Matar Choufany
President, Middle East & Africa
HVS
16:50 - 17:20 30 minutes
Summit Stage
Brand Dilemma:
Navigating the Pros and Cons of Launching New Brands – A Strategic Exploration for Hospitality Decision-Makers
Brand & Destination
Makram El Zyr
Corporate Vice President - Development
Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC
Marco Franck
Chief Hospitality Officer
Boutique Group
David Keen
CEO & Founder
QUO
Charbel Boutros
VP Development MEA
IHG Hotels & Resorts
17:00 - 17:30 30 minutes
Press Conference with Desdemona
Desdemona (Desi)
Humanoid Robot
Lead Vocalist of the Desdemona Dream Band
17:10 - 17:25 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Elevating Hospitality Education in the Kingdom
TalksESG & Human Capital
Fadi Alaseri
Senior Director - Education
Red Sea Global (RSG)
17:10 - 17:50 40 minutes
Future Stage
Splashes of Success:
Saudi Arabia's Thriving Leisure Landscape for the Changing Demographics
Investment & Development
Moderator
Mike Rigby
GM & RVP, Middle East
WhiteWater
In conversation with
Badr Alherbish
Chief Strategy Officer
Tourism Development Fund
Martin Boudreau
President and Executive Producer - Parks & Hospitality
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group
Gregory Lanter
CEO Global Development Construction Property
Club Med - All-Inclusive Beach and Mountain Resorts
Oliver Wood
Senior Director – Adventure & Sport
Red Sea Global
17:35 - 17:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Redefining Priorities - Why are our People often an Afterthought when it comes to Accommodation?
TalksESG & Human Capital
Patrick Smith
Chief Executive Officer
Strive Services Group
17:50 - 18:30 40 minutes
Summit Stage
Shaping the Kingdom's Destiny:
Cultivating Excellence in Hospitality to Shaping Policies and Initiatives that Contribute to Making Hospitality a Great Industry to Work in
ESG & Human Capital
Abdulhalim Awlia
Regional Operations Specialist
NEOM Hotel Division
Markus Schreyer
Chairman
META Foundation
Luis Nicolas Barrios
Regional Manager Innovation Education and Investment
UN Tourism
Fawaz Moumina
Country Manager & Senior Director of Operations – Saudi Arabia
Hilton
Lars Eltvik
Senior Advisor – Education
Red Sea Global
17:50 - 18:30 40 minutes
Future Stage
Exploring New Frontiers:
Pioneering the Future of Entertainment and Beach Clubs in the Kingdom
Investment & Development
Moderator
Stefan Breg
Managing Partner-Consulting
KEANE: Consult & Create
In conversation with
Mohammed Attia
Chief Executive Officer
Al Othaim Investments
Angela Lester
Executive Vice President Business Development EMEA
sbe
Stefano Lopez
Senior Director
Baheej
Ian Palmer
Executive Director - Venues
MDLBEAST
19:00 - 21:00 2 hours
Evening Networking Reception
Networking
Hosted by Radisson Hotel Group at Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Hotel
Wednesday 01 May
07:00 - 08:00 1 hour
Yoga at the Top of the Tower
Networking
Taking place at the Top of the Al Faisaliah Tower in The Globe.
09:00 - 09:15 15 minutes
Summit Stage
09:15 - 09:50 35 minutes
Summit Stage
Domestic Tourism in Secondary Cities:
How Major Hotel Groups can help to Unlock New Opportunities?
Investment & Development
Aboudi Asali
Executive Vice President, Head of Hotels Advisory MENA
JLL
Tariq Dowidar
Vice President, KSA
Aleph Hospitality
Maher Abou Nasr
Vice President Operations Saudi Arabia
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Elie Milky
Vice President Development
Radisson Hotel Group
Carlos Khneisser
Vice President Development Middle East & Africa
Hilton
09:30 - 09:35 5 minutes
Future Stage
09:35 - 10:05 30 minutes
Future Stage
How the changing City Dynamic influences Hospitality Offerings and the Consumer
Moderator
Ben Baseley-Walker
Founder & Managing Partner
Andart Global
In conversation with
Patrick Antaki
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Hospitality Management Holding (HMH)
Alberto Bounous
Vice President Design & Development
KAFD DMC
Samer Sabra
Chief Asset Management Officer
Jabal Omar Development Company
09:50 - 10:20 30 minutes
Summit Stage
Creating and Reinventing Destinations:
From Conception to Cultivation
Brand & Destination
Moderator
Jules Ugo
Chief Executive Officer
LOTUS Arabia
In conversation with
Abdulrahman Abaalkhail
Chief Executive Officer
Dan Company
Mario Ferraro
CEO
Smeralda Holding Group
Ana Lobo Martins
Director, Interior Design
ARC International Design Consultants
10:00 - 11:30 1 hour 30 minutes
Yanbu Breakout Room
Beyond the Hype - A Practical Insight into AI and the Future of Business
Techology & AI
Ali Shahid
Marketing Director
The Bench
10:05 - 10:20 15 minutes
Future Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Emergence of Third-Party Operators in Saudi Arabia's Dynamic Market and The Prospects for Growth in Saudi Arabia?
TalksInvestment & Development
Moderator
Judith Cartwright
Founder & Managing Director
Black Coral Consulting
In conversation with
Tapan Piplani
Chief Operating Officer
Valor Hospitality Partners
10:15 - 10:30 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Insights and Learnings in the Journey of Growing Your Destination
TalksInvestment & Development
Moderator
Jules Ugo
Chief Executive Officer
LOTUS Arabia
In conversation with
Alessandra Priante
President
Italian National Tourist Board
10:15 - 11:00 45 minutes
Exhibition Stage
Destination Tomorrow
Moderator
Daniela Wagner
Global Business Development Director
Jacobs Media
In conversation with
Abdulrahman Abaalkhail
Chief Executive Officer
Dan Company
Faisal Al Bassam
DMC General Manager
Baheej
Falih Motasim Hajaj
Chief Executive Officer
Tashyid Urban Development
10:20 - 10:35 15 minutes
Summit Stage
TenX Leadership Talks:
Embracing Holistic Living
TalksInvestment & Development
Moderator: Jana Bader, Advisor, The Bench
Gautam Sashittal
Chief Executive Officer
King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC)
Jana Bader
Advisor
The Bench
10:20 - 10:45 25 minutes
Future Stage
Navigating Regulatory Shifts:
Legal Dynamics Reshaping Hospitality Real Estate in the Region and their Impact on Tourism Offerings
Investment & Development
Moderator
Reem Garash
Partner- KSA Consulting & Valuation
HVS
In conversation with
Elie Milky
Vice President Development
Radisson Hotel Group
Moustafa Said
Founding Partner
Wisefields
10:35 - 10:50 15 minutes
Summit Stage
FHS Awards - Winner Announcement
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
AWARDS:
Leaders of Tomorrow
Winner of the Start-Up Den
Aseel Hussain Bondagjy
Hotel Talent Development Manager
NEOM
Muteb Bin Jumaiah
Section Head, Organization Development
Taiba Investments
Jonathan Worsley
Chairman & CEO
The Bench
10:45 - 11:15 30 minutes
Summit Stage
Coffee Break
Networking
11:00 - 12:00 1 hour
Exhibition Stage
Speaker’s Corner:
From Setbacks to Triumphs
Moderator
Daniela Wagner
Global Business Development Director
Jacobs Media
In conversation with
Yann Callaert
CEO
Daniel Ost Group
Ulpa Chauhan
Chief Solutions Officer
Beyond Bamboo
Lorelei Regragui
Founder & CEO
StayK
Mohamed Zhran
CEO & Founder
Tenance
11:15 - 11:55 40 minutes
Summit Stage
The Key to Successful Hospitality Project Development in Saudi Arabia
Investment & Development
Abdullah Azhari
Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Icon Company
Hitesh Gandhi
Senior Director Development
Marriott International
Turab Saleem
Partner - Hospitality,Tourism & Leisure Advisory Services - MENA
Knight Frank
Dr. Adel Ezzat
Chief Executive Officer
Elaf Group
11:15 - 11:45 30 minutes
Future Stage
Empowering Hospitality:
Leading the Way in Crafting a Diverse, Inclusive Lifestyle Brand and Transforming Human Experience
TalksESG & Human Capital
Moderator
Yasmine Vanda Trofast
Founder & Owner
YVT Consulting
In conversation with
Pascal Donat
Chairman & Founder, Maison ELLE
President, de Valotel
Gaurav Sinha
Chief Executive Officer
Insignia Worldwide
11:45 - 12:25 40 minutes
Summit Stage
Building Tomorrow:
The Impact of Sustainable Construction on Evolving Demand Trends
Investment & Development
Moderator
Hiba Araji
Regional Design & Project Development Manager - Middle East & CIS
Valor Hospitality Partners
In conversation with
Nicholas Clark
Program Director
Compass Project Consulting
Elyza Falzon
Vice President - Architecture, Design & Construction ME & SSA
Hilton
Waleed M. Abualnadi
Commercial Director
Saudi Icon Company
Michael Thorley
Project Director, Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority (Expro)
DAR Engineering
11:45 - 12:15 30 minutes
Future Stage
Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future:
Women in Tourism & Hospitality Leadership
ESG & Human Capital
Moderator
Linh Vu
Founder & CEO
Key Hospitality Consulting
In conversation with
Shaikha Al Nowais
Corporate Vice President - Owner Relationship Management
Rotana
Maya Ziade
Chief Development Officer Premium, Midscale & Economy Middle East, Africa and Turkey
Accor
12:00 - 13:00 1 hour
Exhibition Stage
Announcements & Signings
FHS Opening, Awards & Signings
12:15 - 13:00 45 minutes
Future Stage
Why Gen Z are turning to Sustainable Businesses as their Future Employer?
ESG & Human Capital
Ulpa Chauhan
Chief Solutions Officer
Beyond Bamboo
Banan Alhazmi
Researcher (Ph.D. Candidate)
KAUST
Malinalli Ramirez Martinez
Ph.D. candidate
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Simone Mundy Clowry
Chief Operating Officer
Beyond Bamboo
Holkan Vasquez
PhD Student
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia
Mohamed Zhran
CEO & Founder
Tenance
12:25 - 12:50 25 minutes
Summit Stage
Strategies for Success in Delivering Mega Projects in Holy Cities
TalksInvestment & Development
Nadeem Zaman
Chief Strategy & EPMO Officer
Rua Almadinah
Bilal Ambikapathy
Partner
Wisefields
Khalid Al-Amoudi
Chief Executive Officer
Jabal Omar Development Company
12:50 - 13:15 25 minutes
Summit Stage
ENSURING THE LONG-TERM VIABILITY OF RELIGIOUS TOURISM
Culture & Heritage
Shaji Abu Salih
Vice President
Shaza Hotels
Bilal Ambikapathy
Partner
Wisefields
Hassan Ahdab
Chief Hospitality Operations Officer
Taiba Investments
13:00 - 14:00 1 hour
Networking Lunch
Networking
13:15 - 13:20 5 minutes
Summit Stage
13:45 - 16:15 2 hours 30 minutes
Culinary Tour - Via Riyadh
Restaurant Investment
Culinary tour around the following restaurants: Scott’s, Spago, Raoul’s, chi SPACCA, Gymkhana
Buses leave from the Registration area of the Prince Sultan Grand Hall.
Please note you MUST be pre-registered for this culinary tour to attend.
14:00 - 18:00 4 hours
Site Tours
The conference may have ended but you can continue networking by choosing from the following tours:
1. Diriyah Visit: At Turaif District
2. The Saudi National Museum, Al Masmak Palace (outside visit only) & Souk Al-Zal
*Registrations for these tours will be live soon.