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WORLD INVESTMENT FORUM 2023: GLOBAL LEADERS GATHER TO UNLOCK SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FINANCE

WORLD INVESTMENT FORUM 2023: GLOBAL LEADERS GATHER TO UNLOCK SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FINANCE
WORLD INVESTMENT FORUM 2023: GLOBAL LEADERS GATHER TO UNLOCK SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FINANCE

The World Investment Forum 2023 brings together over 8,000 participants, heads of state, government ministers, sovereign wealth fund managers, private sector executives, stock exchanges, media, academics, investment treaty negotiators and heads of international organizations in more than 130 events to revitalize investments to meet development needs.

Stakes are high as heads of state, more than 50 government ministers, over 150 CEOs of leading companies and stock exchanges meet next week at the World Investment Forum 2023 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), from 16 to 20 October.

The forum is organized by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This edition takes place at a critical time, as developing countries face inadequate levels of investment in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with an annual gap of more than $4 trillion, according to UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2023.

UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan said: “The forum is an opportunity to accelerate action and get more investments to flow into critical development sectors such as health care, food security and climate action. Without more investment, the delivery of the SDGs will be in jeopardy.”

The forum is a biennial multi-stakeholder gathering by these leaders to facilitate dialogue and action on the world’s current and emerging investment-development challenges and is the leading platform to leverage investment policy for sustainable development.

It is recognized by governments and business leaders as the pre-eminent global gathering for investment partnership and policymaking,

This year’s edition will focus on the key investment challenges caused by today’s multiple global crises and revitalizing investment into food security, the transition to low-carbon energy, health systems, supply chain resilience and productive capacity growth in the poorest countries.

On 16 October, Secretary-General Grynspan will officially open the forum with Ahmed Al Zaabi, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, in the presence of state and business leaders.

The opening will include a summit connecting investment with sustainable development to mobilize more funding for development sectors.

Speakers will include President Mohammed Shahabuddin of Bangladesh, President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi of Botswana, President José Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of Togo and chairman of the cabinet of ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Zhaparov.

Spotlight on climate action towards COP28

Another summit will highlight investment solutions that will feed into negotiations at the 28th UN climate change conference (COP28) scheduled which will take place in Dubai late November and December in Dubai.

Forum participants will agree on actions to boost clean energy investments in developing countries, which face an investment gap of $2.2 trillion annually for the transition to low-carbon energy, according to the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2023.

Secretary-General Grynspan will lead discussions with Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change, and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and speakers from the private sector.

‘Game changers’ summit

On 17 October, the forum will feature a “game changers” summit with trailblazers, visionaries and leaders who are disrupting traditional paradigms, driving transformative change across sectors including energy, food, waste and environmental management, emphasizing inclusivity, circularity, digitalization and low-carbon solutions.

The summit will examine how to accelerate the global energy transition, improve health-care quality, access and affordability, enhance food production and distribution through technology and tackle inequality while promoting decent work.

 

Dubai Internet City returns to GITEX Global 2023 to foster collaborative innovation

Dubai Internet City returns to GITEX Global 2023 to foster collaborative innovation
Dubai Internet City returns to GITEX Global 2023 to foster collaborative innovation

Dubai, UAE, 12 October 2023: Dubai Internet City, a member of TECOM Group PJSC, is returning to GITEX Global 2023 as Innovation Partner for the world’s largest tech event.

GITEX Global 2023, due to be held on 16-20 October at Dubai World Trade Centre, will unite inventors, academia, researchers, and developers from around the world across 10 co-
located events addressing themes including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, mobility, and future urbanism.
With a strong focus on emerging tech trends and innovation, Dubai Internet City’s pavilion at GITEX Global 2023 will be a hub for the world’s brightest minds using technology including AI and augmented reality to solve the world’s most complex problems.

As a founding member of Dubai’s thriving digital sector, Dubai Internet City has supported regional economic diversification efforts and strengthened the local knowledge-based economy for over two decades by attracting top industry investors and innovators to Dubai.

Commenting on behalf of Dubai Internet City, Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President – Commercial at TECOM Group, said: “Mitigating barriers to innovation and promoting collaborative research and development can pave the way for technology-based solutions that help to safeguard future global economic growth.

“As a vanguard of tech innovation in the region, Dubai fosters business-friendly regulation and strategic support through programmes like Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ and Dubai Digital Strategy, helping to unite world-leading technology leaders for profoundly impactful breakthroughs.
Dubai Internet City is a prime custodian of Dubai’s vision to nurture collaborative innovation that uses technology to address the most critical trends reshaping global society and economy.

Our ecosystem will continue to connect the world’s biggest tech brands with the industry’s most ambitious innovators.”
A journey through AI Attendees can expect to engage with experts and innovators based within Dubai Internet
City through networking opportunities and live demonstrations of the latest tech offerings from the district.

Additionally, visitors to Dubai Internet City’s stand at GITEX Global 2023 will be invited to take on an AI-powered programmed robotic arm to compete in a high-stakes interactive
checkers game. The interactive experience will be presented as global tech enthusiasts continue to explore how AI stacks up against human intelligence.
For an immersive experience, guests will also be guided to a ‘secret door’ inviting them into a world brought to life by actors and performers from Dubai Internet City.
Dubai Internet City’s pavilion will be located at Concourse 2 of Dubai World Trade Centre.
The GITEX Global Media Centre, presented in collaboration with TECOM Group, will be.

European Investment Bank pledges €1 billion for Morocco’s earthquake recovery efforts

European Investment Bank pledges €1 billion for Morocco’s earthquake recovery efforts
European Investment Bank pledges €1 billion for Morocco’s earthquake recovery efforts

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has pledged €1 billion over the next three years to Morocco’s post-earthquake reconstruction programme which will mobilise €12 billion by 2028.

This financing is completely aligned with Morocco’s ambitious national recovery programme according to the priorities of the national authorities.
The announcement was made by EIB’s Vice-President, M. Ricardo Mourinho Felix, after meeting with M. Fouzi Lekjaa, Morocco’s Vice-Minister overseeing the budget. On the margins of the World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings in Marrakesh. Also present were Lionel Rapaille, EIB’s Director of Operations for EU Neighbouring Countries, and Adrien de Bassompierre, the EIB representative in Morocco.

The EIB’s contribution is underpinned by a vision of resilience and sustainability. Funds will be used to repair damage from the earthquake and rebuild better, with a focus on resilient and sustainable infrastructure, leveraging the Bank’s resources and expertise.

“As a long-standing partner of Morocco, we aim not just to rebuild what was lost, but also to contribute to laying the foundations for a brighter, stronger and more resilient future across all the regions in Morocco affected by the September earthquake.” said EIB Vice-President Ricardo Mourinho Félix, who is responsible for financing in Morocco. “Our role as the EU bank is not just about providing financing, it is also a strong commitment to advancing development, and supporting resilience and climate action hand-in-hand with our partners.”

Transformational tech shifts at world’s largest start-up event in Dubai

Transformational tech shifts at world’s largest start-up event in Dubai
Transformational tech shifts at world’s largest start-up event in Dubai

Dubai, UAE: 12 October 2023: India’s burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and proliferation of next-gen deep tech talent will take centre-stage next week in Dubai, as the world’s largest start-up event prepares to host the biggest showcase of Indian start-ups ever seen outside the south-central Asian nation.

Hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, Expand North Star 2023 together will feature more than 1,800 exhibiting start-ups from 100-plus countries at its new Dubai Harbour venue from 15-18 October. This includes 200 breakthrough Indian companies choosing the emirate as their launchpad to scale up globally.

From international award-winning Google accelerated gaming innovators, to producers of de-carbonised protein for the US$500 billion animal feed industry, game-changers from the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem are gathering in Dubai to woo investors and secure customers for global expansion.

Sustainable Agri-tech the formidable foundation of future commerce

Among the pioneering start-ups at Expand North Star’s new India Central feature is Noval Sustainability, which is launching DE-Carbon, an animal feed protein recycled from waste that, according to Founder Siva Sanker, is formulated to substantially reduce the environmental footprint of the carbon-heavy feed and meat industries.

“We will showcase the tech behind recovering protein from waste,” said Sankar, who will demonstrate at Expand North Star how Noval Sustainability’s manufacturing process decarbonises one of the world’s largest and most-polluting industries.

“The world wastes more than 30 percent of the food that is produced, and the same
ratio holds for the amount of proteins wasted from meat consumption. We are bridging the gap with a solution, and there’s a humongous untapped economic value in this waste. With an inclusion of just one percent of alternative proteins in animal feed, we’re looking at a US$500 billion industry.”

Scaling-up through deep tech immersive gaming

Elsewhere, investors in the US$300 billion gaming industry will see a fresh injection of deep tech gaming platforms, spearheaded by Tuttifrutti Interactive’s Sophia’s Adventures fantasy themed game that uses cinematic quality Unreal 5 Nanite technology.

Ajish Habib, CEO of Tuttifrutti Interactive, a Google-accelerated, Epic Games Mega Grant recipient, and winner of 15 international awards, said Sophia’s Adventures alpha version will redefine the female gaming market, propelling the company, and potential seed angel investors, to exponential growth.

“With its official launch for Sony PlayStation and VR2 market, Tuttifrutti will grow a minimum four times by 2025, and with an upcoming half a dozen IP games, we’ll scale-up over 165 times by 2028, targeting revenues of US$80 million,” said Habib.

“Immersive game tech coupled with AI and deep tech will revolutionise the gaming market, and we’re leveraging AI in all aspects in our product development, from designing game emotions, and fine-tuning design, to marketing, and customer acquisition.”

Unveiling growth roadmaps

Manifested through its power-packed conference programme, Expand North Star will present key Indian unicorn founders will unveil the critical global growth path to unstoppable success.

Headliners include Bhavish Aggarwal, CEO & Co-Founder of Ola Cabs & Ola Electric, India’s largest ridesharing company with over 1.5 million drivers; and Abiraj Singh Bhal, CEO & Founder of Urban Company, a Series F $2.8 billion company offering the largest home services platform in India and UAE.

Expand North Star’s 10X Stage will also feature Rajan Anandan, Managing Director of Peak XV and Surge, a rapid scale-up programme for start-ups in India and Southeast Asia. Anandan is focusing on developing Surge into the world’s top scale-up programme for start-ups by acting as an investment advisor and mentor to the programme’s founders. He will share his visions for India’s booming start-up ecosystem for 2023 and beyond.

Forging deep cross-border economic ties to accelerate growth

Ballooning to nearly double that of the previous year, Indian participation at Expand North Star 2023 comes as the UAE and India continue to amplify bi-lateral trade and investment opportunities.

Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, the UAE and India plan to double the value of non-oil trade from 2023 to 2030, reaching US$100 billion. According to Dubai Chambers, 30 percent of the emirate’s start-ups are Indian-owned, while 83,000 Indian companies are registered in Dubai.

Indian firms and non-resident Indian owned entities have also created more than one million UAE jobs. 

Expand North Star 2023 will intensify these achievements, convening more than 1,000 tech investors and Venture Capitalists from 70 countries with US$1 trillion of capital to inspire, and scale-up the world’s most sought-after start-ups.  

Expand North Star is the powerhouse start-up event inspired by GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech show, which takes place from 16-20 October at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The blockbuster duo, organised by DWTC, are spearheading the world’s biggest tech takeover in Dubai, spanning 2.7 million sq. ft. of exhibition space – a 40 percent increase over the previous year. 

Completion of the subscription process for Arab Bank’s sustainable loan bonds with great success

Completion of the subscription process for Arab Bank’s sustainable loan bonds with great success
Completion of the subscription process for Arab Bank’s sustainable loan bonds with great success

Arab Bank announced the successful issuance of USD 250 million in Additional Tier 1 (AT1)
Capital Securities. The milestone marks the first sustainable perpetual AT1 issue in Jordan.
The bond, which was issued through a private placement, is listed on the International Securities
Market (ISM) and the Sustainable Bond Market of the London Stock Exchange. The bond,
which offers investors an interest rate of 8%, attracted a diverse group of investors, including
large institutional and individual investors from Jordan and several other countries where Arab
Bank operates.
The issuance is intended to further strengthen the bank’s capital base and diversify its sources of
funding, to support its future plans for regional growth and expansion.
Arab Bank’s Chairman Sabih Masri expressed his gratitude towards investors and stated: "The
overwhelming demand for this issuance, which exceeded the issue size, underscores the deep-
rooted confidence that local and regional investors bestow upon Arab Bank.” He also extended
his sincere thanks to the Central Bank of Jordan and Jordan Securities Commission for their
instrumental support.
“We are proud to receive such a strong vote of confidence from investors in response to this
significant issuance” commented Ms. Randa Sadik, Arab Bank’s CEO. The proceeds of the
issuance will be used to finance a portfolio of qualified sustainable projects, in line with Arab
Bank’s strategy to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles across the
organisation.
"In the upcoming period, we anticipate further initiatives, which will further boost the bank’s
performance across the various business sectors” Ms. Sadik added. “Our emphasis will remain
on expanding into new markets, diversifying our revenue streams and continuing to provide
comprehensive banking services and solutions, supported by integrated digital platforms and
channels."
Arab Bank, headquartered in Amman Jordan, was established in 1930 and currently has one of
the largest global Arab banking networks with over 600 branches spanning five continents and
covering key financial markets and centres. Earlier this year, Arab Bank was named the “Best
Bank in the Middle East for 2023” by Global Finance magazine for the eighth consecutive year.

Step into the Wild! TECOM Group Presents Exciting Escape Room Adventure in Dubai to Raise Climate Awareness

Step into the Wild! TECOM Group Presents Exciting Escape Room Adventure in Dubai to Raise Climate Awareness
Step into the Wild! TECOM Group Presents Exciting Escape Room Adventure in Dubai to Raise Climate Awareness

Dubai, UAE, 10 October 2023: Hold onto your hats, eco-warriors: TECOM Group PJSC, the mastermind behind Dubai’s most vibrant business districts, is teaming up with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature-WWF to unveil an epic escape room experience like no other – the Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition escape room.
Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey to boost climate awareness and action, all in the spirit of the ‘Year of Sustainability,’ leading up to the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).

Dubai Media City: Where the fun begins
This escape room adventure is part of EAD’s and Emirates Nature-WWF’s commitment to achieving the UAE’s national sustainability goals by adopting ‘nature-based solutions’ to tackle societal challenges. The mission? To raise awareness about the complexity and severity of climate risks and provide pathways for you to join the fight against climate change.
Mark your calendars for 12-13 October when the Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition escape room kicks off the new season of its nationwide tour at Dubai Media City, the beating heart of the regional media industry. After this exciting debut, the escape room will hit the road, inviting thousands of residents across the UAE to discover the wonders of mangroves while diving deep into global climate conversations.
H.E. Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), said: “Initiatives like the ‘Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition’ Escape Room provide a pathway for UAE youth and the community to understand the science and complexity involved in building climate resiliency, empowering them to step up and make greater contributions towards climate and nature, through citizen science and volunteerism.”

“Immersive physical experiences can transform abstract concepts into palpable, memorable learning moments,” said Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Media City, part of TECOM Group PJSC. “We are delighted to partner with EAD and Emirates Nature-WWF to host the Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition escape room, which will not only excite and thrill visitors but also strengthen their environmental knowledge and awareness in the UAE’s Year of Sustainability.”
“The Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition escape room delivers an immersive experience, designed to inspire greater interest in the climate-nature crisis and motivate participants to be part of the solution,” said Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General at Emirates Nature-WWF. “We welcome all participants to join the Leaders of Change community, through which they can participate in conservation field trips and help implement Nature-based Solutions on the ground.”
Empowering with education
Buckle up for an innovative and educational escapade: the Escape Climate Change – Mangrove Edition escape room is designed to ignite climate resilience and inspire community engagement in conservation. And the best part? It’s open to everyone – adults and kids alike! The escape room’s tour will continue to Dubai Science Park, TECOM Group’s buzzing science-focused community, as it hosts the annual WeWalk charitable walkathon on 18 November.
The escape room offers more than just excitement – it is an opportunity for people of all ages to learn firsthand about the science of climate adaptation, using the incredible powers of mangroves. But that’s not all – visitors will also be invited to take meaningful climate action by signing up to join nature-based activities and become citizen scientists through EAD’s and Emirates Nature-WWF’s ‘Sahim’ programme and Emirates Nature-WWF’s ‘Leaders of Change’ platform. These initiatives empower the community to make a difference by contributing to conservation research and decision-making, and by gathering valuable data about local species and habitats.
Enabling sustainability
Dubai Media City and Dubai Science Park are part of TECOM Group, which has been developing strategic, sector-focused business districts across Dubai since 1999, including communities like Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai Studio City, and Dubai Knowledge Park.
Dubai Media City is the regional epicentre for the media and communications industry and amplifies the reach of climate action awareness and advocacy. Dubai Science Park, meanwhile, is a testbed for how the fusion of science and sustainability under one roof sparks research, innovation, and solutions that benefit the world at large.

The metaverse could reach up to $900 billion by 2030 but will take time to scale, finds Bain & Company

The metaverse could reach up to $900 billion by 2030 but will take time to scale, finds Bain & Company
The metaverse could reach up to $900 billion by 2030 but will take time to scale, finds Bain & Company

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 11, 2023—Despite recent headlines that “metaverse-hype” is dying down, new research released recently by Bain & Company shows the metaverse could reach up to $900 billion dollars by 2030—though it may remain in the seed stage for at least another five to 10 years.

Bain’s report, Taking the Hyperbole Out of the Metaverse, concludes that the metaverse poses real and growing economic opportunities for businesses. Companies that engage in the metaverse’s early stages of development, known as the “seed stage,” over the next five to 10 years, are more likely to become the market winners.

“As the metaverse quickly evolves, we’ve already seen these types of technologies take hold within different industries,” said Chris Johnson, a partner in Bain’s Technology practice.

“A good example of this is immersive gaming platforms, which are already boasting hundreds of millions of monthly active users. And while it’s not immediately clear how the metaverse landscape will shift, our research shows there are five competitive battlegrounds that executives should be considering if they wish to get ahead and eventually scale. This is an ongoing journey toward more immersive and collaborative experiences, enabled by rapid improvements in the underlying technology.”

The metaverse is – and will be — plural
As consumer and enterprise applications become increasingly immersive and collaborative, Bain’s report finds it’s unlikely that the metaverse will emerge as one singular platform. Instead, platforms with large user bases today may take steps to become increasingly immersive and engaging, while smaller, metaverse-like environments will try to attract bigger user bases. These virtual worlds are likely to remain independent silos as private companies seek to recoup their investments by leveraging the value of the underlying data sets.
“Today, a mix of metaverse strategies exist, from companies with a vertically integrated approach that spans multiple segments of the metaverse technology stack to those with a horizontal strategy that focuses on a single layer of the stack,” said Moncef Maghrebi, Partner at Bain & Company Middle East. “It remains to be seen which will prove to be most effective as the market develops and the shape of the ecosystem (vertical vs. horizontal) is likely to evolve over time.”
Industries that have since exhibited the use of metaverse-type technologies include but are not limited to: entertainment, manufacturing, healthcare, education and employee training.

Five key competitive battlegrounds that executives should consider if they want to gain market share in the metaverse according to Bain include:
Virtual experiences (forecast by Bain to be about 65% of metaverse projected market size in 2030). Although gaming is currently the leading consumer metaverse application, immersive fitness and entertainment could also be compelling in the medium term. On the enterprise side, innovative use cases are emerging, primarily in collaboration and productivity, but also in digital marketing, employee training, education and healthcare.
Content-creation tools (about 5% of metaverse market size in 2030). There’s a growing field of software tools that provide the building blocks, editing platforms and interfaces for creating metaverse worlds and experiences. These features make it easy for users to generate content.
App stores and operating systems (about 10% of metaverse market size in 2030). The app store role will be crucial during the metaverse’s seed stage, providing users with curated, high-quality experiences to keep them engaged with the platform and headset they use to access the metaverse.
Devices (about 10% of metaverse market size in 2030). Significant technological barriers must be overcome before the arrival of comfortable, stand-alone devices that allow for truly immersive experiences. To achieve mass adoption, metaverse content will need to work across all types of devices- including, for the foreseeable future, personal computers, gaming consoles and smartphones.
Computing and infrastructure (about 10% of metaverse market size in 2030). Hardware companies will face pressure to develop higher-performing chips, servers and networking technologies to render high-quality graphics and reduce latency.

Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo

Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo
Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo

 [Dubai, October 11, 2023] – Informa Connect is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated 21st edition of the HR Summit and Expo (HRSE), affirming its status as the Middle East’s most extensive and enduring HR event. In 2023, HRSE is poised to deliver its most comprehensive and engaging experience to date, spanning an exhilarating five-day schedule with one masterclass, two conference and exhibition days, one awards ceremony and two days of dedicated certified workshops on key HR themes focused on the future of work from October 23 to 27.

With a remarkable 20-year legacy, HRSE has consistently stood out as a beacon of inspiration, innovation and motivation for HR professionals. This year, the series kicks off with an exclusive Masterclass by Dave Ulrich on October 23 at Park Hyatt, Dubai. Dave Ulrich, an influential figure in Human Resources and management, commands immense respect in the business world. He boasts accolades such as being recognised as the top management guru by Business Week, ranked as one of Forbes’ top-five coaches. His induction into the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame further cements his status as one of the foremost global business thinkers.

Dave Ulrich’s forthcoming masterclass on talent management is an event not to be missed, promising to shed light on the critical importance of talent in the corporate realm. This session will unveil emerging trends in talent management, provide data-driven insights through the Organisation Guidance System, and equip attendees with practical strategies to gain a talent advantage within their organisations. Dave Ulrich’s wealth of experience and accolades make his insights indispensable for those striving to excel in the ever-evolving business landscape. As Dave said, “The global HR landscape is evolving rapidly due to factors like the pandemic and new technologies. In the Middle East, particularly in the UAE and KSA, the industry is dynamic due to economic growth and high demand for talent. HRSE is a pivotal event for learning, networking, and collaborating in response to these changes.”

From October 24 to 25, the HR Summit & Expo will unfold at Halls 3 and 4 in the Dubai World Trade Centre. HRSE brings together industry leaders to share practical insights through various formats covering topics ranging from the future of work, employee engagement, talent strategies, DEI, total rewards, and so much more. Moreover, the event boasts an extensive exhibition floor, showing global HR services and solutions from Zurich International Life Ltd. and Wharton as Headline Sponsors, Akrivia HCM as both Gold Sponsor and Coffee Sponsor, PeopleStrong/Vantage Circle as the Platinum Sponsor along with sponsorship for the Future Workplace Awards Gala Dinner and Drinks, Other Platinum Sponsors include Cigna Healthcare, Hayah Insurance, XpertLearning/Cornerstone and Knowledge Consulting Group. The Gold Sponsors are Darwin Box and Bupa Global/Sukoon.

Visitors will get free access to the four seminar rooms, including one dedicated to innovation and technology (the HR Tech room) HRSE offers a holistic experience, encompassing networking opportunities, valuable learning experiences, and an exploration of the latest HR and well-being trends.

HRSE attendees will have the privilege of witnessing luminaries like Lynda Gratton, a distinguished Professor and Organisational Theorist at the London Business School, renowned globally as a leading authority on the future of work. On the second day, Lucy Adams, former HR Director at the BBC, will share her experiences in managing significant change in complex organisations, addressing quick decision-making, moral considerations, and redefining leadership in an uncertain world. Lucy will also provide insights into managing public scrutiny and organisational challenges from her five-year tenure, offering fresh perspectives on leadership and employee engagement. Another unmissable talk is by Dr. Adam Hickman, Ph.D., Vice President of Learning, Organisational Development, and Cast Member Development at The Walt Disney Company, a renowned expert in leadership, HR, and organisational development. Dr. Hickman’s session promises valuable leadership insights on October 25.

The Future Workplace Awards, a premier recognition platform in the Middle East, will be held on October 24 at Park Hyatt, Dubai. These awards celebrate innovation in HR practices and initiatives, acknowledging outstanding contributions by individuals, teams, departments, and organisations that have shaped the regional HR landscape. The mission of these awards is to promote best practices that elevate employee experiences, drive business growth, and advance the industry.

Following the awards ceremony, the certified workshops are scheduled for October 26 and 27 at the Sheraton Grand Hotel. These include:

  • Total Rewards Design Thinking for Exceptional Employee Experiences – Presented by Dr. Todd Brodie, a faculty member at WorldatWork MENA.
  • Aligning Learning and Talent Development Strategy to Business Objectives  – Presented by Niamh Briody-Jordan, an expert associated with the Association for Talent Development (ATD).
  • Reskilling and Upskilling the Workforce – Presented by Dr. Pam Jackson, PhD, CEO & Founder of Driven Performance Consulting FZE.
  • Generative AI X HR – Presented by Frederik Haentjens, CEO Get Design Thinking.
  • Total Rewards in a Remote Work Era: Adapting Compensation and Benefits for the Hybrid Workforce – Presented by Dr. Todd Brodie, a faculty member at WorldatWork MENA.
  • Fundamentals of Training & Facilitation Certificate – Presented by Seema Nagrath Menon, MD, and Founder of CALM Worldwide, who is an ATD Master Trainer.
  • Career Capital Theory – Presented by Shad Rogers, Founder of Clairmont Development, delves into this subject.

Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your in-person pass for this remarkable – five day learning, insights, and networking experience. The Premium Delegate Access pass allows you to attend the live – two day summit in Dubai, access the exhibition, engage in face-to-face networking over lunch, coffee breaks, and in-person meetings. Choose from various pass types, including Platinum for the full five day package, Gold for flexible options, Silver for tailored access, Bronze for a comprehensive two day experience, or an Awards Pass for exclusive access to HRSE Exhibition, Hives (Seminars), and Awards. As a bonus, you’ll receive a one-year free subscription to Streamly, the new video content platform, offering access to HRSE content and recordings from HR community events. Group discounts are available.

Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit
Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

Abu Dabi, October 11, 2023: Forbes Middle East, in partnership with PureHealth, the UAE’s largest healthcare group, has concluded its second annual Healthcare Summit, which was held on October 8-10 at the St Regis Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi, under the theme “Health for Everyone: Advancing Healthcare.”

With more than 700 guests, speakers, dignitaries, and industry leaders in attendance, the vital event explored how the entire healthcare ecosystem is transforming to embrace technology, sustainability, and new cutting-edge therapies to improve patient outcomes and longevity. The summit also highlighted the importance of considering sustainability and waste reduction in facility operations, health infrastructure, and medical supplies.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, emphasized the significance of the summit, stating, “We are thrilled at how everyone came together to make this incredible event such a success. There is nothing more precious than our health, and the industries that take care of this gift are among the most vital in the world. It makes me so proud that we have built this platform that enables so many experts, practitioners, and policymakers to come together to debate the issues most important to them and share their stories and discoveries for the good of human life.”

Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit
Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

Shaista Asif, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth, said: “We are happy to have partnered with Forbes Middle East to deliver this year’s groundbreaking Healthcare Summit. The event brought together leaders in healthcare and provided a platform for knowledge sharing and discussion of some of the most critical challenges we face in the industry. At PureHealth, we are committed to ideas exchange and engagement across the sector to bring about transformative developments that foster longevity and well-being in our communities and beyond. We remain steadfast in our dedication to further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s global position as a health and longevity hub, in line with the national vision, and we congratulate Forbes Middle East on a successful summit.”

The summit offered a comprehensive program featuring in-depth discussions, thought-provoking panels, interactive sessions, and inspiring stories. These included insight from: Shaista Asif, Group Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth; Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center; H.E. Dr. Mariam Matar, Founder & Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association; H.E. Maqsoud Kruse, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Institution UAE; Ayman Mokhtar, Regional President MENA & EURASIA at Viatris; and Dr. Fouziyah Al-Jarallah, Owner & Operator of the Hayat National Hospitals Group.

As well as its presenting partner, PureHealth, Forbes Middle East worked with a number of other esteemed partners to deliver this vital event: support partners Jamjoom Pharma, Fern Interior Decoration, and Desert Group; knowledge partner Khalifa University; support partners Marina Retail Corporation and Sheikh Shakhboot Medical City; event partners Hayat National Hospitals, Carexso, the Pharmaceutical Development Company, and NABD; food partners Amazonas4u, One Hive, House of Pops, Bustanica, Camelicious, and Barakat; wellness partners The Art of Living and Aroma Tierra; sustainability partner No More Bottles; AI and technology partner PurpleGlo; and gift partners Patchi, The Elixir Clinic, The Ritz Carlton Istanbul, The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah, Rixos Premium Dubai, Niyama Private Islands Maldives, W Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, St Regis Cairo, Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, Zulal Wellness Resort, xNARA, and Organic Foods & Café.

Forbes and PureHealth Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa

Forbes and Pure Health Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa
Forbes and Pure Health Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, October 3, 2023: Forbes Middle East, in collaboration with PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has announced the return of the Forbes Middle East Healthcare Summit at St Regis Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi, from October 8-10. The summit sets a notable milestone as Abu Dhabi’s inaugural sustainable healthcare event, exclusively utilizing eco-friendly mediums and implementing waste reduction strategies, including measures to minimize food waste. Under the theme “Health for Everyone: Advancing Healthcare,” the summit will gather healthcare professionals and experts to discuss transformative strategies to elevate the sector in the Middle East.

The summit will explore AI’s potential to revolutionize healthcare, unlocking new opportunities for advanced technologies and processes to elevate healthcare delivery and optimize operations. Additionally, it will shed light on longevity, mental health, stem cells, and regenerative medicine, exploring breakthroughs that promise to reshape the future of healthcare in the region. Attendees will engage in thought-provoking panels and interactive sessions, exchanging insights to drive progress.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO of Forbes Middle East, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with PureHealth, stating: “Our collaboration with PureHealth underscores our commitment to promoting excellence and innovation in the healthcare sector. We are thrilled to join forces with a key player in the industry and are excited to facilitate cooperation, spark innovation, and shape the future of healthcare.”

Commenting on the partnership, Shaista Asif, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth, emphasized: “We are delighted to collaborate with Forbes Middle East to deliver this year’s Healthcare Summit.  At PureHealth, we are committed to shifting healthcare paradigms and establishing a framework that fosters longevity and well-being in our communities and beyond. We are dedicated to further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s global position as a health and longevity hub, in line with the national vision. This event further testifies our continued interest and engagement to chart a course toward transformative advancements, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.”

In line with corporates’ shared commitment to global sustainability responsibility, Forbes Middle East and PureHealth are partnering to drive a new initiative at the healthcare summit, aiming to make it the first-ever zero-waste and eco-friendly event. This initiative will showcase their dedication to suitability, well-being, and a healthy environment.

As part of the sustainability track, the Forbes Middle East Healthcare Summit will emphasize the importance of waste reduction in healthcare operations during the discussions and sessions and address the industry’s environmental impact, demonstrating the collective efforts in the Middle East to create a healthier and more sustainable future.

PureHealth has further demonstrated its dedication to sustainability by pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. The announcement was made during the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and the staging of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28).

Forbes Middle East and PureHealth invite healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to join this transformative summit and be part of shaping a brighter future for healthcare in the Middle East. 

Participants’ collective commitment and efforts will not only advance healthcare accessibility and quality but also make a tangible contribution to creating a healthier planet for generations to come.