Monday 29 April

08:00 - 12:30 4 hours 30 minutes

Registration

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

09:00 - 09:10 10 minutes

Innovation Stage

Global Restaurant Investment Forum - Welcome

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Jennifer Pettinger-Haines

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 Invest (GRIF)

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 Invest (GRIF)

Moderator: Christopher Sanderson, Co-founder, The Future Laboratory

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 Invest (GRIF)

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 Invest (GRIF)

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 Invest (GRIF)

Moderator

Mohammed Islam

Host & Founder
The Mo Show Podcast Saudi Arabia

In conversation with

Mohammed Jawa

Founder & Chairman
MJS Holding

11:20 - 11:40 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 Invest (GRIF)

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

Head of Hospitality Asset Management
WASL / Dubai Real Estate Corporation

11:45 - 12:15 30 minutes

Innovation Stage

Digital Evolution in F&B and Hospitality:
Leveraging Influencer and Gaming Trends for the Next Five Years

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Moderator

Georgie Woollams

Founder & Managing Director
Katch International

In conversation with

Wed Saleh

Influencer & Top Chef Middle East Contestant

Oli Thomas

Founder
Hatchin

12:00 - 13:00 1 hour

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 Invest (GRIF)

Sam Bakhshandehpour, President and Board Member, JOSÉ ANDRÉS GROUP © in conversation with Ada Renedo, Regional CEO of Together Group, Middle East

Sam Bakhshandehpour

President & Board Member
José Andrés Group (JAG)

Ada Renedo

Regional CEO, Middle East
Together Group

12:30 - 13:00 30 minutes

Innovation Stage

Maintaining bottom-line efficiency at scale

TalksRestaurant Invest (GRIF)

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 Invest (GRIF)

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

Dr. Martin Berlin

Partner & Global Deals Real Estate Leader
PwC Middle East

13:50 - 14:05 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Data Talks:
The Future of Wellness - New Data on Wellness Travel

TalksWellness

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

Announcement #1

14:05 - 14:20 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Data Talks:
Optimising Restaurant Financial Performance Through Revenue Management

TalksRestaurant Invest (GRIF)

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 - 16:30 2 hours

Exhibition Stage

Announcements & Signings

14:30 - 14:45 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #1

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

Chief Executive Officer
Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

14:45 - 15:00 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #2

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
The Bench

15:15 - 03:30 12 hours 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Official Opening Address

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

15:30 - 15:40 10 minutes

Summit Stage

Opening Address

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

Khalid Saud Abu Haimed

Chief Executive Officer
Al Khozama Investment Company

15:40 - 15:55 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Unveiling the Future:
Investment Opportunities in Saudi Arabia's Hospitality Sector in Alignment with Vision 2030

Investment & Development

Mahmoud Abdulhadi

Deputy Minister, Destination Enablement
Ministry Tourism of Saudi Arabia

15:45 - 16:00 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #3

15:55 - 16:10 15 minutes

Summit Stage

The Power of Tourism - Saudi Arabia's Global Standing in Perspective

Brand & Destination

Moderator

Reina Takla

Business Editor
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

16:30 - 17:10 40 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

Qusai Al-Fakhri

Chief Executive Officer
Tourism Development Fund

Dr. Fahad Bin Mushayt

Chief Executive Officer
ASFAR

Guy Hutchinson

President, Middle East & Africa (MEA)
Hilton

Haitham Mattar

Special Advisor, UNWTO
Managing Director MEA & South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts

17:10 - 17:25 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

17:25 - 18:10 45 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

18:30 - 20:30 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

TalksTech & Innovation

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 Invest (GRIF)

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

TalksTech & Innovation

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 Invest (GRIF)

Where are the opportunities to leverage F&B brands to enhance the footfall, ADR, revenue and the value of your property?

Rizwan Kassim

Founder & CEO
RIKAS Hospitality Group

Lynne Bellinger

Director of Food & Beverage Design & Development
Marriott International EAME

Sam Bakhshandehpour

President & Board Member
José Andrés Group (JAG)

09:20 - 09:35 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Digital Talks:
Strategic Potential - Mastering Digital Platforms

TalksTech & Innovation

Oli Thomas

Founder
Hatchin

09:35 - 09:50 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Digital Talks:
How AI and Digital can optimise end-to-end procurement

TalksTech & Innovation

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 Invest (GRIF)

James Hacon

Founding Partner
Think Hospitality

09:50 - 10:05 15 minutes

Summit Stage

Digital Talks:
The Hotel of the Future

TalksTech & Innovation

Turab Saleem

Partner ‑ Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure Advisory ‑ MENA
Knight Frank

10:00 - 12:30 2 hours 30 minutes

Exhibition Stage

Announcements & Signings

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 Invest (GRIF)

Emma Banks

VP, F&B Strategy and Development EMEA
Hilton

10:00 - 10:30 30 minutes

Announcement #2

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

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman
The Bench

Desdemona (Desi)

Humanoid Robot
Lead Vocalist of the Desdemona Dream Band

10:30 - 10:45 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #4

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

Moderator

Amr El Nady

Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and Managing Director, Global Hotel Desk
JLL

In conversation with

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

Signing Ceremony #5

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 Saud Abu Haimed

Chief Executive Officer
Al Khozama Investment Company

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

Signing Ceremony #6

11:15 - 11:30 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #7

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 Invest (GRIF)

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

11:30 - 11:45 15 minutes

Opening Announcement #1

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

Opening Announcement #2

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

Dr. Fahad Bin Mushayt

Chief Executive Officer
ASFAR

Marloes Knippenberg

Chief Executive Officer
Kerten Hospitality

Eng. Abdulaziz M. Al-Shanqiti

General Manager
Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY).

11:55 - 12:10 15 minutes

Innovation Stage

Founder Chat:
GRIF Case study "V Modern Italian”

TalksRestaurant Invest (GRIF)

Benjamin Calleja

Founder
Livit Design & Fast Fine Restaurant Group

12:00 - 12:30 30 minutes

Yanbu Breakout Room

Workshop:
How to Navigate the Path to Hotel Brand Search and Selection

Mubarak Alsufayan

Hospitality Business Development Manager
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company

12:00 - 12:15 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #8

12:10 - 12:25 15 minutes

Innovation Stage

Founder Chat:
In conversation with Ashish Tulsianon understanding how to leverage AI & Power of data for your restaurant business

TalksRestaurant Invest (GRIF)

Ashish Tulsian

Co-founder & CEO
Restroworks

James Hacon

Founding Partner
Think Hospitality

12:15 - 12:30 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #9

12:25 - 12:50 25 minutes

Summit Stage

Sustainable Horizons:
Catalyzing Change Through Green Investments

ESG & Human CapitalInvestment & Development

Moderator

Richard Williamson

Chief Operating Officer
Considerate Group

In conversation with

Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim

Chief Executive Officer
Millennium Hotels & Resorts & Lakhraim Group

Glenn Mandziuk

Chief Executive Officer
Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

12:25 - 12:35 10 minutes

Innovation Stage

Bringing Riyadh’s culinary heritage back to life

TalksRestaurant Invest (GRIF)

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?

Cladys Magagna

Corporate Director of Food & Beverage
Al Khozama Investment Company

12:30 - 13:00 30 minutes

Yanbu Breakout Room

Workshop:
The Evolution of Branded Residences

Rashid Aboobacker

Asset Manager
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company

12:30 - 12:45 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #10

12:45 - 13:00 15 minutes

Signing Ceremony #12

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 Invest (GRIF)

Layla Abuzaid

Chief Executive Officer
WK Holding

Abdulaziz Alkhudair

Managing Director, Majd Alaamal
CEO, Yakoon Invest Company

Uday Mukundan

Chief Executive Officer
The Food District Company

Mohamed Siam

COO
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

Welcome to the Future

Marina Franolic

Head of Investor Relations
The Bench

14:00 - 14:30 30 minutes

Innovation Stage

Saudi born concepts are the future of the F&B market - What does it take to get it right and who is excelling?

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Hashim Al-Attas

Chief Executive Officer, Leylaty Group
Co-Founder, Kuruu

14:00 - 15:00 1 hour

Yanbu Breakout Room

HAMA WORKSHOP

Investment & Development

Amit Nayak, CHA

Vice President
HAMA MEA

14:15 - 14:30 15 minutes

Future Stage

Tenx Leadership Talks:
The Future Normal - A People-First AI Strategy

TalksTech & Innovation

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
Louis Thompson, Founder, Nomadic Resorts
Tiffany Kelly, Co-Founder, Beyond Bamboo
Sharan Bhinder, Co-Founder, SPARKLEHAZE
Lorelei Regragui, Founder, StayK
Rola Fayad, Founder, Viavii

Mohamed Zhran

CEO & Founder
Tenance

Lorelei Regragui

Founder & CEO
StayK

Sharan Bhinder

COO & Co-Founder
SPARKLEHAZE

Sam Payrovi

CEO & Co-Founder
ARKHAUS

Ulpa Chauhan

Chief Solutions Officer
Beyond Bamboo

Simone Mundy Clowry

Chief Operating Officer
Beyond Bamboo

Girish Prabhu

CEO & Co-Founder
Instio Experiences

Louis Thompson

CEO & Founder
Nomadic Escape

Rola Fayyad

Head of Innovation
ViaVii

Maya Ayoub

Founder & CEO
District Twelve

Nouf Alharthi

Manager of Business Development
TDF Grow

Salma Arafa

Senior Innovation Specialist
UN Tourism

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman
The Bench

14:25 - 14:55 30 minutes

Summit Stage

Wellness:
On the Edge of Structural Transformation? Will it be led by the Kingdom?

Wellness

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

Tech & Innovation

Moderator

Nicolas Nasra

Head of Hotel Advisory, Hospitality & Tourism | MENA Region
Colliers

In conversation with

Janet Adams

Chief Operating Officer
SingularityNET

Henry Coutinho-Mason

Author & Speaker, The Future Normal
Co-founder, 3Space

Tatiana Labaki

Head of Hotels and Tourism Advisory - PSU
Tonomus

14:30 - 14:50 20 minutes

Innovation Stage

Partnerships that work - Leveraging Saudi expertise for global growth

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Faisal Shaker

Co Founder, Board Member & CEO
Modern Food Company (MFC) & Modern Elite Company

Marcello Distefano

Chief Executive Officer
San Carlo Restaurant Group

14:50 - 15:10 20 minutes

Innovation Stage

The Importance of F&B Master Planning for Building the Future Communities of KSA

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

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

Head of 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

Director Brand Development
NEOM Hotel Division

Agnès Roquefort

Chief Development Officer, Luxury & Lifestyle
Accor

15:00 - 15:20 20 minutes

Future Stage

The Power of AI in Hospitality:
Practical Solutions for Investors

Tech & Innovation

Moderator

Nicolas Nasra

Head of Hotel Advisory, Hospitality & Tourism | MENA Region
Colliers

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

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 Invest (GRIF)

Kurt Zdesar

Chef, Founder & Owner
Chotto Matte

James Hacon

Founding Partner
Think Hospitality

15:20 - 15:35 15 minutes

Future Stage

TenX Leadership Talks:
To the Metaverse with Hospitality

TalksTech & Innovation

Moderator

Markus Schreyer

Chairman
META Foundation

In conversation with

Joe Tabet

Managing Director
JT+Partners

15:30 - 15:45 15 minutes

Innovation Stage

Insights from Asia:
What lessons can be learnt from other fast growing markets around the world?

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

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
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

Moderator

Scott Antel

Founder & Owner
Scotts FZ LLE

In conversation with

Paul Bridger

Chief Operating Officer
Rove Hotels

Julien Laloye

Director, Mixed-Use Development (EMEA)
Marriott International

Serena Lim

Chief Growth Officer
The Ascott Limited

Daniel Von Barloewen

Regional Vice President, Accor One Living
Head of Mixed-Use (EMEA), ACCOR

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

CDO & Deputy Head of Middle East, Africa & Turkey
Ennismore

In conversation with

Christoph Hoffmann

Founder
25hours Hotels

Rizwan Kassim

Founder & CEO
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, Middle East & North Africa
Hilton

Panos Loupasis

Market Managing Director Türkiye, Middle East & Africa
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

16:30 - 17:30 1 hour

Exhibition Stage

Fireside Chat with Desdemona The Robot

Tech & Innovation

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
Generative AI Evangelist

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 & South Asia
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

Moderator

David Keen

Founder & CEO
QUO

In conversation with

Charbel Boutros

VP Development, Middle East & Africa
IHG Hotels & Resorts

Marco Franck

Chief Hospitality Officer
Boutique Group

Makram El Zyr

Corporate Vice President – Development
Rotana

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

General Manager & Regional Vice President – 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

Chief Development Officer & CEO Mountain Strategy
ClubMed - All-Inclusive beach and mountain Resorts

Olly 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 Operating 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

Moderator

Markus Schreyer

Chairman
META Foundation

In conversation with

Abdulhalim Awlia

Regional Operations Specialist
NEOM Hotel Division

Luis Nicolás Barrios

Regional Manager - Innovation, Education and Investments
UN Tourism

Lars Eltvik

Senior Advisor – Education
Red Sea Global

Fawaz Moumina

Country Manager & Senior Director of Operations – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Hilton

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

Tourism Projects 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 - 09:05 5 minutes

Summit Stage

Welcome Back

Jana Bader

Advisor
the bench

09:05 - 09:45 40 minutes

Summit Stage

Domestic Tourism in Secondary Cities:
How Major Hotel Groups can help to Unlock New Opportunities?

Investment & Development

Moderator

Aboudi Asali

Executive Vice President, Head of Hotels Advisory MENA, JLL
JLL

In conversation with

Maher Abou Nasr

Vice President Operations Saudi Arabia
IHG Hotels & Resorts

Carlos Khneisser

Vice President Development Middle East & Africa
Hilton

Elie Milky

Vice President Development
Radisson Hotel Group

Tariq Yousef Dowidar

Vice President Saudi Arabia
Aleph Hospitality

09:30 - 09:35 5 minutes

Future Stage

Welcome back to the Future Stage

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

Daria Smith

Portfolio Director
The Bench

09:30 - 10:30 1 hour

Yanbu Breakout Room

The Next Generation:
How do we get Education & Training right, right from the start?

ESG & Human Capital

Invitation Only

Lars Eltvik

Senior Advisor – Education
Red Sea Global

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

Samer Sabra

Chief Asset Management Officer
Jabal Omar Development Company

09:45 - 10:15 30 minutes

Summit Stage

Creating and Reinventing Destinations:
From Conception to Cultivation

Brand & Destination

Moderator

Jules Ugo

Chief Executive Officer
Lotus

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 - 11:00 1 hour

Exhibition Stage

Destination Tomorrow

Moderator

Daniela Wagner

Global Business Development Director
Jacobs Media

In conversation with

Faisal Al Bassam

Subsidiary General Manager
Baheej

10:00 - 11:30 1 hour 30 minutes

Breakfast Briefing:
The Power of Social Dining in Saudi - Understanding what appeals to the market and how to get it right

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Onsite at Al Mamlaka

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- Middle East & CIS

10:15 - 10:30 15 minutes

Summit Stage

TenX Leadership Talks:
Insights and Learnings in the Journey of Growing Your Destination

TalksInvestment & Development

Jules Ugo

Chief Executive Officer
Lotus

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

10:30 - 10:45 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

10:45 - 11:00 15 minutes

Summit Stage

FHS Awards - Winner Announcement

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

AWARDS:

Leaders of Tomorrow

Winner of the Start-Up Den

Muteb Bin Jumaiah

Section Head, Organization Development
Taiba Investments

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman
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

Ankur Agrawal

CEO & Founder
Inhabitr

Yann Callaert

CEO
Daniel Ost Group

11:00 - 13:00 2 hours

Yanbu Breakout Room

Beyond the Hype - A Practical Insight into AI and the Future of Business

Tech & Innovation

Ali Shahid

Marketing Director, The Bench
Generative AI Evangelist

11:15 - 11:55 40 minutes

Summit Stage

The Key to Successful Hospitality Project Development in Saudi Arabia

Investment & Development

Moderator

Turab Saleem

Partner ‑ Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure Advisory ‑ MENA
Knight Frank

In conversation with

Abdullah Azhari

Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Icon Company

Ramine Behnam

Vice President Development - EMEA
Minor Hotels

Dr. Adel Ezzat

Chief Executive Officer
Elaf Group

Hitesh Gandhi

Senior Director Development – KSA and Kuwait
Marriott International

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

Pascal Donat

Chairman & Founder, Maison ELLE
President, de Valotel

Gaurav Sinha

CEO
Insignia Worldwide

11:30 - 12:30 1 hour

Site visit - V Modern Italian:
Redefining Value

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

Benjamin Calleja

Founder
Livit Design & Fast Fine Restaurant Group

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 and Economy Division Middle East, Africa & Turkey
Accor

11:55 - 12:35 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
Hilton Worldwide Services Limited

Waleed M. Abualnadi

Commercial Director
Saudi Icon Company

Michael Thorley

Project Director, Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority (Expro)
DAR Engineering

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

12:30 - 13:30 1 hour

Site visit - Sobhy Kaber:
Tapping into the Mid-Market – Saudi’s Hottest Segment

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)

12:35 - 13:00 25 minutes

Summit Stage

Strategies for Success in Delivering Mega Projects in Holy Cities

TalksInvestment & Development

Moderator

Bilal Ambikapathy

Founding Partner
Wisefields

In conversation with

Khalid Al-Amoudi

Chief Executive Officer
Jabal Omar Development Company

Nadeem Zaman

Chief Strategy & EPMO Officer
Rua Al Madinah Holding Company

13:00 - 13:25 25 minutes

Summit Stage

ENSURING THE LONG-TERM VIABILITY OF RELIGIOUS TOURISM

Culture & Heritage

Moderator

Bilal Ambikapathy

Founding Partner
Wisefields

In conversation with

Shaji Abu Salih

Vice President - Business Development & Growth
Shaza Hotels

Hassan Ahdab

Chief Hospitality Operations Officer
Taiba Investments

13:00 - 14:00 1 hour

Networking Lunch

Networking

13:25 - 13:30 5 minutes

Summit Stage

Closing Remarks

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman
The Bench

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 & Bujairi Terrace

2. The Saudi National Museum, Al Masmak Palace (outside visit only) & Souk Al-Zal

*Registrations for these tours will be live soon.

14:30 - 15:30 1 hour

Site Visit - Via Riyadh

Restaurant Invest (GRIF)