FHS is brought to you by The Bench
Our events:FHS WorldAviaDevAHIFIDEEASAHIC

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman & CEO
The Bench

15:30 - 15:40 10 minutes
Summit Stage

Opening Address

FHS Opening, Awards & Signings

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online.

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

James Hacon

Founding Partner
Think Hospitality

09:50 - 10:05 15 minutes
Summit Stage

Digital Talks:
The Hotel of the Future

TalksTechology & AI

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Welcome to the Future

Click here to watch online

Marina Franolic

Head of Investors Relations
The Bench

14:15 - 14:30 15 minutes
Future Stage

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

TalksTechology & AI

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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?

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

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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

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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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

Welcome Back

Click here to watch online

Michelle Turney

Head of Partnerships
The Bench

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

Click here to watch online

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

Welcome back to the Future Stage

Click here to watch online

Daria Smith

Portfolio Director
Bench

09:35 - 10:05 30 minutes
Future Stage

How the changing City Dynamic influences Hospitality Offerings and the Consumer

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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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

Click here to watch online

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

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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

Click here to watch online

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

Closing Remarks

Click here to watch online

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman & CEO
The Bench

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.