30 SEP - 02 OCT 2024
Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

2023 Agenda

Monday 25 September

08:30 - 09:20

Registration

09:20 - 09:30

Summit Stage

GRIF

Setting the Scene for GRIF – A Focus on Hotel F&B

09:30 - 09:50

Summit Stage

GRIF

Anticipating the Future Normal

Explore groundbreaking concepts that will redefine the future of F&B and hospitality industry

Click here to watch online

09:50 - 10:10

Summit Stage

GRIF

Looking at the Innovations and Trends Which are Emerging in Hotel F&B Concepts and Design. What are the Influences Coming Through from Other Industries?

What are some of the exciting things happening globally and in the region?

Click here to watch online.

10:10 - 10:20

Summit Stage

GRIF

Exclusive Data Report: What is the Reality? How is F&B Performing within Hotels in the UAE?

10:20 - 10:50

Summit Stage

GRIF

How can Asset Owners Increase ROI on their F&B?

Has the time come to re-consider the use of spaces? What are some creative solutions?

Click here to watch online.

10:50 - 11:00

Summit Stage

GRIF

Tapping into New F&B Data for Hotels and How it Can Drive Strategy for Decision Making

11:00 - 11:15

Summit Stage

GRIF

Rizwan Kassim in Conversation With Nick Van Marken on What Restaurant Brands and Operators Bring to the Table. How do They Add Value to a Hotel’s Performance and When Does the Relationship Work Best? What Does He Look for From Potential Partners?

11:15 - 11:35

Ongoing Coffee Break

11:35 - 12:05

Summit Stage

GRIF

The Impact of Third-Party Outlets on Hotel Revenue and Real Estate Value – What are the Keys to Choosing the Right Operator, Concept and Agreement?

12:05 - 12:30

Summit Stage

GRIF

Catering to New Crucial Demographics: How Can a Hotel F&B Offering Get Them Excited and Become a Marketing Anchor for This New Audience?

Russian, Ukrainian, Kazakhi, Uzbeki travellers and new residents. 

Irina Orlandini, Founder and CEO, SPAECIAL visionary producers and Like4Like Hospitality Strategies


Chinese tourists and the increasing influx of Chinese business and MICE travellers to the region.

Peggy Li, Managing Partner at SPS: Affinity


Click here to watch online.

12:30 - 13:10

Summit Stage

GRIF

No Time to Waste: Driving Social Impact and Operational Efficiency in the Food Value Chain

Understanding not only the environmental but economic benefits.


Click here to watch online.

12:30 - 14:00

FHS Opening Lunch

FHS Intelligence Talks

A marketing snapshot of key trends as they relate to the hospitality sector. Understanding the fundamentals underpinning the market from performance, pipeline, costs, AI, and contracts. The Talks allow each speaker 10 minutes presentation followed by Q&A.

13:45 - 13:50

Summit Stage

FHS

Welcome to FHS Intelligence Talks

13:50 - 14:05

Summit Stage

FHS

What are the Numbers Telling Us? A Look at Hotel Performance Across the Middle East

F&B Concept Tour

Join us for an exclusive F&B Concept Tour at the upcoming GRIF@FHS Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on 25th September 2023 hosted by Priya Chellani - Acting Head Asset Management, Miral and Matthew Dadd - Acting General Manager, Yas Asset Management. This exclusive tour at Yas Bay Waterfront offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse tenant mix curated by Miral. Our thought provoking and insightful onsite sessions at various venues will uncover the secrets behind Yas Bay's success. Don't miss this extraordinary chance to delve into the world of F&B concepts and discover the collaborative spirit that fuels Yas Bay's success as you witness firsthand how these concepts work seamlessly together, creating a dynamic and vibrant culinary ecosystem!

14:00 - 17:00

GRIF

F&B Concepts Tour (McCafferty's, Central, Art Market, Cafe del Mar)

Hosted by: James Hacon, 

McCafferty's: 

Overview of Yas Bay’s Diverse Tenant Mix Curated by Miral Insight into how they have been chosen in order to work seamlessly together and create a dynamic and vibrant culinary ecosystem. 

Priya Chellani, Head of Asset Management, Miral 

Matthew Dadd, Acting General Manager , Yas Asset Management


Central:

 The Transformation of Eat-artainment Across Dining Spheres. What does it bring to a asset and how do you get it right?  

Duncan Fraser-Smith, Author, Create to Plate

In conversation with 

Sacha Daniel, Partner and Chief Operating Officer Solutions Group


Art Market: 

Creating Community Hubs through Home Grown Concepts and Leveraging their Power in Business Operations 

Marc Williams, Owner, ART MARKET 

Matthew Dadd, Acting General Manager, Yas Asset Management


Cafe Del Mar:

The Evolution of Beach Clubs: A New Era for Hospitality Investments – Leveraging Brands to Create Real Estate and Bringing in Operators to Drive Revenue

Turab Saleem, Partner - Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure Advisory Services -MENA, Knight Frank 

In conversation with 

Mario Samaha, Executive Chairman & Founder, Capital Motion

Priya Chellani, Head of Asset Management, Miral 

Christopher Hewett, SVP and Head of Hospitality, Al Hamra Real Estate

14:05 - 14:20

Summit Stage

FHS

Measuring Progress: Quantification and Benchmarking of Social & Environmental Factors

14:20 - 14:35

Summit Stage

FHS

Cost Engineering: Detailed Development Costs Analysis and Segment-Specific Expenditure Strategies

14:30 - 16:30

Future Stage

FHS

Startup Den

Click here to watch online.

Judges:

•    Jordan Bray, Vice President UAE Director, Plug and Play

•    Hasan Haider, Founder, and Managing Partner, Plus Venture Capital +VC

•    Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench

•    Mark Zawacki, Managing Director, Techne Infiniti Ventures


Finalists:

•    Karim Abboud, Director EMEA, Klimato

•    Saujanya Acharya, CEO & Co-Founder, Neumo

•    Marco Corallo, COO & Co-Founder, Xenios Academy

•    Erika Doyle, Founder & Owner, Drink Dry

•    Mona Faraj, Co-Founder & CEO, ExploreTECH

•    Joseph Jacob, Co-Founder & CEO, Burnt

•    Puneet Mahindroo, Co-Founder, PerfectCheck

•    Khalid Maliki, Co-founder & COO, Gimly

•    Arul Prakash, Co-Founder & CEO, Buk Technology

•    Osama Shawky, CEO / Co-Founder, Thirty Sleeps


14:35 - 14:50

Summit Stage

FHS

Branded Residences: Value Addition to Hospitality Offerings

Unveiling the Unique Value of Branded Residences in a Comparative Analysis of KSA and UAE.

Click here to watch online.

14:50 - 15:15

Summit Stage

FHS

The Power of AI: How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Business Decision Making

15:15 - 15:30

Summit Stage

FHS

What do Youth Look for Today? How to Attract and Retain Arab Youth Talent in the Hospitality Industry

15:30 - 16:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Networking Coffee Break

16:00 - 17:30

Summit Stage

FHS

Sustainable Hospitality Challenge

Click here to watch online.

The Sustainable Hospitality Challenge is a Hotelschool The Hague initiative that aims to enhance the evolution of sustainable hospitality.


Moderator: Paul Griep, Founder of Sustainable Hospitality Challenge, Director Industry Relations & Alumni, Hotelschool The Hague 


SHC Judges:

  • Colin Abercrombie, Strategy Director, NEOM Hotel Development
  • Bernadine Galliver, Vice President: Tourism Advisory, JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group
  • Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana
  • Glenn Mandziuk, Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance 
  • Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham
  • Haitham Mattar, Special Advisor, UNWTO , Managing Director MEA & South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa, Turkey, Accor
  • Karin van den Berg, Senior Director of Operations Full-service Hotels UAE, Hilton
  • Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer - Middle East, Marriott International

17:00 - 17:30

GRIF

Return Back to Hilton

17:30 - 18:30

Future Stage

FHS

Networking

FHS Networking Card Exchange

Speed Networking is a great way to break the ice and ensure you go into FHS already knowing your fellow attendees. Meet over 30 new contacts before the conference has officially started! Don't forget to bring lots of business cards!  Taking place prior to the Opening Reception.

18:30 - 21:00

FHS

Networking

Welcome Reception at ‘Stage 16’ at The WB™ Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton™

Join us at the opening reception of FHS at ‘Stage 16’, located at the World’s First Warner Bros. themed hotel, The WB™ Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton™.


This will be the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded attendees and expand your professional network, step into a world of colour and creativity.

Tuesday 26 September

07:00 - 08:00

FHS

Experiences

Morning Run

Lace-up your running shoes and immerse yourself in the invigorating coastal breeze as we embark on a 5 km journey along the waterfront just outside the hotel that combines physical fitness with mental rejuvenation.

07:00 - 08:00

FHS

Experiences

Energising Yoga Flow

Start your day with this 60 min yoga flow designed for all levels.  Shake off sleepy vibes, wake up your muscles, and bring movement to your body. In this class you’ll open your hips, legs, back, and shoulders and at the end you’ll feel physically and mentally refreshed ready to enjoy the day ahead.


08:45 - 08:55

Summit Stage

FHS

Welcome to the Future Hospitality Summit

08:55 - 09:25

Summit Stage

FHS

Economic Analysis: Assessing the Impact of Global Conflicts, Interest Rates, and Supply Challenges on Hospitality Industry in the Middle East

09:25 - 09:55

Summit Stage

FHS

Tourism-Led Policies for a Better World: The Importance of the Industry Getting a Seat at the Government Policy-making Table

09:55 - 10:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Opening Remarks: A Warm Welcome from Abu Dhabi!

10:00 - 10:25

Summit Stage

FHS

The Evolutionary Journey of Established Hotel Chains in the Face of Change

10:25 - 11:00

Summit Stage

FHS

"A Global Entrepreneur’s Vision" - Stephen Sackur, Presenter of HARDtalk in an Exclusive Fireside Chat with H.E. Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar

10:30 - 10:45

Summit Stage

FHS

Networking Coffee Break

11:00 - 11:15

Summit Stage

FHS

Navigators of Change: Insights of a CEO’s Journey

11:15 - 11:30

Summit Stage

Redefining the Future: A New Generation of Leadership in Hospitality

11:30 - 12:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Sustainable Hospitality Challenge - The Hospitality Leaders of Tomorrow Reimagining our Industry

Winner Presentation & Award Giving

Click here to watch online.

12:00 - 12:20

Summit Stage

FHS

Expanding Horizons for Hospitality: Leveraging the Surge in Investment Demand

12:20 - 12:55

Summit Stage

FHS

Strategic Financing of Hospitality Assets: Navigating Uncertainty and Rising Interest Rates for Optimal Funding Solutions

12:55 - 13:15

Summit Stage

FHS

Key Emerging Global Trends Shaping Tourism Development Strategies

13:15 - 14:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Networking Lunch

14:00 - 14:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Turning the Tables: Hard Talk of Stephen Sackur on his view of Global Journalism in a Changing World

14:00 - 14:40

Future Stage

FHS

Building Sustainable Hospitality: Setting the Scene for Hotel Development in the Middle East

14:00 - 15:00

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

HAMA Workshop

14:10 - 14:25

Summit Stage

Imagine Beyond: The Art of Human Connection in the Future of Hospitality

14:25 - 15:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Hospitality Development in Saudi Arabia: Transforming our World - Vision 2030

14:40 - 15:00

Future Stage

FHS

Why India Matters in Hospitality Investment

15:00 - 15:15

Summit Stage

FHS

Unveiling One of 'The Largest Hospitality Projects In The World'

15:00 - 15:40

Future Stage

FHS

The Rise of Third-Party Operators in Hotel Management: What are the Advantages over Traditional Models and How to Find the Right Solution for Investors

15:00 - 15:45

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Saudi Tourism Insights & Investment Platform: Overview of the Saudi Tourism Investment Services

15:15 - 15:35

Summit Stage

Financing Hospitality Assets and Key Considerations in UAE

15:30 - 16:30

Summit Stage

FHS

Ongoing Networking Coffee Break

15:35 - 16:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Hotel Transactions: Insights for 2023

15:45 - 16:15

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Morocco's New Tourism Roadmap: Unveiling new Investment Projects

16:00 - 16:40

Future Stage

FHS

Exploring Profitable Horizons: Assessing Investment in the Booming Lifestyle Midmarket Hotel Segment

16:15 - 17:00

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Experiential Lodging: How Ecolodges and Modular Construction are Merging to Become the Biggest Trend in Hospitality Development

16:25 - 16:40

Summit Stage

FHS

Embracing Sustainability: Paving the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality

16:40 - 17:00

Summit Stage

FHS

The Business Case for ESG Integration: Exploring the Commercial Benefits and Opportunities for Real Estate Investors and Developers

16:40 - 17:00

Future Stage

FHS

The Dynamic Landscape of Asset Management in the Region

17:00 - 17:15

Summit Stage

FHS

Women Belong in the Kitchen: Pursuing Gender Equity in the Culinary World

17:00 - 18:00

Future Stage

FHS

How will you 'Lead The Change'?

Click here to watch online.

Special Open Mic Sessions. This is a unique opportunity to address FHS delegates, and present innovations, strategic leadership or sustainable practices. Open to registered delegates only!

Moderators:

  • Fritz Dickamp, Managing Director, Studio 49 
  • David Keen, Founder & CEO, Quo 

Finalists:

  1. Alex Toledano, President, VISTO
  2. Judit Szollosi, Business Developer, Conceptional
  3. David Singleton, Portfolio Board Advisor, Transformational Growth Coach, ōrāculī
  4. Anouschka Menzies, Co Founder, Bacchus Agency
  5. Duncan Fraser-Smith, Managing Partner, Glee Hospitality Solutions
  6. Paul Boldly, Managing Partner, RLA Global
  7. Basma Aribi, Head of Marketing, FreshOnTable
  8. Radhika Arapally, Founder, Sustainability Kiosk
  9. Faisal Aktuwaim, Co-Founder & CEO, Oaktree Hospitality
  10. Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, the bench

17:15 - 18:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Socially Responsible Talent Development in Hospitality: A Unified Approach to ESG-Driven Acquisition, Retention, Engagement

Fostering Talent in Hospitality: Taking a Unified Approach to Acquisition, Retention, Engagement and Training

Click here to watch online.

17:55 - 18:00

Summit Stage

FHS

18:30 - 21:00

FHS

Networking

Evening Reception Hosted by Rotana at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas (Nasma Beachfront Bar)

The luxurious 5-star Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas is situated on a spectacular 9 km stretch of pristine white beach on the breathtaking Saadiyat Island, which is also home to indigenous Hawksbill turtles. The resort, which embodies the island, combines cultural, entertainment and natural elements of the Abu Dhabi emirate.

Amongst many facilities and Food & Beverage venues, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas offers a stunning beachfront bar called “Nasma” offering superb sea views along with the most relaxed vibes on Saadiyat Island. Join us and experience the ultimate vibes with an exciting menu on offer! Escape to paradise and indulge in a tropical oasis at Nasma beachfront bar.

21:00 - 23:00

Networking

FHS After Party - Lock, Stock & Barrel Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi

You are invited to the FHS After Party, at Lock, Stock & Barrel Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi, hosted by Solutions Group. Following the FHS reception, join us in continuing the connections and kick back at the region’s most awarded party bar. With live music, mouthwatering bites and all the best in entertainment, as an FHS attendee, we’ll be kicking on with a private area and bar and the best stage views for all the action!  

Wednesday 27 September

07:00 - 08:00

FHS

Experiences

Morning Run

Lace-up your running shoes and immerse yourself in the invigorating coastal breeze as we embark on a 5 km journey along the waterfront just outside the hotel that combines physical fitness with mental rejuvenation.

07:00 - 08:00

FHS

Experiences

Mini-band Strength

A 60 min low impact full body strength class using body weight and band resistance to maximize the workout. Be ready to feel the burn and get those muscles working. Suitable for all levels.

09:00 - 09:30

Future Stage

FHS

Assessing the Role of Technology in Long-Term Value Creation and Its Impact on Investment Decisions

09:00 - 09:30

Summit Stage

FHS

Expanding Horizons in Tourism Destination Development

09:00 - 09:30

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

CLOSED DOOR SESSION: Powering Sustainable Growth: Abu Dhabi's Green Project

09:30 - 10:00

Future Stage

FHS

Converging Digital Transformation in Hospitality: Cross-Industry Best Practices and Implementation Strategies

09:30 - 10:05

Summit Stage

FHS

Preserving Legacy: Embracing Heritage in Hospitality Design

09:30 - 10:15

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Workshop: Operating Cost in Relation to Energy-efficient Equipment

10:00 - 10:20

Future Stage

FHS

Embracing the Era of the Digital Traveler: Transforming Hotel Operations for the Future

10:05 - 10:20

Summit Stage

FHS

Nurturing Growth and Shaping Travel Experiences: The Impact of Arabian Hospitality

10:20 - 11:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Shaping the Next Decade: The Evolution of Hotel Architecture in the Era of Technology, Sustainability, and Changing Traveler Preferences

10:20 - 11:00

Future Stage

FHS

Creating Thriving Mixed-Use Developments: The Synergy of Culture, Entertainment and Hospitality

10:30 - 11:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Ongoing Networking Coffee Break

10:30 - 11:30

Future Stage

FHS

Announcements & Signing Ceremonies

11:00 - 11:30

Summit Stage

FHS

FHS Awards

Leadership Award - Winner Presentation & Award Giving - Amine E. Moukarzel Ph.D, President, Golden Tulip - MENA Region

Leadership Award - Winner Presentation & Award Giving - Guido E. De Wilde, Hospitality Advisor, Wasl Hospitality

Click here to watch online.

11:15 - 12:00

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Maximizing Synergies: Elevating Other Business Units and Centralized Services in Hospitality Investment

11:30 - 12:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Building Hotels in a Challenging Environment: Navigating Rising Construction Costs, Funding Delays, and Higher Interest Rates for Hotel Development Projects

11:40 - 12:10

Future Stage

FHS

Tapping into the $4.7 Trillion Wellness Industry

12:00 - 13:30

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Hospitality Talent Pipeline: From Job to Career - A Think Tank for Developing and Attracting the Best Industry Professionals

12:10 - 12:20

Summit Stage

The Future of Saudi Tourism Investments

Delve into the future of Saudi tourism investments with this keynote, which outlines a vision of pioneering change, untapped potential, and successful growth strategies driving the industry's transformation.

12:10 - 12:40

Future Stage

FHS

The Evolution of Hotel Investment in Africa

12:20 - 13:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Branded Residential is Booming: Upfront Planning for Making Your Project a Success

13:00 - 13:20

Summit Stage

FHS

The Opportunity for Luxury Brand and Hotel Partnerships: Exploring Demand Trends and Collaboration Success Factors

13:20 - 13:30

Closing Remarks

13:30 - 14:00

FHS

Networking Lunch

14:00 - 15:30

Summit Stage

EAHM Leadership Series - Creating Harmony: Aligning People, Planet, and Future Growth in Hospitality

The EAHM Leadership Series Workshop offers a unique opportunity for students to learn firsthand from industry leaders

Click here to watch online.

14:00 - 17:00

FHS

Experiences

Tours & Activities

The conference may have ended but you can continue networking by choosing from a selection of tours and activities:

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi
  • Kayaking & Mangrove Tree Planting
  • Golf Tournament

Places on these tours are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Alternatively, if you are staying at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island or The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, every night stay at the property has an included access to theme parks and a waterpark, choice of 1 park per day (Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi).