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

Jennifer Pettinger-Haines

Managing Director, The Bench Middle East, Founder, GRIF

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

Henry Coutinho-Mason

Author & Speaker, The Future Normal

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.

Sarah-Jane Grant

Founder, Craft Hospitality, Managing Director, LXA

Christian Abell

Founder, Craft Hospitality , CO & Founder, Architaste FZCO

10:10 - 10:20

Summit Stage

GRIF

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

Michael Grove

COO, Hotstats

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.

Moderator
Giuliano Gasparini

Head of Hospitality Asset Management, WASL / Dubai Real Estate Corporation

In conversation with

Marvin Alballi

Amazon Best Selling F&B Author, Head of F&B, Arenco

Max Grenard

Corporate F&B Director, wasl Hospitality & Leisure

Didier Souillat

Senior Advisor, Global Business Development, F1Arcade

Tatiana Veller

Managing Director, Stirling Hospitality Advisors

10:50 - 11:00

Summit Stage

GRIF

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

Gustavo De Hostos

Managing Partner, Forsite Creative

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?

Rizwan Kassim

Founder & Managing Partner, RIKAS Hospitality Group

Nick van Marken

Managing Director, van Marken Consulting

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?

Moderator
James Hacon

Managing Partner, Think Hospitality

In conversation with

Tobias Schulz

Head of Restaurant & Partnership Development, Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Nick Comaty

Vice President Food and Beverage, Ennismore

Dr. Naim Maadad

Chief Executive & Founder, Gates Hospitality

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.

Irina Orlandini

Founder, Like4Like / Spaecial

Peggy Li

Managing Partner, SPS Affinity

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.

Moderator
Emma Banks

Vice President, F&B Strategy & Development EMEA, Hilton

In conversation with

Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais

Chief Sustainability Officer, Emirates Foundation, Secretary General, ne’ma National Steering Committee

David Jackson

Director of Marketing & Public Affairs, Winnow

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

Gemma Greenwood

Director, Content Inc

13:50 - 14:05

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Thomas Emanuel

Senior Director, STR

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

Priya Chellani

Head of Asset Management, Miral

Matthew Dadd

Acting General Manager , Yas Asset Management

Duncan Fraser-Smith

Author, Create to Plate

Sacha Daniel

Partner and Chief Operating Officer, Solutions Group

Marc Williams

Owner, ART MARKET

Turab Saleem

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

Mario Samaha

Executive Chairman & Founder , Capital Motion

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

Lizzy Coates

Senior Sustainability Advisor, Considerate Group

14:20 - 14:35

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Filippo Sona

Co-Chairman, Wood Couture Industrial Group

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


Jordan Bray

Vice President & UAE Director, Plug and Play

Hasan Haider

Founder and Managing Partner, Plus VC

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman, The Bench

Mark Zawacki

Co-Founder & Managing Director, Techne Infiniti Ventures

Karim Abboud

Director EMEA, Klimato

Saujanya Acharya

CEO & Co-founder, Neumo

Marco Corallo

COO, Xenios Academy

Erika Blazeviciute Doyle

Founder, Drink Dry

Mouna 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.

Turab Saleem

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

14:50 - 15:15

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Cenk Sidar

CEO & Founder, Enquire.AI

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

Sunil John

President - MENA , ASDA'A-BCW

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.

Ali Shahid

Marketing Director, the bench

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

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman, The Bench

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

Andrew Gilmour

Principal Economist, The Economist Group

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

Moderator
Stephen Sackur

Presenter, HARDTalk

In conversation with

HE Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri

Minister of Economy, United Arab Emirates

HE Dr. Ghada Shalaby

Vice Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt

Haitham Mattar

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

09:55 - 10:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Opening Remarks: A Warm Welcome from Abu Dhabi!

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi

Group Chief Executive Officer, Miral

10:00 - 10:25

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Nick van Marken

Managing Director, van Marken Consulting

In conversation with

Puneet Chhatwal

Managing Director & CEO, Indian Hotels Company Limited

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

Moderator
Stephen Sackur

Presenter, HARDTalk

In conversation with

HE Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar

Founder & Managing Director of Emaar Properties, Founder & Director of Noon.com; Chairman of Eagle Hills; Chairman of Americana Group

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

Moderator
Stephen Sackur

Presenter, HARDTalk

In conversation with

William Heinecke

Founder & Chairman , Minor Hotels

11:15 - 11:30

Summit Stage

Redefining the Future: A New Generation of Leadership in Hospitality

Moderator
Stephen Sackur

Presenter, HARDTalk

In conversation with

Gilda Perez-Alvarado

Incoming Group Chief Strategy Officer , Accor

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.

Paul Griep

Director Sustainable Hospitality Challenge & Director Industry Relations, Hotelschool the Hague

Colin Abercrombie

Strategy Director, NEOM

Gilda Perez-Alvarado

Incoming Group Chief Strategy Officer , Accor

William Heinecke

Founder & Chairman , Minor Hotels

Glenn Mandziuk

Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance 

12:00 - 12:20

Summit Stage

FHS

Expanding Horizons for Hospitality: Leveraging the Surge in Investment Demand

Moderator
Jonathan Worsley

Chairman, The Bench

In conversation with

Adeeb Ahamed

Managing Director, Lulu Financial Holdings & Twenty14 Holdings

Khalid Anib

Chief Executive Officer, Abu Dhabi National Hotels

12:20 - 12:55

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Amit Nayak, CHA

Vice President, HAMA MEA

In conversation with

Olivier Granet

Managing Partner & Chief Executive Officer, Kasada Capital Management

Khatija Haque

Chief Economist & Head of Research, Emirates NBD

Kapil Jobanputra

Managing Director, Head - Real Estate Banking , Standard Chartered Bank

Camil Yazbeck

Global Chief Development Officer - Premium, Midscale & Economy , Accor

12:55 - 13:15

Summit Stage

FHS

Key Emerging Global Trends Shaping Tourism Development Strategies

Moderator
Nick van Marken

Managing Director, van Marken Consulting

In conversation with

Kevin Jacobs

CFO & President, Global Development, Hilton

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

Moderator
Scott Antel

Owner/Founder, SCOTT’S FZ

In conversation with

Stephen Sackur

Presenter, HARDTalk

14:00 - 14:40

Future Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Tatiana Veller

Managing Director, Stirling Hospitality Advisors

In conversation with

Ramine Behnam

Vice President Development - EMEA, Minor Hotels

Charbel Boutros

VP Development, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts

Carlos Khneisser

Vice President Development Middle East & Africa, Hilton

Elie Milky

Vice President Development, Radisson Hotel Group

14:00 - 15:00

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

HAMA Workshop

Amit Nayak, CHA

Vice President, HAMA MEA

René Beil

President, HAMA MEA, Managing Director, Beaufort Global

14:10 - 14:25

Summit Stage

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

Maria Pichon

Director Brand Development, NEOM Hotel Development

14:25 - 15:00

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Ali Manzoor

Head of Hospitality, Hotels & Tourism, CBRE

In conversation with

Badr Alherbish

Chief Strategy Officer, Tourism Development Fund

Mark De Cocinis

Chief Executive Officer, Boutique Group

Ahmed Al Juhani

Chief Executive Officer, Rua Al Madinah Holding

Fahad Bin Mushayt

Chief Executive Officer, ASFAR

14:40 - 15:00

Future Stage

FHS

Why India Matters in Hospitality Investment

Moderator
Manav Thadani

Founder and Chairman, Hotelivate

In conversation with

Suma Venkatesh

Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, The Indian Hotels Company Limited

15:00 - 15:15

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Ahmed Bin Madhi

Chief Investment Officer, Rua Al Madinah Holding

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

Moderator
Amith Khanna

Head of Franchise, IHG Hotels & Resorts

In conversation with

Chadi Hauch

Regional Vice President, Lodging Development – Middle East, Marriott International

Tapan Piplani

Chief Operating Officer, Valor Hospitality Partners- Middle East & CIS

Jad Shamseddin

Chief Operating Officer, Aleph Hospitality

Stephan Vanden Auweele

Chief Executive Officer, United Hospitality Management

15:00 - 15:45

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

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

Mesheal Al-Omari

Investment Excellence Director, Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

15:15 - 15:35

Summit Stage

Financing Hospitality Assets and Key Considerations in UAE

Moderator
Giuliano Gasparini

Head of Hospitality Asset Management, WASL / Dubai Real Estate Corporation

In conversation with

Andreas Costa

Managing Director and Head of International Real Estate Finance, First Abu Dhabi Bank

Dale Qi Shen

Vice President, Director – Real Estate Structuring & Advisory, Mashreq

15:30 - 16:30

Summit Stage

FHS

Ongoing Networking Coffee Break

15:35 - 16:10

Summit Stage

FHS

Hotel Transactions: Insights for 2023

Moderator
Yazan Alshouly

Partner - Real Estate, Hospitality & Leisure , PwC Middle East

In conversation with

Andrew Love

Partner - Head of ME Capital Markets and OSCA, Knight Frank

Amr El Nady

Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and Executive Vice President, Global Hotel Desk, JLL

Vijay Raghavan

Director, Golden Sands Hotels Co. LLC

James Wrenn

Executive Director | Head of Capital Markets MENA, Colliers

15:45 - 16:15

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Morocco's New Tourism Roadmap: Unveiling new Investment Projects

Imad Barrakad

CEO & Chairman, Moroccan Agency for Tourism Development (SMIT)

Younes Hajoui

Director of Investment Development, Moroccan Agency for Tourism Development (SMIT)

Nada Serhir

Head of Promotion & Marketing Department, Moroccan Agency for Tourism Development (SMIT)

16:00 - 16:40

Future Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Nicolas Nasra

Head of Hotel Advisory, Colliers

In conversation with

JS Anand

Founder & CEO, Leva Hotels & Resorts

Patrick Antaki

Chief Operating Officer (COO), Hospitality Management Holding (HMH)

Paul Bridger

Chief Operating Officer , Rove Hotels

Hubert Viriot

CEO, YOTEL

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

Chris Nader

Co-Founder & CEO, ENVI Lodges

David Nikuradze

Managing Partner, Spectrum

Stefano Lopez

Tourism Projects Director, AWN Enterprises

Jamal Olivier Wick

CEO & Co-founder, Bespoke Modular Solutions

16:25 - 16:40

Summit Stage

FHS

Embracing Sustainability: Paving the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality

Moderator
Lizzy Coates

Senior Sustainability Advisor, Considerate Group

In conversation with

Glenn Mandziuk

Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance 

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

Moderator
Alfonso Ponce Alvarez

Director of Contributory Turnover Development, Sustainable Development & Innovation Department, Egis Group

In conversation with

Philipp Klohr

Senior Vice President - UAE Real Estate, UAE Investments, Mubadala Investment Company

Theodor Kubak

Managing Partner, Arbireo Capital

16:40 - 17:00

Future Stage

FHS

The Dynamic Landscape of Asset Management in the Region

Moderator
Anthony Lagrabette

Director Asset Management , Colliers

In conversation with

Damien Rizzi

Consultancy & Advisory Director, Egis

Rashid Aboobacker

Portfolio Director, Asset Management, Rua Al Madinah Holding

17:00 - 17:15

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Gemma Greenwood

Director, Content Inc

In conversation with

Emma Banks

Vice President, F&B Strategy & Development EMEA, Hilton

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

Moderator
Fritz Dickamp

Managing Director, Studio 49

Moderator
David Keen

Founder & CEO, QUO

In conversation with

Alex Toledano

President, VISTO

Judith Szollosi

Business Developer, Conceptional

David Singleton

Founder, ōrāculī

Anouschka Menzies

Co Founder, Bacchus Agency

Duncan Fraser-Smith

Author, Create to Plate

Paul Boldly

Managing Partner, RLA Global

Basma Aribi

Head of Marketing, FreshOnTable

Radhika Arapally

Founder, Sustainability Kiosk

Faisal Altuwaim

CEO, Oaktree Hospitality

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.

Moderator
Filip Boyen

Global Ambassador, Forbes Travel Guide & Senior Advisor, Corinthia Hotels and Arsenale La Dolce Vita Trains, Forbes Travel Guide

In conversation with

Ellen Dubois Du Bellay

Chief Human Resources Officer, Jumeirah Group

Dr. Naim Maadad

Chief Executive & Founder, Gates Hospitality

Dimitris Manikis

President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Mariam Al Musharrekh

Executive Director HR, Miral

17:55 - 18:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Closing Remarks

Gemma Greenwood

Director, Content Inc

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.

Ali Shahid

Marketing Director, the bench

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

Moderator
Tjalling van den Burger

VP Enterprise Sales, Adyen

In conversation with

Ahmed Elkiki

Vice President Technical Services - MEA, Millennium Hotels and Resorts

Raed Kuhail

Executive Director Digital and Technology, Miral

Hadi Moukarzel

Brand & system services director, Louvre Hotels Group

09:00 - 09:30

Summit Stage

FHS

Expanding Horizons in Tourism Destination Development

Moderator
Ben Baseley-Walker

Founder & Managing Partner, Andart Global

In conversation with

HE Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer

Chief Executive Officer, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq)

Imad Barrakad

CEO & Chairman, Moroccan Agency for Tourism Development (SMIT)

Engineer Suwaidan Al Dhaheri

Chief Executive Officer, IMKAN PROPERTIES

09:00 - 09:30

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

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

Moderator
Faisal Khan

Director of Tourism Sector Management, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

In conversation with

Monsurudeen Alasi

Market Research & Analytics Specialist , Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism

Nouran Seifelnasr Mahmoud

Tourism Policy Lead, Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi

Zoe Yuhua Zuo

Unit Head of Hospitality, Entertainment & Attraction Development , Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT)

09:30 - 10:00

Future Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Marco S Rentsch

Partner - Global Consulting Hospitality & Tourism Center of Excellence, PwC Middle East

In conversation with

Karan Ashok

Business Head - UAE & Oman, OYO

Michael Levie

Owner, SMARELS

Tatiana Labaki

Head of Hotel & Tourism Advisory, TONOMUS NEOM

09:30 - 10:05

Summit Stage

FHS

Preserving Legacy: Embracing Heritage in Hospitality Design

Moderator
Gaurav Sinha

CEO, Insignia Worldwide

In conversation with

Imran Changezi

Executive Director Hospitality Development , Diriyah Gate Company Ltd

Hicham Hassouni

Strategy & Business Development Chief Officer, Boutique Group

Mark Powell Kyffin

Architecture Section Head, Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi

Tim Peck

Chairman, OBMI

09:30 - 10:15

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

Workshop: Operating Cost in Relation to Energy-efficient Equipment

Dr. Ali Amiri

Regional Sustainability Director, Egis Group

10:00 - 10:20

Future Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Fritz Dickamp

Managing Director, Studio 49

In conversation with

Hassan Ahdab

President of Hotels Operations, Dur Hospitality

Amir Golbarg

Senior VP Operations, Minor Hotels

10:05 - 10:20

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Jana Bader

General Manager, The Bench

In conversation with

Dr. Adel Ezzat

Chief Executive Officer, Elaf Group

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

Moderator
Elyza Falzon

Vice President - Architecture, Design & Construction, Hilton Worldwide Services Limited

In conversation with

Shrikant Dash

Deputy Managing Director Corporate, AtmosphereCore

Sophie Kotrikadze

CMO, Spectrum

Shane Lahiff

Architecture Director, SSH

Denis Sorin

Deputy Chief Executive Officer, AMSA Hospitality

10:20 - 11:00

Future Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Jeremy Gray

VP Business Development, WhiteWater

In conversation with

Ugo Bertoni

Director for External Affairs, Outreach and Cultural Engagement , Louvre Abu Dhabi

Jonathan Brown

Chief Portfolio Officer , Miral

Amir Lababedi

Managing Director Development MENA, Hilton

Grégory Lanter

Chief Development, Construction & Property Officer, CEO Mountain Strategy , Club Med

10:30 - 11:00

Summit Stage

FHS

Ongoing Networking Coffee Break

10:30 - 11:30

Future Stage

FHS

Announcements & Signing Ceremonies

Ali Shahid

Marketing Director, the bench

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.

Moderator
Jonathan Worsley

Chairman, The Bench

In conversation with

H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan

Cabinet Member, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, United Arab Emirates

Dr. Amine Elias Moukarzel

President, Golden Tulip MENA/Louvre Hotels Group

Guido de Wilde

Hospitality Advisor, wasl Hospitality

11:15 - 12:00

Inspiration Workshop Room

FHS

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

Mahfoudh Bashatah

Strategic Business Executive Director, Rua Al Madinah

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

Moderator
Filippo Sona

Co-Chairman, Wood Couture Industrial Group

In conversation with

Engineer Suwaidan Al Dhaheri

Chief Executive Officer, IMKAN PROPERTIES

Hala Matar Choufany

President & Managing Partner, Middle East, Africa & South Asia, HVS - Dubai

Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim

Chief Executive Officer, Lakhraim Group & Millennium Hotels MEA

Michael McGovern

Director , Compass Project Consulting

11:40 - 12:10

Future Stage

FHS

Tapping into the $4.7 Trillion Wellness Industry

Moderator
Kathryn Moore

Managing Director , Spa Connectors

In conversation with

Emlyn Brown

SVP WELLNESS ACCOR , ACCOR

Ingo Schweder

Founder & CEO, GOCO Hospitality

Ruben Toral

Director Healthcare + Wellness, QUO

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

Moderator
Jeroen Greven

Managing Director, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management

In conversation with

Nivesh Bhagtani

Senior Business Research & Development Executive, MJS Holding, Founder, Young Hotelier Network

Aseel Bondagjy

Hotel Talent Development Manager, NEOM

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.

Abdullah Alharbi

Assistant Deputy Minister for Investment Enablement, Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

12:10 - 12:40

Future Stage

FHS

The Evolution of Hotel Investment in Africa

Moderator
Wayne Godwin

Head of Hotels and Hospitality -Sub Saharan Africa, JLL

In conversation with

Ewan Cameron

Director - Africa, Westmont Hospitality Group

Michael Pownall

Managing Partner- Africa & Middle East, Valor Hospitality Partners

Johary Rajosefa

General Coordinator of Projects, Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Madagascar

12:20 - 13:00

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Scott Antel

Owner/Founder, SCOTT’S FZ

In conversation with

Daniel von Barloewen

Regional Vice President, Head of Mixed-Use EMEA, Accor

Mark Kirby

Head of Hospitality, Emaar Hospitality Group

Jaidev Menezes

Regional Vice President, Mixed-Use Development (EMEA) , Marriott International

Ani Otskheli

Deputy CMO, Next

13:00 - 13:20

Summit Stage

FHS

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

Moderator
Gemma Greenwood

Director, Content Inc

In conversation with

Clemence Lormand

Development Director , FAUCHON L' Hôtel / Aleph Hospitality

Siegfried Nierhaus

Vice President Middle East, Deutsche Hospitality

13:20 - 13:30

Closing Remarks

Jonathan Worsley

Chairman, The Bench

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.

Moderator
Marwa Alderaawi

Student , Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management

Moderator
Rayyan Khan

Student, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management

In conversation with

Dimitris Manikis

President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Mariam Al Musharrekh

Executive Director HR, Miral

Eddy Tannous

Chief Operating Officer, Rotana Hotel Management Company PJSC

Fritz Dickamp

Managing Director, Studio 49

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).