UAE Edition

GCC GRC DAY

2025

20 November 2025

Address Sky View Dubai

08:30 AM - 3:00 PM

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Swiss GRC is once again bringing its renowned governance, risk, and compliance conference to Dubai. The GCC GRC DAY, taking place on 20 November 2025 at Address Sky View Dubai is set to be a landmark event for GRC leaders and professionals across the GCC region.

This year’s edition introduces a powerful media collaboration with Khaleej Times, extending the reach of conference insights across the region. Attendees will gain exclusive access to cutting-edge strategies, proven best practices, and thought leadership shaping the future of governance, risk, and compliance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with peers, expand your professional network, and play an active role in shaping resilient, future-ready organizations. Participation is free of charge, but registration is mandatory.

Event Overview

GRC professionals from across the GCC region will come together for a pivotal conference, uniting thought leaders, seasoned experts, and industry practitioners to delve into the multifaceted world of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC). This event offers a unique opportunity to network, share insights, and explore the latest developments, fostering a collaborative approach to tackle the challenges of an evolving business landscape, integrating technology, strategic planning, and regulatory demands.

Topics

  • Corporate Management
  • Risk Management
  • Internal Controls (ICS)
  • Cybersecurity & Data Protection
  • Business Continuity & Resilience
  • Compliance Management
  • Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG)
  • Third-Party Risk Management
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Operational Efficiency
  • Regulatory Technology (RegTech)

Target Audience

Among the participants are:

  • Governance & Compliance: Compliance Officer, Head of Governance, Paralegals.
  • Risk Management: Risk Controllers, Managers, Information Security Officers.
  • IT & Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity Consultants, IT Security Officers, CISOs.
  • Business Continuity: BCM Managers, Emergency Specialists.
  • Audit & Control: Internal Auditors, ICS Managers.
  • Executives: Board Members, CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, COOs, etc.

Welcome Address

Besfort Kuqi

Besfort Kuqi

Founder & CEO, Swiss GRC

Swiss GRC

Speakers

Visionaries shaping the future of GRC

Dallal Slimani

Senior Vice President Programs & Transformation, Schneider Electric

Akshay Dalal Google

Akshay Dalal

Head of Regional Risk & Compliance - Middle East, Turkey & Africa at Google

Ricardo Vasconcelos Dias

Senior Director, Enterprise Risk Management, e& Risk & Assurance

Maram Habash

Maram Habash

Executive Vice President, Head Operational Risk & Resilience, Mashreq

Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem

National Risk & Policies Director, AML & CTF, UAE Government

UAE Government
Samir Karimov

Samir Karimov

Head of Risk Management and Sustainablity, NEQSOL Holding

Dr. Sona Saha Dash

Data Strategy Governance & Analytics Lead, Confidential Government Entity KSA

Fadi El Bouz

Fadi El Bouz

Director of Internal Audit & Risk Department, Sunbulah Group

Rajeev Dutt

General Manager MEA & APAC,
Swiss GRC

Swiss GRC

Adnan Ibrahim Alhashmi

Senior Associate Operations Manager, Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement

Nikolai Tsenov - Head Product & Business Development at Swiss GRC

Nikolai Tsenov

Head Solutions & Innovation,
Swiss GRC

Swiss GRC

Oma Martins

Group Head of IT GRC, IHS Towers

Laura Roche

Emcee & Moderator

Panelists

Conversations that drive perspective

Lt. Col. Saeed M. AlShebli

Deputy Director – Digital Security Department, Ministry of Interior UAE

Mansoor AlAlwan

Mansoor AlAlwan

Chief Audit Executive,
The BENEFIT Company

Hessa Humaid Almatrooshi

Hessa Humaid Almatrooshi

Information Security Leader, Free Zones Authority of Ajman

Rohit Bajpai

Head of Internal Audit, Gulf Islamic Investments Group

Gulf Islamic Investments Group

Prof. Dr. Hossam AlShenraky

Head of the Police Management Department, Dubai Police Academy

Dubai Police Academy
Faisal Khan

Faisal Khan

Director of Information Security, Risk Management & Regulatory Compliance, Dubai World Trade Centre

Prof. Dr. Fatma Taher

Professor & Assistant Dean, College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University

Prince Rana

Head of Information Security, Risk & Governance, Seddiqi Holding

Hussain Al Khalsan

Chief Information Security Officer,
Zand Bank

Agenda

A conference dedicated to Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)

8:00 – 9:00 | Registration & Networking Coffee

9:00 – 9:15

Opening Ceremony
Welcome Address
Besfort Kuqi
Founder & CEO, Swiss GRC

9:15 – 9:30

Opening Keynote
Organizational and Operational Resilience: Protecting Critical Sectors
Dallal Slimani
Senior Vice President - Programs & Transformation, Schneider Electric  

9:30 – 9:45

Presentation
GRC in Transition: Building Resilience in Uncertain Times
Rajeev Dutt
General Manager MEA & APAC,
Swiss GRC

9:45 – 10:00

Keynote
AI Governance & Ethical Risk Management: Balancing Innovation with Accountability
Akshay Dalal
Head of Regional Risk & Compliance - Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Google

10:00 – 10:40

Panel Discussion
Guardians of Trust: Security, Regulation & Privacy by Design
Faisal Khan, Associate Director - Information Security & Compliance,
Dubai World Trade Centre
Hessa Humaid Almatrooshi, Information Security Leader, Free Zones Authority of Ajman
Lt. Col. Saeed M. AlShebli, Deputy Director – Digital Security Department, Ministry of Interior, UAE
Hussain Al Khalsan, Chief Information Security Officer, Zand Bank
Oma Martins, Group Head of IT GRC, IHS Towers
Mansoor AlAlwan, Chief Audit Executive, The BENEFIT Company

10:40 – 10:55

Spotlight
Combined Assurance: Delivering Enterprise-Wide Risk Insight and Value
Adnan Ibrahim Alhashmi,
Senior Associate Operations Manager, Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement

11:00 – 11:30 | Networking Coffee Break

11:30 – 11:45

Presentation
Risk as a Source of Confidence
Samir Karimov
Head of Risk Management and Sustainablity, NEQSOL Holding

11:45 – 12:25

Panel Discussion
Bridging Academia & Practice: Elevating GRC Dialogue in the GCC
Nikolai Tsenov, Head Solutions & Innovation, Swiss GRC
Prof. Dr. Fatma Taher, Professor & Assistant Dean, Zayed University
Prof. Dr. Hossam Alshenraky, Head of the Police Management Department, Dubai Police Academy
Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem , National Risk & Policies Director, UAE Government
Rohit Bajpai, Head of Internal Audit, Gulf Islamic Investments Group

12:25 – 12:35

Sponsor Session
Mindfire Technologies
Rejeesh Kumar
Chief Technology Officer, Mindfire Technologies

12:35 – 12:55

Spotlight
From Oversight to Insight: The Transformative Role of Internal Audit
Fadi Bouz
Director of Internal Audit & Risk Department, Sunbulah Group

12:55 – 13:30

Fireside Chat
Risk Leadership & Organizational Culture: Tone at the Top
Ricardo Vasconcelos Dias, Senior Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 
e& Risk & Assurance
Maram Habash, Executive Vice President, Head Operational Risk & Resilience, Mashreq
Dr. Sona Saha Das, Data Strategy Governance & Analytics Lead, Ceer Motors
Prince Rana, Head of Information Security, Risk & Governance, Seddiqi Holding

13:30 – 13:50

Closing Keynote
Leading Through the Unknown
Nikolai Tsenov
Head Solutions & Innovation,
Swiss GRC

14:00 – 15:00 | Luncheon & End of Summit

Partner with us

The GCC GRC DAY provides a distinguished platform to engage with the latest developments, proven strategies, and innovative approaches in governance, risk, and compliance. Participants will benefit from the expertise of leading professionals through keynote presentations and interactive discussions, gaining both strategic insights and practical guidance.

Sponsorship offers organizations the opportunity to strengthen brand visibility and reputation while generating qualified business leads. As one of the region’s premier industry gatherings, the GCC GRC DAY delivers an exceptional platform for thought leadership, professional networking, and sustainable business growth.

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+971 50 728 7247

events@swissgrc.com

Address Sky View
Emaar Square Area
Downton Dubai
Dubai
United Arab Emirates

    Besfort Kuqi

    CEO & Board of Directors

    Besfort Kuqi is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Swiss GRC AG. He has been involved in the topics of Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) for over 10 years. His focus is on the digitalisation, integration and optimisation of management and control systems in companies and organisations. Specifically, Besfort Kuqi deals with issues around risk management, internal control systems (ICS) and compliance and security management. As a Project Management Professional (PMP), Besfort Kuqi supports nationally and internationally active companies and organisations in developing, implementing and presenting company-specific analyses and concepts to solve organisational and technical problems in GRC processes. Besfort Kuqi has co-developed the Swiss GRC Toolbox – a software solution for the systematic mapping and management of the many GRC disciplines – since its inception, he has successfully introduced it at many companies and organisations and has thus contributed to higher efficiency, transparency and acceptance in matters of management and control systems.

    Dallal Slimani

    Dallal Slimani

    Senior Vice President Programs & Transformation, Schneider Electric

    Dallal Slimani is the Senior Vice President at Schneider Electric, where she leads enterprise-wide business transformations that shape the company’s long-term strategic vision and sustain its leadership in a rapidly evolving industry. Her work focuses on designing and executing cross-functional initiatives that drive impactful, future-focused results aligned with Schneider Electric’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

    Previously, Dallal served as Chief Strategy Officer, where she played a pivotal role in defining Schneider Electric’s strategic direction and advancing its mission to enable a sustainable future for all. Throughout her career, she has held a variety of regional and global leadership roles, consistently spearheading transformation programs from ideation to execution.

    Dallal holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the École Nationale Polytechnique in Algiers and is a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. In 2023, she received the European SEMI Award in recognition of her leadership in decarbonizing the semiconductor value chain through initiatives such as the Catalyze program.

    Akshay Dalal, Google

    Akshay Dalal

    Head of Regional Risk & Compliance - Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Google

    Akshay Dalal is a risk and compliance leader with a proven track record of enabling global organizations to scale securely across diverse and dynamic markets. With extensive experience spanning multiple industries and geographies, he specializes in building and operationalizing solutions that navigate complex regulatory environments. His work is instrumental in protecting revenue and enabling strategic growth for a multi-billion dollar book of business.

    As the Head of Risk and Compliance for Google across the region, Akshay operates at the intersection of regulation, strategy, and innovation. In this role, he is responsible for ensuring safe operations, fostering responsible growth, and building trusted engagement in some of the world’s most rapidly evolving markets.

    Akshay holds an MBA from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Delhi. He has also pursued his CFA up to Level II. A passionate community leader, Akshay was the first MBA student to be elected President of St. Catherine’s College MCR at Oxford. He currently also serves as the Head of the UK and EMEA chapter of the Old Sanawarian Society.

    Ricardo Vasconcelos Dias

    Ricardo Vasconcelos Dias

    Senior Director, ERM – Group HoldCo & Etisalat UAE, e& Risk and Assurance

    Ricardo Vasconcelos Dias is the Senior Director of Enterprise Risk Management at the Group Holding Company and Etisalat United Arab Emirates (e&). With over 21 years of experience in risk management across diverse industries in the UK and the UAE, Ricardo is recognized for his strategic and innovative approach to enterprise risk. He is a forward-looking risk leader who challenges conventional thinking, driving organizations toward smarter decision-making and transforming complexity and uncertainty into actionable insights.

    Maram Habash

    Maram Habash

    Executive Vice President, Head Operational Risk & Resilience, Mashreq

    Maram Habash is the Executive Vice President and Head of Operational Risk & Resilience at Mashreq Bank, one of the leading financial institutions in the Middle East known for its strong focus on innovation and digital transformation.

    With over 18 years of diverse experience in finance, compliance, operational risk and governance, customer excellence, program management, and product management, Maram has built a distinguished career leading large-scale transformation and resilience initiatives across the financial services sector.

    Recognized as a strategic and visionary leader, she has successfully driven digital and change programs, implemented major operational improvements, and delivered client-focused solutions that have increased productivity, reduced costs, and strengthened business resilience. Her expertise spans risk management, governance, FCC, AML, and CDD, and she has extensive experience working with regulators, managing regulatory remediation programs, and transforming high-risk business operations to sustainable performance levels.

    Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem

    National Risk & Policies Director, AML & CTF, UAE Government

    Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem is the National Risk & Policies Director for AML & CTF at the UAE Government and a distinguished expert in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity with over 18 years of experience. His career spans leadership roles, academic contributions, and advisory board positions, complemented by numerous published articles.

    A sought-after keynote speaker at international conferences, Dr. Al Alkeem holds a Ph.D. in Engineering with a double major in AI and Cybersecurity from Khalifa University and is extensively certified in global security standards.

    He is widely recognized for his thought leadership at the intersection of technology, policy, and national resilience.

    Samir Karimov, Neqsol Holding

    Samir Karimov

    Head of Risk Management, NEQSOL Holding

    Samir Karimov is the Head of Risk Management at NEQSOL Holding, a diversified international group of companies operating across energy, telecommunications, high-tech, and construction with a presence in over 10 countries, including the UAE, UK, USA, and the CIS region.

    With more than 15 years of experience in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), Samir has worked across industries such as banking, mobile telecommunications, technology, energy, production and manufacturing, and FMCG. He has a proven track record of establishing and leading risk management frameworks from the ground up, driving strategic alignment and operational resilience across complex organizations.

    His expertise lies in assessing and managing risks related to investments, projects, and organizational structures, underpinned by a deep understanding of risk assessment methodologies and governance principles.

    Dr. Sona Saha Das

    Dr. Sona Saha Dash

    Data Strategy Governance & Analytics Lead,
    Confedential Government Entity - KSA

    Dr. Sona Saha Das is a seasoned Technology Strategist and Implementor with expertise in IT strategy, data governance, digital transformation, and global operations. She has held leadership roles at Pizza Hut/KFC, RBS, Weston Electroniks, Dell, and M.H. Alshaya, driving innovation and transformation across industries.

    At Pizza Hut/KFC, she scaled operations from 10 to 80 outlets through ERP, POS, and supply chain implementations. At Weston Electroniks, she increased revenue by 30% and efficiency by 7% through IT transformation. At RBS, she led disaster recovery efforts restoring services within 19 hours. At Dell, she managed one of APJ’s largest Office 365 migrations and a global Azure Stack rollout. At M.H. Alshaya, she implemented a data strategy with Informatica MDM, uncovering $45B in data value and saving $700K through platform optimization.

    Dr. Sona pioneered the “Breaking the Fourth Wall” concept, merging Agile and DevOps to enhance innovation and business collaboration. She is a certified CISA, PRINCE2 Practitioner, TOGAF, COBIT5 expert, and Oxford-certified in AI, holding a Doctorate in Business Administration (AI & Data) from IMET, India.

    A recognized tech influencer and public speaker, she is known for driving impactful digital change and data-driven innovation.

    Rajeev Dutt

    General Manager MEA & APAC, Swiss GRC

    Rajeev Dutt is a highly accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in the fields of business continuity and risk management. Renowned for his track record of spearheading GRC product offerings across diverse verticals, he has significantly contributed to the growth of some of the world’s leading GRC software providers in the Middle East. As the General Manager for MEA & APAC at Swiss GRC, his role reflects Swiss GRC’s proactive approach in a region increasingly valuing robust GRC structures. His extensive expertise and strategic insights contribute significantly to Swiss GRC’s efforts to strengthen its presence and expand in these critical markets.

    Adnan Ibrahim Alhashmi

    Adnan Ibrahim Alhashmi

    Senior Associate Operations Manager, Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement

    Adnan Alhashmi is a Senior Associate Operations Manager at Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, specializing in Accounting, Investment, and Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC). With over 12 years of experience in finance, compliance, and operations across the defense and investment sectors, he is recognized for his leadership, strategic planning, and ability to align financial and compliance strategies with organizational objectives.

    Throughout his career, Adnan has demonstrated a strong capability in budgeting, investment analysis, risk management, and corporate governance. He has successfully led implementation of ISO 37001:2016 (Anti-Bribery Management System) and ISO 37301:2021

    Nikolai Tsenov

    Head Solutions & Innovation, Swiss GRC

    Nikolai Tsenov is an experienced expert in consulting, product and project management, business development, and sales with over 20 years of industry experience. His areas of expertise include risk and performance management, compliance, fraud detection and prevention, AML, and data analytics.

    At Swiss GRC, he heads the Solutions & Innovation division. He was instrumental in the further development of the Third Party Risk Management (TPRM) module, for which Swiss GRC was awarded the Best of Technology Award 2025 by WirtschaftsWoche. He also played a leading role in the development of the AI GRC module, which helps companies manage AI-related risks.

    With his strong entrepreneurial spirit and passion for innovation, he has received numerous awards, including the FinTech Breakthrough Awards in the categories Best Company for Transaction Security and Best Platform for Predictive Analytics (2022 and 2020). He also received the 2016 Banking IT Innovation Award from the University of St. Gallen for his concept of the Finnova Analytical Framework.

    Oma Martins

    Oma Martins

    Group Head of IT GRC, IHS Towers

    Oma Martins-Okonkwo is a technology governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) leader, driving IT strategy, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance for global organizations. With a strong foundation in IT governance, risk management, and compliance management, she has led initiatives that achieved over remarkable compliance ratings, improved control operation efficiency and streamlined compliance processes using emerging technologies.

    She is a recognized industry thought leader and sought-after speaker and has spoken at global conferences on cybersecurity, IT governance, and compliance automation. She is also passionate about advancing diversity in cybersecurity through mentoring and advocating for increased female participation. She has done this through various platforms including Women in Technology Nigeria and Women in Cybersecurity Middle East.

    Currently, she leads a team of governance and compliance specialists, ensuring technology alignment with business strategy, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation across enterprise IT platforms. Her expertise extends to privacy and AI governance, cybersecurity governance, and cloud risk management, helping organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation securely and efficiently.

    Laura Roche

    Laura Roche

    International MC and Podcast Host

    Laura Roche is an international MC and podcast host from Spain. She was the resident MC of Expo 2020 Dubai and regularly hosts corporate events, product launches, gala dinners, summits, festivals, and family days across the GCC and beyond. She speaks six languages, with Spanish as her mother tongue.

    She is also the official presenter, MC, and podcast host for El Correo del Golfo, the number one Spanish-speaking newspaper in the GCC.

    Laura will moderate the GCC GRC Day 2025, bringing her signature professionalism and energy to one of the region’s high-profile Governance, Risk, and Compliance events.

    Lt. Col. Saeed M. AlShebli

    Lt. Col. Saeed M. AlShebli

    Deputy Director – Digital Security Department, Ministry of Interior UAE

    A dedicated cybersecurity professional and a law enforcement officer with 20 years of experience in the field. Deputy director of the Digital Security Dept. at the U.A.E’s Ministry of Interior and member of the advisory boards at ADPoly University and Zayed University. I believe in leveraging the human element to strengthen digital defenses. I understand that technology alone cannot secure an organization. It is the people—trained, aware, and vigilant—who are the true frontline defenders against cyber threats.”

    Mansoor AlAlwan

    Mansoor AlAlwan

    Chief Audit Executive, The BENEFIT Company

    Mansoor AlAlwan is the Chief Audit Executive at The BENEFIT Company, Bahrain’s leading provider of financial technology and electronic network services, where he oversees independent, risk-based audits and reviews to strengthen governance, control, and resilience across the organization.

    With more than a decade of progressive experience spanning internal audit, IT governance, risk management, and information security, Mansoor has played a pivotal role in advancing BENEFIT’s internal control environment and ensuring full alignment with international auditing standards and best practices. Before being appointed Chief Audit Executive, he served as Head of Internal Audit and previously as Acting Head of Internal Audit, contributing to the company’s continuous improvement and operational excellence.

    In addition to his corporate leadership, Mansoor is a Board Member at ISACA Bahrain Chapter, where he actively promotes professional development in information systems governance, risk, and cybersecurity. He collaborates with universities, industry peers, and international partners to expand ISACA’s reach, foster student engagement, and advance awareness of globally recognized certifications.

    Hessa Humaid Almatrooshi  - Information Security Leader - Free Zones Authority of Ajman

    Hessa Humaid Almatrooshi

    Information Security Leader, Free Zones Authority of Ajman

    Hessa Al Matrooshi is an accomplished cybersecurity leader and innovation strategist based in the UAE. She currently serves as the Team leader of Information Security at Free Zones Authority of Ajman, where she also leads the Infrastructure and Helpdesk teams. Hessa is known for her success in achieving ISO certifications, building comprehensive security frameworks, and driving digital transformation initiatives. She is a board member of Women in Cyber Security Middle East, advocating for empowering women in the tech field. Passionate about innovation, she actively develops forward-thinking strategies to enhance organizational agility, customer satisfaction, and sustainability.

    Rohit Bajpai - Head of Internal Audit - Gulf Islamic Investments Group

    Rohit Bajpai

    Head of Internal Audit, Gulf Islamic Investments Group

    Rohit Bajpai is the Head of Internal Audit in Gulf Islamic Investments Group (a UAE based financial services company with AUM of over US$3.5 billion), an award-winning cyber security professional & a member of the Targeted Financial Sanctions / Countering Proliferation Financing Working Group (“Working Group”) chaired by The Executive Office of Control and Non-Proliferation (EOCN) in UAE and an active speaker in UAE’s professional forums/events. He leads GII Group’s Internal Audit Function and responsible for audits of GII’s Private Equity, Private Credit and Real Estate across group companies in diverse sectors, industries and geographies. He is also responsible for leading the development of group policies and procedures. He is also a member of GII’s Anti-Money Laundering Committee and IT & Cyber Security Committee.

    Prof. Dr Hossam AlShenraky

    Prof. Dr. Hossam AlShenraky

    Head of the Police Management Department,
    Dubai Police Academy

    Professor Dr. Hossam AlShenraky, Head of the Police Management Department at Dubai Police Academy, is a distinguished expert in cyber-crime, criminal investigation, and digital security, with over three decades of experience in law enforcement, academia, and international peacekeeping.

    He has significantly contributed to the advancement of cybersecurity policies, data protection regulations, and legislative reforms in the Middle East, helping strengthen the region’s digital governance and resilience. His work bridges governance, risk, and compliance with technological and operational security, offering deep insights into managing modern threats such as cyber-terrorism, electronic fraud, and AI-driven risks.

    As an accomplished researcher and trainer, Dr. AlShenraky has authored numerous publications on cyber-crime, information security, and digital forensics, and has trained law enforcement professionals worldwide in cyber investigations and open-source intelligence. Through his leadership and thought leadership, he continues to shape the future of digital resilience and security governance across the region.

    Faisal Khan

    Faisal Khan

    Director of Information Security, Risk Management & Regulatory Compliance, Dubai World Trade Centre

    Faisal Khan is an accomplished cybersecurity leader with extensive experience in information security, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Known for his strategic foresight and pragmatic leadership, he has successfully led enterprise-wide security programs across both public and private sectors.

    Recognized among the Top 100 Cybersecurity Leaders in the Middle East, Faisal has guided organizations to achieve excellence in cybersecurity governance and risk management. His expertise spans security governance, cyber risk, regulatory alignment, and building resilient security cultures.

    A strong advocate for continuous learning and innovation, Faisal mentors emerging professionals and frequently speaks at regional and international forums, advancing cybersecurity maturity and awareness across industries.

    Prof. Dr. Fatma Taher

    Professor & Assistant Dean for Research & Outreach CEO of Happiness and Wellbeing, College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University

    Prof. Dr. Fatma Taher is a Full Professor in the Department of Computer and Applied Technology at Zayed University, where she also serves as Assistant Dean for Research and Outreach and CEO of Happiness and Wellbeing. A pioneer in the UAE’s academic landscape, she earned her Ph.D. in Engineering from Khalifa University, becoming the first Emirati woman to graduate with a Ph.D. in Engineering from within the UAE.

    Her research focuses on artificial intelligence, medical image analysis, and signal processing, with groundbreaking contributions in early cancer detection, kidney transplant analysis, autism studies, and cerebrovascular segmentation. She has authored over 200 publications in leading international journals and conferences and holds a U.S. patent for Cerebrovascular Segmentation from MRA Images.

    Prof. Fatma has received numerous accolades, including the UAE Pioneers Award from H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Fellowship, and the Zayed University President’s Innovator Award. A former Chair of IEEE UAE Section (2019–2022) and General Chair of IEEE ICECS 2021, she continues to be recognized for her leadership in AI-driven medical innovation and academic excellence.

    Prince Rana

    Prince Rana

    Head of Information Security, Risk & Governance, Seddiqi Holding

    Prince Rana is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in Information Risk Management, with a specific focus on Cyber Security and Enterprise-wide Risk Management within the Information technology domain. His extensive experience spans across the Middle East, Asia, and CIS regions where he has played a pivotal role in leading mid to large-scale technology risk engagements, particularly within the Retail, BFSI, Telecom, and Manufacturing sectors.
    Since 2018, Prince has been based in Dubai and is currently responsible for leading Information Security, Risk, and Governance at Seddiqi Holding UAE.

    Hussein Al Khalsan

    Hussain Al Khalsan

    Chief Information Security Officer, Zand Bank

    Hussain Al Khalsan joined Zand as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in June 2019. In his role, he oversees and manages the Cyber Security Programme of Zand. He is a seasoned professional with 18 years of experience in IT Security, Information Security and Cyber Security purely in the banking and financial services industry.

    Swiss GRC | Switzerland (HQ) | Germany | UK | UAE

    Leenus Patrick Obed

    Chief Executive Officer, Emirates International Hospitals Group

    Leenus Patrick Obed is the Chief Executive Officer of Emirates International Hospital Group, Al Ain, where he leads the organization’s transformation into a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem centered on precision and participatory medicine. Under his leadership, the group is expanding through major projects, including a new 200-bed hospital, the Khalidiya branch expansion, and the Saadiyat Day Care Surgery Center, all designed to enhance patient access and quality of care.

    Widely recognized for his strategic collaborations and medical innovation, Mr. Obed has forged partnerships such as the one with the Swiss Center for Health and Longevity, introducing advanced longevity medicine and preventive care to the UAE. A strong advocate of AI-driven and integrative healthcare, he continues to position Emirates International Hospital Group as a benchmark for world-class, future-ready medicine in the region.

    Fadi El Bouz

    Fadi El Bouz

    Director of Internal Audit & Risk Department, Sunbulah Group

    Fadi El Bouz is the Director of Internal Audit & Risk at Sunbulah Group, a leading FMCG conglomerate headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, renowned for its diverse portfolio of high-quality food products and strong regional presence.

    With nearly two decades of professional experience, Fadi brings extensive expertise in internal audit, enterprise risk management, and corporate governance. Before joining Sunbulah Group, he spent almost 10 years at Ernst & Young (EY), serving in the Doha, Kuwait, Beirut, and Jeddah offices between 2006 and 2016, where he held the position of Manager, Advisory Services.

    During his tenure at EY, Fadi led and contributed to numerous projects, including the establishment of internal audit functions, development of policies and procedures, KPIs, and organizational structures, as well as the coaching and mentoring of internal audit teams. His experience also covers risk assessment facilitation, process transformation, and the design of corporate governance frameworks aligned with the Saudi Arabian Capital Market Authority (CMA) requirements.

    In addition to his advisory and leadership roles, Fadi has delivered multiple training programs on internal audit best practices, risk management, AML & CFT, compliance awareness, and corporate governance across Kuwait, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.