Dean – College of Engineering Professor – Computer Science & Engineering
American University of Sharjah, UAE
Dr. Fadi Aloul is the Dean of the College of Engineering and a Professor of Computer Science & Engineering at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), UAE. He holds a PhD and MS degrees in Computer Science & Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA, respectively, and a BS degree in Electrical Engineering summa cum laude from Lawrence Technological University, Michigan, USA. His research and industrial interests are in Cyber Security, Mobile Applications, Teaching Innovation, and Design Optimization. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Dr. Aloul received a number of prestigious awards including the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC) Airbus Engineering Diversity Award, the H.H. Sheikh Khalifa, UAE’s President, Award for Higher Education, the Sheikh Rashid's Award for Outstanding Scientific Achievement, the Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Young Arab Researchers, and the AUS Excellence in Teaching Award. He has 140+ publications (available at http://www.aloul.net) and 1 US patent. He is a regular invited speaker and panelist across several international conferences related to Cyber Security, AI, Technology, Innovation and Education.
Cyber Security, Compliance Consultant & Auditor Founder
Cyber Cops
16+ years of corporate Industry experience in IT Infrastructure, Cyber Security, HIPAA Compliance, SOC 2 and ISO ISMS 27001 implementation, Management & Assessment. A highly skilled experienced Network and Compliance Specialist, with expertise in Auditing, implementation, management, troubleshooting and Optimizing Networks with extensive knowledge of Technical and Compliance Services. Worked for HCL Technology and Various US based Company/clients to manage their IT Infrastructure, Cyber Security, Information security management system (ISMS) 27001 and HIPAA Compliance. Completed MCA, MBA IT, MCP, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP, PCNSA (Palo Alto Certification), HIPAA Security Certification, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) & Lead Auditor ISMS 27001:2022 A Compliance Auditor & Network Professional having rich experience covering Compliance Auditing, Cyber Security, Network Engineering, Architecting, Implementation, Operations, and Project Management in enterprise-class complex network. Delivering top-level services is our specialty and I thrive in a diverse management environment. I accrued a multitude of skills including corporate Technology management, Project Management, Team management, Compliance & Cyber Security Assessment.
Additionally, I am keen focus on cybersecurity, recognizing the importance of protecting sensitive data and mitigating risks in today's digital landscape. With a passion for staying at the forefront of industry trends, I actively seek out continuous learning opportunities and remains up-to-date with the latest developments in network technology, compliance regulations, and cybersecurity practices.
General Manager - EMEA & APAC
Infinite Blue, Dubai, UAE
Dean, College of Applied Studies
University of Bahrain
Dr. Mohamed Baqer is the Dean of the College of Applied Studies since 2019. Previously he served as Acting Vice President for Information Technology Services, Administrative and Financial Affairs between 2019 and 2022. Dr. Baqer is a faculty member at the Department of Computer Engineering, College of Information Technology. Additionally, Dr. Baqer is an ACM and Senior IEEE member. Dr. Baqer is a keynote speaker and reviewer of many conferences and journals and an active researcher in the fields of quality assurance, higher education, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of the Future. Moreover, he has numerous publications in cybersecurity, internet safety and energy efficient algorithms, the internet of things, and linking social networks to the Internet. Prior to joining the University of Bahrain in 2008, Dr. Baqer studied for his Masters in Computer Networks and PhD at Monash University. Dr. Baqer researched Peer-to-Peer, Network Security, Mobile IP, and Wireless Systems during his Master’s and Doctorate degrees from Monash University where he was awarded numerous scholarships.
Data & Cybersecurity Director
Hevolution Foundation, Saudi Arabia
Arwa Alhamad is a Data & Cybersecurity Head at Hevolution Foundation. She has 14+ years of experience in the field of cybersecurity, specializing in governance, risk, and compliance. Throughout her career, she has successfully established Five departments from ground zero. Her experience spans local and global organizations in various industries. In addition to that, she is an active cybersecurity advocate, speaker, and advisory board member of several non-profit associations and educational institutes. She received her master’s degree in security in computing from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia and her Global Executive MBA from INSEAD Business School. She holds several professional certificates such as CISSP, CISM, GPEN, PMP, and ISO27001, 20000, and 9001. She also holds executive certifications from MIT Sloan Executive Education and INSEAD Business School.
Group EVP, Business & Managing Director - Bahrain
Tap Payments
Ahmed Al Aradi is the Group EVP, Business at Tap Payments, and the team’s Managing Director in Bahrain. He has been part of the Tap journey for over 4 years, starting off in Growth and Business Development. Today as the Group EVP of Business, he focuses on growing Tap’s business, strategies partnerships, and relationships with financial institutions. Ahmed is an MBA graduate from Ahlia University in Bahrain and has worked in industries such as Telecom, Cybersecurity, and Payments with companies such as AMEX, SCT technology solutions, and more.
Program Manager
Wajda Group
ADEEL AHMAD KHAN is a Program Manager in WAJDA Group, a reputable Group in whole GCC Countries, serving in the field of Telecommunication, Renewable Energy, X- Automation, ICT, Media & Broadcast for more than 3 Decades. Mr. Adeel Ahmad is a capable, result-oriented and technology-driven professional with more than 16 Years+ successful professional track, recognized by STC, ZAIN, Huawei and Ericsson with appreciation. He is leading Kuwait and KSA operations for WAJDA Group.
His hunger for innovation and upcoming technologies gave him the opportunity to successfully lead the digital transformation and AI journey for the Organization. Further, he led WAJDA first ever E-Commerce Portal development and launch with success.
Mr. Adeel Ahmad is having experience in leading teams successfully, increasing efficiency, and productivity whilst reducing costs and inefficiencies by using the latest tools and technologies. The ability to keep a level head all the time nurtures and rows business. Evaluate opportunities, risks and deliver innovative solutions to challenges. Possesses excellent client-facing skills and is highly successful in defining company direction, achieving goals and optimizing business. Always provides his insight and contributes to the company’s future strategies and business direction. Successfully developed and added new verticals of X-Automation and Renewable Energy in the WAJDA Portfolio."
Digitization Program Manager , Specialist - Health Technology, and Facility Management & Support Services - Health Assurance Hospitals Company (DHAMAN)
Dr. Muneer Zuhdi is currently Head of Cognitive Cities & Industries where he guides cities and enterprises in their digitalization vision and transformation journey. Prior to that, he was a Partner at Nokia Bell-Labs where he advised executives on digital transformation paths, diversification strategies, value creation, and new business models.
A well-known Consultant speaker and Healthcare Technology Management Professional with 20+ years of progressive leadership, including four years as a Guest Lecture at a college and Polytechnic in India and Professional experience in large Healthcare settings across the Middle East, leading Technology enabled portfolios, Information Management, and Knowledge Transfer programs.
Executive Vice President - Dubai World Trade Centre
CEO - KAOUN International
Trixie LohMirmand is the Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, the region’s largest renowned events organizing company, and CEO of KAOUN International, its overseas establishment. With over two decades of experience and network in the region, she creates global partnerships to catalyze international trade and investments between the public-private ecosystems.
Trixie is at the forefront of conceptualizing and transforming some of the iconic Arab-born brands such as GITEX, Gulfood, and Dubai Boat Show into mega powerhouses with resounding economic and tourism impact for the region.
Most recently amidst the pandemic, Trixie led her team to spearhead the global restart of large-scale events in Dubai and the region with GITEX in 2020, marking another first in the world. She led th strategic advancement of GITEX to emerge as the largest tech and startup event in the world and rated by international tech executives as the Best Tech Show globally.
Commissioner - Board Member
Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC-Jordan)
Eng. Belal Al-Hafnawi is an ICT executive leader experienced in technology, management, leadership, regulatory, and strategy. Currently working as Commissioner and full-time Board Member at the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC).
His Excellency Belal has 21 years of experience in technology, telecommunications, information technology, and digital transformation. He has worked with several international mobile network vendors and service providers including Huawei, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung Electronics, and STC.
He has wide work experience in various telecommunications fields, which include management, advisory, strategy, technical consulting, managing complex programs and projects, operation management and quality.
He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Telecommunications from the University of Jordan and holds executive certification in Management and Leadership from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States, which focused on business implications in Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things and platform strategies.
Eng. Al-Hafnawi is very dedicated to giving back to his community and supports several local and international activities and organizations in technology strategy and digital transformation, he is a technology articles writer, author, and international speaker on various topics related to technology.
Business & Technology Solutions Advisor
Dubai Cable Company
General Manger
Smart Cities Technologies - King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology
Toward Cognitive Cities: Leveraging Al and IoT for Smart Urban Environments
Head of HP
Spring Studios
"Introducing Zainab, the Head of the Bahraini chapter of Spring Studios, with a wealth of experience spanning over a decade. Zainab has an impressive background in acceleration, investment, innovation, youth empowerment, ecosystem building, digital transformation, data science and analytics, e-commerce, project management, and business development. Don't be fooled by her small stature, as Zainab is a true warrior with a passion for technology and fashion. She holds a degree in MIS from Bahrain Polytechnic and an MSc in Big Data Science and Analytics from Liverpool John Moores University. Previously serving as Sr. Strategy and Programs Manager at Brinc for nearly 5 years, Zainab was the driving force behind several successful accelerator programs. She also spearheaded Brinc MENA's youth empowerment initiatives, including hackathons, design sprints, and summer boot camps. As a new mom, Zainab continues to prove herself as an unstoppable, strong, and independent woman who thrives under pressure and multitasks with ease. Zainab is highly respected in Bahrain's technology and innovation community and is known for her exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision. She is also a passionate advocate for women in technology and actively mentors and supports young women aspiring to pursue a career in this field"
Assistant Deputy Minister for Future Skills & Digital Knowledge - Ministry of Communications & Information Technology. CEO - Saudi Digital Academy