September 24, 2025
Inside the GCC’s Event Playbook: Industries to Watch
From entertainment seasons to global summits, the Gulf region is redefining what events can achieve. At the heart of this transformation are industries that set new benchmarks in scale, innovation, and delivery.
Inside the GCC’s Event Playbook: Industries to Watch
Events in the GCC Are Evolving at Speed
From entertainment seasons to global summits, the Gulf region is redefining what events can achieve. At the heart of this transformation are industries that set new benchmarks in scale, innovation, and delivery. These leaders, strategists, and visionaries are shaping how the next generation of GCC events will unfold.
The Strategists – Finance & Partnerships
Revealing models and investment strategies keeping the industry agile and sustainable.
✨ Dr. Nouriel Roubini – Global Economist & Strategic Advisor
Recognized by TIME magazine among the “Top 100 Scientists and Thinkers,” Dr. Nouriel Roubini delivers unmatched foresight on global markets, central bank policies, and geopolitical risks. His insights empower decision-makers to act with clarity in complex times.
✨ Professor Klisman Murati – Global Strategy Advisor & Geopolitical Keynote Speaker
Founder & CEO of Pareto Economics, Prof. Murati advises governments, institutional investors, and corporations on navigating today’s geopolitical shifts and long-term global trends. His work turns analysis into actionable intelligence for smarter nations and resilient businesses.
✨ Ziad Makhzoumi – Futurist, Strategist, Business Leader, and Author
As the former CFO of Arabtec PJSC, he successfully restructured operations during a financial crisis, later driving exponential growth as CEO of Fakih IVF Medical Group. His leadership transformed revenues and orchestrated a billion-dirham exit, making him a leading figure in GCC corporate transformation.
The Connectors – Hospitality & Tourism
Showcasing the backbone industries that create seamless guest experiences.
✨ Will Guidara – Bestselling Author, Restaurateur & Service Leadership Expert
Will Guidara is the co-owner of the world-renowned Eleven Madison Park, which earned three Michelin stars and was ranked the World’s Best Restaurant. As author of Unreasonable Hospitality, he teaches leaders how to deliver extraordinary customer experiences through service, culture, and human connection.
✨ Gerald Lawless – Hospitality Industry Leader
A pioneer of the Middle East hospitality sector, Gerald Lawless is a member of the Global Future Council on the Future of Mobility at the World Economic Forum and sits on several leading advisory boards. His lifetime contributions have earned him global recognition, including the Irish Presidential Distinguished Service Award.
The Visionaries – Creative Industries & Cultural Impact
Exploring how creativity and cultural exchange are reshaping global perceptions of the region.
✨ Dr. Paolo Petrocelli (PhD, EMBA, FRSA) – Head of Dubai Opera
A Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum and Founder of EMMA for Peace, Dr. Petrocelli is a global cultural diplomat and thought leader. His work bridges music, culture, and education—lecturing at Yale, MIT, NYU, and Sorbonne while driving Dubai Opera’s global cultural leadership.
✨ Saeed Alghafri – CEO of Yuwab Consulting, Leadership & Wellbeing Advocate
An Emirati entrepreneur and corporate leader, Saeed Alghafri blends business expertise with wellbeing advocacy. A certified yoga and meditation instructor, he helps organizations and leaders transform with resilience, emotional intelligence, and conscious leadership.
✨ Enrico Gallorini – Customer Experience Expert
Co-Founder & CEO of GRS Research & Strategy and President of Info Salons Middle East, Enrico is a global authority on customer experience, event intelligence, and audience behavior. He equips organizations with insights to design meaningful, high-impact events and cultural experiences.
The Innovators – Technology & Smart Solutions
Exploring the role of AI, automation, and immersive platforms in reshaping events with speed, accuracy, and engagement.
✨ Katja Schipperheijn – Visionary on AI-Enhanced Learning Ecosystems
Founder of The Learning Mindset Organization, Katja advises Fortune 500s and educational institutions on continuous learning, innovation culture, and ethical tech adoption. She developed the Learning Mindset Amplifier, empowering leaders and teams to unlock growth and agility.
✨ Kieran Gilmurray – AI & Automation Leader, Global Advisor
With over 30 years of experience in digital transformation, Kieran is a trusted advisor on AI, automation, and data analytics. He has delivered large-scale initiatives for IBM, Intel, and PEGA, establishing himself as a thought leader on the future of work.
✨ James Taylor – Creativity, Innovation & AI Expert
An award-winning entrepreneur and keynote speaker, James Taylor helps organizations unlock creativity, accelerate innovation, and boost productivity. With two decades of experience advising global leaders, his insights blend business creativity with the power of AI.
The Hosts – Where Every Guest Becomes the Story
The faces who welcome, connect, and elevate every guest experience.
✨ Tuesday Le Roux – Dynamic Presenter, Automotive Host
Presenter for Supercar Blondie, Tuesday Le Roux engages audiences across platforms with her energetic storytelling. Her work reaches millions worldwide, making her a standout media personality in automotive and lifestyle content.
✨ Tom Urquhart – Broadcaster, Presenter & Journalist
From hosting the launch of Sheikh Zayed Bridge with Queen Elizabeth II to major sports and lifestyle events across the UAE, Tom is one of the region’s most trusted and versatile hosts.
✨ Mohamed Salem – Corporate Host & Middle East Entertainment Pioneer
As Egypt’s most-watched stand-up comedian, Mohamed Salem is a household name in Arabic comedy. With over 100 million views online, he brings humor, authenticity, and a pioneering spirit to events across the region.
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