UK-Saudi Investment & Partnership Summit 2026

The Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC) is delighted to announce the UK-Saudi Investment & Partnership Summit 2026, set to take place on 8 June at Banqueting House in London.

The UK-Saudi Investment & Partnership Summit returns in 2026, convening over 350 senior delegates from government, investment, and industry to explore the next chapter of economic collaboration between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Bringing together ministers, policymakers, investors, family offices, and global business leaders, the Summit provides a high-level platform to examine the opportunities shaping the UK-Saudi economic corridor. From strategic investment and infrastructure development to emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, culture, and the creative economy, the programme will highlight the areas driving growth and partnership between both nations.

Delegates will benefit from exclusive networking opportunities, high-level ministerial discussions, and expert-led panels, designed to foster knowledge exchange, unlock new investment opportunities, and strengthen long-term commercial partnerships.

More than a conference, the Summit offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with key decision-makers, gain firsthand insight into evolving regulatory and market landscapes, and position organisations at the forefront of one of the world’s most dynamic bilateral investment relationships.

Driving the Future of UK-Saudi Partnership

Over the past five editions, the Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC) has hosted the largest ministerial-led Saudi business delegations to the United Kingdom, establishing the Summit as a leading platform for UK–Saudi commercial engagement.

In 2026, the Summit will once again convene senior leaders from government, investment, and industry to explore the opportunities emerging from Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation and the UK’s strengths across finance, infrastructure, and innovation.

This year’s programme is being developed in close collaboration with government stakeholders and strategic partners, with a clear focus on capital deployment, project delivery, and long-term institutional partnership.

Together with our partners, the Summit will provide a focused platform for advancing investment flows, strengthening bilateral relationships, and enabling practical collaboration across priority sectors.

Date

08/06/2026

Time

09:00 - 17:00

Location:

London, UK

Banqueting House

A full-day, in-person event featuring keynotes, panels, workshops and networking opportunities. Click the link below to register your interest.

SBJBC Members & Partners: Complimentary

Non-SBJBC Members: £400 + VAT 

Sponsors

Agenda

08:30 – 09:15 | Registration and Networking Breakfast: Delegates arrive for networking and refreshments ahead of the formal programme.

 

09:15 – 09:30 | Welcome from SBJBC Saudi and UK Co-Chairs: Opening remarks highlighting the deepening economic partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia.

 

09:30 – 10:00 | Ministerial Fireside: Unlocking the Next Phase of UK-Saudi Investment

 

10:00 – 10:30 | Ambassadorial Fireside Chat: The Next Chapter in UK-Saudi Economic Partnership

 

10:30 – 10:45 | Diriyah Development Company Keynote Speech

 

10:45 – 11:05 | Networking Break

 

11:10 – 11:50  | Panel 1: The Rise of Private Capital – Shaping UK-Saudi Investment in a Global Market

Private capital across both Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom is playing an increasingly influential role in global markets, reshaping how capital is allocated across geographies, sectors, and asset classes. As private markets expand and investors adopt more international, partnership-led strategies, the UK-Saudi corridor is becoming an increasingly important channel for cross-border investment.

This session will explore the structural shifts underpinning the rise of private capital in both markets, and how investors, institutions, and platforms are identifying opportunities, forming partnerships, and deploying capital across borders.

Discussion topics will include:

  • The evolving role of private capital across the UK and Saudi Arabia
  • Growth in private markets and alternative asset classes across both economies
  • Cross-border investment flows and opportunities within the UK-Saudi corridor
  • Strategic partnerships between UK and Saudi investors and platforms
  • The role of financial institutions in enabling bilateral capital deployment

 

11:50 – 12:30 | Panel 2: Future-Proofing Protection – Insurance, Pensions & Long-Term Capital in the UK-Saudi Corridor

As both the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia advance economic reform and long-term growth strategies, insurance and pensions are playing an increasingly central role in financial resilience, institutional capital formation, and long-term economic growth.

This panel brings together senior leaders from insurance, healthcare, pensions, and policy to explore how protection systems are evolving in response to demographic change, regulatory reform, and technological innovation. The discussion will also examine how these systems are mobilising long-term capital to support investment, infrastructure, and economic diversification across both markets.

Discussion topics will include:

  • Strengthening retirement systems and expanding long-term savings across both markets
  • The role of insurance and pensions as providers of long-term institutional capital
  • Healthcare, protection, and financial resilience in evolving national systems
  • Regulatory reform and market development in the UK and Saudi Arabia
  • The impact of technology, data, and AI on scaling pension systems and insurance delivery
  • Opportunities for UK-Saudi collaboration across insurance, pensions, and financial services

 

12:30 – 12:45 | Networking Break

 

12:45 – 13:25 | Panel 3: AI, Skills & Human Capability – Building the Workforce of the Future

Artificial intelligence is transforming how people learn, work, and develop skills. As economies adapt to rapid technological change, the ability to build agile, future-ready workforces is becoming a defining competitive advantage.

This panel will explore how partnerships between education providers and technology leaders are enabling new approaches to workforce development. Through the use of cloud infrastructure, data-driven insights, and AI-powered learning technologies, organisations can scale education, close skills gaps, and empower people to adapt in an evolving labour market.

Senior leaders and representatives will discuss how innovation across education and technology is shaping the future of workforce development across higher education, enterprise learning, and global skills ecosystems.

Discussion topics include:

  • The impact of AI on global labour markets and workforce transformation
  • The role of technology in delivering personalised and accessible learning
  • Closing skills gaps and enabling lifelong learning in the digital economy
  • Public–private partnerships to support national workforce strategies
  • Opportunities for UK-Saudi collaboration in education technology and human capability development

 

13:25 – 14:00  | Panel 4: Designing the Cities of the Future – Sustainable Development & Cultural Destinations

Saudi Arabia is delivering some of the most ambitious urban developments in the world as part of its long-term economic transformation. From large-scale infrastructure to cultural destinations and smart urban districts, these projects are redefining how cities are designed, financed, and delivered.

This panel will explore not only the vision behind next-generation cities, but critically how these developments are being executed at scale,  bringing together perspectives from development, policy, design, and programme delivery across both the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia.

With projects that integrate heritage, technology, and environmental resilience, new models for urban development are emerging through international collaboration and shared expertise. This discussion will examine how stakeholders across both markets are working together to deliver complex projects that balance innovation, cultural identity, and long-term sustainability.

Discussion topics include:

  • Delivering giga-projects: from vision to execution at scale
  • Sustainable urban design and climate resilience in practice
  • Integrating heritage and cultural identity into major developments
  • Smart city infrastructure and digital urban systems
  • Financing, structuring, and managing complex developments
  • Opportunities for UK-Saudi collaboration across the full project lifecycle

 

14:00 – 15:30 | Networking Lunch

An opportunity for investors, business leaders, and policymakers to continue conversations and explore potential partnerships.

 

15:30 – 17:30  | Invite-Only Roundtables

Focused sessions designed to facilitate deeper discussions and practical collaboration between UK and Saudi stakeholders.

  • Workshop 1: UK-Saudi Private Capital in 2026 – Resilience as Strategy
  • Workshop 2: Deploying AI-Powered Learning – Scaling Skills for the Future Workforce
  • Workshop 3: Delivering Next-Generation Cities – From Vision to Implementation

 

16:30 – 17:00 | Networking & Close of Event



 

Supporting Partners

Event Speakers

HRH Prince Abdullah bin Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Kingdom

His Royal Highness Prince Abdullah bin Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud serves as Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Kingdom. Prior to his appointment in London, he held several senior diplomatic posts representing the Kingdom across Europe and multilateral international institutions. HRH served as Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Federal Republic of Germany from 2023 – 2025. From 2019 - 2023 he held several positions including Ambassador to the Republic of Austria, Non-Resident Ambassador to the Slovak Republic and the Republic of Slovenia, and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations and International Organizations in Vienna. During this period, he also served as Governor of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency from 2019 - 2021. Throughout his diplomatic tenure, HRH has represented the Kingdom at numerous high-level international forums and conferences, including meetings of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, the International Anti-Corruption Academy, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. He also chaired the Group of Friends of the Nuclear Security Training Center of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Seibersdorf in 2022. HRH has also represented the Kingdom in interfaith and intercultural dialogue initiatives, including at the King Abdullah International Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, and served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Islamic Centre in Vienna affiliated with the Muslim World League. Prior to entering the diplomatic service, HRH served as an Advisor at the Saudi Royal Court from 2017 - 2019, contributing to a range of national and international initiatives. In his capacity as advisor, he participated in official delegations accompanying the Custodian of theTwo Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, during state visits and international engagements. As part of his wider personal interests, he actively supports the promotion of sporting initiatives as a member of the Board of Directors of the Equestrian Authority, as well as the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia. HRH also serves as a member of the Board of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, reflecting his longstanding commitment to advancing international development and the SDGs. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Columbia University in 2010 and later earned a Master of Business Administration from the MIT Sloan School of Management in 2015.

Tony Cripps, CEO, Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB)

Tony Cripps is a seasoned banking executive with over three decades of experience across multiple facets of the financial services industry. He served as the Chief Executive Ocer of HSBC Singapore, the leading international bank in the country, where he was instrumental in supporting a wide range of customers—from retail and business clients to corporate and institutional banking partners—through an extensive network of local branches and oces. Throughout his 30-year career, Tony held senior management roles spanning institutional banking, treasury, trading and sales, transaction banking, information technology, and operations. His breadth of expertise positioned him as a key leader within HSBC’s global operations. In 2016, Tony was appointed to the Board of HSBC Singapore, arming his leadership within the organization. That same year, he was also named Group General Manager of HSBC, reflecting his expanded responsibilities within the wider HSBC Group. In May 2021, Tony took on a new challenge as Managing Director and CEO of SAB, marking the next chapter in his distinguished career in international banking.

Mohamed Saad, President, Diriyah Development Company

Mohamed has accumulated 20 plus years of experience leading major retail-focused infrastructure projects across the Middle East and Africa. Over the course of his two-decade career, he has been responsible for some of the regions’ most innovative retail, residential and interiors companies.Mohamed previously held a position as Director of Development, of both, the Mall of Oman, and the City Center Almaza, in Egypt, for Majid Al Futtaim Properties.Prior to his roles as a Development Director, Mohammed was acting General Manager for Living in Interiors, a Cairo based company, where he led the transformation of a family-owned business into a corporate enterprise developing premium residential and offices buildings.Mohamed also gained professional experience working as a structural design engineer and head of business development for a portfolio of Dubai and Egypt based companies. Mohamed holds a Bachelor of Science degree, in Civil & Structural Engineering from the University of Cairo as well as a PMP certification.

Katie Bonfrer, Group Managing Director, Collas Crill Trust and Corporate Service

Katie is the Group Managing Director at Collas Crill Trust and Corporate Services, where she leads operations across Jersey, Guernsey and the Cayman Islands. She holds board positions in each jurisdiction and is responsible for driving the strategic direction of the business, fostering collaboration across teams, and delivering high-quality client solutions and service. With more than 20 years of experience in the trust and corporate services industry, Katie brings extensive expertise in managing ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) private clients, international business development, and leading high-performing, cross-jurisdictional teams. She has significant experience within the private client space, specialising in building and nurturing relationships with UHNW clients and families founded on trust, discretion, and responsiveness. Her career has been defined by a strong focus on exceptional client service, robust onboarding and risk management. Katie’s international perspective is shaped by her work with clients in the UK, Middle East, and South Africa, where she has successfully implemented growth strategies and built trusted, long-term relationships. Prior to joining Collas Crill Trust, she was a Director in the private wealth division at Suntera Global and spent nearly two decades at Nedbank Private Wealth in a series of senior leadership roles, overseeing client onboarding and administrative operations across the Crown Dependencies. A full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and a Fellow of the International Compliance Association, Katie holds a STEP Diploma in international trust management and an International Diploma in anti-money laundering. Known for her dynamic leadership style and results-driven approach, Katie is committed to maintaining the highest standards of service and governance and to mentoring the next generation of private client professionals.

Guy Opperman, Senior Advisor, Smart Pension

As the UK’s longest serving Pensions Minister, Guy was responsible for the expansion of auto enrolment and master trusts, pioneering CDCs, and changing the structure of the UK pensions system significantly during his time in office. Guy has a rich understanding of the pension challenges faced by governments with ageing populations, and deep knowledge of the technical solutions required to solve these issues. In his current role as Senior Adviser at Smart, the global retirement savings technology platform, Guy is guiding the company’s international growth as pension reform advances worldwide.

Guy Opperman served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between 2017 and 2022, with his focus primarily centred around pensions and financial inclusion, followed by his role as Minister of State for Employment in the DWP between 2022 and 2023. He also served as Minister for Roads and Local Transport in the Department for Transport (DfT) between 2023 and 2024.Prior to his 5 years serving in ministerial roles in the Department for Work and Pensions, Guy spent two decades as a practising barrister, later joining the Government as MP for Hexham, followed by roles in the Home Office, and as a Lord Commissioner of Her Majesty’s Treasury.

Rt Hon Lord Hammond of Runnymede

Lord Hammond has had a distinguished career in British politics as a Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2019. He held a range of Senior cabinet posts, most recently serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2016 to 2019. Prior to this, he served as Foreign Secretary (2014-2016), Defence Secretary (2011- 2014) and Transport Secretary (2010-2011). He was awarded a life peerage by Her Late Majesty The Queen in July 2020. Prior to entering the Government in 2010, Lord Hammond has a diverse business career in manufacturing, consultancy and real estate development. Lord Hammond now pursues a portfolio career mostly comprised of directorships and advisory roles in business, but also advises the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Economy and Planning of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Ministry of Finance and National Economy of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Abdul-Rahman Al Ghabban, President & Middle East Regional Manager, Bechtel

Abdul-Rahman Al Ghabban is a dynamic, highly engaging professional with proven executive- level experience in developing and driving strategic planning, project development, team development, stakeholder management and business growth within the energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing markets, nationally and internationally. Prior to joining Bechtel, Abdul-Rahman worked for several government agencies, including the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority, among other private-sector companies. After a decade of working for public and private sectors in Saudi Arabia, Abdul-Rahman joined Bechtel in 2013 as the business development manager for Bechtel’s Power Global Business Unit. After two years, he was appointed deputy country manager for Saudi Arabia in 2015. He was promoted to Country Manager of SABCO in 2017, where he laid much of the groundwork that enabled the extraordinary growth of the Saudi market for Bechtel.   He moved to Houston, USA in January 2019 to support Bechtel’s Energy GBU’s downstream and chemical business development. In early 2020, he moved on to be the Deputy Manager of Corporate Business Development. Abdul-Rahman became the Marketing and Business Development Manager for Bechtel’s Manufacturing & Technology in 2022. In 2023, Abdul-Rahman returned to the Kingdom as Vice President of Bechtel’s KSA Infrastructure. In this role, he leads the company’s regional business strategy, stakeholder and customer engagement, talent management, and supporting Bechtel projects in Saudi Arabia. He’s currently Saudi Arabian Bechtel’s President & Regional Manager, Middle East. Abdul-Rahman is a registered professional engineer, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Completed the Emerging Leaders program from London Business School, and an Executive Masters in Energy Management from BI Norwegian Business School.

Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick MBE, CEO, RIBA

Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick MBE has worked at a senior level in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Valerie is presently the Chief Executive of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). RIBA is a global professional membership body driving excellence in architecture. RIBA serves more than 58,000 members and society to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities, and a sustainable environment. Being inclusive, ethical, environmentally aware and collaborative underpins all RIBA does   Valerie started her career with the UK National Audit Office where she qualified as an accountant. She has extensive experience in the built environment. Valerie has been a Managing Director of a housing association, advised on Public Finance Initiative building projects and has considerable international experience. She has been a Chair of a heritage properties regeneration organisation, Chair of a NHS Trust and is presently the Chair of a Housing Association which manages 8,000 homes in London.

Dr Ian Campbell, Senior Vice President of the National Transformation Initiative (NTI), KAUST

Dr. Ian Campbell, Senior Vice President of the National Transformation Initiative (NTI), leads a diverse and growing portfolio that includes large-scale, Kingdom-wide strategic initiatives such as KAUST Coral Restoration Initiative (KCRI), the development and management of industry partnerships, Beacon Development Consultancy, and, most recently, the joint leadership of the newly established Translation Hub. NTI is also responsible for implementing and overseeing the International Hubs initiative, which is creating a global network to extend KAUST's reach, foster international collaboration, and attract strategic partners. Dr. Ian Campbell works with KAUST researchers and leadership to accelerate the technology and innovation economy in the Kingdom. He supports the University’s vision to leverage KAUST’s science and innovation to create meaningful collaborations and identify opportunities for contribution. NTI aims to unite people and resources for projects that deliver solutions benefiting the Kingdom and beyond. A key measure of success is enhancing research, commercialization, technology development, and deployment. Before joining KAUST, Dr. Campbell served as Executive Chair of Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, where he also led Health and Life Sciences. In 2020, he played a key role in securing a COVID-19 response package to support thousands of UK businesses. With deep entrepreneurial experience in the healthcare sector, he was previously CEO of Arquer Diagnostics and held senior roles in health and Life Sciences over 15 years. Dr. Campbell was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in Queen Elizabeth II’s New Year Honors List for his services to innovation

Tony Lteif, Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Customer Experience (English Language Learning) Pearson

Tony Lteif is a global commercial leader with over 25 years of experience in leading high- performing sales organizations across the education and technology sectors. As SeniorVice President of Global Sales and Customer Experience for English Language Learning, Tony leads a multi-regional organization spanning EMEA, the Americas, and APAC, driving growth, operational excellence, and customer impact at scale. Prior to his current role, Tony spent seven years at Amazon Web Services, where he led education and research across EMEA and supported Latin America. In this capacity, he worked closely with governments, higher education institutions, and research organizations to design and implement large-scale cloud, data, and AI strategies. His work included advancing national AI agendas, enabling digital transformation, and supporting innovation ecosystems at country level. Tony brings deep expertise in building and scaling complex, multi-stakeholder partnerships across higher education, government, and enterprise learning. He is known for combining strategic vision with execution rigor—driving predictable growth through disciplined pipeline management, operational excellence, and customer-centric sales models. He has led major organizational transformations, market expansions, and enterprise engagements globally, helping institutions modernize learning through digital platforms, assessment innovation, and increasingly, AI-enabled solutions.Tony is passionate about shaping the future of education through technology, building high- performance cultures, and developing the next generation of leaders while deliveringmeaningful, measurable outcomes for customers worldwide.

Cordelia Begbie, CEO, Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC)

The Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC) is an independant and private sector led body aimed at enhancing business relations between KSA and the UK. She has spent 9 years working directly with Saudi Arabia and wider Middle East, providing strategic advice on the business and policy environment while helping corporates better position themselves in Saudi Arabia. Prior to joining SBJBC, Cordelia created and led the Middle East Programme at Asia House - a centre of expertise on trade, investment and public policy.

Richard Mockett, CEO, Howden Middle East and Africa

Richard Mockett is the CEO of Howden Middle East and Africa, bringing over two decades of experience in corporate insurance and specialty risk advisory. He began his career in London with JLT in 2006 before relocating to the Middle East in 2014 as Head of Energy for their MENA operation. In this role, he specialized in client engagement and the structuring of complex (re)insurance solutions for regional energy and power companies across the Middle East and North Africa. Richard later served as Senior Executive Officer for JLT’s corporate Specialty practice in the region, managing a diverse portfolio of specialty insurance lines. In 2019, he joined Howden to build and lead the company’s Specialty operation in MEA before being appointed CEO for the Middle East and Africa. Today, he leads Howden’s retail and reinsurance businesses across the region, focused on strategic growth, market expansion, and strengthening client relationships. Richard holds an MBA from Hult International Business School and was recognized as Professional of the Year at the 2023 MENAIR Awards.

Alexandra Dimitrijevic Global Head of Research & Development, S&P Global Ratings, & Co-Chair of the S&P Global Look Forward Council

Alexandra is a senior executive at S&P Global with over 30 years of experience in finance and a deep understanding of global credit markets. As Co-Chair of the S&P Global Look Forward Council, she spearheads research on transformative market trends, focusing on capital, geoeconomics, AI, digital transformation, energy, sustainability, and climate. The Council brings together leading experts from across S&P Global to deliver essential intelligence and help markets navigate uncertainty. In her role as Global Head of Research and Development at S&P Global Ratings, Alexandra oversees the flagship Credit Conditions Committee, a global platform that monitors macroeconomic, credit, and market trends, informing the deliberations of 1700 ratings analysts. She also drives product and market development initiatives, particularly in sustainable finance, private markets, and emerging markets.

Austin Judson, Partner, CMS

Austin is a partner in our Real Estate team in Riyadh, best known for his work on large, complex commercial or mixed-use development work and Real Estate Insolvency. Praised by clients for his straightforward and commercial approach, Austin acts for a number of property investors and developers as well as PIF entities, occupiers, and international banks.

A particular skill recognised in the market is provision of strategic advice and estate set up of large, complex developments. Although Austin’s primary client base is developers, having acting for funders on development finance, sub-developers, occupiers and government entities, Austin is able to appreciate and predict each parties’ imperatives and adopt innovative structuring to meet requirements of all stakeholders, including joint venture and funding partners.

Najlaa Habriri, International Affairs Senior Editor, Ashram Al-Awsat

Najlaa Habriri is the International Affairs Senior Editor at Asharq Al-Awsat, where she oversees coverage at the intersection of geopolitics, international affairs, and the global economy. With on-the-ground reporting from major events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, G20 summits, and US and UK elections, she brings expertise in international relations and the global economy. Najlaa holds an MSc in International Political Economy from the London School of Economics and has contributed to both the Politics and Business departments at Asharq Al-Awsat. She also led the launch of the publication’s first Morning Brief newsletter. In her editorial role, Najlaa has interviewed high-level decision-makers including heads of state, White House advisers, UN officials, and foreign and economic ministers. She is also a familiar voice in international news analysis, appearing on outlets such as Asharq News, BBC Arabic, Al Arabiya, and France 24.

Leanne Hurrell, Head o UK Regional Public Sector, Amazon Web Services

Leanne Hurrell is Head of UK Regional Public Sector at Amazon Web Services where she leads teams dedicated to driving innovation in healthcare, education, non-profit organisations, and local government. She has extensive experience in the telecommunications and tech sectors. She began her journey at Cable & Wireless, followed by roles at Level 3 and Verizon, where she focused on addressing customer challenges through digital transformation initiatives. Known for her collaborative approach and customer-centric mindset, Leanne played a key role in developing Verizon’s acquisition team and was honoured with the Leader of the Year award. Outside of her professional endeavours, Leanne volunteers with Reenage, a charity combating isolation among the elderly. She is committed to making a positive impact beyond technology, striving to uplift communities and contribute to a brighter future for all.

Dr Othman Alkassab, CEO, Tawuniya

Othman Alkassabi is the Chief Executive Officer of Tawuniya, the leading Insurer in Mena Region. Othman joined Tawuniya in 2021 as CEO of Health & Life sector, which is the company’s largest sector.He held the role of an Executive Director of Enablement and Supervision and Spokesperson at the Council of Health Insurance “CHI”. Prior to that, he held the role of Medical Advisor at Rotana Media Group and Corporate Development Manager at Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City. Alkassabi holds an executive MBA, International Management and postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from Alyamamah University, postgraduate diploma in Marketing from Washington State University, MBA and postgraduate diploma in Management from HFU, Bsc in Rehabilitation, Science & Physical therapy from King Saud University. In addition to his responsibilities at Tawuniya, Othman is the Chairman of Meena Health Company, Chairman of Tree Company, Chairman of Waseel Company, Board Member of the applied Science College at King Saud University, Board Member of Zahra Association and the Saudi Society for Physiotherapy.

Najlaa Habriri, International Affairs Senior Editor, Ashram Al-Awsat

Najlaa Habriri is the International Affairs Senior Editor at Asharq Al-Awsat, where she oversees coverage at the intersection of geopolitics, international affairs, and the global economy. With on-the-ground reporting from major events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, G20 summits, and US and UK elections, she brings expertise in international relations and the global economy. Najlaa holds an MSc in International Political Economy from the London School of Economics and has contributed to both the Politics and Business departments at Asharq Al-Awsat. She also led the launch of the publication’s first Morning Brief newsletter. In her editorial role, Najlaa has interviewed high-level decision-makers including heads of state, White House advisers, UN officials, and foreign and economic ministers. She is also a familiar voice in international news analysis, appearing on outlets such as Asharq News, BBC Arabic, Al Arabiya, and France 24.

Supported By

Federation of Saudi Chambers

The Federation of Saudi Chambers is the umbrella and only representative of the Saudi business community. They represent those doing business in Saudi Arabia both domestically and through partner organisations such as the Saudi British Joint Business Council.

British Chambers of Commerce

The BCC unites 53 accredited UK Chambers and operates in over 75 international markets. 

With roots in the UK and with international influence, their powerful Network amplifies its members’ voices, giving companies the opportunity to drive change both in their communities and on the global stage.

Built on over 160 years of history, the Chamber of Commerce Network is passionately committed to giving companies a place to be inspired, the support to grow, and a space where every business belongs.

Department for Business & Trade

DBT is the department for economic growth. They support businesses to invest, grow and export, creating jobs and opportunities across the country.

DBT is a ministerial department, supported by 19 agencies and public bodies.

Diriyah Company

Diriyah Company was launched in January 2023 and joined the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) portfolio of giga-projects. The Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah project, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its foremost historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination. A dynamic mixed-use developer, Diriyah Company is redefining urban planning to develop Diriyah, “The City of Earth”, while adhering to the highest design, development, and preservation standards. The company ensures Diriyah’s cultural landmarks are complemented by world-class retail and commercial offices offerings, fine-dining experiences, and leading hospitality brands.  


As a PIF company, Diriyah Company’s mission focuses on opportunities in development, hospitality, investment, retail, and office leasing, along with strategic asset management, underscoring the commitment to ensuring successful business outcomes and sustainable growth under the strategic direction of Vision 2030. The Diriyah Company actively forges long-term partnerships to realize its vision of establishing Diriyah as one of the world’s greatest gathering places.  


Social Handles: 
Twitter – @DiriyahCo | Instagram – @diriyahco | LinkedIn – Diriyah-Company/ Diriyah Company

Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB)

Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) is one of the largest banks in the Kingdom and traces its origins in Saudi Arabia to nearly 100 years, during which time it has played an active role in supporting the Kingdom’s economic growth and social development. As SAB approaches its centenary, the Bank continues to build on its legacy of innovation and partnership while contributing to the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s financial sector in line with Vision 2030.

SAB is a prominent corporate and institutional international bank in the Kingdom with a strong Wealth & Personal Banking proposition. The Bank is also a leader in Saudi Arabia and the region in trade finance, foreign exchange, equity and debt wholesale banking, digital service innovation, and ESG, paving the way for transformation and excellence.

SAB offers integrated financial and banking services, including corporate banking, investment, private banking, and treasury.

SAB’s paid-up capital is SAR 20.5 billion following the merger with Alawwal Bank completed on 14 March 2021, when the Bank was legally known as the Saudi British Bank (SABB). Saudi Awwal Bank is a licensed financial institution operating under the supervision and regulation of the Saudi Central Bank and a strategic partner of the HSBC Group.

Keystone

As the technology specialist within Smart Group, Keystone focuses on building intelligent, scalable solutions that support better financial outcomes for individuals, employers and providers globally. Keystone’s platform already powers market-leading products serving millions of savers, including our own retirement solution in the UK, Smart Pension.
 
Keystone is a cloud-native pensions administration platform, built and supported by pension and technology experts, delivered as Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS). Keystone combines secure back-end pension management software with intuitive user experiences. Self-service and operational automation principles are embedded in both design and delivery.

Collas Crill

Collas Crill is an offshore group with offices in Bermuda, BVI, Cayman, Guernsey, Jersey and London.

We deliver a range of legal, compliance, trust and corporate services to clients across the globe, including financial services businesses, corporates, trusts and funds, and high-net-worth individuals and families.

We understand that the demand for professional advisers who understand the Middle East’s rapidly changing environment and culture has never been higher, or more important.

High-net-worth individuals and families want peace of mind when it comes to managing and preserving their assets and prosperity for future generations. While broadening a family’s asset and business portfolio can reduce risk and help overcome concerns relating to succession and family dynamics, it can also give rise to differing reporting requirements, fiscal obligations and local legislative burdens. Different cultural attitudes to wealth, political and socio-economic risks, the stability of the home government and personal security are also important considerations.

With decades of experience in using trusts and other offshore structures, Collas Crill is well placed to guide Middle Eastern families through this intricate landscape. Our lawyers and trustees guide and advise private clients, their families and advisors on complex issues of family governance, succession and wealth planning, provide solutions that deliver reassurance for generations to come.

Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realise the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s lifelong learning company, serving customers with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.
 
Visit us at pearsonplc.com.
 

CMS

CMS began as the law firm of T Hewitt in London in 1779. After several mergers, it became Cameron McKenna in 1997 and then “CMS Cameron McKenna” in 1999 following the formation of the CMS alliance with leading European firms. In 2012, CMS opened its first Middle East office in Dubai. In 2017, it completed the largest three-way law firm merger in UK history with Nabarro and Olswang, forming CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang (CMNO).

 

CMS has worked with clients in Saudi Arabia since 2004 and became fully licensed there in 2023, holding a Regional Headquarters License. We now operate independently in Riyadh and across the GCC, with strong in-house expertise. CMS continues to grow globally, with offices across the Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Türkiye), Africa, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The Middle East—particularly Saudi Arabia—is central to our global strategy. We have 5 partners on the ground based in Riyadh who cover Dispute Resolution, ICE Disputes, TMT, Real Estate and Corporate.

Our team, part of a global network of over 7,200 lawyers, focuses on delivering high-quality, efficient legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. We focus on building strong relationships with corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals, and government entities, reflecting our deep understanding of Saudi Arabian law and regional dynamics. Despite our global scale and long history, CMS operates with a “One Firm” mindset, ensuring seamless and collaborative support for all our clients worldwide.

Riyadh Air

Riyadh Air is Saudi Arabia’s new world-class national carrier. Created with an authentically native, bold and modern vision with digital innovation at its core, it is set to welcome a new era of travel. Wholly owned by the PIF, it is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 in shaping the future of aviation and enhancing connectivity to and from the Kingdom. Riyadh Air blends advanced technology with warm Saudi hospitality, setting new standards for seamless, guest-centric travel. Every touchpoint is thoughtfully designed, from intuitive digital experiences to attentive service onboard, ensuring the guests feel valued at every stage of their journey.
 

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