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MESIF RIYADH 2025
This in-region intimate gathering will host up to 100 VIP delegates, offering a unique platform for high-level discussions and networking in the GCC region. The full day event will focus on the latest trends and opportunities in sports investment, featuring expert-led roundtables and interactive workshops.
Connect with top decision-makers, discover cutting-edge strategies, and position yourself at the forefront of sports investment in the Middle East. Don’t miss your chance to shape the future of the industry!
KEY TOPICS INCLUDE:
Sports Investment Planning & Strategy
Assessing Private Equity & VC Opportunities
The Path to the FIFA World Cup 2034
Planning & Delivery of Major Events
Navigating Laws, Regulation & Tax
Effective Public Private Partnerships
Inbound & Outbound Sports Investment
WHY ATTEND?
Industry Education and Insights: Gain unique and practical knowledge from leading experts.
121 Meetings: Enjoy exclusive opportunities for one-on-one meetings with top decision-makers.
On the Ground Presence: Develop your Middle East footprint in sports and showcase your unique credentials and commitment to the region.
VIP Experience: Network in a relaxed environment with our exclusive VIP experience.
100 VIP DELEGATES
8 SESSIONS
VIP EXPERIENCE
SPEAKERS
H.E. Eng. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih
Minister of Investment
Abdullah Aldubaikhi
Assistant Minister, Ministry of Investment, KSA
Eng. Abdulrahman Justaniah
Deputy Minister of Strategic Planning and Investment, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Mansour Almokbel
CEO, Saudi Motorsport Company
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Fahad Alsubaie
Director - Clubs Investment, Ministry of Sports, KSA
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
With over a decade of experience in investment strategy and asset management, Fahad has held key leadership positions, including Director of Regional Investment Development at the Ministry of Investment, where he developed regional strategies and elevated the Invest Saudi platform. At the National Center for Privatization, he led sports sector investment strategies, ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks.
Fahad’s notable achievements include participating in launching GIB Meem Digital Bank, As well establishment of AlTanfeethi Company. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, CP3P-P credential, and certifications in project management, strategic planning, and leadership.
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
With over a decade of experience in investment strategy and asset management, Fahad has held key leadership positions, including Director of Regional Investment Development at the Ministry of Investment, where he developed regional strategies and elevated the Invest Saudi platform. At the National Center for Privatization, he led sports sector investment strategies, ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks.
Fahad’s notable achievements include participating in launching GIB Meem Digital Bank, As well establishment of AlTanfeethi Company. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, CP3P-P credential, and certifications in project management, strategic planning, and leadership.
Abdullah AlRasheed
Director of Investment Enablement
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
Abdulmajed Alsabti
Director of Strategic Planning
Abdulmajed Alsabti is the Director of Strategic Planning at the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Sport (MoS). Prior to joining the MoS, he was a management consultant at PwC, where he specialized in the government and public sector. His expertise has been pivotal in developing the National Sport Strategy. This strategy, aligned with Vision 2030, aims to develop the sports landscape, focusing on mass participation, talent development, elite athletes, and the necessary enablers such as facilities, human capital, and events. Efforts across the sector, supported by various stakeholders, continue to propel Saudi Arabia towards its goals to have an effective sports sector that builds an active society.
Abdulmajed Alsabti is the Director of Strategic Planning at the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Sport (MoS). Prior to joining the MoS, he was a management consultant at PwC, where he specialized in the government and public sector. His expertise has been pivotal in developing the National Sport Strategy. This strategy, aligned with Vision 2030, aims to develop the sports landscape, focusing on mass participation, talent development, elite athletes, and the necessary enablers such as facilities, human capital, and events. Efforts across the sector, supported by various stakeholders, continue to propel Saudi Arabia towards its goals to have an effective sports sector that builds an active society.
Basim K. Ibrahim
Sport Investment Director
Basim K. Ibrahim, CLSS, CIPM, is passionate about the opportunities for sport development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He is a seasoned Investment Attraction & Development Manager with 20 years of diverse professional experience in Investment, IT, Training, Project Management, and Research.
A former Global Shaper at the World Economic Forum, Basim is a member of various professional organizations. He founded BMA Engineering in 2011 and co-founded BoardMaps in 2015, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
His extensive international experience includes roles with INSPUR in China and CONCO in South Africa. Basim was a pivotal member of the joint technical team between SAP and Saudi Aramco from 2000 to 2005. Passionate about volunteering and dedicated to serving his country, Basim is a dynamic leader in the field of Business and Investment Development.
Basim K. Ibrahim, CLSS, CIPM, is passionate about the opportunities for sport development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He is a seasoned Investment Attraction & Development Manager with 20 years of diverse professional experience in Investment, IT, Training, Project Management, and Research.
A former Global Shaper at the World Economic Forum, Basim is a member of various professional organizations. He founded BMA Engineering in 2011 and co-founded BoardMaps in 2015, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
His extensive international experience includes roles with INSPUR in China and CONCO in South Africa. Basim was a pivotal member of the joint technical team between SAP and Saudi Aramco from 2000 to 2005. Passionate about volunteering and dedicated to serving his country, Basim is a dynamic leader in the field of Business and Investment Development.
Anas Dahlawi
General Manager of Facilities
Amro Turkistani
Director of Competitions - AFC2027
A professional with a comprehensive sport management background, including substantial major global event and multi-sport games experience.
Proven leadership abilities in spearheading all aspects of prestigious domestic and global sport events; directing large Sports & Venue teams and overseeing extensive event budgets. Demonstrated success in leadership roles such as Head of Sports and Events, Sport and Facilities Manager, Sport Cluster Manager and Football Manager.
A professional with a comprehensive sport management background, including substantial major global event and multi-sport games experience.
Proven leadership abilities in spearheading all aspects of prestigious domestic and global sport events; directing large Sports & Venue teams and overseeing extensive event budgets. Demonstrated success in leadership roles such as Head of Sports and Events, Sport and Facilities Manager, Sport Cluster Manager and Football Manager.
Lisa Pennington
Director Services – Event Operations, FIFA
Lisa is a C-suite Executive Leader and subject matter expert in major sports events and mega events with over 25 years’ experience, with 9 of those spent in the Middle East. Lisa is part of FIFA’s Senior Leadership Team and as Director Services is responsible for strategic leadership and governance of Guest and Client Experience, Guest Operations (Stadiums and VIP Hotels), Guest Relations & Protocol, V/VIP Hospitality (Stadiums, VIP Hotels and FIFA Club), Services including Travel, Mobility/Transport, Accommodation and Logistics along with leading Central Services PMO, Workforce and Volunteers across FIFA’s portfolio of World Cup Tournaments and Events. Lisa is also responsible for establishing FIFA’s subsidiaries and building the teams to organise and deliver the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Most recently, Lisa held governance roles in the bidding teams evaluating the FIFA World Cup 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 bids.
Lisa’s career highlights include FIFA World Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, FIFA Club World Cups, FIFA Intercontinental Cup, FIFA U20s Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA U17s Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups, FIFA Futsal World Cups, FIFA Congresses, The Best FIFA Football Awards and FIFAe World Cups along with Expo 2020,Olympic Games (London 2012, Beijing 2008, Athens 2004), World Police Games in Abu Dhabi and sports sponsorship activations and global hospitality programmes for Commercial Partners of Major Sporting Events and Premier League Football Clubs.
Lisa is a C-suite Executive Leader and subject matter expert in major sports events and mega events with over 25 years’ experience, with 9 of those spent in the Middle East. Lisa is part of FIFA’s Senior Leadership Team and as Director Services is responsible for strategic leadership and governance of Guest and Client Experience, Guest Operations (Stadiums and VIP Hotels), Guest Relations & Protocol, V/VIP Hospitality (Stadiums, VIP Hotels and FIFA Club), Services including Travel, Mobility/Transport, Accommodation and Logistics along with leading Central Services PMO, Workforce and Volunteers across FIFA’s portfolio of World Cup Tournaments and Events. Lisa is also responsible for establishing FIFA’s subsidiaries and building the teams to organise and deliver the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Most recently, Lisa held governance roles in the bidding teams evaluating the FIFA World Cup 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 bids.
Lisa’s career highlights include FIFA World Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, FIFA Club World Cups, FIFA Intercontinental Cup, FIFA U20s Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA U17s Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups, FIFA Futsal World Cups, FIFA Congresses, The Best FIFA Football Awards and FIFAe World Cups along with Expo 2020,Olympic Games (London 2012, Beijing 2008, Athens 2004), World Police Games in Abu Dhabi and sports sponsorship activations and global hospitality programmes for Commercial Partners of Major Sporting Events and Premier League Football Clubs.
Tim Brouw
Executive Director of Stadia - Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup 2034 Bid Unit
Tim has over 30 years experience in the field of Programme/Project Management, strategic planning, development planning and extensive experience in the leadership of large-scale projects in the Middle East, Australia and China. Tim has a proven track record in projects in the public and private sector with an emphasis on quality sports venues & stadium developments and Major Sports Events including Olympic Games venues in Sydney, Athens, Beijing, Asian Games (06, 34) and 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadium Venues.
Tim has international working experience, including many years in senior managerial positions with leading development firms, clients representative, Development Companies and architectural practices.
Tim’s real passion is sporting venues and major events creating the venue vision, develop and implement some of the most challenging infrastructure and iconic venues for the Major Event.
He also lectures in major sporting events around the world and sits on panels as a sports industry subject matter expert.
Tim has over 30 years experience in the field of Programme/Project Management, strategic planning, development planning and extensive experience in the leadership of large-scale projects in the Middle East, Australia and China. Tim has a proven track record in projects in the public and private sector with an emphasis on quality sports venues & stadium developments and Major Sports Events including Olympic Games venues in Sydney, Athens, Beijing, Asian Games (06, 34) and 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadium Venues.
Tim has international working experience, including many years in senior managerial positions with leading development firms, clients representative, Development Companies and architectural practices.
Tim’s real passion is sporting venues and major events creating the venue vision, develop and implement some of the most challenging infrastructure and iconic venues for the Major Event.
He also lectures in major sporting events around the world and sits on panels as a sports industry subject matter expert.
Aphrodite Moschoudi
Director of Planning & Quality, Qatar Tourism
Aphrodite Moschoudi is an accomplished professional with expertise in major sports projects and events. Her career highlights include extensive involvement in bidding, strategic planning and delivery of major events, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Arab Games, FIFA World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, Asian Cup, World Championships in Athletics and IPC Para-Athletics. She has also been instrumental in setting up key sport projects such as the Schools Olympic Programme, the Olympic & Sport Museum, the National Sport Day as well as sport investments and partnerships.
During her time at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Aphrodite led the Planning & Integration of Host Country Operations for the FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, to include the tournament readiness and ultimately the delivery of the Main Operations Centre as the central point of command.
Aphrodite’s approach is that talent and technical expertise are not sufficient and should be complemented by positive spirit, practical thinking, human relations and ethos all the way.
Aphrodite has recently joined Qatar Tourism as a Director of Planning and Quality.
Aphrodite Moschoudi is an accomplished professional with expertise in major sports projects and events. Her career highlights include extensive involvement in bidding, strategic planning and delivery of major events, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Arab Games, FIFA World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, Asian Cup, World Championships in Athletics and IPC Para-Athletics. She has also been instrumental in setting up key sport projects such as the Schools Olympic Programme, the Olympic & Sport Museum, the National Sport Day as well as sport investments and partnerships.
During her time at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Aphrodite led the Planning & Integration of Host Country Operations for the FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, to include the tournament readiness and ultimately the delivery of the Main Operations Centre as the central point of command.
Aphrodite’s approach is that talent and technical expertise are not sufficient and should be complemented by positive spirit, practical thinking, human relations and ethos all the way.
Aphrodite has recently joined Qatar Tourism as a Director of Planning and Quality.
H.E Eisa Hilal Al Hezami
Chairman, Sharjah Sports Council
His Excellency Issa Hilal Al-Hazami is a dynamic leader in the UAE sports community, currently serving as the Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council since July 2020. With a passion for advancing sports and community well-being, he has driven significant initiatives that have shaped the sports landscape in Sharjah. Prior to this, he served as the Secretary General of the Council from 2018 to 2020, and played a key role in national disaster management efforts at the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) from 2011 to 2020.
Al-Hazami's leadership experience extends to his tenure as General Secretary of Sharjah Sports Club (2009–2011) and Private Office Director for His Highness Prince Talal Bin Bader Al Suad (2006–2009). His career began in the skies as a Police Helicopter Pilot, where he served from 1986 to 2006. His Excellency’s diverse experience makes him a driving force in the UAE's sports and public service sectors.
His Excellency Issa Hilal Al-Hazami is a dynamic leader in the UAE sports community, currently serving as the Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council since July 2020. With a passion for advancing sports and community well-being, he has driven significant initiatives that have shaped the sports landscape in Sharjah. Prior to this, he served as the Secretary General of the Council from 2018 to 2020, and played a key role in national disaster management efforts at the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) from 2011 to 2020.
Al-Hazami's leadership experience extends to his tenure as General Secretary of Sharjah Sports Club (2009–2011) and Private Office Director for His Highness Prince Talal Bin Bader Al Suad (2006–2009). His career began in the skies as a Police Helicopter Pilot, where he served from 1986 to 2006. His Excellency’s diverse experience makes him a driving force in the UAE's sports and public service sectors.
Fatma Alkooheji
Chief of Legal Affairs, General Authority for Sports, Bahrain
Fatma Abdulhay AlKooheji is a highly experienced legal professional with over 15 years of expertise in private and public sector law. She currently serves as Chief of Sport Conflicts and Legal Affairs at the General Sports Authority in Bahrain, overseeing sports legislation and legal matters. A licensed lawyer to the Court of Cassation and Constitutional Court of Bahrain, Fatma is also an international arbitrator and professional legal counsel. She has contributed to significant sports legislation, represented the General Sports Authority at international forums, and led initiatives to educate the sports community on legal matters. Fatma’s career spans roles in government, legal advisory, and corporate law, making her a key figure in Bahrain’s sports and legal landscape.
Fatma Abdulhay AlKooheji is a highly experienced legal professional with over 15 years of expertise in private and public sector law. She currently serves as Chief of Sport Conflicts and Legal Affairs at the General Sports Authority in Bahrain, overseeing sports legislation and legal matters. A licensed lawyer to the Court of Cassation and Constitutional Court of Bahrain, Fatma is also an international arbitrator and professional legal counsel. She has contributed to significant sports legislation, represented the General Sports Authority at international forums, and led initiatives to educate the sports community on legal matters. Fatma’s career spans roles in government, legal advisory, and corporate law, making her a key figure in Bahrain’s sports and legal landscape.
Nader Al Rawahy
Operation Excellence Lead, Oman Vision 2040
Oman’s Nader Nasser Hamood Al Rawahy is seconded to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth from the Sultanate’s “Oman’s Vision 2040” Ministry where he leads Operational Excellence for Oman’s strategic development roadmap “Oman Vision 2040”.
Since its endorsement in September 2015, Oman has emphasized aligning its national priorities with the UN's sustainable development objectives through Oman Vision 2040. As part of this initiative, there is a focus on real estate such as the waterfront Sports City in the South Al Batinah governorate, The Sustainable City YITI and renewable energy projects, particularly hydrogen and green hydrogen production.
Nader is an expert in inward investment and economic development. His expertise spans audit, advisory, and structuring. Prior to this role, Nader amassed over 20 years of experience at KPMG and EY. He is also the founder and board member of the Association of Chartered Accountants of Oman, a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors and a Certified Fraud Examiner.
Oman’s Nader Nasser Hamood Al Rawahy is seconded to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth from the Sultanate’s “Oman’s Vision 2040” Ministry where he leads Operational Excellence for Oman’s strategic development roadmap “Oman Vision 2040”.
Since its endorsement in September 2015, Oman has emphasized aligning its national priorities with the UN's sustainable development objectives through Oman Vision 2040. As part of this initiative, there is a focus on real estate such as the waterfront Sports City in the South Al Batinah governorate, The Sustainable City YITI and renewable energy projects, particularly hydrogen and green hydrogen production.
Nader is an expert in inward investment and economic development. His expertise spans audit, advisory, and structuring. Prior to this role, Nader amassed over 20 years of experience at KPMG and EY. He is also the founder and board member of the Association of Chartered Accountants of Oman, a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors and a Certified Fraud Examiner.
Abdullah Alshammari
Chief Growth Officer, T&S
Abdullah began his career at Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily), where he played a pivotal role in establishing the Security Operations Center (SOC), building the network security infrastructure, and
implementing access control for business applications for over 2,500 users. At Hewlett-Packard (HP), Abdullah turned around the National Information Center account by re-establishing trust through open communication, optimizing systems, and implementing security strategies for the e-government portal.
He then joined Zain KSA, where he launched over 25 new products and promotions in under six months, introduced new revenue streams, and led the successful implementation of ISO 27001, significantly reducing internal fraud. His leadership extended to the HR committee, where he improved productivity and morale through motivational initiatives.
At Microsoft, Abdullah drove significant growth by exceeding KPIs in university outreach, tripling investment in academic programs, and growing the cloud computing business by 150%.
Currently, at Tools & Solutions, Abdullah has built the business from the ground up, leading the development of a technology portfolio and spearheading education programs to boost digital transformation for major clients through partnerships with universities and service providers.
Abdullah began his career at Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily), where he played a pivotal role in establishing the Security Operations Center (SOC), building the network security infrastructure, and
implementing access control for business applications for over 2,500 users. At Hewlett-Packard (HP), Abdullah turned around the National Information Center account by re-establishing trust through open communication, optimizing systems, and implementing security strategies for the e-government portal.
He then joined Zain KSA, where he launched over 25 new products and promotions in under six months, introduced new revenue streams, and led the successful implementation of ISO 27001, significantly reducing internal fraud. His leadership extended to the HR committee, where he improved productivity and morale through motivational initiatives.
At Microsoft, Abdullah drove significant growth by exceeding KPIs in university outreach, tripling investment in academic programs, and growing the cloud computing business by 150%.
Currently, at Tools & Solutions, Abdullah has built the business from the ground up, leading the development of a technology portfolio and spearheading education programs to boost digital transformation for major clients through partnerships with universities and service providers.
Asma Al-Jasser
Vice President, Saudi Cycling Federation
Ms. Asma Al-Jasser is an esteemed Vice President at the Saudi Cycling Federation and the General Supervisor for the Women’s Saudi International Cycling Team. With over two decades of robust experience in leadership, human capital development, and strategic project management, she plays a pivotal role in advancing women's sports within the region. Her commitment to personal and professional growth is further evidenced by her role as Director of Misk Skills at the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation ‘Misk’, where she oversees significant educational and developmental initiatives aimed at empowering the youth of Saudi Arabia.
Her leadership at Misk has led to the successful enrollment of over 565,368 students in various programs. Ms. Al-Jasser’s dedication to fostering teamwork and resilience among her teams ensures operational excellence and the achievement of strategic goals. A holder of professional certifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and the London Business School, she brings a wealth of knowledge and an innovative approach to the sports and investment sectors. Ms. Al-Jasser's experience and leadership are instrumental in nurturing talent and promoting sports as a vital component of holistic community development.
Ms. Asma Al-Jasser is an esteemed Vice President at the Saudi Cycling Federation and the General Supervisor for the Women’s Saudi International Cycling Team. With over two decades of robust experience in leadership, human capital development, and strategic project management, she plays a pivotal role in advancing women's sports within the region. Her commitment to personal and professional growth is further evidenced by her role as Director of Misk Skills at the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation ‘Misk’, where she oversees significant educational and developmental initiatives aimed at empowering the youth of Saudi Arabia.
Her leadership at Misk has led to the successful enrollment of over 565,368 students in various programs. Ms. Al-Jasser’s dedication to fostering teamwork and resilience among her teams ensures operational excellence and the achievement of strategic goals. A holder of professional certifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and the London Business School, she brings a wealth of knowledge and an innovative approach to the sports and investment sectors. Ms. Al-Jasser's experience and leadership are instrumental in nurturing talent and promoting sports as a vital component of holistic community development.
Marwan Albazie
Deputy CEO - Islamic Solidarity Games
Marwan Albazie serves as the Deputy CEO of the Islamic Solidarity Games Local Organizing Committee. With a pivotal role in the mega events sector since 2018, Marwan has significantly influenced the landscape of sports events.
He has successfully led and orchestrated high-profile events, including Formula E and Rage on the Red Sea. Additionally, Marwan has been instrumental in the execution of major events such as Formula 1, the Diriyah Season, and the Dakar Rally, showcasing his expertise and commitment to excellence in the field.
Marwan Albazie serves as the Deputy CEO of the Islamic Solidarity Games Local Organizing Committee. With a pivotal role in the mega events sector since 2018, Marwan has significantly influenced the landscape of sports events.
He has successfully led and orchestrated high-profile events, including Formula E and Rage on the Red Sea. Additionally, Marwan has been instrumental in the execution of major events such as Formula 1, the Diriyah Season, and the Dakar Rally, showcasing his expertise and commitment to excellence in the field.
Neil Kingston
Founder, Amp Your Content
Former Associated Press video producer turned company founder, Neil Kingston, has worked with some of the world's most recognised brands and sports federations to editorialise a diverse range of stories, resonating with international news desks and audiences alike. Neil believes great storytelling has the power to inspire change, build connections, and leave a lasting impact.
Former Associated Press video producer turned company founder, Neil Kingston, has worked with some of the world's most recognised brands and sports federations to editorialise a diverse range of stories, resonating with international news desks and audiences alike. Neil believes great storytelling has the power to inspire change, build connections, and leave a lasting impact.
Ahmed Abas
Director of MENA Sports Practice, EY
Ahmed is a Director within the Strategy & Transactions division at EY MENA based in Riyadh with more than 14 years of regional experience with focus on social infrastructure and sports business.
Ahmed previously worked at Mott MacDonald as the Territory Manager and advisory projects lead in Saudi Arabia, and also as a public sector strategy advisor at Arthur D. Little.
Ahmed has advised leading football clubs, private and public organizations in the region on their growth, revenue and privatization strategies, as well as sports facilities development and finance. Ahmed is a regular speaker on sports investments and public private partnerships.
Ahmed has a Business Masters from Heriot Watt University, and is an accredited professional in multiple professional areas including Public Private Partnerships, Sustainable Planning and Finance.
Ahmed is a Director within the Strategy & Transactions division at EY MENA based in Riyadh with more than 14 years of regional experience with focus on social infrastructure and sports business.
Ahmed previously worked at Mott MacDonald as the Territory Manager and advisory projects lead in Saudi Arabia, and also as a public sector strategy advisor at Arthur D. Little.
Ahmed has advised leading football clubs, private and public organizations in the region on their growth, revenue and privatization strategies, as well as sports facilities development and finance. Ahmed is a regular speaker on sports investments and public private partnerships.
Ahmed has a Business Masters from Heriot Watt University, and is an accredited professional in multiple professional areas including Public Private Partnerships, Sustainable Planning and Finance.
Nicholas Nahas
Partner, Arthur D. Little
Ahmed Khellil Abbassi
Executive Director, Competitions & Football Development
Dr. Ahmed Abbassi currently serves the executive director of competitions and football development at the Qatar Stars League, designing and leading strategies together with the team to achieve the organization’s ambitious vision and targets. Prior to that, he was serving as the sporting director of Al Duhail Sports club winning multiple trophies, before being appointed to serve as the director of national teams, being an executive part of the team winning the Gulf Cup 2014, the Asian Cup 2019 and the Asian Cup 2023. In parallel to that, he is a member of the AFC competitions committee and is the co-founder and chairman of Qatar Solar Energy.
Dr. Ahmed Abbassi currently serves the executive director of competitions and football development at the Qatar Stars League, designing and leading strategies together with the team to achieve the organization’s ambitious vision and targets. Prior to that, he was serving as the sporting director of Al Duhail Sports club winning multiple trophies, before being appointed to serve as the director of national teams, being an executive part of the team winning the Gulf Cup 2014, the Asian Cup 2019 and the Asian Cup 2023. In parallel to that, he is a member of the AFC competitions committee and is the co-founder and chairman of Qatar Solar Energy.
Maite Ventura Ortiz
MENA Managing Director, LaLiga
With over 9 years working in the Middle East, Maite Ventura joined LALIGA in 2017 as part of LaLiga Global Network, a project to select young talent to grow LaLiga´s International image in which 13,000 candidates applied to represent the Spanish football league in 45 strategic countries. Before being promoted to Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa in 2019, Ventura was managing different institutional, sport focused and socio-educational projects in the MENA region hoping to grow the business and using football as a developmental sport to achieve these
goals.
Over the last two years, she has been in charge of the creation of the 15-year-Joint Venture between LALIGA and Galaxy Racer in MENA and the Indian sub-continent which is projected to yield over EUR 500M in revenue.
Prior to LaLiga, she worked for the Trade & Investment office of Peru in UAE as a Trade Marketing Manager and previously, as a consultant for the global media group The Business Year in various projects in Colombia, Panama and UAE.
With over 9 years working in the Middle East, Maite Ventura joined LALIGA in 2017 as part of LaLiga Global Network, a project to select young talent to grow LaLiga´s International image in which 13,000 candidates applied to represent the Spanish football league in 45 strategic countries. Before being promoted to Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa in 2019, Ventura was managing different institutional, sport focused and socio-educational projects in the MENA region hoping to grow the business and using football as a developmental sport to achieve these
goals.
Over the last two years, she has been in charge of the creation of the 15-year-Joint Venture between LALIGA and Galaxy Racer in MENA and the Indian sub-continent which is projected to yield over EUR 500M in revenue.
Prior to LaLiga, she worked for the Trade & Investment office of Peru in UAE as a Trade Marketing Manager and previously, as a consultant for the global media group The Business Year in various projects in Colombia, Panama and UAE.
Pedro Daniel
Latin America Sports Advisory Leader, EY
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Lanyard Sponsor
Lanyard Sponsor
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VENUE & GALLERY
MINISTRY OF INVESTMENT HQ, RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA
By hosting this event in Saudi Arabia MESIF links the international sports community with the GCC like never before. We look to facilitate Public Private Partnerships and to support local and international partners to come together and learn more about this booming region and sector. We look to foster long term relationships around some of the most exciting sports projects on earth.
MESIF Riyadh in 2025 will be hosted at the Ministry of Investment in Riyadh alongside the Italian and Spanish Super cups. In true MESIF style the forum will include an exclusive VIP experience synonymous with the MESIF brand.
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