Mark Essam Zahran Co-Founder & CEO Yasai

Mark Essam Zahran studied Master in Arts of Architecture at ETH Zurich in Switzerland & UNAM in Mexico-City. His master thesis aimed to answer the question: „How to integrate Vertical Farming within the Swiss landscape?“. Another research paper he published is called: „Edible City Zurich 2050: A city with a basic self-sufficient nutrient & vitamin rich food supply” He aims to Integrate Vertical Farming into the smart cities of tomorrow and establish this technology in a large scale also in the region MENA, where water scarcity and food security are urgent topics. For this very reason he founded Yasai.

Yasai
http://www.yasai.ch/

Yasai is an ETH Spin-Off from Zurich, Switzerland and offers Vertical Farming as a Service based on circular economy. Yasai was founded in January 2020. We designed the largest Vertical Farm of the world by transforming a former mining landscape of a multinational company. Yasai Blocks, a modular, circular & automated vertical farming system, enables a scalable business model, that is applicable in any context or climate. We help our customer to grow more with less, anywhere, anytime!

Deepak Pareek CEO & Founder, DigiAgri, Technology Pioneer & Expert – Digital Transformation, World Economic Forum

Deepak is a serial social entrepreneur who created one of the most respected AgriTech company, DigiAgri.

DigiAgri uses cutting-edge technologies for improving profitability and productivity of small and marginal farmers on one hand and providing valuable insights to agriculture ecosystem participants on the other. Deepak was honoured as Technology Pioneer 2018 by World Economic Forum and is currently a member of various World Economic Forum communities and is also member of Expert Panel of World Economic Forum on Digital Transformation. He was awarded as top 10 Agropreneur by Future Agro Challenge and was also amongst top 100 Social Entrepreneur listed by National University of Singapore and DBS Foundation.

Deepak is a regular speaker across the globe and a well-published author. He has also moderated and Chaired many events related to Agriculture, Digital Transformation and Global Business. He is also host of web series “Fire Side Chat with Champions” in which we interview global business leaders. He has been profiled by reputed publications/media including Forbes, Nikkei, Channel News Asia, YourStory, Nasscom Research, Inc42, Business Insider to name a few.

Digi Agri
http://www.digi-agri.com

Digi Agri is a company focused on using cutting-edge Information Technology for the betterment of smallholder farmers using innovative business models. Digi Agri deploys Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Blockchain and Cloud Computing to not only improve both profitability and productivity of the smallholder farmers but also make agriculture value chain (both input and output side) more transparent and efficient. Digi Agri has pioneered path-breaking Sustainable Agriculture Platform to enable farmers to be more profitable by growing more crop using minimum water, “Per Drop”, lesser land, “Per Acre”, and reducing cost of cultivation, “Per Dollar”.

Digi Agri is a Technology enabled initiative for farmers that empower them through Agripreneur (a village level entrepreneur, VLE) or directly through power of mobile and smart devices, delivering them Information, Expertise, and Resources, to increase their Productivity & Profitability hence improving their Standard of Living.

Digi Agri is a collaborative platform that strives to combine Digital Transformation Technologies (Big Data, Machine Learning, IoT, Blockchain, Computer Vision etc.), Innovative Business Model (Agriculture Platform As A Service), and Focused Human Efforts (Agriculture Insights, Products, and Services Delivery through Agripreneurs) to serve smallholder farmers.

Digi Agri helps Agriculture Ecosystem players like Government, NGOs, AgTech Companies, Commodity Buyers, Crop Insurance Companies, Banks & Financial Institutions, Extension Service Providers, Co-Operatives & FPOs, Agri-Input Companies to deliver their services/products through data-driven decisions keeping farmers at the center.

Digi Agri is currently enriched by data based on 43,000 farmers, 44 crops, 48 agro-climatic zones and 218 different parameters

Artechno Growsystems
https://artechno.nl/en/vertical-farming
Artechno Growsystems is an innovator in Vertical Farming and Horticulture.

It is our mission to empower our customers in cultivation from start to finish, so they can provide healthy and spectacular quality greens to consumers; while at the same time being able to integrate the entire cultivation process within their investment and be profitable.

We do this by combining different engineering, technological and horticultural disciplines, to offer Vertical Farming systems with sensible automation and optimal circumstances for growing crops. Our technology is specifically designed for vertical farmers that want to have a truly profitable vertical farming business.

Art van Rijn, Chief Executive Officer, Artechno Growsystems

Art van Rijn is CEO and owner of Artechno Growsystems. Born and raised in “Het Westland” the heart of the horticultural center of the Netherlands, Art has been surrounded by growers his entire life. Founded Artechno Growsystems in 1988 after studying Business Engineering and Technical Engineering.

With a rich background in horticulture and characterized by a drive to innovate, Art has ventured and revolutionized a multitude of new markets in the sector. Under Art’s leadership Artechno Growsystems grew to be one of the top 5 worldwide suppliers of automated Hydroponic systems. Art has always had a strong belief in the concept of smart and sensible farming and in 2015, together with the Artechno Growsystems team, laid the groundwork for the AVF+ line of vertical farms. This all culminated into the Automated Vertical Farm Junior, Compact and Scale in 2017 of which 6 have now been built.

Seta Tutundjian, Director of Programs, International Center for Biosaline Agriculture – ICBA

Seta Tutundjian, is a visionary and strategic social change champion for sustainable and climate compatible development. She has led the formulation and implementation of several complex, multi- sectoral, transformational change programs that promoted a greener and more sustainable economy and culture, as well as more efficient and responsive organizations. This involved building alliances and partnerships; policy and institutional reform, formulating strategies and tactical communications and advocacy initiatives; mobilizing resources; and organizing grass-root community action.

Ms. Tutundjian has extensively worked in the water, environment, energy and agricultural sectors, and programs she led are used as case studies for best practices. She is a recipient of several awards including the prestigious Superior Honor Award by the Government of the United States of America in 2012. She joined ICBA in 2014 as the Director of Partnerships and Knowledge Management and in 2018 assumed the role of Director of Programs. Prior to that she worked for 15 years for the United States Agency for International Development.

Majed Halawi, Vice President – Growth, Pure Harvest

Majed Halawi is the VP of Growth at Pure Harvest Smart Farms. Halawi manages business operations and expansion ensuring the rapid and sustainable growth of Pure Harvest. Halawi oversees the deployment of farms and supporting infrastructure across the region. Halawi began his career in engineering focusing on infrastructure design, construction, and finance with AECOM and Arup. He then turned to management consulting at the Boston Consulting Group.

Halawi holds an M.Sc. Engineering from Stanford University and B.Eng. from McGill University.

Sheikh Dr. Majid Sultan Al Qassimi, Adviser to the Minister, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), UAE

Sheikh Dr. Majid Sultan Al Qassimi qualified as a doctor of veterinary medicine at Saint Istvan University in Budapest, Hungary. He started his work as a veterinarian in the zoo and conservation field after graduating. He moved into an administration role as a Director to oversee the Terrestrial Biodiversity and conservation activities at the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. He is now, the Chief Veterinary Officer of the UAE and currently Advisor to the Minister regarding all things Food and Agriculture, at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, UAE. He has a keen interest in engaging the youth to further career choices in STEM subjects, and as one of the first veterinarians from his country, he plays a vital role in supporting veterinary education and awareness, through public speaking, advising the university curriculum.

His work as a policy maker has brought him to the center of Food Security, now looking to create clear direction for the UAE and the middle east on how technology, sustainable agriculture and traditional practices may create a food production revolution in the region. After Developing the Food Diversification strategy for the UAE with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, Dr. Majid has the ability to see both a holistic “all of country” approach to Food Security and development of local food production, as well as dive down into specific technical subjects to navigate challenges and opportunities. He sits on the boards of Accreditation Authorities, UAE Food Safety Committee, and on multiple other Food, Animal and Agriculture Boards.

Farmers Review Africa
farmersreviewafrica.com

Farmers Review Africa, is a bi-monthly Agriculture publication that gets distributed directly to various stakeholders within this industry decision makers in and around Africa as a trusted source for essential information on dairy, livestock, ranching, crops and more that will not only maintain and increase output of quality product, but also cultivate a successful business. With a strong online presence and a readership of over 30 000, Farmers Review Africa team are happy to work with you to keep your brand in front of our audience of end users and specifiers of farming, services, products and solutions and related industries. (sales@farmersreviewafrica.com)

FooDiva
foodiva.net

FooDiva (www.foodiva.net), a Dubai-based restaurant review website, that launched nine years ago, has collected a dozen awards. Feeding a gap in the market for a website dedicated to impartial, intelligent restaurant reviews, FooDiva brings you a critique on where to dine and what to eat. Aside from restaurant reviews from FooDiva herself and her guest reviewers, expect food features, chef interviews, drink stories, culinary travel and competitions. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, FooDiva has been running a pro bono social media campaign in support of the F&B industry – #UAERestaurantsUnite – which in its first month, surpassed five million impressions.

Rachid Serraj, Delivery Manager – Regional Initiative on Small Scale Family Farming, Food and Agriculture Organization

Rachid is currently the Delivery Manager of the Regional Initiative on Small-Scale Family Farming at the FAO Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa, and Coordinator of the RNE’s initiative on agrifood system innovation. Served previously as Senior Project Officer with the Science Council of the CGIAR; Director of the Diversification and Sustainable Intensification at ICARDA, the leader of rice drought frontiers at IRRI, and as principal scientist at ICRISAT. Technical expertise and management leadership in international agricultural development, with more than 30 years’ experience in agriculture and crop production systems, and in particular problems of adaptation to climate change, resilience of dryland farming systems, resources interactions within farming systems. Lead role at the CGIAR Science Council secretariat in coordinating strategic foresight and research evaluation; competencies in R&D management, with emphasis on the technical, socioeconomic, institutional and regulatory aspects relating to agricultural and rural development.

iGrow
igrow.news

iGrow.News is the longest-running International online news publication specifically focused on the Indoor Farming and Controlled Environment Agriculture industry.

The Indoor Farming industry has relied on iGrow News for timely, accurate, unbiased news and insights.

The iGrow News portal covers industry-relevant topics including Indoor Vertical, Hydroponic, Aeroponic, Aquaponic, Greenhouse, Rooftop, Shipping Container Farming, Residential Systems, Education, Finance, Innovation, Sustainability, and Technology.

We offer free publishing of press releases for all companies in our industry.

iGrow News reaches over 67,000 International unique visitors, to its website, every thirty days.

AGRI MECH
agrimech.net

As one of the pioneers of “Farm Technology Publications” in the industry, AGRI MECH provides a stellar opportunity to continue to bridge the trade gap between industry key players and the prospective buyers of their products & services.

By acquiring the English language for publication, AGRI MECH has now crossed the geographical boundaries of more than 36 countries of the world. This made it the only global and one of the most dedicated monthly magazines which cover the most discussed issues and articles on the latest technologies in the farm technology domain. Our more than 350,000 readership covers the Dealers, Distributors, Importers, Exporters, Agriculture Machinery Manufacturers, Government and Private institutes, IT Companies, Event Organizers, Trade Associations and Trade Councilors in more than 36 countries which includes Africa, Asia, Europe, and Middle East regions.

Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Director General, International Center for Biosaline Agriculture – ICBA

Dr. Ismahane Elouafi is Director General of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture, based in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

She is internationally known as a strong advocate of alternative approaches to ensuring food security and nutrition in marginal environments, including use of neglected and underutilized crops and non-freshwater resources in agriculture.

Ranked among the 20 most influential women in science in the Islamic world, she has initiated and promoted a number of programs and efforts to empower women in science in the Arab world and beyond.

Dr. Elouafi has nearly two decades of experience in agricultural research and development in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

She is a recipient of several prestigious awards and accolades, including the National Reward Medal by His Majesty Mohamed VI, the King of Morocco (2014), and the Excellence in Science Award from the Global Thinkers Forum (2014). 

She has been leading ICBA since 2012 and has overseen the development of the center’s long-term strategy focusing on marginal environments.

Dr. Ameena Ali Kulaib Al Tenaiji, Water, Food Nexus Expert

Ameena has 27 years extensive and diverse experience in water and power industries working in different utilities (FEWA, ADWEA, MASDAR and ENEC) in UAE. During her experience she managed sustainable water management system, integrated databases, Asset management, plant and networks design, water and wastewater regulatory compliance issues, and siting and water strategy planning. Since 2004, she has been a chartered Water and Environmental Manager via Charter Institution of Water & Environmental Management (CIWEM) in UK. Her education background includes a B.Sc. In Geology from Kuwait University, a M.Sc. in hydrogeology from South Carolina University in USA, a diploma in Electrical Supply Management certified from Cambridge University in UK, and a PhD in Civil Engineering from Brunel University London in UK. The title of her thesis is:

“The Food-Water Dilemma of Agriculture in Arid Regions: Assessing Abu Dhabi Water Options for Domestic Agriculture”.

Valoya Research Driven

Valoya is a provider of high end, energy efficient LED grow lights for use in crop science, vertical farming and medicinal plants cultivation. Valoya’s LEDs have been developed using proprietary LED technology and extensive plant photobiology research that includes more than 600 large scale plant trials done in the past decade. The expertise accumulated enables Valoya to provide its clients with reliable, optimal growth protocols for most plants cultivated worldwide.

Valoya’s customer base includes 8 out of 10 world’s largest agricultural companies and countless indoor farms such as Growing Underground (London), GROWx (Amsterdam) and many others including in Kuwait, Qatar etc..

Lars Aikala, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Valoya

Mr. Lars Aikala is the Co-Founder and CEO of Valoya, a LED industry pioneer company, having been in the market for over a decade and having served hundreds of companies in over 50 countries around the world with their premium LED solutions. His curiosity for the interactions of plants and light and the endless possibilities of light as a key driver of plant growth is what created the company. Mr. Aikala is invested in driving change that contributes to global food and medicine production security, through his company, Valoya. ‘In these times, more than ever, it is important we innovate and find those efficiencies to ensure high quality produce is available and affordable to our global population’ – Mr. Lars Aikala.

Dr. Naufal H Rasheed, Advisor of Agriculture Policy and Investment, Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries, Oman

Accumulated experiences in managing various food and agriculture investment projects across Arab countries, specifically speaking, supervising successive stages of project investment cycle. In this context, Rasheed has been a team leader in preparation of more than (50) feasibility studies covered both agriculture and livestock sub-sectors; chairman / board member of (10) large investment companies; prepared of around (300) review articles and technical studies focused on food production & processing; Technical Manager in preparation of Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy 2040 in Oman, prepared series of food security studies in Oman, Iraq, and Sudan; provided many consultancies at regional and international organizations.

He served Arab Authority for Agriculture Investment and Development as an Assistant to the President for Technical Affairs, COO of Oman and Emirate Investment Holding Company; and currently he is Advisor of Agriculture Investment and policies, MAF, Oman & Advisor of Agriculture and Fisheries Investment, Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund, Oman.

With his academic background at College of Agriculture, University of Baghdad holding Dean Assistant for Scientific Affairs as well as Dean; Supervised many MS & PhD students; member of (3) consulting Bureaus; President of Iraqi Society for Food Science and Technology. This combination between academia and investment leads to achieve many successful stories toward establishment lucrative investment projects in many Arab countries. He obtained BS in Agriculture Sciences, MS in Animals Sciences and PhD in Food Sciences. In addition he studied MBA. In conclusion, food security can be only efficiently accomplished by smart and profitable investments.

Farah Chakhachiro, Managing Director, Gracia Group

Farah Chakhachiro is the managing director for Gracia group and leading the educational department in Gracia farm through her initiative “grow peace”. Farah createda program to raise awareness about mental health, morals and values education through nature. This program aim to raise a new agricultural generation and targets all ages starting from schools to universities as we had more than 13000 students around UAE and internships from many universities. Creating smart green houses for kids is the link between old traditional farming, and the new agritechnology farming. Students are now more involved in planting, healthy eating, and techniques to decrease their stress and anxiety.

Mariam Eid, Head of Agro Industries Department Ministry of Agriculture, Lebanon

Mariam Eid is a Food Technology Engineer, for the last 15 years she is Head of Agro Industries Department at the Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture. The main mission of the Department is the food safety inspection on agro-food processing with a team of more than 50 persons.

Charged with Agro Industry Mariam Eid is a member of National food Safety Committee and Infosan Emergency Contact Point. She represent her country in International Olive Council (IOC), and she is focal point with International Organization for Vine and Wine (OIV).

At regional level Mariam Eid, Under SAFE project, is leading an Arab Initiative in Codex Alimentarius aimed to strengthening the participation of Arab Countries in Codex Food Standards Setting.

Currently, Eng. Eid is one of the Codex Alimentarius Commission Vice Chair.

H.E. Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi, Chief Executive Officer, Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park

H.E. Hussain serves a dual role as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the American University of Sharjah Enterprises (AUSE) and as the CEO of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). Both these entities were established through royal decree by the Ruler of Sharjah, who also directly appointed H.E. Hussain to these responsibilities in order to create collaborative long-term relationships between industry, Academia and the public sector, fostering an ecosystem of enterprise and innovation.

Previously, H.E. Hussain served as the Director General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a Member of the UAE Chamber Federation, and GCC Chambers for 8 years. He was responsible for the overall management and operations of the Chamber including the provision of services to its members. In this role, he launched several strategic economic initiatives for Sharjah such as the SME Act, Sharjah Export Centre, Sharjah Commercial Arbitration Centre, and the Sharjah Business Forum.

H.E. Hussain has held leadership roles at leading regional and international companies such as the Royal Dutch Shell Group, Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), and several Dubai Holding entities. He currently serves as honorary board member of both, the Tatweer Forum and of Maastricht University in the Netherlands, and as chairman of the Emirates Business Council for Sustainable Development. He also serves as a board member of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa).

H.E. Hussain possesses an MBA from the American University of Sharjah and a BA in Economics and Communications from Seattle Pacific University in the US.

Dr. Dionysia Lyra, Halophyte Agronomist, International Center for Biosaline Agriculture – ICBA

Dr. Dionysia Angeliki Lyra works as a Halophyte Agronomist at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai United Arab Emirates since 2013. She has been working on evaluating halophytic germplasm in inland and coastal desert areas exploring multiple uses (food, feed, biofuel production, etc.). She is also working on modular farming systems that integrate agriculture with aquaculture utilizing low-quality water resources such as the reject brine from desalination to grow halophytes. After running a successful project funded by USAID in 2016, Dr. Lyra was announced as one of the 29 global innovators for EXPO2020 of the first phase of the EXPO Live program in 2017 and received a grant for the project “Inland and coastal modular farms for climate change adaptation in desert environments”. The project was a finalist under the category Farm Innovation Award–Agriculture and Food Security / Climate Change Innovation Award at the AGRAME exhibition in 2016 & 2017. She is currently working with national and international partners to scale up halophytes in farming areas in UAE and Egypt to create halophytic-based food and feed products. Her vision is to develop, through successful partnerships, integrated farming systems tailormade to the needs of farming communities living in salinized areas, utilizing low-quality water and land resources to grow halophytic crops enhancing food, nutrition, water and income security.

Dr. Khalil Ammar, Program Leader, Sustainable Natural Resources Management, Principal Scientist – Hydrology/Hydrogeology, International Center for Biosaline Agriculture – ICBA

Dr. Khalil Ammar has a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Utah State University, USA, and MSc in Water Resources Management from IHE-Delft, Institute of Water Education, the Netherlands, and BSc in Civil Engineering from An-Najah National University, Palestine. Dr. Ammar has 24 years of experience in water resources management. He is working as Program Lead, Sustainable Natural Resources Management, and a Principal Scientist in hydrology at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai. Since he joined ICBA in the year 2009, he has led several researches for development works such as: 1) “Collaboration Program Euphrates and Tigris”, a five-years Sida funded programme to support collaboration between the riparian countries of the Euphrates and Tigris basin. The programme helped in providing a scientific platform to exchange knowledge and understanding about important water issues and the way forward to improve water management and agricultural water productivity in the basin; 2) Rehabilitation of Irrigation and Drainage project, Advisory Services for Implementation of component C – “Enhancing Monitoring and Data Automation” in Kazakhstan which includes supervising installing automated systems to control rising groundwater levels to protect the root zone in farmed areas and allocation of water from main canal systems to the farms; 3) United Arab Emirates Agricultural Strategy which included matching the best crops to be grown in different land and water zones according to groundwater quantity and quality and soil suitability; 4) United Arab Emirates Water Conservation Strategy”; 5) Developing Federal Environmental Standards to Manage Discharges to the Marine from Desalination Plants” for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, United Arab Emirates; and 6) Oman Salinity Strategy. His contribution to different national strategies and plans helped the decision-makers take the right decisions that brought change in water and agricultural sectors. Before joining ICBA, he worked for the Palestinian Water Authority as Head of Planning Department where he contributed to several national and sectoral plans that helped the establishment of a reliable water sector in Palestine.

Mohamed Aissaoui, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, My Farm Dubai

Mohamed Aissaoui is the CEO & Founder of My Farm. The 5th generations of farmer of his family, with an educational background in the engineering sector, Mohamed founded My Farm using the low-Tech and the new-Tech to optimize the organic food production safely. He is working on circular systems witch is a key to reach the food security goals we have in the UAE. My farm  give time to grow to the plants, fruits and the vegetables in a forest soil without disturbing the eco system, quality is one of the  priorities. 

For that, he did a selection of heirlooms seeds growing in the desert with less energy, more than 100 varieties are almost adapted to this climat naturally and Mohamed is every time trying to push the limits of those seeds. 

Mohamed is also a member of the UAE beekeepers and use different plants and flowers to feed and save the bees naturally in Dubai. Feeding the bees and the knowledges, because at the same time, volunteers are learning  about  farming.  

Education is one key, Mohamed teach the best practices, he got the name of ‘’ The Plants Doctor’’ in Al Serkal Avenu, people sent him plants to rescue during workshops . After Al Serkal, Mohamed started as a consultant ’’The Farms Tour’’ trough the UAE to support and help farms switching to the organic system.

At this time, Mohamed is preparing the Farm in Dubai to open soon with all the activities.

Dr. Mohamed Ali, Food Security Expert

Dr. Mohamed Ali is currently an Associate Partner at DinarStandard, he is expert in Agri-Food Sector, with a strong background in the MENA Region for more than 20 Years. He worked in manyfields of the F&B sector (Food Security, Agriculture, Trading, HORECA, and Retail).

Skilled in Market Research, Brand building & Marketing Strategy, Budget Forecasting, and Pricing Analysis. Strong Commercial & Financial professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) focused in International Investment and Trade from French University- Bordeaux & Lille.

After his PhD, Dr Mohamed journey started in France in consulting at Polaris Conseil, he guided European firms to invest in the MENA region. Then in Egypt, in the private sector where he was appointed as Project Director for a French-Egyptian JV in Agri-Food sector.

He also participated in setting up a JV company for inspection and control of food items in Egypt, General Control. Then he moved to UAE and worked in many F&B Groups such as Americana, Al Hashimiya Group, Emirates Business Group, and Emirates international Group. In his last position he was in charge of the Food Security Strategy for the UAE and he is member of many think tank for the future of food in MENA region.

Yazen Al Kodmani, Operations Manager, Emirates Bio Farm

Yazen Al Kodmani was brought up in the UAE in a household of agricultural experts. With an educational background in finance, his career has primarily been in the food and agricultural industry. He started his career in 2011 by joining Al Darmaky, an agriculture company specialized in greenhouse construction and irrigation networks. Since 2016, he has been part of the founding team at Emirates Bio Farm where they have been working to contribute to the UAE’s food security agenda by driving local and organic fruit, vegetable and egg production.  He is currently the operations manager at Emirates Bio Farm where they have spent the last four years building arable soil in the UAE desert which successfully produces over 60 varieties of products in Al Shuwaib, Al Ain.

One of Yazen’s most notable achievements is in agri-tourism where he has established a fully integrated visitor center at Emirates Bio Farm. The visitor center educates the public about the importance of environmental protection through organic farming and illustrates how to create sustainable food systems in the UAE, making it a top destination for UAE residents and tourists alike. He has also recently established 3Y Agtech, an agritech consulting firm to address the regional food security challenges which brings together the expertise of experienced consultants, developers and farmers.

HAHN Digital supports Strategic Partner http://www.hahn.digital/en/

HAHN Digital supports customers in their digital transformation by leveraging the benefits of the automation segment and embracing digitalization and data analytics. The company develops new products and services focusing on customer success with innovative digital technologies. HAHN Digital acts as an agile, flexible and fast-moving service provider and focuses on user centricity, a solution focused approach, flexibility and scalability for its customers. HAHN Digital was founded in 2019 by HAHN Group and brings the agile, goal-oriented working methods of a startup and the long-standing experience of the HAHN Group together. The HAHN Group consists of a network of specialized companies for industrial automation and robot solutions. With its own global production sites the group currently employs approx. 1,400 staff at 24 locations. Well-known customers from the automotive, consumer goods, electronics, medical technology, and healthcare industries benefit from the HAHN Group’s 30 years of expertise and automation know-how.

Arista Strategic Partner http://www.arista.com/en/

Arista Networks was founded to pioneer and deliver software-driven cloud networking solutions for large data center storage and computing environments. Arista’s awardwinning platforms, ranging in Ethernet speeds from 10 to 400 gigabits per second, redefine scalability, agility and resilience. Arista has shipped more than 20 million cloud networking ports worldwide with CloudVision® and Arista EOS, an advanced network operating system. Committed to open standards, Arista is a founding member of the 25/50GbE consortium. Arista Networks products are available worldwide directly and through partners

Teletimes International Media Partner http://www.teletimesinternational.com/

Teletimes International, a premier business publication focused towards the Telecom, Satellite and ICT sectors of the Middle East, Asia and Africa, proactively leverages knowledge and insights from executives and decision makers. In its 14th year of publication, Teletimes is media partner to almost all major events and conferences in these regions. Envisioning a scholarly publication, Teletimes actively participates in high profile industry events, seminars, conferences and exhibitions to provide the latest research, analyses and developments to its readers. Teletimes has achieved a qualitative edge by capitalizing on the age-old need for information.

Hackology Media Partner https://hackology.co/

Hackology.co is the portfolio site for Hackology Internet Security Portal , A hobby project turned into array of services ranging from latest Tech News to in-depth Blockchain reviews, Tech Analysis, Cyber Consultancy, PoCs and everything digital. Hackology Blog blog.drhack.net provides latest internet and Cyber security news while covering / providing a technical write-up so every topic is properly covered, Cryptocurrency and Blockchain guides and reviews with detailed analysis so you make the right move. Ask Techie! helps you in solving your Tech issues, no matter how complicated they may seem. Encrypted Paste provides a unique paste service where all pasted data is even encrypted from the server thus keeping your data private

Bitnews Today Media Partner https://bitnewstoday.com/bitnewstoday

Bitnewstoday.com is an international media company providing daily news from the world of cryptocurrency. We publish the articles for readers interested in bitcoin, blockchain, mining, cryptocurrency investing and deliver market analytics for professionals. We cover the most important events and problems, the recent legislative changes and cryptocurrency regulation. Our goals: * to provide a full range of information on how cryptocurrency functions * to keep you updated with the latest news * to make forecasts and find the trends * to deliver training materials All the necessary information is presented on our website: * news * analytics * interviews and reviews * opinions and forecasts * cryptocurrency exchange rates * feed of events * additional services * tips for beginners

Telecom Review Media Partner http://www.telecomreview.com/telecomreview

Telecom Review is the leading B2B publication in the telecommunications sector in the Middle East. Telecom Review which is a Trace Media International publication has enjoyed unprecedented success in the telecommunications industry in the GCC region. Telecom Review enjoys a close working relationship with all the leading operators in the Middle East, Asia Pacific and African markets and has earned a stellar reputation for providing first-class content. Telecom Review also has print publications in North America and a French/Africa edition – whilst it also has a dedicated website for all the telecommunications news in the Asia Pacific region. In addition to our print publications Telecom Review also boasts one of the largest databases in telecoms industry with its weekly e-newsletters blasted to over 60,000 leading executives from the industry.

TestCrew Official Testing Partner https://thetestcrew.com/thetestcrew

TestCrew is a leading software testing services Saudi company that offers a comprehensive set of independent software testing services to our global clientele in an exceptionally efficacious manner. We strive to offer the best and most cost-efficient services to our clients in a time-bound manner. While our team indulges in finding even the minutest anomalies and errors in the software functionality, user-interface, performance and other aspects, we ensure that they follow an end-user-oriented approach. Our team applies the perspective of the end users to the software usage, and ensure that the software and apps perform in an ideal manner. We follow the QA best practices; ensure visibility, hands-on approach and lucid documentation. Furthermore, our expertise oriented professionals work collaboratively with clients to deliver the desired results much faster and in a highly cost-efficient way.

Wakeb Strategic Partner http://www.wakeb.tech/wakeb.tech/
We are highly specialized in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cognitive computing and more .. Wakeb Co. established to be cutting edge IT company located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Data science technologies, services, consultations and more are offered at Wakeb, highly experienced team equipped with power resources to make your success story real.

ICO Crunch Media Partner http://icocrunch.io/http://icocrunch.io/

Several years ago development of the Blockchain technology led to an explosive growth of investments into cryptocurrency and the idea of decentralization itself. Thousands of entrepreneurs and teams from different industries around the world developed their own projects based on their vision of how to use Blockchain to make the world better, and the number of projects keeps growing every day. Some of them may become a new Ethereum, some are apparently weak, and some may even turn out to be fraudulent. Which project to choose for investing to be confident the money will return with a profit? Our goal is to answer this question. ICOCrunch is an independent research team of experienced analytics and IT specialists. We are permanently searching for worthy projects we would invest our own money to, and we do invest because we are enthusiastic about cryptocurrency the same as you. We post a new project analysis daily to keep you up-to-date. Each decision to select a particular project to post is collegial, so you are protected from a biased opinion

Blokt Media Partner https://blokt.com/https://blokt.com/

blokt was founded in 2017 by Greg Adams, a crypto enthusiast, with a background in security, web journalism, media and marketing. After building an extensive list of contacts in the blockchain space, Greg put together a team that would later become essential to blokt’s success.Whether you are interested in blockchain, security, or any of the various cryptocurrencies, we have content that will keep you informed, safe, and guide you through the complex processes involved in using cryptocurrencies. Our news section features breaking stories from the crypto world, and thanks to our proprietary TrendSpotter software, our editorial team has access to potential scoops and story opportunities before they hit the news.

Cyber Defense Magazine Media Partner http://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com/
Cyber Defense Magazine is by ethical, honest, passionate information security professionals for IT Security professionals. Our mission is to share cutting edge knowledge, real world stories and awards on the best ideas, products and services in the information technology industry.

Crowd Reviews Media Partner https://www.crowdreviews.com

CrowdReviews is a transparent online platform for determining which products and services are the best based on the opinion of the crowd. The crowd consists of Internet users which have experienced products and services first-hand and have an interest in letting other potential buyers their thoughts on their experience. CrowdReviews.com is driven by an algorithm allowing for both customers and providers of products and services to understand how the rankings are determined. The service can be used by potential buyers to learn more about their vendors prior to making a purchasing decision.

biometric Update Media Partner https://www.biometricupdate.com/

BiometricUpdate.com is the leading news property that publishes shareable breaking news, analysis, and research about the global biometrics market. We provide the most original reporting and market research in the sector, vis-a-vis the Web and an exclusive daily newsletter, that focuses on global developments in biometrics technology, including: fingerprint identification, voice, iris, and facial recognition, civil and criminal ID and video surveillance. Our news coverage places special emphasis on national security, privacy and regulatory issues, along with examining the latest applications and advances in biometrics. Our global audience of 600k+ readers includes original equipment manufacturers, service providers, governments, law enforcement agencies, corporate buyers and industry professionals.

DETASAD Networking Sponsor https://www.detasad.com.sa/

DETASAD (Detecon Al Saudia Co. Ltd.) is an end-to-end ICT solution provider and a leading contributor to ICT sector of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a track record of 37-years. DETASAD offers tailor made solutions in Corporate Networks & Connectivity Solutions, ICT Deployment and Infrastructure Solutions, Managed Services, Data Center and Cloud Solutions to public and private sector clients enabling their Digital Transformation and unlocking value. The DETASAD offering covers all aspects from scoping, planning and design, end-to-end supply implementation and integration up to 24/7 operational support and maintenance of the offered products at highest quality standards.

Proven Consult Strategic Partner https://provenconsult.com/wakeb.tech/

Proven Consult was established as a solution to the missing digital competencies companies were experiencing. Since its’ conception in 2013, the company has expanded internationally, from Saudi Arabia to the UAE and India. The expertise of Proven Consult supports companies in adapting to the fast-paced market by offering innovative solutions to big data, business process transformation, robotic process automation, and IT. Proven Consult focuses on enhancing companies’ digital capabilities, assisting them in becoming digitally ahead of their competition.

Qvest Media Strategic Partner https://www.qvestmedia.com/wakeb.tech/

Qvest Media is a world-leading systems architect, consultant, ICT integrator, and developer of software products in the innovation-driven media industry. The company’s range of services is aligned to the challenges of an increasingly digital media value chain such as multi-platform content delivery, artificial intelligence, big data analysis, multi-cloud management, IP infrastructures, and cyber security. Qvest Media’s clients include numerous renowned media networks, telecommunication providers, broadcasters, as well as companies and organizations from the industrial and public sector. In addition to the headquarters in Cologne and Dubai, Qvest Media operates eleven further locations in Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Ubiqube Silver Sponsor https://ubiqube.com/wakeb.tech/

UBiqube delivers integrated automation through Orchestration Continuum. Our MSActivator ™ DevOps framework emulates an orchestration continuum over any entity, any vendor and any physical or virtual domain for an end-to-end automation workflow design and process management. The MSActivator makes automation of the networking and security continuum -physical and virtual- easy. A multi-tenant, full life cycle orchestration framework designed for the new networking paradigms. MSA is used by telcos and large enterprises for end-to-end service orchestration over hybrid, virtualized (SDN/NFV) and legacy networking and security communication infrastructures interconnecting the clouds. As the virtualization paradigm hits the networking industry, UBiqube aims at leading the associated next generation ‘Management and Reporting Software’ space and ease the multi-vendor, multi-technology orchestration for telcos and enterprise IT managers, while disrupting the ‘high price tag’ legacy OSS vendors practiced so far. Our goal is to ease the secure consumption of multi-vendor networking and security technologies – for every application needing it, and without any vendor lock-in.

VERINT Gold Sponsor

Verint is “The Customer Engagement Company.” We help organisations simplify and modernise the way they engage customers through their contact center, branch, back office and marketing departments. Our market-leading broad portfolio of cloud and hybrid solutions is designed with the latest artificial intelligence and advanced analytics technologies to deliver greater automation and shared intelligence that drives real business impact. Verint is your partner to make customer engagement a strategic advantage and a strong competitive differentiator for your organisation. With over two decades of experience helping more than 10,000 organizations worldwide create lasting value, we’re a global leader in customer engagement.

Finesse Networking Partner

Finesse is one of the most trusted software system integrator, enabling digital transformation for global financial institutions & enterprises by focusing on the design, deployment and maintenance of business-critical applications. Finesse delivers customized solutions & services tailored to the unique demands of each of their clients in the BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Infrastructure, Energy, Education, Pharmaceuticals, Aviation, and Government domains. Finesse offer solutions & services for Business Intelligence & Analytics, ECM, GRC, CPM, RPA, Blockchain, Core Banking, Treasury & Capital Markets, Mobile Banking, Real Time Fraud Management and Intelligent Automation among others. Finesse assists more than 250+ enterprise clients across the world in their digital transformation journey. Around 120+ financial institutions, including 80% of the banks in UAE are referenceable clients for Finesse.

iSQI Certification Partner

The International Software Quality Institute (iSQI) Group, with offices in Potsdam (Germany), Gorinchem (The Netherlands), London (UK) and Boston (USA), is a leading provider of certification examinations all over the world. For more than 10 years, iSQI plays a significant role in certifying the know-how of IT professionals in over 100 countries on 6 continents in 10 languages. With over 30,000 certifications per year, iSQI paves the way for successful career development. Constantly changing job requirements generate a demand for lifelong learning. To stay competitive in today´s job market, professionals need to possess comprehensive and comparable skills and knowledge. The iSQI ‘Certified’ Program includes certification examinations that set the global standards in Software Testing, Requirements Engineering, Agile, Business Analysis as well as Usability and User Experience UX, AI, IOT etc. iSQI examinations are supported by a global network of accredited training providers. iSQI’s ISO 9001 compliance is the independently confirmed guarantee for its business partners that all contracts are fulfilled in a secure and high-quality manner. Its ISO 17024 compliant certification processes meet all strict requirements in the day-to-day business practice.