Katie Barker Unveils NEOM’s Bold Vision at the BRICS Forum: Three Pillars Defining the Cities of the Future
At the BRICS Urban Future Forum, held in Moscow’s “Cloud City,” Katie Barker, Senior Foresight Expert and Executive Advisor to the Board in Saudi Arabia, presented a compelling vision of NEOM as a global model for future cities. Barker highlighted the conceptual framework of NEOM, describing it not merely as an urban or investment project, but as a global laboratory to explore how artificial intelligence can shape the future of governance and social management.
Barker emphasized that NEOM seeks to redefine the very idea of a city, merging advanced technology with human values to create an urban environment capable of adapting to the world’s accelerating changes. She stressed that the ambition goes beyond infrastructure, aiming to build a society where humans and technology are seamlessly integrated in unprecedented ways.
In her presentation, Barker outlined three key pillars she believes are central to NEOM’s future success:
1. The AI-Driven “Autopilot City”
Barker explained that AI will be at the core of daily life management in NEOM, from efficiently allocating resources to mediating family disputes and running the affairs of its nine million residents. While this vision carries immense promise, it also raises essential questions around ethics and transparency in governing societies through intelligent systems.
2. The AI Companion
Addressing demographic challenges such as population aging, Barker asked whether AI could evolve into a compassionate partner, offering emotional and psychological support. This concept reflects the ambition to transform technology into a deeply human element accompanying individuals in their everyday lives.
3. The Digital Twin
Barker highlighted that each resident in NEOM would have a personal AI-powered digital twin, mirroring their skills and abilities. This twin would continuously monitor their health, provide tailored recommendations, and enhance personal development—using advanced tools such as smart lenses. The digital twin, she said, could elevate both health and professional awareness.
The forum discussions extended beyond Barker’s address, covering pressing global issues shaping urban futures: climate change, population growth, resource management, and economic transitions. Participants agreed that smart cities must go beyond advanced infrastructure to become human-centered spaces that ensure social justice, equality of opportunity, and environmental sustainability.
Experts also stressed the urgent need for clear ethical and regulatory frameworks to prevent AI from infringing on privacy or diminishing the human role in critical decision-making. Against this backdrop, Barker’s insights on NEOM stood out—not only presenting the city as a futuristic vision but also as a real-world testbed for these challenges.
Saudi Arabia’s leadership role was evident, as NEOM became a focal point in the forum, showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to pioneering global-scale initiatives. The project aspires not only to reshape urban life within Saudi Arabia but also to serve as a global reference for urban innovation.
As BRICS nations seek greater cooperation in technology and sustainability, Saudi Arabia’s contribution through NEOM underscores its determination to participate actively in shaping the global conversation on the future of cities, aligned with the goals of Vision 2030.
The forum concluded that future cities must strike a balance between technology and humanity. While AI systems unlock vast potential for resource management and quality of life, the human element remains fundamental to ensuring success.
Barker’s presentation left participants with profound philosophical questions:
• To what extent can AI become part of the human experience?
• Can cities adopt ethical values as much as advanced technologies?
By the end of the forum, it was clear that NEOM is no longer just an idea on paper but a central topic in global debates on urban governance. Through Barker’s vision, NEOM emerged not as a city of skyscrapers or smart networks alone, but as a holistic model for the cities of tomorrow—balancing technology and humanity, efficiency and ethics.
Thus, the forum reinforced NEOM’s position as one of the world’s most ambitious initiatives redefining what a city can be, placing AI at the heart of urban life while preserving the human dimension as its foundation.
مواضيع ذات صلة
Arabian Nights Returns to Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City for the 2025 Winter Season
30 October 2025, Dubai, UAE – As the cool winter breeze returns to Dubai, Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City invites guests to experience the magic of the season with the return of its much-loved Arabian Nights, taking place every Thursday and Friday evening from 30 October 2025. Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s glittering skyline, this al fresco dining experience celebrates authentic Arabic flavours, warm hospitality, and live entertainment under the stars.
“Arabian Nights at Zaytoun has become a signature seasonal experience that our guests look forward to every year,” said Thomas Schmelter, Area General Manager for IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City. “It reflects our commitment to creating memorable dining moments that bring people together to celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions and vibrant spirit of hospitality.”
Arabian Nights at Zaytoun invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that captures the region’s vibrant spirit. Begin the evening with an abundant selection of soups, freshly tossed salads, and a colourful assortment of traditional Arabic mezze. Then, head to the centrepiece of the experience – the open grill station, where chefs prepare succulent meats and the freshest seafood, grilled to perfection à la minute.
As the aroma of spices fills the air, the terrace comes alive with the soothing melodies of an oud player, creating an atmosphere that blends tradition and elegance. With sweeping views of the Dubai Creek and skyline, guests can unwind beneath the open sky, savouring every bite as the city sparkles in the distance.
To end the night on a sweet note, diners can indulge in an array of Arabic and international desserts, thoughtfully crafted to offer a perfect finale to the evening.
Details
Venue: Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
Days: Every Thursday & Friday (October – end of winter season)
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price:
Extras: Shisha available upon request
Entertainment: Live oud player
An Enchanting Outdoor Setting
Overlooking Dubai’s iconic skyline, Zaytoun’s terrace provides a serene escape where culinary artistry meets ambiance. From the glow of the city lights to the gentle breeze off the Creek, every element is designed to create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Arabian evenings.
منذ 13 ساعة . News
Kempinski Hotels Appoints Paul Lonergan as Chief Operating and Asset Management Officer to Drive Strategic Shift in Performance
Kempinski Hotels has announced the appointment of industry veteran Paul Lonergan as Chief Operating and Asset Management Officer – a new role that will oversee the luxury hotel group’s operations and asset management strategy in EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific (excluding China and Mongolia)
Paul’s appointment reflects Kempinski’s ongoing evolution as it focuses on elevating product and performance globally. Lonergan’s dual expertise in operations and asset management is central to the strategic shift and transformation that Kempinski is currently undergoing as Kempinski looks to strengthen its portfolio and refine its luxury appeal.
“As Kempinski continues to evolve from a traditional hotel operator into an agile, owner-aligned organisation, Paul’s appointment marks a pivotal step in that journey,” said Barbara Muckermann, Group Chief Executive Officer, Kempinski Hotels. “He combines the strategic insight of an asset manager with the operational rigour of a hotelier, and that dual perspective is exactly what we need to unlock the full potential of our portfolio. Paul has a proven record of elevating iconic properties and building value for owners while maintaining the spirit of exceptional service that defines a storied brand like Kempinski.”
Lonergan brings more than three decades of global hospitality experience, combining 20 years in senior operational leadership with 15 years in commercial hotel asset management. Recognised for his ability to align owner and operator interests, he has built a reputation for driving profitability, stabilising property values, and strengthening brands across diverse markets. He has executed the pre-opening and launch of iconic properties in Dubai Holding hospitality portfolio, and has managed multimillion dollar CAPEX programmes, executing large-scale revitalisation and refurbishment projects, and leading mixed-use retail and restaurant leasing strategies that enhance both guest experience and asset value.
“Kempinski’s heritage of timeless luxury is unique, and the opportunity now is to pair that heritage with performance-driven operating and asset strategies,” said Paul Lonergan. “Working closely with our hotel teams and ownership partners, we will focus on targeted CAPEX, precise operating levers and distinctive guest propositions, ensuring every property delivers on the Kempinski promise while growing long-term value.”
At Kempinski, Lonergan will oversee operations and asset management strategy in EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific (excluding China and Mongolia), ensuring alignment between owners and operators while guiding capital investment decisions that enhance both guest experience and asset value.
Lonergan will work closely with veteran Kempinski executive, Manish Nambiar, who has been promoted to Senior Vice President Operations, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. In his expanded remit, Nambiar will drive operational performance and business growth across the group’s largest area, supported by corporate and regional teams.
A Kempinski veteran of more than 20 years, Manish joined the company in 2004 as an Area Executive Chef in Tanzania before progressing through multiple leadership roles. He led the openings of Kempinski Villa Rosa Nairobi and Kempinski Gold Coast City Accra, served as Area General Manager Africa, and most recently held the role of Vice President Operations Southeast Asia while managing the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok.
www.kempinski.com www.ghadiscovery.com
منذ 13 ساعة . News
Mohamad Ali Shaikh has been appointed Cluster Operations Manager for Accor Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District Cluster
The Accor Waterfront Properties, Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District is delighted to announce the appointment of Mohamad Ali Shaikh as Cluster Operations Manager, marking a significant milestone in the cluster’s continuing journey to elevate guest experience and operational excellence within Accor’s midscale portfolio in the UAE.
Commenting on his new role, Shaikh said, “I’m honoured to take on this leadership role at the Accor Waterfront Properties in Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District. My goal is to build upon the cluster’s strong legacy of hospitality excellence. As Dubai’s hospitality landscape continues to evolve, I’m excited to work alongside our talented team to further enhance guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth”.
A Proven Leader in Hospitality Operations
With nearly two decades of experience across leading Accor properties in the region, Mohamad Ali Shaikh brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, staff management, and revenue generation.
Most recently, as Director of Operations at Novotel Bur Dubai, Shaikh oversaw overall hotel operations, ensuring seamless coordination across all departments to enhance guest experience and operational performance.
Prior to that, as Rooms Division Manager at Novotel & Ibis Mall Avenue Dubai, he spearheaded several digital transformation initiatives, including Opera Cloud migration, achieving the Best Upselling Revenue Hotel title in Accor’s Northern Region for Q1 2024 with a 50% year-on-year increase.
His career also includes senior management roles at Pullman Hotel & Residence Deira City Centre, ibis Al Rigga and Novotel Suites & Ibis Hotel Mall of the Emirates, leading high-performing teams to record-breaking Guest Satisfaction and Brand Audit scores. His leadership contributed to multiple accolades, including TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards (2022 and 2023).
Operational Excellence and Vision
Shaikh’s career has been defined by a hands-on, people-centric approach and a track record of driving performance across key departments such as Front Office, Housekeeping, and F&B. He has led two hotel pre-openings in India, spearheaded multiple re-openings in Dubai, and actively participated in Accor’s Future Hotel Managers Development Program (2023-24), underscoring his commitment to leadership growth.
In his new role, Shaikh will focus on strengthening the six properties within the Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira cluster: Novotel Dubai Gold District, Mercure Dubai Gold District, Mercure Dubai Deira, ibis Styles Dubai Gold District, ibis Styles Dubai Deira, and Aparthotels Adagio Dubai Deira. His priorities include positioning the cluster as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers, optimizing operational efficiency, and reinforcing the hotels’ sustainability and digitalization initiatives.
Link to LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamad-ali-shaikh-820572185/
منذ 13 ساعة . News
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Meets HRH the Crown Prince, Reviews New Plant Construction and Group Growth Strategy
SEOUL/RIYADH, October 29, 2025 – Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited Saudi Arabia, the Middle East's largest economy and a nation undergoing major industrial transformation. Chung met with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, to review the Group's local growth strategy and explore future business opportunities.
During his visit, Executive Chair Chung held discussions with HRH the Crown Prince covering a wide range of topics including the automotive industry and smart cities. This marked the first one-on-one meeting between the two leaders, though they had previously met twice, including during the Crown Prince's 2022 visit to Korea.
"Hyundai Motor Group deeply understands the meaning and importance of Saudi Vision 2030," said Executive Chair Chung." Based on our competitive business capabilities, we are participating in Saudi Arabia's giga projects and look forward to expanding collaboration in future energy sectors including renewable energy, hydrogen, Small Modular Reactor (SMR), and nuclear energy."
Strategic Partnership for Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia is pursuing "Vision 2030," a national development project aimed at diversifying its economy from energy-focused industries toward manufacturing and hydrogen energy. The kingdom is hosting international events including the World Expo and FIFA World Cup, positioning itself as one of the world's most prominent emerging economies.
As the Middle East's largest automotive market, Saudi Arabia is actively attracting global automakers, including Hyundai Motor Company, with the long-term goal of becoming an automotive hub serving not only the Middle East but also North Africa.
Executive Chair Chung expressed gratitude for the Saudi government's continued interest and support, outlining Hyundai Motor Group's ongoing collaborative projects and future plans as a partner in realizing Saudi Arabia's vision for mobility and other sectors.
Regarding the new manufacturing facility, Chung stated, "Hyundai Motor is building a locallytailored factory with specialized equipment to meet Saudi Arabia's industrial demands and customer needs. We will also consider expanding production capacity based on future market conditions."
New Production Hub Takes Shape
Prior to meeting HRH the Crown Prince, Executive Chair Chung visited Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Middle East (HMMME) on October 26 at the King Salman Automotive Cluster to review construction progress. Together with José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, Executive Chair Chung engaged in a business update session with Hyundai Motor and Kia local leaders and held in-depth discussions with employees about growth strategies.
"Establishing a production base in Saudi Arabia represents Hyundai Motor's new opportunity in the Middle East," Chung told employees working in extreme heat. "We must thoroughly prepare in every aspect to deliver mobility that exceeds customer expectations on time, in an environment different from our previous bases—characterized by high temperatures and desert conditions."
José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company said: "Our new Saudi Arabia production facility demonstrates Hyundai's long-term commitment to the Middle East's largest automotive market. This plant plays a strategic role in our global mid-term plan while supporting Vision 2030. We're combining Hyundai's manufacturing excellence with Saudi Arabia's talented workforce to deliver mobility solutions across automotive, smart cities, hydrogen energy, and future mobility."
HMMME, the first Hyundai Motor production facility in the Middle East, is a cornerstone for establishing Hyundai as a leading brand in Saudi Arabia. The joint venture is 30 percent owned by Hyundai Motor and 70 percent by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Construction began in May 2025, with operations targeted to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. The facility will have an annual production capacity of 50,000 units, manufacturing both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles.
The plant combines Hyundai Motor's innovative manufacturing technology with Saudi Arabia's talented workforce and infrastructure, positioning it to play a crucial role in the growth and development of Saudi Arabia's mobility ecosystem.
Hyundai Motor plans to operate HMMME as a high-quality vehicle production hub by implementing multi-model production facilities to address diverse customer needs, applying simple and robust design structures for easy maintenance, and incorporating cooling and dust-proof measures to handle high temperatures and sand.
Market Growth and Expansion Plans
Hyundai Motor and Kia continue to grow in Saudi Arabia, selling 149,604 units through September 2025, an 8.5 percent increase year over year, with plans to reach approximately 210,000 units by year-end, up 5.9 percent from 2024.
Leveraging enhanced brand appeal and stable supply through the Saudi production base, Hyundai Motor aims to become the leading automotive company in Saudi Arabia through strategies including Saudi-exclusive special editions, an expanded SUV lineup based on customer preferences, and launches of diverse eco-friendly vehicles including EVs, EREVs (extended-range electric vehicles), and HEVs.
Kia plans to develop the recently launched Tasman pick-up truck as its flagship model while expanding EV and HEV supply. The brand is also focusing on capturing the PBV market in connection with Saudi Arabia's smart city projects.
Expanding Collaboration Across Multiple Sectors
Hyundai Motor Group is expanding partnerships with key Saudi institutions and companies across mobility, smart cities, and other sectors.
In September 2024, Hyundai Motor signed an agreement with NEOM for "introducing eco-friendly future mobility," successfully demonstrating the Universe FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) bus last May on routes connecting NEOM's central business district with the high-altitude Trojena region at 2,080 meters above sea level. The Group plans to continue collaboration as NEOM's key partner in future mobility.
Last month, Kia launched a PV5 pilot project with Red Sea Global (RSG), one of Saudi Arabia's giga project developers, following up on Hyundai Motor Group's March 2024 MOU with RSG. Kia will provide PV5 passenger models and technical training support, contributing to eco-friendly mobility adoption and ecosystem development while delivering customized mobility solutions optimized for RSG's tourism industry.
Hyundai Motor Group is also partnering with the MISK Foundation, a non-profit organization established by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2011, to foster local youth talent and explore smart city collaboration opportunities.
منذ يوم . News
Dsquares Chooses Saudi Arabia to Launch its Latest Loyalty Innovations
D’light & D’vote
Riyadh, 29th October 2025 – Dsquares, a leading provider of loyalty and rewards solutions in the GCC, announced the regional launch of two flagship products — the D’light Rewards Catalogue and D’vote Fan Engagement — during an exclusive industry event in Riyadh. This milestone reinforces Dsquares’ commitment to shaping a new era of rewarding in the Kingdom and across the region.
The launch gathered senior marketing leaders, loyalty strategists, and brand decision-makers to explore the evolution of loyalty from transactional incentives to emotionally driven, data-powered engagement.
“At Dsquares, we believe loyalty goes beyond transactions, it’s about connection,” said Marwan Kenawy, CEO of Dsquares. “With D’light and D’vote, we’re helping brands meet customers where they are, celebrate their peak moments, and reward them with what truly matters. We’re empowering brands to build lasting relationships with their audiences, meaningful, real-time connections that turn every interaction into an opportunity to engage, recognize, and inspire. It’s no longer a transactional conversation, but a meaningful relationship.”
Introducing a New Era of Rewarding
D’light
An AI-driven, hyper-personalized rewards marketplace that adapts dynamically to each user’s preferences and behavior. The “Ultimate Rewards Hub” that brings together a diverse universe of rewards, from experiences, gift cards, games, and travel offers to mobile top-ups and a wide range of merchant deals, all tailored to serve different customer personas. The platform enables brands to deliver tailored reward experiences in real time, directly integrated into their campaign engines to drive retention, engagement, and higher redemption value. Far more than a traditional rewards catalogue, it’s an intelligent ecosystem designed to make every reward personal and purposeful.
D'vote
A gamified engagement solution built around the “Everyone is a winner” concept, where every interaction becomes a moment of recognition and excitement. D’vote helps brands be visible and engage with customers where their passions lie, whether it’s sports, concerts, or TV shows, turning real-time events into rewarding experiences. Through interactive gamification, instant rewards, and audience insights, D’vote enables brands to connect and reward users at the peak of their passion, building deeper emotional loyalty and driving measurable ROI.
Shaping the Future of Loyalty
The event featured two engaging panel discussions with industry leaders who explored the rapid change in consumer needs and behaviors, and how today’s consumers increasingly connect with brands that understand and engage them on a personal level. The conversations delved into how loyalty solutions are evolving to help brands build deeper relationships with their customers, uncovering the strategies and consumer psychology that drive meaningful, long-term engagement in the modern loyalty landscape.
Strengthening Presence in Saudi Arabia
This launch marks the next phase of Dsquares’ expansion in the Kingdom, following the establishment of its GCC headquarters in Riyadh. The company continues to support leading Saudi institutions across banking, telecom, retail, and government sectors with advanced end to end loyalty strategy, infrastructure and strategic merchant partnerships.
منذ يوم . News
Banke Expands into South Africa, Solidifying Its Broader International Growth Strategy
• Dubai recorded 125,538 real estate transactions amounting to AED 431 billion
• South Africa itself recorded FDI inflows of $661 million in Q1 2025
Dubai, UAE – 28th October 2025 – Banke International Properties today announced the opening of its first branch in Johannesburg, The new Hyde Park Lane office brings Banke’s international expertise closer to South African clients, offering access to real estate opportunities across the UAE and other global markets.
The move comes at a time when South African investors are increasingly active in Dubai’s thriving property market. In the first half of 2025 alone, Dubai recorded 125,538 real estate transactions worth AED 431 billion, a 26% year-on-year surge, with 58% of deals driven by international investors1. South Africans have been a visible part of this trend, drawn to Dubai’s strong yields2, averaging 6–8%, among the highest globally, and the city’s reputation as a safe haven for capital3.
“South Africa has long been one of our most engaged investor bases, with strong demand for off-plan, luxury, and secondary properties in the UAE,” said Porush Jhunjhunwala, CEO of Banke International Properties. “By establishing a local branch, we are deepening that relationship, bridging markets more seamlessly, and bringing our global real estate expertise closer to clients who are looking not only at Dubai but also the UK, India, Qatar, and beyond.”
The Johannesburg branch will deliver Banke’s complete range of services, off-plan projects, secondary sales and leasing, commercial real estate, luxury property investments, portfolio management, and cross-border transactions. South African clients will now be able to tap into Banke’s international portfolio through a local hub that combines personalized service with cultural insights drawn from the company’s diverse team.
The South Africa branch will be led by Ravikant Sharma, a seasoned real estate professional with over a decade of experience across global markets. In Dubai, Ravikant spearheaded Banke’s secondary sales and leasing division, while in Ras Al Khaimah, he successfully guided high-performing teams in both primary and secondary markets. His international background, spanning roles at Eurostar, Saregama India Ltd., iYogi, and Wipro, equips him with both a global perspective and hands-on expertise to steer Banke’s expansion into South Africa.
“Launching in Johannesburg is about more than opening a new office; it’s about creating accessibility,” added Ravikant Sharma, [title to be confirmed]. South African clients want trusted guidance in navigating both domestic and international property investments. By being here, we can meet them on their terms, offer localized insights, and connect them directly to opportunities across the UAE and other global markets.”
The expansion comes against the backdrop of deepening UAE–South Africa economic ties. Between 2014 and 2024, UAE companies invested in 28 FDI projects in South Africa, worth an estimated $23.6 billion4. South Africa itself recorded FDI inflows of $661 million in Q1 2025, underscoring renewed investor confidence5.
منذ يومين . News