Meet the Expert Speakers

Basim K. Ibrahim

Basim K. Ibrahim

Sport Investment Director
Ministry of Investment
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Basim K. Ibrahim is a seasoned investment and business development expert, currently serving as the Sport Investment Director at the Saudi Ministry of Investment since 2017. A passionate advocate for global sports, he leads investment development efforts within Saudi Arabia’s thriving sports sector, playing a key role in advancing Vision 2030’s ambitions for economic diversification and international collaboration.   With over 15 years of experience spanning investment attraction, business development, public relations, technology, education, project management, research & innovation, Basim brings a multidisciplinary perspective to his work. His expertise in foreign direct investment (FDI), financial analysis, and strategic planning has…
Khaled Alrubaian

Khaled Alrubaian

Vice President, Social Advisory
National Center for Privatization & PPP
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Khaled Alrubaian joined NCP in January 2024 as an Executive Vice President for Social Advisory, he has more than 15 years of rounded experience in the financial, private, and government sector. Prior to joining NCP, Khaled has been the Assistant Deputy Minister for Logistics Deputyship at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics where he was in charge of delivering change, development, and transformation of the logistics sector in KSA. Before that, he was a CEO of a family office leading different investments and a Senior Financial Advisor in a government entity. Khaled has also worked as an Investment Director at…
Abdulaziz M. Sabr

Abdulaziz M. Sabr

Venue Activation Director
King Salman Park Foundation

Abdulaziz M. Sabr is a senior operations and activation leader, specializing in multifunctional coordination, and OPEX optimization. With extensive experience across sports, entertainment, hospitality, and F&B, he currently serves at King Salman Park  a large-scale, multi-disciplinary destination hosting a diverse mix of venues and experiences. Known for turning complex operational challenges into seamless visitor experiences, he brings both practical expertise and strategic insight to large-scale public and sports destinations.

Ben Harburg

Ben Harburg

First Foreign Owner of Al-Kholood FC, Chairman
Harburg Group

Ben Harburg is a Founder and Chairman of Novo Capital a global, multi-stage investment firm with over $2b under management. He is the Chairman of Harburg Group, a multi-club ownership group that owns Al Kholood Club of the Saudi Pro League and co-owner of Cádiz Club de Fútbol of LaLiga Hypermotion. He is a board director of various private companies, as well as those of several foundations in the arts, geopolitical and academic arenas.

Maher Darwish

Maher Darwish

Senior Director & Country Lead
adidas Saudi Arabia
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Maher Darwish is a senior leader in the global sports industry with nearly two decades of experience across emerging markets. As Senior Director and Country Lead for adidas Saudi Arabia, he is spearheading the brand’s transformation in one of the world’s fastest-evolving landscapes, focusing on localized growth, consumer connection, and sustainable business models.   With an extensive leadership tenure at adidas, Maher brings deep expertise in large-scale business transformation, retail innovation, and building high-performing teams in complex environments. Now based in Riyadh, he is a vocal advocate for the power of sport to reshape culture and communities, focusing on the…
Rayan Alhuwayrini

Rayan Alhuwayrini

Head of Technology Enablement
Saudi Esports Federation
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Rayan Alhuwayrini is Head of Information Technology at the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), where he leads technology strategy, operations, infrastructure, innovation, and business growth. Since stepping into his current role in 2024, he has been instrumental in the digital transformation of the federation’s internal and external processes, converting all services into streamlined digital platforms.   Rayan was integral to the technological development of SEF Arena, advancing infrastructure to host large-scale events and navigating high-profile operational demands. He has also led the integration of AI-powered systems and smart solutions to optimize operations, enhance decision-making, and deliver advanced, data-driven services that support…
Dr. Ahmed Maghrabi

Dr. Ahmed Maghrabi

Advisor to the Deputy Minister & Director of Engineering Department
Ministry of Municipalities & Housing
Saleh Yousef Alhaggass

Saleh Yousef Alhaggass

IT BRM - Manager
Qiddiya

Saleh is a Business Relationship Management (BRM) Manager at Qiddiya, where I engage leading the strategic alignment between Sports business objectives and enterprise technology. He drives high-impact digital initiatives across sports and entertainment assets, shaping technology strategies, overseeing complex vendor engagements, and ensuring seamless cross-functional collaboration. Recognized for his leadership, structured execution, and stakeholder influence, he plays a key role in delivering scalable, future for Saudi vision 2030.

Francesco Aurelio Bongiorno

Francesco Aurelio Bongiorno

Project Director - Infrastructure & Advanced Facilities
Jacobs
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Francesco Aurelio Bongiorno is an Associate Director – Design Management with more than 30 years of experience spanning sports venue design, hospitality‑led developments, and urban planning. He has played a leading role in the design and delivery of major international sports infrastructure projects, including key contributions to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.   A strong proponent of integrated, end‑to‑end design, Francesco champions the alignment of architectural vision with long‑term operational performance. He holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Rome and has worked extensively across Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Since March 2023, he…
 Michael Smith

Michael Smith

Chief of Sporting & Technical
Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation
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Michael (Mike) is a seasoned motorsport executive with experience in major event delivery, motorsport championship & category management, grassroots motorsport programs and elite driver development programs. Throughout his motorsport career Mike has been involved in the training and development of marshals as an FIA Global Training Expert, a member of the Organising Committee and senior official for the Australian, Korean, Russian, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabian and Vietnam Grands Prix, a Race Director and the Director of the Ferrari Driver Selection Academy, Asia Pacific. More recent roles include the Vice President of the FIA Volunteer & Officials Commission and the…
Fawaz Al Ayban

Fawaz Al Ayban

Head of Procurement
Al Hilal Saudi Club

Fawaz Al Ayban is A seasoned Procurement Manager with a demonstrated history of success across diverse industries. Skilled in Negotiation, Analytical Skills, Risk Management, and Governance. Bringing over 10 years of expertise in procurement practices.

Eng. Meshal Aldeaijy

Eng. Meshal Aldeaijy

Strategic Planning & Execution Advisor

Eng. Meshal Aldeaijy is a strategic leader with extensive experience in crafting and executing business strategies that drive sustainable growth aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.Meshal combines analytical insight with practical leadership to deliver measurable results With experience across both public and private, Known for bridging the gap between vision and operational execution. Meshal has empowered diverse organizations to optimize strategy planning, execution, and achieve long term objectives in competitive market.

John Seed

John Seed

Group Director Strategy & Development
Dar Al Riyadh
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John has 35 years’ experience of providing building and infrastructure advisory services to public and private sector clients across multiple sectors and geographies. He is an expert in project finance, public private partnerships, digitalization, FM & asset management and ESG/sustainability. Originally, a graduate in civil engineering with master’s degrees in both engineering management and business administration. John supports Dar Al Riyadh Group joint ventures and Dar Al Riyadh Consultancy with strategy and growth planning and also leads the Dar Al Riyadh Consultancy Advisory service line. He worked for ERM where he was the Lead Partner for their Northern Europe Mergers…
Sayed Farouk

Sayed Farouk

Director of IT
Saudi Pro League
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Sayed Farouk is a senior Sports Technology Executive with extensive experience leading digital transformation, Technology strategy, and football technology programmes across elite football organisations. He is currently the Director of Information Technology at the Saudi Pro League, where he oversees Technology Solutions and Football Technology.   Previously held technology leadership roles at Manchester United and Arsenal FC, and has supported major sports organisations across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. His experience covers smart stadium technology, competition management systems, Football Analytics Platforms, CRM, Tcketing, League and club systems,  cloud infrastructure and IT service management.    At the Saudi Pro…
Bandar Mohammed

Bandar Mohammed

Program Manager
and Saudi Tennis Professional

Bandar brings a proven track record of delivering high-impact initiatives. With expertise spanning strategic planning, project execution, and collaborative leadership, he plays a key role in driving innovative solutions within the Kingdom's most dynamic organizations. Known for building strong stakeholder relationships across all levels, Bandar leads projects that deliver measurable value, contributing to the growth and transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports landscape.

Alwaleed Alkeaid

Alwaleed Alkeaid

Founder & Director
Saudi Sports Professionals Network

Alwaleed Alkeaid is a sports management and leadership expert with 15+ years in sports innovation, wellness, and strategic planning. Founder of Saudi Sports Professionals Network, he advises sports federations and aligns initiatives with Vision 2030. Recognized by Forbes Middle East and recipient of the Health Award from Saudi Ministry of Health, he regularly speaks at international events on sports leadership.

Mansoor Ahmed

Mansoor Ahmed

Executive Director (MENA Region)
Sports, Leisure, Entertainment, Real Estate, Infrastructure
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Mansoor has over 25 years’ experience in real estate, infrastructure, healthcare, education and PPP in the MENA region including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He has worked for Ernst & Young (EY), Andersen Consultancy, Colliers and presenting working as an Independent Advisor to a vast number of Public and Private Entities, Investors, Developers and Operators. He has conducted many strategic and advisory level projects in sports sector across the MENA region, with a focus on football, golf, equestrian, polo, tennis, cricket and many other outdoor and indoor sports. Mansoor has advised number clients in both public and private sector on…
Haytham Ayoub

Haytham Ayoub

Principal Sustainability Consultant
Cundall

Haytham is a sustainability strategist and net-zero transition expert with a Master’s in Sustainable Engineering and a background in Mechanical Engineering. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in decarbonizing energy systems and scaling clean technologies. Haytham has led multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful solutions for governments, corporations, and educational institutions, focusing on energy efficiency and circular economy design. His research, including the development of award-winning dust-resistant solar capture technology, has been published in peer-reviewed journals. In 2024, Haytham joined Cundall's MENA team to lead sustainability initiatives in Saudi Arabia.

Toufic Mansour

Toufic Mansour

Managing Director
SkyWave Technologies

Toufic Mansour is a business development professional with over 25 years of experience across the Middle East, specializing in technology, security, building, and event industries. He is recognized for driving growth, building strategic partnerships, and delivering innovative solutions tailored to regional market needs. With strong industry knowledge and a focus on operational efficiency and business expansion, Toufic has consistently contributed to enhancing performance and long-term success for organizations across diverse sectors.

 Ivan da Fonseca

Ivan da Fonseca

Chief Technology Officer
Armis Digital Sport

Ivan da Fonseca is CTO at ARMIS Digital Sport, with over 15 years of experience in software architecture and document management systems, including projects with Microsoft and Euronext. He specializes in business-critical platforms that require high availability, scalability and operational resilience, with a strong focus on ticketing, competition management, fan engagement and event operations. He works with organizations such as the Portuguese Football Federation, CAF and Concacaf, delivering robust digital platforms that support the operational needs of modern sports organizations.

Abdurahman Medallah

Abdurahman Medallah

Chief Development Officer

Abdurahman Medallah is a Saudi urban development and placemaking leader with experience across government and master-developer environments. He leads strategy and delivery for large-scale masterplans and landscape-led public realm frameworks, integrating sustainability and ESG, urban design, and stakeholder governance to create long-term value and quality of life aligned with Vision 2030.

Jose Pequeno

Jose Pequeno

Founder and Creative Director
ConceptFusion

José Pequeno, Architect from the Faculty of Architecture of the Technical University of Lisbon (FAUTL, 2000). Postgraduate in Innovation Management from CATOLICA-Lisbon. As part of his Doctoral studies in Civil Engineering, he developed the theme of Innovation in composite timber-glass structural solutions, having been a Researcher at the ISISE Institute for Sustainability and Innovation in Structural Engineering. He holds degrees and further studies from Helsinki University, LNEC and the Confucius Institute of the University of Lisbon.

Ahmed Abas

Ahmed Abas

Head of Sports, Leisure & Entertainment
JLL
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Ahmed is the Head of Sports, Leisure and Entertainment at JLL, based in Riyadh, with more than 14 years of regional experience focused on sports business, social infrastructure, and strategic advisory. Prior to joining JLL, Ahmed served as Director at EY, where he co-led the MENA Sports Practice, and previously held leadership roles at Mott MacDonald and Arthur D. Little. Throughout his career, he has advised leading football clubs and both public and private sector organizations on growth strategies, privatization initiatives, sports facility development, and project financing. Ahmed is also a recognized public speaker and board advisor for several regional…
Thomas B. Staunton

Thomas B. Staunton

Global Sports and Events Specialist
A globally respected leader and representative in the sports, entertainment, mega event and tourism industries, Thomas unlocks return on investment, enabling the highest-level of stakeholders across governments, organizing committees and corporations to dream big and achieve bigger, delivering results and impact at scale.
 
With over 20yrs of experience maximizing value across infrastructure, communities and sports, Thomas has led programs across multiple Olympic and Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, FIFA World Cup's and more.
 
Thomas translates strategies into effective implementation and drives sustainable outcomes by empowering high-performance teams to design, plan and achieve commercial, social and operational objectives.
Claire Dubbelman

Claire Dubbelman

Sporting and Technical Expert
Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation
Claire Dubbelman is a motorsport professional with nearly two decades of experience at the highest levels of the sport.
 
Claire is the first woman ever granted an FIA Super Licence to direct a Formula 1 Grand Prix, having served as FIA Formula 1 Deputy Race Director and Formula One Sporting Manager until December 2025.
 
In 2026, Claire joined the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation in Riyadh to help build motorsport governance and infrastructure in one of the world's fastest-growing sporting nations. Claire speaks on sports development, leadership under pressure, inclusion, and performance culture
Matthew McLean

Matthew McLean

Market Director - Leisure & Entertainment
AtkinsRealis
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Matthew McLean is Market Director for Leisure, Entertainment and Experience Advisory at AtkinsRéalis, with over two decades of experience shaping and delivering complex leisure, hospitality and cultural destinations across Saudi Arabia, the UAE and the wider Middle East.   Working at the intersection of visitor experience, architecture and construction delivery, Matthew brings a practical, delivery‑led perspective to some of the region’s most ambitious projects. His work focuses on ensuring that experience ambitions are buildable, cost‑effective and operationally ready from day one, rather than deferred to future phases.   With deep insight into the scale, speed and complexity of development in…
Mark Docherty

Mark Docherty

Regional Director
OPTIMA Global
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A highly experienced Director with over 28 years in Facility Management and project delivery across the UK and Middle East, Mark specializes in leading complex projects from inception through to operational readiness. He is known for bridging the gap between construction and operations, ensuring seamless transitions and long-term asset performance.   As Director of OPTIMA, he has played a key role in shaping a forward-thinking FM consultancy, integrating technologies such as Digital Twins, IoT, and BIM to enhance outcomes and drive operational efficiency.   Mark brings a well rounded perspective through experience across advisory, design, project and contract management roles.…
Dr. Hamdah Abdullah Alghamdi

Dr. Hamdah Abdullah Alghamdi

Dean - College of Languages
Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University
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Dean of the College of Languages at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. Dr. Hamdah Alghamdi is a strategic academic leader and consultant specializing in Saudi culture, national identity, and sustainable development. With a PhD in Linguistics, her expertise spans discourse analysis, higher education transformation, and cultural localization. She has led major initiatives at PNU that align education with Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while fostering global partnerships with universities and organizations in Asia, Europe, and beyond. Dr. Alghamdi also plays a pivotal role in training women leaders, designing strategic programs that empower female leadership and strengthen industry…
Dr. Himanshu  Jindal

Dr. Himanshu Jindal

Head of Asset Management
Dar Al Riyadh
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Dr. Himanshu Jindal is a senior infrastructure and asset management executive with more than 20 years of experience advising governments, sovereign entities, and major asset owners across Saudi Arabia, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region. He currently serves as Head of Asset Management at Dar Al Riyadh, leading strategic advisory across Vision 2030 giga-projects, public-sector portfolios, transport, utilities, mission-critical infrastructure, and large-scale operational readiness programs.   Recognized for translating complex engineering, operational, and commercial challenges into board-level outcomes, Dr. Jindal has led advisory and transformation initiatives spanning ISO 55001 asset management frameworks, digital transformation, PPP/concession structuring, lifecycle governance, and smart infrastructure…
Alina Adomaitytė

Alina Adomaitytė

FIBA 2027 Ambassador & Vice President
Lithuanian Basketball Federation

An accomplished international executive with over 15 years of leadership experience across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, driving growth, innovation, and strategic partnerships across diverse industries. She is also a passionate advocate for women in sports, serving as Vice President of the Lithuanian Basketball Federation and Ambassador for the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2027, championing inclusivity and excellence in women’s basketball globally.

Eng. Amani Al Moajil

Eng. Amani Al Moajil

Country Director - KSA
Enova
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Amani Al Moajil is the Regional Director for KSA at Enova, where she leads strategic operations, financial performance, and overall business growth across the Kingdom. Since assuming this role in 2021, she has played a pivotal role in driving Enova’s impact in the Saudi market. Overseeing flagship projects such as the Tarshid Energy portfolio, Osool Class A developments, King Khalid International Airport, and Al Ula Airport, Amani combines operational excellence with a strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and innovation.   With over 20 years of cross-sector experience, 10 of which have been in senior leadership, Amani has worked across…
Saeed Basweidan

Saeed Basweidan

General Manager - GCC, Solutions & Services Group
Lenovo
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Saeed Basweidan is a senior technology and business leader with more than 25 years of experience across telecommunications, information technology, cybersecurity, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation. As Director / General Manager of Lenovo’s Solutions & Services Group (SSG) for the GCC region, he leads strategic initiatives focused on AI, Hybrid Cloud, Smart Infrastructure, Digital Workspaces, and next-generation technology solutions across both public and private sectors.   A passionate advocate for education, youth development, and sports innovation, Saeed’s journey began with academic and athletic excellence. He earned a scholarship to attend a top private high school in the United States, followed…
Hassan Yusuf

Hassan Yusuf

Head of Partnerships
Real Madrid Foundation Edu. Football Program, Powered by Riyadh Schools
Ask Hassan Yusuf what he does, and he'll tell you he turns sport into infrastructure. Ask him how, and you'll need a longer coffee. Born in Columbia, Missouri, he carries the Show Me State. At Riyadh Schools, alma mater of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and part of the MISK Foundation, Hassan leads the Real Madrid Foundation Educational Football Program as Head of Partnerships. On his watch: Florentino Pérez's visit, the Saudi Energy Company partnership, Blancos Riyadh in the SAFF leagues, and the Eco-Friendly League, recognized by the World Football Summit for sport and sustainability. Another coffee?
Nicolas Husson

Nicolas Husson

Regional Segment Head (Health Corporate, Performance, Clubs)
Technogym
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Nicolas Husson – Regional Segment Head (Health, Corporate, Performance Clubs) Nicolas Husson is a senior leader in health and performance innovation, currently serving as Segment Head for Health, Corporate, and Performance Clubs at Technogym. With over 17 years of experience at Technogym, Nicolas has played a pivotal role in shaping wellness strategies across healthcare institutions, elite sports organizations, and corporate environments. In his current role, Nicolas leads the development of tailored solutions for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, professional sports teams, and corporate wellness programs. His work is grounded in a deep understanding of both clinical and performance needs, and he is…
Malak Z Alawami

Malak Z Alawami

Sports Management Professional
Juventus Academy KSA
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Malak Al Awami is a sports management professional at the International Sports Company (ISC), the official licensed holder of the Juventus Academy in Saudi Arabia and part of the Shoaibi Group. She plays a key role in shaping sustainable football academy models and impactful sports initiatives across the Kingdom. Her work focuses on operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth, supporting the responsible and inclusive expansion of sports programs. Malak has also contributed to managing youth football academies, delivering international development tours, and launching innovative initiatives such as Superior Striker, which combines elite training with sports tourism. In parallel, she…
David Dybman

David Dybman

Director of Content and Production
Former Saudi Pro League

David Dybman is an international sports-media executive with more than 25 years of experience leading high-performing teams and driving strategic transformation across Europe, the Middle East, Africa. He has held senior roles at Eurosport/Discovery, Lagardère Sports, and the French Football Federation, and most recently served as Director of Content & Production for the Saudi Pro League, where he built and manage the entire content and production department, oversee multi-platform strategy across YouTube, and TikTok.

Sin-Jae Yoo

Sin-Jae Yoo

Principal Architect
Populous

Sin-Jae is a Principal at Populous with over a decade of international experience across major sports, civic and mixed-use projects. Since joining the practice in 2013, she has contributed to high-profile developments from concept through delivery, combining strong design capability with technical expertise and stakeholder coordination. Her work spans Europe and the Middle East, reflecting a versatile approach to different cultural and project contexts. With a background that includes experience in Germany, the UAE, and the UK, Sin-Jae brings a broad understanding of typologies, including sports and entertainment venues, alongside a consistent focus on collaboration, adaptability and design quality.

Rahaf Alharazi

Rahaf Alharazi

CEO and Co-founder
Executive Business School Dx (EBS Dx)

Leading the EBS Dx’s vision and development of globally connected executive learning experiences across innovation and leadership sectors.

Majd Alharazi

Majd Alharazi

Co-Founder & Managing Partner
Executive Business School Dx (EBS Dx)

Focused on executive education, strategic partnerships, and future-ready leadership initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

Adrián Espárraga Jaime

Adrián Espárraga Jaime

Technical Director & Elite Athlete Development Expert

Football executive and Technical Director with experience across elite organizations in the Premier League, La Liga, Ligue 1, and the Saudi Pro League, specializing in athlete development, talent identification, and high-performance football operations.

Sander Troost

Sander Troost

Associate Partner
gmp Architekten

Sander Troost studied at Delft Technical University, at the EPFL in Lausanne, and the University of São Paulo. He started at gmp in Brazil in 2010, working as Project Manager for the stadiums for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. He then moved to Berlin, where he worked on a number of stadiums and other large projects located all over the world. His expertise covers all design phases, and he specializes in integrated design and sustainability.

Maxwell Andrews

Maxwell Andrews

Chairman
Sports, Tourism & Entertainment - AmCham Saudi Arabia

Maxwell Roth Andrews is a senior executive and strategic adviser with over two decades shaping Saudi Arabia’s sports, stadiums, and entertainment landscape. His work spans national sports infrastructure, event strategy, commercial operations, and multi‑site development, advising ministries, giga‑projects, and global partners on investment models and long‑term sector growth. As National Board Member of AmCham Saudi Arabia and Chairman of its Sports, Tourism & Entertainment Committee, he drives cross‑sector collaboration supporting the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving sports economy. Max is recognized for advancing innovation, operational excellence, and international best practice across venue development, major‑event readiness, and sector transformation.

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