Featured Speakers

Head of Quality Assurance, Sobha Furniture

CEO, SAMANA Developers

Imran Farooq is the CEO of SAMANA Developers, leading innovative real estate and development projects across the UAE with a focus on sustainable and community-driven urban solutions.

Board Member & Partner, Land Sterling
CEO, Horton Interiors

Abdelbasset “Abdul” Betraoui is a seasoned entrepreneur with a strategic vision for the built environment. With over 14 years of expertise, he has established, grown, and transformed businesses that deliver end-to-end solutions across the MENA region. His leadership is centered on innovation, operational excellence, and the ability to anticipate and meet the evolving demands of the industry.

At the core of his entrepreneurial journey is Horton Interiors, where he has redefined the standards of interior fit-out and turnkey solutions, elevating the firm into a market leader known for its quality, efficiency, and design excellence. His strategic approach has driven growth, expanded capabilities, and strengthened Horton Interiors' reputation as a trusted name in the industry.

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Abdul holds a degree in Construction Management from Leeds Beckett University (formerly Leeds Metropolitan University) in West Yorkshire, England.

Nick Roemer
Head of Design, StudioMint

Nick Roemer is an internationally recognized, award-winning interior designer whose career is defined by a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and transformative spatial experiences. With over a decade of global design leadership across the UK, UAE, and Europe, Nick blends environmental responsibility with bold design thinking to shape spaces that are as ecologically intelligent as they are emotionally resonant.

His design philosophy centers around the intersection of well-being, function, and ecological impact, delivering interior environments that reduce environmental harm while maximizing human experience.

Whether designing immersive F&B spaces in the Middle East or retrofitting heritage workplaces in Europe, Nick Roemer remains at the forefront of sustainable interior design—advocating not just for beautiful spaces, but for a more resilient and regenerative built environment.

Esraa Abdellah
Associate, Godwin Austen Johnson, Dubai

Esraa Abdellah, Associate, is an experienced architect with a strong background in interior architecture and design. She holds a Master of Arts in Interior Architecture & Design from Heriot-Watt University and a BSc in Architecture. Since joining Godwin Austen Johnson in 2021, Esraa has brought a wealth of experience, a solid understanding of design principles, and a keen eye for construction techniques.

Esraa is known for her ability to lead projects with confidence, applying both creative and functional solutions. She fosters collaboration and communication across teams, clients, and contractors to ensure successful project execution. Her leadership style encourages a sense of responsibility and ownership within her team, empowering them to meet project objectives efficiently. Having led office fit-out projects, she is well-versed in planning collaboratively, addressing client needs, and maintaining a strong focus on interior architecture.

Driven by a passion for creating meaningful, functional, and visually appealing spaces, Esraa’s ability to manage projects with precision and maintain strong client relationships makes her a valuable asset to the GAJ team.

CEO & Co Founder, Generation 3D

Dominic Wright is the CEO and co-founder of Generation 3D, the first company in the Middle East to specialize in large-scale 3D printing for architecture and interiors. Since founding the company in 2015, Dominic has led its transformation from a tech startup into a regional pioneer—delivering landmark projects for global brands and government developers across the GCC.

Under his leadership, Generation 3D has combined design, robotics, and sustainability to redefine how spaces are built—using plant-based and recycled materials to produce intricate partitions, sculptures, lighting, and custom furnishings. Notable projects include the world’s largest 3D-printed interior ceiling for Sushi Samba Dubai, COP 28 and other world leading projects.

A frequent speaker and advocate for digital fabrication, Dominic shares insights on scaling innovation, circular manufacturing, and the commercial impact of 3D printing in the built environment, along with some tails of what its like being a pioneer of 3D Printing in the Middle East.

Dominic has been a frequent speaker and champion for 3D printing at over 50 events globally. These days Dominic is more selective with the events and speaking opportunities as the G3D group grows.

Co Founder, NYXO

Mirko Daneluzzo is a designer, researcher, and educator whose work explores the intersections of computational design, posthumanism, and bio-integrated strategies for sustainable futures. He is the co-founder of NYXO Visionary Design, a Dubai-based architecture and product design practice known for its multidisciplinary approach and its use of advanced computational methods and additive manufacturing to create end-use artifacts across scales.

Mirko is also a faculty member at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, where he teaches in both the Foundation program and the Product Design concentration. His academic focus includes algorithm-driven design, digital fabrication, and the exploration of objects as autonomous agents—bridging emerging technologies with material experimentation and speculative thinking.

Managing Partner, Design Infinity

With a degree in Architecture from Manipal Institute of Technology, India Geetha has worked with several organizations such as RSP, VKT Associates, Interspace Interiors where she drove several interior projects. The quick turnaround time for interior projects fascinated her to pursue interiors.

Geetha along with Pratap Mendonca founded Design Infinity in 2012.

Design Infinity is UAE’s leading design and build company based in Dubai. Established in 2012, Design Infinity provides a complete range of high-end interior services and turnkey solutions for commercial offices, spanning diverse sectors. With its corporate headquarters in Dubai and the regional offices in Abu Dhabi, Design Infinity is owned and operated by a highly experienced team of interiors specialists.

The company, comprising over 1000 team, specializes in large- scale fit-out and design projects across the UAE, with an excellent track record of completing them on time and to a high standard. The company own and operates a large joinery factory that covers more than 100,000 square feet, along with separate divisions for wood, glass and metal works.

Founder and Design Director, Light Fusion

Regina Santos, Founder & Design Director of Light Fusion, is an internationally recognized professional in the field of lighting design. As a Member of the Society of Light and Lighting (MSLL) and a Member of the Illuminating Engineering Society (MIES), she has honed her craft over 15 years in Dubai, delivering numerous distinguished lighting design projects in the Middle East region. Her expertise has been acknowledged through speaking engagements at multiple conferences and panel discussions, and she is also an author of lighting articles.

CEO, Colab Cloud Tech

Connecting design, media, and immersive technology through curated global experiences.

As the CEO of Colab Cloud Tech Ltd., Ritika Kothari leads the charge in integrating AI, AR, VR, and other cutting-edge technologies to create immersive experiences for global brands. From virtual showrooms to interactive digital solutions for real estate, luxury retail, and more, her focus is on redefining how businesses engage with their customers by creating experiences that drive higher ROI.

At Pinboard Media, Ritika helps luxury brands and innovative businesses craft compelling narratives through content, branding, events, and strategic collaborations. With a presence across Dubai, Mumbai, and New York, her team bridges creativity with impactful business launches and increased global visibility.

She is also the curator of Luxeverse, an immersive design conclave that explores the intersection of technology, design, and innovation. The event shines a global spotlight on hybrid experiences and excellence in the exhibition space.

When she’s not leading her ventures, Ritika hosts two podcasts—The Pod and Beyond Borders—where she engages in meaningful conversations with global leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are pushing boundaries in their industries.

Founder, ANID Turnkey Projects
Co-Founder, Build Mode Building Contracting SOC LLC

Murtaza Asgar Balasinourwala is the Founder of ANID Turnkey Projects and Co-Founder of Buildmode Interiors FZC LLC. A passionate interior designer, sustainabilist, and industry mentor, he is widely recognized for his expertise in interior fit-out and joinery. Known as the "wood doctor," Murtaza specializes in repurposing discarded wood into artistic and sustainable solutions, earning recognition from Dubai Municipality for his innovations from waste. Beyond his business ventures, he is committed to mentoring, training, and upskilling professionals, creating meaningful social and environmental impact.

CEO, Subaiha Furniture

Amjath Marolly is a seasoned professional with a decade of experience in the furniture industry, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Al Subaiha Furniture. Under his leadership, Al Subaiha has become the leading furniture manufacturer in the UAE, expanding successfully across the Middle East and Africa. Amjath holds a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Anna University, Chennai, and his strategic vision has driven Al Subaiha Furniture to sustained success and prominence.

Outside of work, Amjath resides in Sharjah, UAE, with his wife and son. He enjoys playing golf at the Sharjah Golf Club and maintains an active lifestyle as a fitness enthusiast. Additionally, Amjath actively engages in business development initiatives across various organizations in the UAE and serves as a prominent ambassador for the Al Subaiha brand on social media, enhancing its digital presence and reputation.

Design Director, Design Infinity

Laurika Muller is the Design Director at Design Infinity and an accomplished Interior Architect with extensive experience in leading design and strategy across South Africa and the UAE. As a panelist at the FURTECH Exhibition in Dubai, she will share her insights on “The Green Revolution in Interior Design – Shaping UAE’s Sustainable Interiors.”

Passionate about sustainable design, emerging technologies, and evolving business trends, Laurika brings a future-focused perspective to every project. Her expertise spans a wide range of sectors—including corporate workplaces, retail, F&B, commercial, and residential—where she integrates interior architecture into active construction environments. Her distinctive conceptual approach consistently earns her the opportunity to collaborate with new clients and deliver innovative, functional, and sustainable spaces. Laurika firmly believes that exceptional client relationship management is at the heart of every successful project..

Vice President, Association of Furniture Manufacturers & Traders

With over 30 years of expertise, I have played pivotal role in advancing the modular furniture and laminates industry. My leadership, coupled with a dedication to personal growth and community service, defines his journey of success.

Associate Design Director, Nulty +

Faysal is an Associate Design Director at Nulty and has amassed extensive experience as a lighting designer, designing projects across the Middle East and North Africa. After earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Beirut, he spent 18 years with leading lighting consultancies in the UAE, delivering schemes for high-profile projects including the Rosemont Hotel & Residences, Taj Hotel & Resort on Palm Jumeirah, and Etihad Museum in Dubai, as well as Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi and Al Jawharah Tower in Jeddah.

A natural leader with exceptional project management skills, Faysal is highly detail-oriented and applies his meticulous approach to every stage of a project. In his role as Associate Design Director at Nulty, he oversees a large portfolio of project, ensuring that every scheme meets the practice’s high standards while pushing creative boundaries to elevate the final design.

Senior Sales Manager, Samana Developers

Arwa Nahhas is a Senior Sales Manager at Samana Developers in Dubai, bringing a unique blend of creativity and strategic expertise to the real estate market. A fine art graduate from King Abdullah University in Jeddah, Arwa has a keen eye for design and aesthetics, which she previously honed as an interior design expert.

With over six years of experience in the real estate industry, Arwa began her journey as a real estate professional and mortgage advisor in Canada. Now based in Dubai, this Syrian Canadian excels at connecting clients with properties that not only serve as sound investments but also enhance their lifestyle. Her background allows her to see the hidden potential in every space and guide clients toward opportunities that truly align with their vision.

Principal of Light Directions MENA, HBA Light Directions

Courtney Mark is a lighting designer whose career has been dedicated to transforming the way hospitality is experienced through light. In a recent move, she has taken on the senior leadership role of Principal of Light Directions MENA, based in HBA’s Dubai offices, where she is redefining the future of hospitality lighting across the region and beyond.

For Courtney, light is more than a technical element—it is the invisible architecture of experience. She believes the true measure of hospitality lies in the atmospheres it creates: the soft welcome of a hotel arrival, the intimacy of dining, the serenity of a spa, or the theatrical presence of a façade that becomes a city’s landmark. Her work transforms these moments into emotional journeys, using light as a medium of storytelling, memory, and connection.

With 25+ years of international experience, Courtney has delivered award-winning projects across the United States, India, Hong Kong, Central America, and the Middle East. Prior to joining Light Directions, she founded STUDIO MARK in Dubai in 2019, where her entrepreneurial spirit forged a reputation for imaginative, adaptive, and high-performing design solutions.

Now, at Light Directions, Courtney leads with vision and passion—pioneering hospitality lighting that elevates spaces into timeless, transformative experiences.

Partner & Commercial Manager, Chelsea Green

Originally from the United States, Jennie has almost 30 years of experience across the US, the Middle East, and Africa as an Ergonomic Specialist, Wellness Consultant, residential and commercial Interior Designer, Trainer, and furniture guru. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the University of North Texas.

Throughout her career, Jennie has been driven to create wellness-focused spaces where individuals can thrive, continually pursuing opportunities to learn and share her knowledge with others.

She spent the first decade of her working life creating beautiful residential spaces where people could make memories, retreat, and recharge. In 2006, Jennie moved to Dubai, where she worked in the commercial furniture sector for leading companies, including MillerKnoll (previously Herman Miller). This was when she discovered the benefits of functional products that promote comfort, increase productivity, and support employees mentally and physically so that when they go home, they can relax and enjoy their time outside of work.

The experience encouraged Jennie to learn more about the science behind holistic, health- positive workspaces that go beyond functional furniture. Consequently, spent 12 months studying to become a WELL Accredited Professional and received her certification in 2019.

Jennie’s passion for beauty, functionality, health, and wellness led her to establish her own company, BeWELL. After collaborating with ChelseaGREEN for several years, she joined as a Partner and Commercial Manager at the start of 2022. Now, Jennie leads the team to develop effective solutions for clients that prioritise employee wellbeing, adding value for their staff and the bottom line. She believes that, above all, today’s workforce wants flexibility. People’s priorities have changed, driven by the aftermath of a pandemic, political unrest, environmental awareness, and technological advances. Different age groups working together expect an environment that values their unique needs and reflects how they wish to work.

In line with her commitment to wellbeing, Jennie sits on the Movement WELL Advisory Board with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). Her dedication to sustainability has evolved and grown over the years, especially living as an expat in a country that has progressed so quickly. With the UAE making enormous strides towards a sustainable future, Jennie believes it is her responsibility to drive change and raise awareness in her personal life and as a member of the construction community.

Group Director BD, Gutmann Middle East

Charles Constantin is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of senior leadership experience, specializing in driving business growth and operational excellence across the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, India, and Central & Southeast Asia markets. With a proven track record of delivering strategic insights and forging partnerships across these diverse regions, Charles is recognized for his ability to lead multicultural teams and engage critical stakeholders in the architecture, design, and engineering sectors.

As the current Group Director of Development at Gutmann, Charles is at the forefront of facilitating cutting-edge facade solutions, working closely with architects, designers, and engineers to deliver world-class building systems that blend aesthetics with performance. His expertise in understanding and supporting the unique needs of these professionals has positioned him as a trusted partner in delivering highly technical, innovative solutions that meet the complex demands of modern architecture.

Charles' academic foundation is as impressive as his professional experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering from the American University of Paris, a Master's degree in International Relations from Boston University, and a Technology Management degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This multidisciplinary background equips him with a rare blend of technical, strategic, and global perspectives that enhance his ability to lead complex projects and develop long-term business strategies.

In addition to his leadership roles, Charles is an accomplished trainer and mentor, specializing in Leadership, Strategy, Sales, Management, and Customer Service. His hands-on experience in guiding teams and individuals to excellence in these areas has made him an influential figure in developing talent and fostering innovation across the organizations he’s led.

Founder & Creative Director, 361 Degree Design Solutions

Priyaa is an Architect Interior Designer, the Founder & Creative Director of 361 Degree design solutions, a Dubai born Interior Design & Build firm. She is 100 most influential entrepreneur in design & art industry by Entreprenuralarabia . She is one of the board of directors for Dubai Interior design business group by Dubai chambers. Collective voice for Dubai interior design industry. She has received Multiple international awards.Architect, Actor & Dancer is what Priyaa describes herself

Acting Director, Baniyas Building Materials Co. LLC

With over 25 years of experience in the building materials sector across the UAE and GCC, Dr. Mohamed has led the company through market shifts, expansion and operational excellence. With deep expertise in wood panels, he has built strong partnerships with suppliers, contractors and furniture manufacturers, aligning supply with evolving industry needs. Recognized for his practical insights and market foresight, he continues to shape strategies that drive growth and resilience, making him a trusted voice in the regional building materials industry.

Partner, Najmi Furniture

Lulua Shabbir Tapya is a Partner at Najmi Furniture, a women-owned and women-led business that has been a trusted name in the UAE since 1975. With nearly five decades of expertise, Najmi Furniture has built a reputation for delivering innovative and high-quality solutions across the hospitality, commercial, and educational sectors.

The company continues to serve restaurants, cafés, hotels, offices, schools, and more—offering everything from contract chairs and tabletops. With exports to over 30 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, Najmi Furniture is recognized as a reliable partner for both local and international projects.

Passionate about empowerment and design, Lulua is proud to carry forward Najmi’s legacy of blending style, durability, and functionality, while championing women in leadership and business.