Global Airports Forum—Global Aviation Issues Conference
November 30–December 1, 2026
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
A Partnership with
Main Global Airports Forum Sponsor
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About the Conference
Join us for the Global Aviation Issues Conference—part of the Global Airports Forum—happening in Riyadh on November 30- December 1, 2026. The Forum, organized by Niche Ideas and NCX, connects aviation leaders from around the world. IAAE is supporting the Global Airports Forum with dynamic educational content delivered over the two days of the Forum. Designed to address address the most critical challenges shaping aviation’s future—from security and digital transformation to sustainability, capacity, and global governance. Hosted in Riyadh, the conference offers a unique platform to shape global dialogue, showcase Saudi Arabia’s aviation leadership under Vision 2030, and drive actionable outcomes for the global aviation ecosystem. This Forum serves as a strategic hub for knowledge exchange and cross-sector collaboration.
As part of the Forum, the conference will provide additional exposure for U.S. companies seeking to establish a presence in the Middle East's aviation sector and expand their global reach, and for U.S. airport executives aiming to stay ahead of industry trends. The comprehensive agenda features engaging panels led by industry experts, providing unparalleled insights and networking opportunities.
At the heart of this program is the Saudi Aviation Strategy, backed by a $147 billion investment plan to revolutionize the sector and position the Kingdom as a global leader in connectivity, innovation, and sustainability.
Conference Agenda
Monday, November 30
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Networking Breakfast
9-10 a.m.
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Welcome and Overview
10-10:15 a.m.
Speakers:
Heba Gouda, Vice President, Global Operations, American Associations of Airport Executives
Jorge Hernandez, IAAE Chair, CEO Aerostar Airports
Puerto RicoRaed bin Hassan Al-Idrissi, CEO, MATARAT
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Opening discussion - AI-Driven Transformation of Aviation Systems: Security, Resilience, and the Future of Seamless Operations
10:15 – 10:25
Keynote Speaker
Bob Kwik (invited)
Worldwide Head of Airports and Ground Transportation
Amazon Web Services -
SESSION 1- Strategic Transformation Aviation Through AI
10:25 – 11:10 a.m.
Explore how Artificial Intelligence is driving organizational transformation across the aviation industry, not just technology adoption. Panelists will discuss and deliver case-studies how AI is reshaping master planning, operational decision-making, and organizational strategy, while leveraging tools such as digital twins and autonomous systems. The session will also address governance risks, human oversight, and the balance between AI-driven automation and responsible management, highlighting how airports, airlines, and aviation stakeholders can transform their organizations to be more agile, efficient, and future-ready.
Moderator:
Susan Warner, A.A.E., I.A.P
SWD Strategic Advisory
Strategic Decision-Making, Business Planning & Managing Uncertainty for Global AirportsSpeakers:
Bader Al Aydi
Chairman Aviation Department, PSU
Marcin Marczyk (TBI))
Delivery Director
Addepto
Dr. Jihad Boueri
Vice President, Strategy & Transformation - Middle East & Africa ,
SITA
Majdi Alamri (invite)
Risk Management Director
General Authority of Civil Aviation -
Day 2: Global Strategy, Security & Leadership
11:10 – 11:55 a.m.
Global leaders set the context for aviation in 2027 based on what they experienced in 2026, discuss how they addressed known security risks and future threats, drone threats, facilitate smart borders, sustainability pressure, rapid Middle East growth, and Saudi Arabia’s emerging global aviation leadership. IMO, you could fit your strategic transformation thought into this discussion, particularly as it relates to Saudi Arabia.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers:Jorge Hernandez
CEO, Aerostar Airports, Puerto Rico
Abdullah Al Raimi (TBC)
COO, Madina Airport
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Networking Lunch and Visit with Global Airports Forum Exhibitors
12- 1:15 pm
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SESSION 3- Aviation Cyber Threats - Protecting Critical Infrastructure
1:15 – 2:15 p.m.
As aviation becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, cyber threats pose a growing risk to airports, airlines, and air traffic systems. This session will explore the latest strategies for safeguarding critical aviation infrastructure, from threat detection and incident response to regulatory compliance and collaborative defense. Panelists will share insights on emerging cyber risks, resilience best practices, and real-world case studies to help the industry stay one step ahead in protecting passengers, operations, and reputation.
Moderator:
Jeanne Olivier, A.A.E., IACE's
Past Chair AAAE & Airport Management Advisor
Speakers:
Adnan Alghamdi
VP Advisor of Security Service
GACAHany Bark
Senior Vice President Aviation & Maritime Security, MedAire
Captain Ahmed AlZuhairi (TBC)
VP of Safety, Riyadh AirRashad Karaky (TBI)
Aviation Cybersecurity Officer
ICAO
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SESSION 4 - Passenger and Baggage Screening
2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
This session explores how emerging screening technologies, automation, and risk-based security approaches are transforming passenger and baggage processing. Industry leaders will discuss advancements in imaging systems, AI-enabled screening, operational efficiency, and how airports can enhance security while improving passenger flow and the overall travel experience.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers:
Adrien Robin
Development Manager, Aviation Manager
Airport, Airline Logistics
Saudi Business Travel (SBT)Adrien Cremer (TBI)
Head of Ground Operations,
Air ArabiaNavaid Ahsan (TBI )
Head of Aviation Security Operations
Etihad AirwaysKashif Khalid (TBI)
Regional Director Operations, Safety & Security - Africa &
Middle East
IATAFahad Alabdulsalam (TBI)
Aviation Solutions Director
Riyadh Airports
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Networking Coffee Break
3:15 – 3:45 p.m.
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SESSION 5 - Next-Generation Airport Ecosystems: AAM, Digital (sponsored) -Infrastructure, and Future Connectivity
3:45 – 4:45 p.m.
Airports are evolving into fully connected ecosystems designed to support the next era of aviation. This session will explore how advanced air mobility (AAM), immersive technologies such as the metaverse, smart digital infrastructure, and integrated connectivity are reshaping airport design, operations, and regional transportation networks.
Experts will discuss how airports can prepare for emerging technologies, align infrastructure with future demand, and build flexible, future-ready environments that enhance capacity, efficiency, and passenger movement while supporting long-term growth.
Moderator: TBDSpeakers:
Solomon Wong, CEO, InterVISTAS Consulting, Colorado
Dr. Hazariya Mohammed
Director Faculty, PSU -
Session 6- The Aviation Workforce of Tomorrow: Talent Strategy for a High-Growth Era
4:45 – 5:45 p.m.
As the Middle East and global markets pursue aggressive expansion, the availability of skilled human capital remains the single greatest risk to execution. This session examines the "war for talent" across critical functions—from pilots and ATC to digital architects and sustainability experts. Panelists will explore strategies for attracting Gen Z, nationalizing workforces (localization) effectively, and re-skilling existing teams to thrive alongside the AI and automation technologies discussed earlier in the program.
Moderator:
Maxim Romanenko, ACI & ICAO, IAP
International Airport Professional
Aviation Management ExecutiveSpeakers:
Dr. Bader Al Aydi
Chairman, Aviation Department
Prince Sultan University
Captain Ismael Koshi (TBC)
Saudia AcademyMichelle Treanor
Director, Talent & Development
DAAI Dublin Airport
Andrew Tyler Smith (TBI)
CEO of Red Sea International Airport
Mohamed Abubaker Farea (TBI)
Director, ICAO
Nesreen Kashgari (TBI)
Director, Talent Acquisition and Human Capital Operations
Saudia Technic
Saudi Aviation Academy (Saudia Group) -
Official VIP Dinner
7-9 p.m.
Hosted by General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)/MATARAT Holding
Tuesday, December 1
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Networking Breakfast
9:30-10:30 a.m.
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SESSION 7- Passenger Expectation and Trust, in the Digital Age
10:30-11:30 a.m.
As passengers increasingly rely on digital tools throughout their journeys, trust has become closely linked to data security, transparency, and reliable communication. This session will explore how airports can meet and exceed passenger expectations by delivering seamless, personalized, and accessible experiences, while maintaining operational resilience. Panelists will discuss strategies for leveraging real-time digital communication, social media, and technology-driven solutions to protect reputation, ensure data privacy, and build long-lasting passenger trust in both routine operations and during disruptions.
Sponsored by InterVistas
Moderator:
Speakers:
Steven Derengowski CM, IACE
Director, Innovation, InterVISTAS Consulting, Denver. CoHesham A. Saeed (TBI)
Vice President of Operations, Ports Projects Management and Development (PPMDC)Sadaqat Ali
Vice President of Strategy and innovation
Qatar Airways -
Keynote: The Future of Air Traffic Management: Intelligent Airspace, Advanced Aerospace Systems, and Integrated Operations
11:30 – 11:45 a.m
Speaker:
Eng. Ayman Arab (TBI )
Chairman and CEO
Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation (EHCAAN)
Naif Ali Al-Abri (TBI)
President
Civil Aviation Authority, Oman -
SESSION 8 - Strategic ATM- Transformation (Capacity, Airspace and Operational Planning for Future Aviation Growth)
11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
This session will examine congestion, airspace complexity, slot reform, civil–military coordination, and collaborative decision-making as global and Middle East aviation expands. Panellsts will explore how future traffic growth, including Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), can be integrated into operational planning, addressing efficient capacity management, throughput optimization, and coordination with ANSPs, regulators, and other aviation stakeholders to ensure safe, future-ready airspace.
Moderator:
Speakers:
Ibrahim Al Jabri (TBI)
General Manager, ATM GACA
Anne Kathrine Jensen (TBI )
CEO, Entry Point North
James Young (TBI )
CEO, Airways International
Ismael Koshy (TBC)
Managing Director
Prince Sultan Aviation AcademySaleh Al Zahrani (TBI )
Chief of ATM at SANS
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Networking lunch and visit with GAF Exhibitors
12:45 – 1:45 p.m.
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Session 9: Intelligent Airspace: (AI, Agentic Systems and the Future of ATM
1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
This session explores how artificial intelligence, agentic systems, and advanced automation are transforming Air Traffic Management (ATM). The discussion will focus on emerging operational concepts, decision-support technologies, and the shift toward more autonomous, data-driven airspace systems. Panelists will examine how these innovations can enhance safety, efficiency, and capacity while shaping the future architecture of global air traffic management.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers:
Khalid Atiya (TBI)
CEO, NERASaleh Almotireyt (TBI)
CTO, SANSJohnson Philips TBI )
Head of ANS Projects, GANS
Richard Ellis (TBI)
Director New Airspace Users, NATS
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Session 10- Future Airspace Integration: Interoperability, Cross-Border Coordination & New Airspace Users
2:30- 3:15
This session explores how aviation stakeholders are advancing cross-border airspace coordination and interoperability while integrating drones, eVTOL, and advanced air mobility (AAM). Panelists will discuss key operational, regulatory, and collaboration strategies to enable a safe, efficient, and future-ready airspace ecosystem.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers:
Mohammad Faisal Al Dossari (TBI)
Senior Director – Air Navigation & Aerodromes Air Affairs
GCAAAhmed Alsaabri (TBI )
Director Aviation and Airports Safety
DCAA -
Session 11- Delivering Net-Zero Aviation: Aviation Ecosystem Commitments and the Role of Air Traffic Management
3:15-4 pm
Achieving net-zero aviation requires coordinated action across the aviation ecosystem. This session will explore industry sustainability commitments and highlight the role of Air Traffic Management in reducing emissions through optimized flight operations, improved airspace efficiency, and operational innovation, while maintaining safety and capacity.
Moderator:
Kevin R. Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E.
Chief Commercial Officer | Commercial
San Francisco International AirportSulaiman Almuhaimedi (TBI )
EVP
Aviation Safety & Environmental Sustainability, GACAEssa Almalki (TBI )
Director of Transport Department
Qatar Civil Aviation AuthorityMarc Vettovaglia (TBI )
Chief Air Traffic Control
Sky guide
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Conference Adjournment & Closing Remarks
4 p.m.
Registration Fees & Deadlines
Registration includes admission to the Global Airports Forum exhibition - a $900-1,200 value!
2026 REGISTRATION FEES
If you are not seeing the correct pricing appear for your member type, please contact member.services@aaae.org to complete your registration for this event.
| On/Before September 25, 2026 |
After September 25, 2026 |
|
|---|---|---|
| IAAE/AAAE Member | $850 | $950 |
| Airport Non-Member |
$1050 | $1,100 |
| Corporate Non-Member | $1,200 | $1,300 |
IAAE/AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment and educational services. If you require any special assistance to participate or have special dietary requirements, email aaaemeetings@aaae.org.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, October 30, 2026, are subject to a $125 cancellation processing fee; approved refunds will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds of any kind after this date. Cancellations with outstanding invoices received within two weeks of the start of the conference, will require full payment on the balance due. Refunds will not be provided, and balance dues will not be forgiven for no-shows. Substitutions within the same conference will be accepted without penalties. The difference between member and non-member price will be charged if a non-member replaces a member. Substitutions will be accepted with a written request to AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. The individual substituting for the original registrant is responsible for all financial obligations (balance due; difference in fees due to membership type) associated with that substitution. For all inquiries regarding cancellations, refunds and substitutions, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund or credit.
NOTE: IAAE/AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond IAAE/AAAE and Niche's control. In this event, we will notify all registrants and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
Photo/Video Disclaimer:
By registering for and attending any IAAE and Niche's event, you agree that your image may be used at any time, without further notification, for printed materials, web sites, social media and other marketing purposes.
Hotel & Travel
Hotel Accommodations
All Global Aviation Issues Conference sessions will be held at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center, King Abdullah Rd, King Abdullah Dt., Riyadh 11564.
NOTE: Niche Ideas, LLC, is negotiating reduced group rates for the conference. To book your hotel, please contact Nadeem Mohamed at nadeem@ncubeexpo.com or Mariella Navarro, at mariella@nicheideas.net.
Visa Requirement
Visa Information for Attendees
Attendees from eligible countries can apply for a Saudi eVisa via Official Saudi Tourist Visa website the fastest and easiest way to obtain a visa.
If your country is not eligible for an eVisa, please apply through a Saudi embassy or consulate and include the official conference invitation letter.
We recommend starting the visa application process early to ensure smooth entry for the conference.
Sponsor and Make a Lasting Impression
This conference is designed to provide business executives with an edge in developing meaningful working relationships in the global airport/aviation market. Increase your company's visibility by sponsoring. You will be demonstrating your company's dedication to promoting excellence through education with your target audience.
View the sponsorship brochure for complete details on opportunities.
Don't see an option that meets your needs? Contact Heba Gouda to discuss alternatives.
WHY SPONSOR?
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Share your vision in the high-level conference covering policy, strategy, innovation and investment opportunities.
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Provide expert advice to Saudi and regional leaders looking to transform and grow their national aviation industry.
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Highlight your business to key aviation officials responsible for procuring the latest solutions and innovations for their airports.
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Enhance your brand to an elite audience of global aviation decision makers and influencers.
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Position your business as a supporter of innovation and development in the global aviation sector.
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Promote your commercial activities across the conference's extensive international marketing campaign.
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Host parallel VIP and closed-door networking events for your clients and regional leaders.
Thanks to our Sponsors
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Contact Information
Educational Program & Registration:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Sponsorship & Exhibits:
Holly Ackerman
+1.703.578.2507
