Assistant General Manager for Justice Affairs Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs

Said Salam al Amri is a senior legal professional with extensive experience in legal and judicial affairs, holding key leadership roles within Oman’s justice sector.

He currently serves as Chair of the Committee for Training and Qualification of Lawyers at the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, where he leads national initiatives aimed at developing legal talent, strengthening professional frameworks, and elevating standards of legal practice.

Previously, he worked as a Legal Researcher in the office responsible for judicial affairs at the Minister of Justice’s Office, undertaking sensitive judicial responsibilities, coordinating closely with members of the judiciary, and contributing to the administration of examinations for judicial appointments.

He is also a certified arbitrator, holding professional qualifications in arbitration, and has participated in the review and resolution of disputes in accordance with established legal frameworks.

He is recognized for his strong institutional leadership, effective professional communication, policy drafting expertise, and his contributions to advancing judicial systems and strengthening professional governance.

Chief Innovation Officer & Strategy Director at Ministry of Justice – UAE.

Dr. Abdalla Sulaiman Alhammadi is the Director of Strategy and Future, as well as the Chief Innovation Officer at the Ministry of Justice. He leads strategic planning, innovation initiatives, and performance enhancement programs within the public sector...

Founder & CEO of HAQQ Legal AI

Antoine Kanaan is the Founder and CEO of HAQQ Legal AI, the fastest growing legal technology platform operating at scale with 5,000+ active firms, 18,500+ monthly active users, and adoption across 80+ countries.

HAQQ Legal AI standardizes and accelerates legal work end-to-end: drafting, review, research, strategy, matter execution, document production, approvals, time capture, billing, and repeatable workflows. The platform is used by law firms and deployed for broader legal ecosystems, including bar associations and public-sector legal institutions, where confidentiality, governance, and auditability are non-negotiable.

Antoine is also a TEDx speaker, a Lecturer of Legal AI at the Dubai Legal Affairs Department, an evaluator with the International Criminal Court / International Bar Association, and a published author. Previously, he held office as an elected board member of the Emirates Legal Network, and the Editor in Chief of the Lebanon Law Review.

Senior Legal Researcher at the Supreme Judicial Council and Visiting Professor of Public Law at the Supreme Judicial Council

Dr. Mohammed Abdallah Said Al Jahwari is a Senior Legal Researcher at the Supreme Judicial Council of the Sultanate of Oman and a Visiting Professor of Public Law at colleges of law and legal studies.

He brings over 24 years of legal and administrative experience, with extensive expertise in constitutional law, administrative law, judicial systems, and public administration.

Dr. Al Jahwari holds a PhD in Public Law (Administrative and Constitutional Law) from Alexandria University, Faculty of Law, awarded with an Excellent grade.

His academic career includes serving as Visiting Professor at the Arab Open University – Oman since 2023, Visiting Assistant Professor at A’Sharqiyah University (2022–2023), and Visiting Assistant Professor at Sohar University. He has also lectured judicial trainees at the Higher Judicial Institute in Nizwa and trained court staff on case management systems and judicial procedures.

Dr. Al Jahwari has authored more than 19 peer-reviewed legal research papers covering areas such as Artificial Intelligence in Judicial Work, Electronic Litigation, Algorithmic Transparency, Constitutional Guarantees, Environmental Legislation, Digital Rights, Consumer Protection, Criminal Policy, and the Legal Implications of Generative AI in Public Administration.

His publications appear in leading legal journals across Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Kuwait, Morocco, and other jurisdictions, with several works currently under publication.

He has also authored multiple legal books, including works on constitutional guarantees, governance in the Omani Basic Law, compulsory execution procedures, judicial enforcement, and evidence law.

Dr. Al Jahwari is an Accredited Commercial Arbitrator at the Muscat Court of Appeal, a member of the Oman Vision 2040 Taskforce at the Supreme Judicial Council, and Head of the Scientific Committee for the AI in Judicial Work Conference.

He has actively participated in international conferences across Oman, Jordan, Algeria, Morocco, Kuwait, Malaysia, Turkey, UAE, Palestine, and Lebanon, addressing topics related to AI, judicial reform, legislative development, anti-corruption, and sustainable development aligned with Oman Vision 2040.

Vice Chairman, Oman Lawyers Association

Khalifa bin Marhoon Al-Rahbi is one of the prominent lawyers in the Sultanate of Oman, with extensive experience in litigation and legal advisory services, particularly in criminal and commercial cases, family business governance, and arbitration.

He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Oman Lawyers Association and previously held the position of Secretary General of the Association, contributing significantly to the development of its professional and institutional work.

Between 2016 and 2021, he served as a Visiting Faculty Member at Sultan Qaboos University, supporting the development of national legal talent and contributing to legal education.

He leads a reputable legal office in Oman, recognized among leading firms providing litigation and legal consulting services. The firm has achieved notable success in commercial, investment, criminal, and arbitration matters.

He is widely respected for balancing professional firmness with a measured perspective, maintaining the highest standards of integrity and competence, and earning strong trust among clients and legal peers.

Founder & Chief Legal Officer of HAQQ Legal AI

As the Founder and Chief Legal Officer of HAQQ and Managing Partner of Kabalan&Kabalan Attorneys, I bring over 9 years of extensive experience as a Corporate lawyer to the forefront of my endeavors. My journey in the legal realm has been marked by a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence, aimed at reshaping the legal landscape.

At HAQQ, I have harnessed my legal expertise to pioneer a platform that not only connects legal professionals with clients but also revolutionizes how legal services are accessed and delivered. This venture underscores my dedication to leveraging technology to drive efficiency and accessibility within the legal industry.

Complementing my practical experience, I hold a master's degree in domestic and international business law. Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in financial markets, with a specialization in alternative financing, I am deeply entrenched in the intricacies of modern financial systems. My expertise extends to shadow banking, where I have cultivated a profound understanding of its dynamics.

Moreover, my proficiency in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) stands as a cornerstone of my legal acumen. With hands-on experience in both judicial and amicable approaches, I navigate complex legal landscapes with finesse, ensuring swift and equitable resolutions for my clients.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I am committed to nurturing the next generation of legal minds. As a faculty member at the Islamic University, I impart my knowledge and expertise to aspiring lawyers, instilling in them the values of integrity and justice that define my practice.

Furthermore, my involvement in various committees at the BBA reflects my dedication to advancing the interests of the legal profession. By staying abreast of the latest developments and advocating for industry advancements, I strive to foster a conducive environment for legal innovation and growth.

Driven by a profound sense of purpose, I am passionate about utilizing my legal prowess to effect positive change in society. My overarching goal remains anchored in ensuring equitable access to justice and empowering individuals to navigate legal complexities with confidence and ease.

Director of the Office of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior

Mr. Talal Al-Saadi currently serves as the Director of the Office of the Undersecretary at the Ministry of Interior in the Sultanate of Oman. With a strong interest in government organization and governance, he is deeply committed to the practical implementation of modern administrative frameworks to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and effectiveness in governmental workflows.

He has played a key role in driving government digital transformation initiatives and has successfully overseen the automation of all citizen-facing services within his scope. His passion for modern leadership and management practices is reflected in his continuous efforts to apply innovative approaches across public sector operations.

With over 20 years of experience at the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Al-Saadi has contributed significantly to the modernization of legal frameworks, particularly in updating legislation related to Shura Council and municipal council elections. His work supported the alignment of electoral laws with modern technologies and digital voting processes.

He is an active member of the Ministry’s digital transformation team and has chaired major electoral committees, including those overseeing Shura Council and municipal elections, as well as serving on the Board of Directors of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. His experience includes the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, for voter verification and data analysis during election processes.

Additionally, Mr. Al-Saadi has extensive expertise in legislative drafting and international legal cooperation. He has served on national technical committees studying United Nations conventions related to anti-corruption, organized crime, and cybercrime, and participated in expert meetings at the UN headquarters in Vienna and The Hague. His legal and leadership journey also includes serving as a member of the disciplinary committee and later Chairman of the Appeals Committee of the Oman Football Association until 2022.

Chief Legal Officer at Khimji Ramdas LLC

Ali Said Al Kalbani is the Chief Legal Officer and Board Secretary of Khimji Ramdas Group in Oman, bringing over 15 years of extensive experience in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic legal leadership.

Throughout his career, Ali has played a pivotal role in advising senior leadership and boards on complex legal and regulatory matters, strengthening governance frameworks, and ensuring compliance across diverse business sectors.

He is currently a PhD candidate in Law at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia. His academic research focuses on Public–Private Partnership (PPP) frameworks, investor protection, and comparative governance models, reflecting his deep interest in aligning legal structures with sustainable economic development.

Senior Advisor to his Highness The Governor of Dhofar - Transformational Leader

Dr. Saud Al Farsi is a Senior Advisor to His Highness the Governor of Dhofar and a nationally recognized transformational leader with more than 23 years of high-impact experience across legal, governmental, and strategic domains.

He is widely regarded as an architect of institutional change, having led major transformation initiatives, shaped public policy, and orchestrated cross-sector reforms at the national level.

Dr. Al Farsi has advised top leadership including ministers, governors, and international stakeholders, bringing a rare blend of legal acumen, strategic foresight, and diplomatic skill to complex governance and reform agendas.

His expertise spans institutional governance, economic and legal reform, international compliance, strategic communication, and sustainable development.

With a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex negotiations across borders, Dr. Al Farsi is widely trusted in national development efforts and high-level decision-making processes.

He is frequently engaged as a keynote speaker, senior advisor, and task force leader in critical government initiatives and cross-border strategic programs.

Barrister at Legora

Jonathan Williams is a barrister and former Crown Prosecutor with extensive international legal experience across litigation, arbitration, and legal operations.

After practising for several years in London, he relocated to Paris, where he specialised in international arbitration. He worked with leading French law firms on high-value strategic disputes in the defence and energy sectors, representing multiple African states as well as major international energy companies.

As legal technology advanced, Jonathan became an early advisor to law firms and in-house legal teams on legal operations and technology adoption, positioning himself at the intersection of law, strategy, and innovation.

He was among the first lawyers to join Legora, contributing to the evolution of modern legal operations and technology-driven legal service delivery.

Jonathan works extensively across the United States, French-speaking Europe and Africa, and the Middle East, supporting legal teams in navigating complex disputes, operational transformation, and technology-enabled legal practice.

Chief Corporate Officer at Oman Reinsurance Company SAOG (Oman Re)

Khalid Al Balushi is the Chief Corporate Officer at Oman Reinsurance Company SAOG (Oman Re). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Sultan Qaboos University and a Master’s degree in International Commercial Law from Bournemouth University, UK. With over a decade of experience in Oman’s insurance sector, Khalid has held key roles as a Legal Adviser and Compliance Officer.

He has successfully completed the QFC Rules and Regulations certification from the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, and the International Advanced Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering from the International Compliance Association. He is currently pursuing the Professional Award for Specialist Insurance Practitioner from the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance.

Head of Data Management at the Central Bank of Oman

Dr. Jihad Rashid Al Wahshi is the Head of Data Management at the Central Bank of Oman. He has a working experience of about 14 years in the banking industry with specific focus on data governance and data science. He also has a master's degree in data science from the University of Sheffield in the UK. He was recently awarded a PhD in Information Governance from the University of Sheffield. His interests include information governance, data management, data science, big data analytics, and business intelligence.

AGM – Chief Compliance Officer at Alizz Islamic Bank

Mr. Ibrahim Abdullah Al Maamari is the AGM – Chief Compliance Officer of Alizz Islamic Bank and a seasoned professional with more than 24 years of experience in the banking and financial sector. He is widely recognised for his strong leadership capabilities and his expertise in compliance, regulatory frameworks, and anti-money laundering strategies.

Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Al Maamari has held leadership roles in internal audit, fraud investigation, financial crime prevention, legal advisory, and compliance management. He is a recognised thought leader and has spoken at several international forums on financial crime and economic challenges.

Prior to joining Alizz Islamic Bank, he held senior leadership positions at Ahli Bank and the National Bank of Oman, where he led compliance frameworks, legal affairs, and internal audit strategies.

Mr. Al Maamari holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree from Sultan Qaboos University. He is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) from the Institute of Internal Auditors and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, USA. He has also contributed significantly to the banking industry as a board member of the Oman Banking Association’s Compliance Committee.

Head of Legal Advisory at Bank Dhofar SAOG

Nasser Al Khusaibi is a strategic legal leader and serves as the Head of the Legal Advisory Unit at Bank Dhofar SAOG, one of Oman’s leading financial institutions. He specializes in contracts and provides expert legal guidance across corporate finance, restructuring, digital transformation, sector-specific legislation, alternative dispute resolution, and the advancement of legal technology.

In his role, Nasser leads a cross-functional advisory team, ensuring the delivery of efficient, high-quality legal services that support the bank’s strategic goals. He is recognized for his ability to leverage technology to streamline workflows, enhance decision-making, and modernize legal operations.

Nasser holds an LLB (Hons) from Nottingham Law School and an LLM from Queen Mary University of London. His blend of deep legal expertise and passion for technology-enabled transformation positions him as a forward-thinking leader in the evolving landscape of legal advisory and financial services.

Head of Legal Affairs at Huawei Tech Investment (Oman) LLC

Mohammed Al Zadjali is a legal professional with strong expertise in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and litigation management. He currently serves as the Head of Legal Affairs at Huawei Tech Investment (Oman) LLC, where he plays a key role in supporting organizational compliance and strategic legal decision-making.

He graduated from Sohar University with a Bachelor’s degree in Law and further strengthened his legal proficiency by obtaining the Test of Legal English Skills (TOLES) certification. In addition to his current role, Mohammed serves as a Legal Advisor at Oman Housing Bank, where he contributes to board governance, authority structuring, labor relations, and regulatory compliance.

At Oman Housing Bank, he actively advises internal stakeholders, manages litigation processes, and supports anti-money laundering initiatives, ensuring the protection of institutional interests. Mohammed is known for his collaborative approach, commitment to ethical governance, and dedication to aligning legal strategies with organizational objectives.

Founder & CEO at Melento

Krupesh Bhat is a seasoned tech entrepreneur with extensive experience across telecom, finance, and digital marketing.

An MBA graduate from the University of Maryland, he previously worked with global organizations such as Verizon and NTT Data before founding multiple successful ventures.

His notable startups include LegalDesk.com, India’s most popular DIY legal documentation platform, and HomeWarrantyReviews.com, the largest review-based platform in the U.S. home contracting segment.

As Founder and CEO of Melento (formerly SignDesk), Krupesh leads a bold strategic transformation focused on agentic AI and collaborative intelligence in enterprise workflows.

What began as a mission to digitize paperwork and simplify contracting has evolved into a low-code Collaborative Intelligence Platform (CIP), combining AI-driven agents with human judgment to accelerate decisions, reduce friction, and drive measurable business outcomes.

With over a decade of deep engagement in enterprise documentation and compliance, Krupesh’s vision is to embed collaborative intelligence at the core of enterprise operations, positioning Melento at the forefront of practical and responsible AI adoption in regulated industries.

Strategy and Transformation Expert

Ms. Mona Al-Shanfari is a Senior Manager for Strategy & Transformation at the National Bank of Oman, bringing extensive experience from both local and international banking institutions. She is a strategically result-driven professional with a strong track record in driving organizational transformation and strategic initiatives.

Her expertise spans Compliance, Risk Management, and Strategy & Transformation, supported by strong analytical capabilities and a structured, data-driven approach to decision-making. She is highly skilled in stakeholder management, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.

Mona is known for her ability to work effectively across diverse cultures and nationalities, fostering collaboration in complex, multicultural environments. Her communication skills and strategic mindset enable her to bridge business objectives with execution excellence.

She holds an Executive MBA from INSEAD, France, further strengthening her global perspective and leadership capabilities in navigating change within the financial services sector.

Chief Legal & Governance Officer, Sohar International Bank

Mr. Elsamawal Idris serves as the Chief Legal & Governance Officer at Sohar International Bank and is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished legal professionals in Oman’s banking sector. He brings deep expertise in banking law, corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and complex financial transactions.

Recognized by The Legal 500 as “a very articulate and knowledgeable lawyer,” Elsamawal stands out for his exceptional understanding of Oman’s banking system. He has consistently demonstrated excellence in handling major transactions, high-value disputes, and sensitive regulatory matters.

Beyond transactional and advisory work, he has led wide-reaching initiatives aimed at strengthening governance frameworks, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing overall performance within the legal function. His leadership has played a critical role in aligning legal strategy with business objectives in a highly regulated environment.

Elsamawal is known for his strategic mindset, clear communication, and ability to navigate complex legal challenges, making him a trusted advisor to senior management and boards within the financial services sector.

Head of Investigation and Legal Advisory, ahlibank

Mr. Ghaith Al Mahruqi is the Head of Investigation and Legal Advisory at ahlibank, bringing a distinguished background in public prosecution and criminal justice into the financial services sector. He previously served as a Senior Public Prosecutor, where he led complex criminal investigations, conducted detailed evidence analysis, and presented high-profile cases.

His experience in managing sensitive investigations and making sound legal judgments has equipped him with a strong analytical mindset and a results-driven approach to problem-solving. He is highly skilled in assessing risk, ensuring legal compliance, and navigating complex regulatory environments.

Transitioning from public service to the business world, Ghaith applies his investigative and legal expertise to address emerging challenges within the banking sector. His work focuses on strengthening internal controls, enhancing legal advisory frameworks, and supporting informed, strategic decision-making at an institutional level.

He is recognized for his professionalism, integrity, and ability to translate legal insight into practical business value, contributing meaningfully to organizational resilience and governance.

Senior Compliance Officer, Rakiza

Bishr Al Balushi is a Senior Compliance Officer at Rakiza, recognized for his strong problem-solving mindset and commitment to continuous learning. He plays a key role in navigating complex regulatory risks and compliance challenges, ensuring effective mitigation strategies and remediation actions across the organization.

Driven by a passion for understanding emerging concepts and their real-world impact, Bishr consistently expands his professional skillset to stay aligned with evolving compliance and governance requirements. His approach combines analytical thinking with practical implementation to support sustainable compliance frameworks.

He holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and Security Studies, which strengthens his ability to analyze complex global and regulatory challenges from a strategic perspective. This academic foundation enhances his contribution to risk assessment, governance, and policy development.

Beyond his professional role, Bishr’s interests include geography, literature, nature, and world cultures, reflecting a deep curiosity and appreciation for diverse perspectives. These interests further enrich his holistic approach to compliance, ethics, and organizational responsibility.

AVP Sales at Provakil

Swapnil Baj is a legal-tech leader driving digital transformation and AI adoption for law firms and corporate legal teams.

As AVP of Sales at Provakil, he works closely with organizations to automate legal workflows, contract management, and secretarial processes, enabling greater efficiency, compliance, and transparency.

With deep expertise at the intersection of law and technology, Swapnil is passionate about building future-ready legal operations through intelligent automation and data-driven innovation.

His work focuses on helping legal professionals simplify complex processes, reduce manual effort, and unlock new levels of productivity using AI-powered platforms.

Swapnil continues to play a key role in shaping the next generation of legal-tech solutions, empowering teams to move faster, smarter, and with greater confidence.

Legal Associate, Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre

Azza Al Harthi is a legal professional at the Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre (OAC), where she supports the administration of institutional arbitration proceedings and contributes to the effective implementation of dispute resolution procedures in line with international standards.

Her work involves close engagement with arbitral tribunals, legal counsel, and key stakeholders in the management of complex cases, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and procedural integrity throughout the arbitration process.

In addition to case administration, Azza is actively involved in governance-related initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and the coordination of professional and capacity-building programmes aimed at strengthening institutional excellence.

She has a strong interest in the role of technology in modernising legal processes, enhancing institutional efficiency, and supporting the evolution of dispute resolution mechanisms. Azza regularly contributes to discussions on legal innovation, technology-enabled dispute resolution, and the future of legal services.

Head of Legal, MB Holding Company (Mohammed Al Barwani Group)

With over 22 years of legal experience, Afrah Al Busaidi currently serves as Head of Legal at MB Group and Petrogas E&P, where she plays a key role in shaping and managing legal frameworks aligned with organizational objectives.

Her responsibilities include providing strategic legal counsel on complex matters, ensuring regulatory compliance, and proactively mitigating legal and commercial risks. She supports senior leadership in navigating evolving legal landscapes while enabling sustainable business growth.

Previously, Afrah held leadership positions including Legal Advisor at Petrogas E&P Netherlands B.V. and Head of Legal at MB Holding Company LLC. In these roles, she supported diverse business verticals such as Exploration & Production, Petroleum Services, Engineering & Marine Services, Mining, Real Estate Development, Hospitality, Super Yacht Manufacturing, Aviation, and multi-sector investments.

Known for her commitment to integrity, collaboration, and sound governance, Afrah’s professional mission is to empower organizations through robust legal strategies that foster resilience, innovation, and long-term value.

Legal Researcher at the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs

Ekhlas Harib Al-Harrasi is a Legal Researcher at the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, where she contributes to legal research, analysis, and the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks in the Sultanate of Oman.

Her work focuses on supporting evidence-based legal decision-making, reviewing laws and regulations, and ensuring alignment with national legal policies and international best practices.

Through her role, Ekhlas plays an active part in strengthening the legal system by providing research-driven insights that support judicial efficiency, legal clarity, and institutional development.

Group General Counsel, Al Tasnim Enterprises LLC

With over a decade and a half of legal experience, Puneet Parihar specializes in regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and investment transactions. As the Group General Counsel at Al Tasnim Enterprises LLC, he leads the legal and compliance teams to ensure seamless operations while driving the organization’s governance and compliance strategies.

He is deeply committed to fostering ethical practices, resolving disputes effectively, and aligning legal frameworks with broader organizational objectives through a collaborative and business-focused approach.

At Al Tasnim, Puneet oversees critical legal and compliance functions, guiding teams through complex regulatory landscapes while safeguarding business interests. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing robust compliance processes and introducing innovative dispute resolution frameworks.

His expertise in regulatory compliance and corporate governance enables organizations to achieve their strategic goals while upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

The Legal Advisor of Zoomlion Heavy Industry - Oman Subsidiary

Alaa Nizam is a seasoned legal professional based in Muscat, Oman, with over 15 years of experience in corporate law, litigation, and in-house legal leadership. LL.M.-qualified and admitted to the Damascus Bar, he combines deep litigation expertise with strong corporate advisory skills.

Currently serving as Legal Advisor to Zoomlion Heavy Industry’s Oman subsidiary, Alaa leads the review and approval of commercial contracts, manages litigation and debt recovery, coordinates with public authorities and the company’s China headquarters, and oversees legal compliance and internal policies.

Previously, he served as Head of Legal at Horizon, where he directed the legal department, supervised and trained legal staff, advised on day-to-day corporate matters, represented the company before labor and consumer protection authorities, and managed external counsel and complex disputes.

Fluent in Arabic and English, and conversant in French, Alaa is known for his clear legal analysis, pragmatic risk management approach, and effective cross-departmental collaboration.

Training and Business Development Director at Mani International Debt Collection

Bana AlMohammad is a results-driven professional with extensive experience in operations management, quality assurance, business development, and debt collection within the finance and service sectors.

With over a decade of expertise, she currently serves as Operations Manager at Mani International Debt Collection, where she oversees large-scale recovery operations, drives business growth, and ensures strict adherence to industry standards.

Renowned for implementing strategic debt recovery practices that boost efficiency and optimize outcomes, Bana’s leadership combines operational precision with client-focused innovation.

She has also held key quality-focused roles, including Quality Manager and Quality Ambassador at SASO, where she spearheaded initiatives to embed ISO 9001 standards and foster a culture of excellence.

A certified trainer and active member of the Saudi Quality Council, Bana has delivered impactful training programs and led continuous improvement initiatives across organizations.

Her expertise spans QMS, Six Sigma, strategic planning, and business development — positioning her as a trusted leader capable of bridging operational excellence with sustainable business growth.

Founder & CEO at Optima Legal Technology LLC

20+ years of experience in the legal sector, a passionate founder and CEO of Optima Legal Technology, a company with a mission of disrupting the legal practice and access to legal services.

Founder & Managing Partner at Moltazim

Mosab Omar Alhabshi is a GRC and regulatory expert with a proven track record across both the public and private sectors, serving multi-sector industries including finance, entertainment, tourism, culture, manufacturing, and automotive.

He currently serves in the Public Policy and Legislation Advisory at the Ministry of Investment, where he contributes to shaping regulatory frameworks and national-level policy initiatives.

Mosab is also the Founder and Managing Partner of Moltazim, Saudi Arabia’s first home-grown RegTech company, delivering advanced GRC, compliance, and control function solutions across diverse industries.

He holds a degree in Economics, an Executive Degree in Public Policy from Harvard University, and a Senior Leadership Certification from the University of Cambridge.

With over 14 years of experience across both public and private sectors, Mosab is recognized for bridging regulatory excellence with technology-driven innovation.

Co-Founder and CEO of Corporify

Olivier Van Borsel is the Co-Founder and CEO of Corporify, and a former corporate lawyer specializing in corporate law, M&A, private equity, and venture capital (Brussels Bar).

Before founding Corporify, he worked as an analyst at BNP Paribas Fortis and as part of the corporate M&A department at Deloitte Legal, gaining deep exposure to complex legal and financial transactions.

Olivier has also built strong international experience through professional roles in Paris and a two-year assignment in New York.

With over 10 years of experience in legal tech, he is passionate about modernizing corporate governance, compliance, and legal operations through smart, scalable technology.

He holds a Master’s degree in Law from KU Leuven (KUL), an LL.M. in Business Law from the University of Antwerp (UA), and a Master’s degree in Marketing Management from Vlerick Business School.

Partner & Head of the Continental European Legal Services Desk at Hussain Altoubi Law Firm (HATLF)

Thomas Forsch is a German- and French-qualified business lawyer with over 25 years of international experience across private practice and senior in-house roles in Europe, the Levant, and the GCC.

His work focuses on complex, multi-jurisdictional projects and transactions at the intersection of law, business, and regulation, advising organizations operating in highly regulated and evolving environments.

Previously, he served as Vice President, Legal, at Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company P.J.S.C., where he led a large international legal team and advised on major infrastructure projects and sophisticated financing transactions.

Thomas is currently a Partner at Hussain Al-Toubi Law Firm in Muscat, where he heads the Continental European Legal Services Desk, supporting cross-border matters involving civil law and common law systems.

With qualifications in Germany and France and extensive exposure to common law jurisdictions, including Cyprus, he brings a rare ability to bridge different legal frameworks.

His practice spans telecommunications and IT, infrastructure, construction, and energy, with a strong focus on strategic, long-term projects in the GCC.

In parallel with his legal practice, Thomas is engaged in applied interdisciplinary research on legal frameworks, business models, and emerging technologies to support more resilient and successful large-scale projects.

Senior Legal Counsel at Vodafone Oman

Zahraa Al Lawati is a Senior Legal Counsel at Vodafone Oman with over a decade of experience across both the public and private sectors.

Prior to joining Vodafone, she served as a Senior Legal Researcher at the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, where she worked across a broad range of legal functions including contracts, treaties, legislation, and fatwas.

As one of the first employees to join Vodafone Oman, Zahraa played a pivotal role in building the Legal department from the ground up. Working within a lean team of three, she designed and implemented Vodafone’s core legal architecture, developing over 40 contract and legal document templates and negotiating key buy-side and sales-side agreements to support go-to-market activities.

She has since led and advised on several high-profile strategic initiatives, including Vodafone Oman’s long-term partnership with a major MVNO to migrate onto its network.

Zahraa delivers both strategic and tactical legal services in a fast-paced, competitive environment and is recognized for her 0-to-1 mindset in building systems, mentoring teams, and driving operational excellence.

Her expertise spans technology, commercial contracting, and legal operations, enabling her to effectively bridge business objectives with sound legal strategy.

Chief Compliance Officer and MLRO at Standard Chartered Bank

Shamsa Alhadi is the Chief Compliance Officer and Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) at Standard Chartered Bank Oman, with over 15 years of experience across regulatory compliance, anti-money laundering (AML), financial crime, internal audit, and insurance policies and claims.

She has been with Standard Chartered Bank Oman for over seven years and works closely with both international and local regulators to ensure regulatory mandates are fully understood and effectively implemented across the bank.

Her responsibilities include overseeing compliance with regulatory requirements, internal policies and procedures, and codes of conduct and ethics. Fighting financial crime is a core focus of her role through her responsibilities as MLRO and Head of AML.

Shamsa is certified by the International Compliance Association (ICA) in Anti-Money Laundering and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Edinburgh Napier University, alongside an Executive MBA from the University of Strathclyde through the College of Banking and Financial Studies (CBFS).

She has completed numerous leadership and professional training programs across Oman, South Africa, Malaysia, and Dubai.

In recognition of her leadership and impact, Shamsa was selected as Employee of the Year at Standard Chartered Bank Oman in 2019. She is a member of the Country Senior Management Team (CMT) and part of the global Compliance Leadership Team at Standard Chartered Bank.

General Counsel and Board Secretary at Sustainable Development Investment Company SAOC

Jeanette Makhoul serves as the General Counsel and Board Secretary of Sustainable Development Investment Company SAOC (SDIC), the master developer of Oman’s first and largest sustainable city project in the Yiti area.

She brings extensive experience in construction law and FIDIC-based contracts, advising on large-scale, multi-stakeholder developments from project structuring and procurement through execution and dispute avoidance.

Her practice spans complex construction agreements, joint ventures, governance frameworks, and high-value commercial negotiations.

Widely trusted by the Board and senior management, Jeanette is known for her sound judgment, practical legal insight, and ability to translate complex legal and regulatory matters into clear, business-driven decisions.

Under her leadership, the majority of SDIC’s legal, governance, and contractual work is managed in-house, reflecting strong institutional confidence and a well-established legal function.

Senior Legal Counsel (Upstream) at OQ Exploration & Production

Reem Al Rawahi is a Senior Legal Counsel with over nine years of experience in the oil and gas sector, with a focus on upstream operations.

She completed her higher education in Australia, earning two bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Law, providing her with a strong combination of analytical, legal, and practical problem-solving skills.

In her role at OQ Exploration & Production, Reem works closely with operational teams and advises on oil and gas–related contracts, delivering clear and practical legal guidance that enables confident and informed business decisions.

Chief Operating Officer at SADAD International LLC

Mr. Tom Cyriac is the Chief Operating Officer of SADAD International LLC and brings nearly four decades of leadership experience in credit, risk management, and debt collection across India and the GCC region.

Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership roles in some of the most reputable financial institutions, where he developed deep expertise in managing complex credit portfolios, recovery strategies, and large-scale operational frameworks.

At SADAD International LLC, Mr. Cyriac plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization into a globally benchmarked debt collection services provider.

Since SADAD’s establishment in 2023, the company has expanded rapidly with offices in Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, while building a strong international partner network across the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, China, Africa, India, and Pakistan.

With a strong focus on client relationships, operational excellence, and innovative recovery solutions, Mr. Cyriac continues to drive SADAD’s growth and leadership in the credit and collection management industry.

Head of Legal Department at ahlibank

Abdullah Alharthy is a Head of Legal with over 15 years of combined experience across banking, litigation, corporate, labour, and criminal law.

He currently leads legal functions, manages complex disputes, and provides strategic, business-focused legal advice aligned with organizational objectives and regulatory requirements.

Previously, Abdullah worked with the Public Prosecution, where he gained in-depth knowledge of criminal proceedings, enforcement mechanisms, and legal risk assessment. This experience strengthened his ability to handle litigation, regulatory matters, and complex legal challenges effectively.

In addition, he has completed the Etimad Leadership Development Program, enhancing his executive leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities.

He is recognized for sound legal judgment, strong leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure while safeguarding organizational interests and supporting sustainable growth.

Chief Information Security Officer – IT Governance & Security at Bank Nizwa

Amna Al Balushi is a distinguished leader in information security with over 19 years of professional experience across the banking sector, private organizations, and government entities.

Throughout her career, she has held critical roles at multiple organizational levels, enabling her to build a comprehensive and strategic understanding of information security, risk management, and IT governance.

Her notable achievements include leading organizations to obtain the ISO 27001:2015 certification, reflecting her strong expertise in establishing, implementing, and maintaining international information security management standards.

Currently serving as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Bank Nizwa, Oman’s first Islamic bank, Amna plays a pivotal role in advancing cybersecurity maturity, protecting digital assets, and addressing evolving cyber threats.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Caledonian College of Engineering, Oman, and maintains a strong commitment to continuous professional development through globally recognized certifications.

Her credentials include CISSP, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, COBIT 5, ISO 38500 Lead IT Corporate Governance Manager, PMP, and PRINCE2, underscoring her multifaceted expertise in cybersecurity leadership, governance, and strategic management.

CEO, Knowledge Nexus & Consultant at Legalencia

Sophie Best is the CEO of Knowledge Nexus and a Consultant at Legalencia, bringing over 20 years of experience in legal technology consulting, strategy, and legal operations. She specializes in bridging the gap between legal expertise and technological innovation, helping legal teams worldwide adopt technology in meaningful and sustainable ways.

With extensive experience working with leading legal tech corporations, Sophie has developed a deep understanding of not only legal technology tools, but also the people, workflows, and business mindsets required for successful implementation. Her approach combines hands-on industry insight with an educational mindset, ensuring that technology adoption aligns with organizational culture and business objectives.

Sophie focuses on driving technology adoption, stakeholder buy-in, and cross-functional alignment between legal, finance, and other departments. She has supported startups, scale-ups, and established corporates through go-to-market strategies, business development initiatives, and process optimization.

Having spent years within technology companies responsible for selling millions of dollars’ worth of legal tech solutions, Sophie brings invaluable insight into client needs, effective positioning, and engagement strategies that lead to long-term adoption across law firms, banks, and corporate legal teams.

More recently, Sophie has been actively involved in educating students and professionals about technology and AI, with a strong focus on ethical, mindful, and practical use. She is passionate about empowering both the next generation and the educators who guide them, helping them thrive in an increasingly technology-driven legal landscape.