Speakers
Meet our Keynote Speaker
Dr Nader Ghazal
Chairman, African-Asian Council for AI and Cybersecurity
Dr Ghazal is a globally recognised thought leader in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and higher education strategy, with over 30 years of experience in academia, international policy, and IT consulting. He currently lectures at Khalifa University, focusing on Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership, and serves as an endorsed professional trainer for government workshops in digital transformation (DX), AI, and GenAI chatbot governance. He is also an Advisory Board Member of the Global AI Forum, contributing to global dialogue and strategic direction in the field of AI.
His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in AI from the United States (1991), along with certifications in: AI and Digital Platform Strategies (MIT), Digital Transformation (University of Virginia) and Digital and Online Education (University of New South Wales). Dr Ghazal is a recipient of the Best Scientific Research Award in Technology (Canada) and a respected member of several global advisory bodies, including, The Global AI Forum Advisory Board, The Dubai AI Week Championship Jury (2025) and The Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) University Rankings Committee.
He has served in key leadership roles, including as Advisor to the Lebanese Prime Minister, Minister of Education, and Minister of Administrative Reform, and was the former Mayor of Tripoli, Lebanon. A regular speaker at UN conferences on AI for developing countries, Dr Ghazal also appears frequently on major international media outlets such as Sky News Arabia, BBC, Cairo News, and Sputnik, discussing the evolving role of AI and emerging technologies.
Most recently, Dr Ghazal has been selected by the Dubai Leaders magazine as one of the top Visionary Leaders in AI and innovation across the MENA. He undoubtedly brings a deep understanding of strategy development and policy implementation, making his keynote a must-attend session for anyone invested in the future of AI and education.
