19th
In-person Event
BFSI Vertical Day
- Venue : Kempinski Central Avenue, Dubai | Diamond Ballroom
- 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Starting in:
As the financial sector becomes increasingly digital-first, BFSI Vertical Day offers an exclusive environment to dissect emerging technologies in banking, finance, and insurance. Explore the future of fintech, risk intelligence, blockchain, and customer personalization in a tightly curated 3-hour session.
Who will attend?
CIOs, CTOs, and CDOs from Banks, Insurance Firms & Fintechs
Heads of Risk, Compliance & Digital Banking
Leaders from Central Banks & Regulatory Authorities
Financial Cybersecurity Experts
Why should you attend?
- Understand regional fintech transformation and regulatory trends
- Learn how AI and real-time analytics are redefining banking operations
- Discover solutions for fraud detection, digital ID, and core modernization
- Engage in strategic conversations with 50 top BFSI tech leaders
Speakers 2025
Hussain Al Khalsan
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Zand Bank
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Information Security Engineering, Top Banking Industry
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Information Security Engineering, Top Banking IndustryAhmed Nabil has more than 20 years of experience in the field of Information Security, Technology, System Architecture, Project Management, Cyber Defense, Application Automation, Cloud Architecture, IT management. Ahmed is an industry expert in Information Security and Digital Transformation, public speaker at several international conferences and author of several international published articles and a book on M365 Security technologies co-authored with other fellow MVPs. Ahmed Nabil has a BS Electrical and Control Engineering, MSc in Business Information Technology and Master of Business Administration (MBA). Ahmed is currently the Head of Information Security Engineering and Architecture in a Leading bank, Prior to this Ahmed was the Corporate Chief Information Security Officer, Regional Security Manager and Chief Security Architect in multiple Organizations in Egypt, UAE and Middle East across different segments as Banks, Payment services, utilities, Oil and Gas organizations. Ahmed was awarded the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Award in Enterprise security/Cloud for 12 years in row, In July 2020 Ahmed was awarded the Microsoft Regional Director (RD) award. Ahmed received EGYPT CISO of the Year Award 2018, 2021, 2022, Global CISO forum, finalist in EC-COUNCIL CISO awards 2018. Ahmed was recently selected as a Global Ambassador the Global Council for AI
Waqas Butt
Group Head of ICT & AI, Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC
Waqas Butt
Group Head of ICT & AI, Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSCI am Waqas, 20+ years of global expertise driving AI and Digital Transformation Globally while 8+ years in consultancy and 12+ years in industry building large, shared services IT operations and serving internal enterprise businesses with Digital transformation & AI.
Kiran Kumar
CISO, Alpheya
Kiran Kumar
CISO, AlpheyaKiran is a visionary security leader with a focus on building a strong security culture in the organization. • Strategic cybersecurity and risk executive with close to 20 years of Cyber experience • Demonstrated leadership in building information risk management and governance programs, integrating AI- driven threat intelligence, Zero Trust, and cloud-native security controls. • He strongly supports the business drivers and enables the organization to 'Go to market' strategy. • He manages security posture across the organization by implementing various enterprise technologies • He is the speaker in 25+ global cybersecurity conferences, to name few GISEC, HITB (Hack In The Box), COCOON, Tawaultech, GRC Summit. SCADA summit, Financial cyber security summits, IQPC, e-crime, and ISACA ISAFE conference • He has multiple awards like MESA (Middle East Security Award) twice, and CISO award for implementing best enterprise security program in the region • He has worked in Technology, Retail & Supply Chain, Financial, Consulting, Manufacturing, Oil & gas, Federal, Telecom
Syed Ehsan
CISO & SVP-IT, Amicorp Group
Syed Ehsan
CISO & SVP-IT, Amicorp GroupSyed Ehsan is CISO & SVP-IT with background in IT Infrastructure, Applications, and Information Security at Amicorp Group, Having over 25+ years of Industry experience and implemented tech solutions that support business development and innovation. At Amicorp, my responsibilities include leading Technology Strategy and Planning: developing and implementing a technology strategy that aligns with the company’s goals and objectives. This involves: Information Security and Risk Management: ensuring company data is protected from cyber threats and enforcing policies to mitigate risk. Implementing Digital Transformation: s and strategies to enhance the company's performance and customer engagement.
Mohamed Roushdy
Chief Information Officer, Reem Finance
Mohamed Roushdy
Chief Information Officer, Reem FinanceSeasoned C-level Digital Banking Leader with over 20 years of experience and deep expertise in Banking, Fintech and digital transformation. Successfully launched four banks and financial services institutions from the ground up—including pioneering the industry’s first-ever conversion of a conventional bank to an Islamic bank. Recognized for my mastery of banking technologies and core systems, specialize in applying disruptive technologies across various industries. With a strong foundation in both technology and business, led complex transformation programs for banks with over 2 million customers, consistently delivering measurable results through robust portfolio management, project governance, and change management. I bring a comprehensive understanding of industry trends and strategic foresight, enabling me to navigate complex environments and deliver innovative, future-ready solutions.
Anand Krishnan
Head of Technology, Mercury Payments Services LLC
Anand Krishnan
Head of Technology, Mercury Payments Services LLCAnand Krishnan brings with him wealth of expertise and experience in IT strategy, digital transformation, technology modernization, process automation and ecosystem integration for the banking and financial services sector. He has over 26 years of IT experience spanning product development, software consultancy, and technology delivery. He has a proven track record of delivering large-scale, transformational programs across multiple platforms and geographies for leading banks, with a focus on wealth management, treasury and payment technology. He has facilitated retail and wealth management transformation in banks in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, covering front, middle, and back office functions. He is also adept at re-engineering and optimizing business and operational processes through robotic process automation and impactful analytics. He is a lean and agile practitioner, who fosters positive and effective working relationships with his team, peers, and stakeholders. He is passionate about leveraging technology to drive innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Dr. Haroun Dharsey
CEO, Dharsi.ai
Dr. Haroun Dharsey
CEO, Dharsi.aiDr. Haroun Dharsey is a seasoned banking and technology executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in financial services, banking technology, and operations. He is currently the Founder and Managing Director of Dharsi LLC – FZ, a technology consultancy firm licensed under the Meydan Free Zone, specializing in computer programming, cybersecurity architecture, IT consultancy, and systems design. Previously, Dr. Haroun served as the Chief Information Officer and Head of Operations at Deem Finance, where he spearheaded digital transformation initiatives, reengineered legacy infrastructure, and implemented robust information and cybersecurity frameworks. Before that, he held the position of Senior Vice President and Head of IT at Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), where he led major technology projects and operational integrations, including transitions involving Islamic core banking systems. His academic credentials include a Banking Degree, an MBA in Information Technology, and a Doctorate in Banking. Dr. Haroun’s extensive career includes:
- Being part of the design and implementation team for the South African National Payment System (RTGS)
- Participating in global audits for Citibank across multiple countries
- Leading the conversion of commercial banks to Islamic banks (e.g., Emirates Islamic Bank, Bank of Khartoum)
- Overseeing the launch of international banking subsidiaries (e.g., DIB Pakistan, DIB Kenya, Emirates Bank Saudi)
- Holding executive responsibilities in technology migrations, including the full integration of Noor Bank systems into DIB He has also served as:
- President of the South African Business Council in Dubai
- Chairman of the UAE Banking Technology Industry Forum In 2025, Dr. Haroun founded Dharsi LLC – FZ, offering expert services in:
- Custom software programming
- Cybersecurity architecture and management
- Computer systems planning and integration
- Cyber risk audits and consultancy
- Educational and training system development
Speakers 2024
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Cyber Defense Security Operations, Leading Bank in UAE
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Cyber Defense Security Operations, Leading Bank in UAE
Ahmed Nabil has more than 20 years of experience in the field of Information Security, Technology/Systems, Infrastructure, Project Management, Cyber Defense, Application Automation, Cloud Architecture, IT management and holds several professional certifications from Microsoft, CISCO, ISACA, ISC2, PMI, IAPP, CWNP, PECB, CSA and EC- Council.
Ahmed is an industry expert in Information Security and Digital Transformation, public speaker at several international conferences (Microsoft Ignite the Tour, ITCamp Cluj, CISO Africa Summit, GISEC UAE, Egypt CSCAMP, Cyber in Africa, Arab Security Camp, SAYA, SharePoint Saturdays, CloudWeekend, Credence, Global CISO Forum…..etc.) and author of several international published articles and a book on M365 Security technologies co-authored with other fellow MVPs.
Ahmed Nabil has a BS in Electrical and Control Engineering, MSc in Business Information Technology and Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Uneiza Alvi
Infosec and Threat Assessment Manager, Emirates NBD
Uneiza Alvi
Infosec and Threat Assessment Manager, Emirates NBD
Uneiza Alvi is a seasoned Information Security Manager with over a decade of experience in the cybersecurity field. She holds an Engineering degree from a prestigious university and several industry certifications, including CISSP.
Throughout her career, She has been instrumental in developing and implementing robust security policies and procedures to protect organizational data and systems. She have a proven track record of managing penetration testing engagements, conducting risk assessments, and leading security assessements teams to mitigate threats effectively.
In addition to their technical expertise, She is a strong advocate for cybersecurity awareness and education. She is associated with well known industry leading cybersecurity education and training firms to regularly conduct training sessions and workshops to empower cybersecurity enthusiast with the knowledge and skills needed to safeguard sensitive information.
Outside of work, Uneiza enjoys participating in cybersecurity conferences and contributing to professional forums. Her dedication to the field and commitment to continuous learning make them a respected leader in the information security community.
Sunil Kumar Nair
Chief Information Security Officer, McCoin Virtual Assets
Sunil Kumar Nair
Chief Information Security Officer, McCoin Virtual Assets
Sunil Nair, is a seasoned cybersecurity professional and the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at McCoin Virtual Assets L.L.C., a fintech company at the forefront of blockchain technology. With over a decade of experience in information security, risk management, and compliance, [Your Name] has successfully designed and implemented robust cybersecurity frameworks for fintech platforms and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs).
As a certified professional holding CEH, CISM, MCSE, MCSA, MCP, CCNA, RHCE, and RHCSA credentials, Sunil brings a wealth of technical and strategic expertise. His career highlights include building Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans (BCDR) and developing innovative IT solutions for startups in the UAE.
In addition to his leadership role at McCoin Virtual Assets, Sunil is deeply engaged in the cybersecurity community, staying ahead of emerging threats and cutting-edge technologies. His strong knowledge of blockchain security, combined with an extensive background in ethical hacking and network architecture, makes him/her a valuable voice in the industry.
Sunil is committed to driving security excellence in the fintech space, with a focus on enhancing trust and resilience in digital financial ecosystems.
Shoeb Adhoni
Information Security Manager, Commercial Bank International
Shoeb Adhoni
Information Security Manager, Commercial Bank International
Information Security professional with total of 12 years of experience assisting organisations to solve diverse range of Cyber Security challenges.
Areas of expertise include Information Security Strategy, Risk Assessment, Business Continuity,Vulnerability Management, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, NESA, ADHICS, SWIFT CSP, Project Management, Information Security Training, Identity and Access Management, Cloud Security, Data Classification, Phishing Simulation,Incident Management, SOC, Security audits, IT Compliance reviews, Policies and Procedures.
Anand Krishnan
Head of Technology, Mercury Payments Services LLC
Anand Krishnan
Head of Technology, Mercury Payments Services LLCAnand Krishnan brings with him wealth of expertise and experience in IT strategy, digital transformation, technology modernization, process automation and ecosystem integration for the banking and financial services sector. He has over 26 years of IT experience spanning product development, software consultancy, and technology delivery. He has a proven track record of delivering large-scale, transformational programs across multiple platforms and geographies for leading banks, with a focus on wealth management, treasury and payment technology. He has facilitated retail and wealth management transformation in banks in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, covering front, middle, and back office functions. He is also adept at re-engineering and optimizing business and operational processes through robotic process automation and impactful analytics. He is a lean and agile practitioner, who fosters positive and effective working relationships with his team, peers, and stakeholders. He is passionate about leveraging technology to drive innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Syed Mohammad Ali Naqvi
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) , Raqami Islamic Digital Bank
Syed Mohammad Ali Naqvi
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) , Raqami Islamic Digital Bank
Mr. Syed Mohammad Ali Naqvi is the Chief Technology Officer at Raqami Islamic Digital Bank (RIDBL) reporting to CEO.
Syed Naqvi is a Seasoned Technology Leader with over 21 years of experience in spearheading digital transformations for banks and financial services across the Middle East and Africa. He specializes in digital banking strategy, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and risk management solutions.
Previously working as the General Manager and Regional Head of AI, Data & Insights at WIPRO, Syed managed the Artificial Intelligence and data business across the Middle East, driving innovation through AI and Insights. He collaborated with many banks and other large conglomerates across the Middle East such as Aramco, Sabic, Capital Market Authority (KSA) and Riyad Bank to shape their innovation and adoption of AI.
While working at Al Hilal Bank, Syed launched the first fully digital Shariah-compliant Digital Bank in the UAE. He established a Cloud First Tech Stack comprising of Cloud data lake and applied AI and machine learning across banking processes to enhance customer experiences and regulatory compliance.
Prior to Al Hilal Syed has held management roles At SAS Middle East, Oracle Middle East, Riyad Bank and Teradata.
Syed has been a member of CIO MENA community since 2018 and he has been nominated amongst top 200 CIOs year on year since 2020. He has received various awards for his achievements throughout his career. He is a thought leader in digital banking and advanced analytics, known for delivering transformative initiatives and managing cross-functional teams to enhance systems and processes in financial institutions. He actively speaks on topics related to Digital Banking, Cloud Strategy, Artificial Intelligence, Data & Analytics.
Syed holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems Engineering and certifications in project management and data warehousing. He is also a member of GARP, regional Chapter of CFA Institute UAE.
Jayakumar Mohanachandran
Group CIO | Buzeki Enterprises | Member of Advisory Board | Connor
Jayakumar Mohanachandran
Group CIO | Buzeki Enterprises | Member of Advisory Board | Connor
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayakumarmohanachandran/
Agenda
Registration | Photo Booth Networking
Start the BFSI program with seamless check-in, a branded photo booth moment, and opportunities to connect with industry peers.
Welcome Note from GEC Media Group
Anushree Dixit - Chief Strategy Officer, Global Enterprise Connect
Anushree Dixit
Opening Keynote:
Futureproofing BFSI – The Digital Mandate How banks, insurers, and financial institutions are embracing digital transformation to stay resilient, competitive, and customer-first in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Dr. Haroun Dharsey - CEO, Dharsi.AI
Dr. Haroun Dharsey
Panel Discussion:
AI, Automation & Compliance – Striking the Balance
Leaders unpack how to harness AI and automation while navigating stringent compliance frameworks and safeguarding trust in BFSI operations.
Moderator:
Anand Krishnan -Head of Technology, Mercury Payments Services LLC
Panelist:
Waqas Butt - Group Head Of ICT & AI, Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud - Head of Information Security Engineering, Top Banking Industry
Mohamed Roushdy - Chief Information Officer, Reem Finance
Anand Krishnan
Waqas Butt
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Mohamed Roushdy
Coffee and Networking | Partner Booth Visit
An informal networking session where attendees can enjoy refreshments while connecting with industry peers. Visit partner booths to explore new BFSI solutions, services, and collaborations.
Expert Dialogue
Cyber Resilience in Fintech Ecosystems Exploring strategies to fortify digital payments, cloud-native banking, and fintech platforms against evolving cyber risks.
Moderator:
Arun Shankar - Managing Editor, Head of Growth & Integrated Media/ Global Enterprise Connect
Panelist:
Kiran Kumar - CISO, Alpheya
Hussain AlKhalsan - CISO, Zand Bank
Syed Ehsan Amanulla - CISO & SVP-ITA , Amicorp Group
Arun Shankar
Kiran Kumar
Hussain Al Khalsan
Syed Ehsan
Top BFSI Awards
Join us for the Top BFSI Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements, groundbreaking initiatives, and leadership excellence across the banking, financial services, and insurance industries.
Dinner / Networking & Tech Showcase
Innovation Meets Collaboration An interactive space to connect with peers, explore cutting-edge BFSI solutions, and spark partnerships for the future.
Partners 2025
GOLD PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Partners 2024
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
ORGANIZED BY
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
