19th
In-person Event
Healthcare Vertical Day
- Venue : Kempinski Central Avenue, Dubai | Diamond Ballroom
- 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Starting in:
As the healthcare landscape transforms through technology and patient-centered innovation, the Healthcare Vertical Day gathers digital health leaders, CIOs, and hospital transformation executives to explore AI diagnostics, patient experience tools, data interoperability, cybersecurity, and smart hospital frameworks. This elite forum focuses on enabling intelligent, resilient, and future-ready healthcare ecosystems.
Who will attend?
CIOs and Heads of Digital Health
CMOs, Clinical Informatics Officers & Innovation Leads
Hospital IT Directors and Healthcare Data Scientists
Representatives from Ministries of Health, Private Hospitals, and Public Health Agencies
Why should you attend?
- Gain insights into smart hospitals, AI in clinical decision-making, and remote patient monitoring
- Explore secure data integration, electronic health records, and digital patient engagement platforms
- Connect with top decision-makers across hospitals, government health bodies, and care-tech innovators
- Discover innovations in telehealth, wearable tech, and predictive health analytics
Speakers 2025
Padam Kafle
Head of Operational Technology and Innovation, Aster Hospital
Padam Kafle
Head of Operational Technology and Innovation, Aster HospitalPadam Sundar Kafle is the Head of Operational Technology and Innovation at Aster Hospitals UAE & Oman, where he leads digital transformation across 27%2B facilities. With over 21 years of healthcare technology experience, he has pioneered initiatives in AI, automation, robotics, and superintelligence, driving Aster’s journey toward smart and predictive healthcare. A HIMSS Level 6 achiever and doctoral researcher in Artificial Superintelligence in Healthcare, Padam is dedicated to transforming patient care through innovation, data intelligence, and future-ready digital ecosystems.
Sandip Kumar
CDIO, Kings Collage Hospital, UAE
Sandip Kumar
CDIO, Kings Collage Hospital, UAESandip Kumar - Chief Digital and Information Officer Sandip Kumar serves as Chief Digital and Information Officer at King's College Hospital Dubai, spearheading the implementation of 45%2B AI-driven healthcare innovations. His leadership has revolutionized patient care through ambient AI documentation for 200%2B physicians, intelligent patient journey mapping, AI-enhanced radiology, and advanced breast cancer screening technologies. Sandip's strategic vision combines cutting-edge artificial intelligence with clinical excellence, positioning KCH Dubai as a regional pioneer in healthcare digital transformation while delivering measurable improvements in patient outcomes, physician efficiency, and operational performance.
Deepak Cheraparambil
IT Director, Global Care Hospital
Deepak Cheraparambil
IT Director, Global Care HospitalI'm an IT and cybersecurity leader with over 17 years of experience in designing, securing, and modernizing enterprise IT infrastructure. 13 years working in Healthcare sector where I focused on the healthcare digital transformation without compromise data privacy and data security. Known for my hands-on approach, strong communication skills, and strategic vision, I specialize in delivering business-aligned IT strategies, IT Leadership, GRC & Risk Management, AI & ML Consultancy, Team Leadership & Mentoring, Startup & Enterprise Expertise. My goal is to help organizations stay secure, resilient, and ready for the future.
Sunil Tiwari
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), NAS Neuron Health Services
Sunil Tiwari
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), NAS Neuron Health ServicesDynamic Cyber Security Leader with 24+ years of cross-sector experience shaping and delivering security strategy, governance, and risk management across insurance, media, telecom, banking, and broader financial services. Renowned for bridging technical and business priorities to create resilient organizations and unlock digital transformation. I have led enterprise-wide programs for multinational corporations, blending hands-on execution with executive influence whether designing risk frameworks, orchestrating cyber resilience, or driving compliance with global standards (GDPR, PDPL, SOX, PCI, ISO 27001, NIST, DORA). My approach connects deep technical expertise with business strategy, enabling secure innovation in regulated, high-stakes environments. A trusted advisor to CxOs and boards, I have built and scaled information security and governance functions from the ground up aligning security, technology, and operational goals for sustainable growth. My leadership spans building security operating models, driving regulatory alignment, steering third-party risk, and undertaking complex transformation initiatives.
Srinivasa Narasimhaiah
IT Director, Julphar Gulf Pharmaceutical
Srinivasa Narasimhaiah
IT Director, Julphar Gulf PharmaceuticalSrinivasa is a global IT transformation executive with 20+ years proven experience and resilience in driving transformation in digitalisation, automation, SAP, IT projects, IT governance, IT systems, IT infrastructure, data centres, IT security, IT sourcing, IT offshoring, manufacturing IT and supply chain
Dr. Abrar Abdulnabi
Director of Artificial Intelligence, Saal.ai
Dr. Abrar Abdulnabi
Director of Artificial Intelligence, Saal.aiDr. Abrar Abdulnabi is responsible for building the AI core Technology with Product journey side by side. She is also focused on developing Arabic Native AI and GenAI for many domains and verticals. She is mainly steering the AI and Generative AI Strategy to build, customize and enterprise various Large Language Models (LLMs), Native AI Models development and delivery, finetuning and deployment of various GenAI Multimodal scalable and robust hybrid solutions that are localized for UAE, GCC and Middle East regions. Starting from Research & Development, Strategy, P&L ownership, Ideation, Prototyping, Multidisciplinary Team Management in AI and Software Development, Wireframing, User Journey, Designs, Frontend, Backend, Business Development and positioning different B2C, B2B and B2G Products in market locally and globally. As hands on, Dr. Abrar is expert in AI modeling, experimenting, conducting ablation study, analyzing data in different forms with visualizations, implementing and developing various Machine and Deep Learning DNN solutions tackling many Computer Vision, Speech, Natural Language Processing, Understanding and Generation problems and their interactions. Generative AI and LLMs with various data sources structured and unstructured. Currently her focus is more on English and Arabic languages. 12+ years of experience in research and industry, designing, developing and implementing various state-of-the-art AI engineered production grade solutions in machine and deep learning starting from client requirements brainstorming, idea formation and transforming it into Software as a Service SaaS, customized products, APIs and applications; deploying many Market-ready AI technologies on different levels.
Dr. Shijin Prasad
Group IT Head, Elyzee Healthcare Group (UAE & Saudi)
Dr. Shijin Prasad
Group IT Head, Elyzee Healthcare Group (UAE & Saudi)As a seasoned IT Director with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in leading digital transformation initiatives and driving healthcare IT innovation. Currently serving as the Director of Information Technology at Cure Medical Centers, I leverage my expertise in AI-driven healthcare solutions, cloud computing, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to optimize patient care and enhance operational efficiency. My core skills include cloud migration (AWS), healthcare IT governance, enterprise architecture, and cybersecurity frameworks. I have a proven track record of successfully implementing AI-powered telemedicine platforms, predictive analytics, and Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems, driving cost reductions, improving scalability, and ensuring regulatory compliance (ADHICS, HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001). With a focus on performance optimization, cost control, and regulatory compliance, I have led major projects including cloud migrations, digital twin technology implementations, and cybersecurity enhancements. Recognized for thought leadership in emerging technologies such as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and machine learning, I have advanced transformative technologies to improve patient care and streamline operations. I hold degrees in DBA, MHA, MBA, and B-Tech in Computer Science, alongside certifications including Microsoft Certified: Azure Solution Architect Expert, MCSE, and PRINCE2®. Passionate about innovation, I lead teams to navigate the evolving healthcare IT landscape.
Mahesh Mirchandani
Director, Cumulus Healthcare Solutions
Mahesh Mirchandani
Director, Cumulus Healthcare SolutionsCurrently supporting multiple startups - AlphaHealth , Prana Wellness and consulting via Emica in HealthCare for a regional Government supporting their 2030 vision. In my last full time role as the Group CTO of TruDoc Healthcare, a leading Telehealth provider in the Middle East and Africa, I was responsible and accountable for all technology areas across multiple geographies. I co-led the business expansion to six new markets, including KSA, Kenya, Pakistan, and South Africa, in less than two years. With over 20 years of enterprise IT experience, I specialize in efficiency and growth transformations through innovation and hyper-automation. I have hands-on experience in automating multi-million dollar enterprises using RPA, process automation, AI, and content management. I have also managed large budgets with strong cost control, led complex projects involving enterprise architecture, data migration, and custom application development, and built high-performing IT teams. I am passionate about adding value to organizations by aligning IT with business strategy and customer needs.
Abhinav Shrivastava
AVP-Information Security, NMC Healthcare
Abhinav Shrivastava
AVP-Information Security, NMC HealthcareAs an award-winning Information Security Leader with 15+ years of experience, I specialize in transforming cybersecurity from a compliance necessity into a strategic business enabler. As Associate Vice President – Information Security at NMC Healthcare, I lead cybersecurity strategy across 85+ locations in the UAE, overseeing enterprise-wide security programs and guiding a team of professionals dedicated to protecting critical healthcare operations. I have successfully built and executed enterprise-wide security roadmaps, established NMC’s first cloud-based Security Operations Center, and delivered measurable improvements in risk reduction, compliance, and operational resilience. I have been recognized with multiple accolades, including Excellence in CISO Leadership (2024), CISO50 (2024), and Excellence in Healthcare Cybersecurity Leadership (2025). I bring a proven record of driving transformation at scale. My expertise spans cybersecurity governance, digital risk protection, regulatory compliance (ADHICS, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, SOC 2), risk quantification, and board-level reporting. I am passionate about creating security programs that enable innovation, support digital transformation, and strengthen trust in healthcare services. 🔑 Core Value Proposition: I bridge the gap between technical security controls and business strategy, ensuring cybersecurity investments deliver maximum ROI while enabling organizational growth.
Dr. Junaid Ahmed
Chief Operating Officer (Aster Hospitals, UAE), Aster DM healthcare
Dr. Junaid Ahmed
Chief Operating Officer (Aster Hospitals, UAE), Aster DM healthcareSeasoned healthcare executive and board certified clinician with over 15 years of experience in Healthcare leadership. Carries a rich blend of clinical and managerial expertise to his role as Chief Operating Officer Aster Hospitals UAE, driving operational excellence and profitability across multiple high-performing healthcare units. Recognized for turning around under performing assets, achieving international hospital rankings, and delivering patient-centered smart healthcare solutions. As an expert in healthcare economics and value based care, driven various initiatives in cost effectiveness, lean operating models, and reimbursement models. Guided the company in transitioning from volume-based to value-driven care models. As a part of the M&A committee, involved in asset valuation, strategic planning, financial modeling and transactions. As an entrepreneur for 5 years, designed and implemented innovative healthcare delivery models to bridge access gaps in under served regions. Co-founded ‘Harrison Miller Healthcare Ltd.’ to provided specialist led Emergency and critical care services across rural India and other resource limited regions, thereby reducing mortality and morbidity associated with critical illnesses by at least 30%. Worked with the Indian government to execute a PPP model of healthcare delivery in Lakshadweep Islands, India. Founded a health-tech venture to provide Tele-ICU services, Centralized monitoring systems and curated care protocols. Experienced in greenfield and brownfield healthcare project and commissioning. A passionate advocate for CSR, sustainability, and ESG awareness.
SPEAKERS 2024
Mohamed Slama
Project Director Global Guest Technology & Innovation, Accor
Mohamed Slama
Project Director Global Guest Technology & Innovation, Accor
Overseeing Guest Technology projects, including exploring opportunities for innovation. Responsible for the development, implementation, and management of vendor relationships to ensure operational success and enhance guest satisfaction. Backed by 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
Amila Udana Karunaratne
Director of IT Operations- Hospitality, The First Group
Amila Udana Karunaratne
Director of IT Operations- Hospitality, The First Group
For over two decades, I have been at the forefront of the hospitality industry's technological evolution since 2004. Originating as a digital transformation pioneer in Sri Lanka's hospitality industry, my journey spans across retail, education, and government, showcasing a consistent commitment to innovation and excellence.
With a proven track record in IT project management, solutions delivery, and IT service management, I have orchestrated successful outcomes for complex projects and IT service lifecycles. My expertise extends to hotel pre-openings, ERP systems, CCTV security, cloud technologies, and IT infrastructure, coupled with a nuanced understanding of IT compliance and user/application support.
Currently serving as the Director of IT - Hospitality for The First Group's hospitality portfolio, I lead strategic initiatives that define the future outcomes of the IT department. From crafting new IT strategies to streamlining operations and introducing innovative solutions that elevate our hotel operations and guest experience to managing high-performing teams, I ensure project delivery remains timely and budget-conscious. Collaborating with the corporate IT security team, I conduct risk assessments and oversee project management for pre-openings and ongoing hotel operations across a diverse portfolio of hotels and upcoming projects, including the iconic Ciel Tower, the tallest hotel in the world.
Shanaka Perera
Senior Business IT Manager, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority
Shanaka Perera
Senior Business IT Manager, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority
With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I am a dynamic IT leader focused on driving digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency and elevate the guest experience. Over the past two decades, I have contributed to numerous hotel development projects, bringing a wealth of knowledge in IT systems and infrastructure. I am particularly passionate about IT security, holding CISSP and CISA credentials that highlight my dedication to maintaining top-tier security and compliance standards in the hospitality sector. Throughout my career, I have successfully led complex IT projects, consistently delivering innovative solutions and building strong infrastructure to meet evolving business needs.
Ahmed Shawky
Regional Director of Information Technology | MEA, MILLENNIUM HOTELS AND RESORTS – MEA
Ahmed Shawky
Regional Director of Information Technology | MEA, MILLENNIUM HOTELS AND RESORTS – MEA
With over 20 years of distinguished IT leadership, Ahmed Shawky brings a wealth of experience to the forefront, consistently steering technological advancements within the hospitality sector.
As the Regional Director of IT Strategy Middle East and Africa and Services at Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Shawky champions pivotal technology strategies in alignment with overarching company objectives. At the helm, he orchestrates strategic initiatives to assess, implement, and oversee current and emerging technologies within the dynamic hospitality landscape.
As a collaborative leader, Shawky adeptly coordinates cross-functional teams to optimize operational efficiency and achieve business goals. His expertise spans diverse IT domains, including infrastructure management, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and innovation. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, Shawky drives initiatives to mitigate environmental impact and promote eco-conscious practices within the IT realm.
Leveraging a profound understanding of cloud computing solutions, Shawky optimizes resource allocation and scalability while mitigating infrastructure costs. With a steadfast focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, he thrives on enhancing operational efficiency and fostering innovation. Shawky eagerly anticipates participating in upcoming technology events, poised to share insights and engage in dialogue to further propel the industry’s advancement.
Ahmed Hafez
Corporate Director IT, Jannah Hotels & Resorts
Ahmed Hafez
Corporate Director IT, Jannah Hotels & Resorts
With a bachelor’s in MIS and Masters in Information Technology Management, Ahmad has multiple industry experience as IT Manager for an extensive portfolio across several prominent companies in the UAE including Commodore Group & Emirates Link Maltauro.
He started as IT Manager for Jannah Hotels & Resort since 2018 and promoted as IT Director as of 25 April 2021.
Muhamed Noufel
Cluster IT Manager, Royal Continental Hotels & Suites
Muhamed Noufel
Cluster IT Manager, Royal Continental Hotels & Suites
A value driven and highly competent professional with 15+ years of experience in IT Sector; 10 years of experience in Hospitality Industry; expertise in the entire spectrum of IT infrastructure Management, Network Administration & Operations Management; ability to relate to people at all levels of business and management; Possess valuable insights, keen analysis, and a team approach to implement best practices to achieve business excellence. Currently, functioning as the digital transformation project leader and automation consultant for Royal Continental Hotels & Suites. Also, taking ownership of designing and execution of infrastructure strategies of new properties fertilizing under the same group. I have enough experience to working as the part of Project Management Offices and successfully handover many projects in the region. Being member of many organization and social groups in the technical industry, participated most of the events and award ceremonies which is conducted in the region.
With long years of experience in the industry, especially in hospitality; acquired immense knowledge and applied those ideas in many projects successfully. Some iconic project selected for many Technologically innovated projects by agencies even won many awards in personnel categories as well. Now, focusing on new technologies and innovations in booming markets like Automation, Hybrid data center and cloud computing. Recently done couple of digital transformation projects based on those innovative technologies.
Mahmood Ahmed
Head – IT Operations, Media One Hotel
Mahmood Ahmed
Head – IT Operations, Media One Hotel
I currently serve as the Head of IT Operations at Media One Hotel, where my responsibilities encompass a diverse range of essential tasks. At the core of my role is the continuous advancement of our technological infrastructure. This involves identifying and implementing innovative solutions tailored to enhance the hotel's operations, from streamlining processes to optimizing cost-efficiency. A significant aspect of my role involves staying abreast of emerging technologies and trends, ensuring that Media One Hotel remains at the forefront of innovation within the hospitality industry. This proactive approach not only fosters operational excellence but also enhances the overall guest experience. Moreover, I play a pivotal role in managing vendor relationships, particularly those specializing in IT security. By collaborating with experts in the field, I ensure that our systems are fortified against potential cyber threats, safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the trust of our guests.
In addition to overseeing the integration of new technologies, I am intricately involved in the day-to-day IT operations of the hotel. This includes managing the functionality of our various applications, troubleshooting technical issues, and providing support to staff members across different departments. Furthermore, I take pride in ensuring my team does the seamless execution of events hosted at Media One Hotel. Whether it's a corporate conference or a social gathering, They work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that all technical aspects run smoothly, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience. By carefully analyzing financial data and forecasting future needs, I ensure that our IT expenditures align with the hotel's strategic objectives while maximizing return on investment. Through meticulous budget management, I strive to strike a balance between innovation and cost-effectiveness, identifying opportunities to optimize spending without compromising on the quality of our technology infrastructure or services. This involves negotiating favorable contracts with vendors, implementing cost-saving measures where possible, and continuously seeking opportunities for efficiency improvements. By maintaining a firm grasp on our IT budget, I help drive
Agenda
Registration | Photo Booth Networking
Kick off the Healthcare program with smooth registration, photo booth experience, and networking opportunities with professionals across the health and medical ecosystem.
Welcome Note from GEC Media Group
Akash Deep Singh - Executive Director, Global Enterprise Connect
VIP Keynote Speaker
Dr. Mohammad Alawadhi - Information Technology Director, Ministry of Health and Prevention- MOHAP
Industry Panel
AI in Diagnosis, Patient Experience & Interoperability Challenges
How artificial intelligence is transforming clinical outcomes, streamlining patient journeys, and addressing system integration barriers.
Moderator:
Srinivasa Narasimhaiah - IT Director, Julphar Gulf Pharmaceutical
Panelist:
Padam Kafle - Head of Operational Technology and Innovation, Aster Hospital
Deepak Cheraparambil - Head of IT, Global Care Hospital
Sandip Kumar - CDIO , Kings Collage Hospital, UAE
Sunil Tiwari - CISO , NAS Neuron Health Services
Mahesh Mirchandani - Director , Cumulus Healthcare Solutions
Srinivasa Narasimhaiah
Padam Kafle
Deepak Cheraparambil
Sandip Kumar
Sunil Tiwari
Mahesh Mirchandani
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 healthcare solutions, services, and collaborations.
Fireside Chat
How Doctors and AI are Learning to Co-Exist A candid conversation with tech leaders on trust, ethics, and the evolving role of human judgment in AI-augmented healthcare.
Moderator:
Dr. Abrar Abdulnabi - Director of Artificial Intelligence, Saal.ai
Speaker:
Dr. Junaid Ahmed - Chief Operating Officer , Aster Hospital
Abhinav Kumar - AVP - Information Security, NMC Healthcare
Dr. Abrar Abdulnabi
Dr. Junaid Ahmed
Top Healthcare Awards
A prestigious recognition event celebrating excellence in healthcare. T he awards honour outstanding healthcare professionals, innovative practices, and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to patient care and industry advancement.
Networking Session and Dinner
Connect with Healthcare Innovators An opportunity to meet industry leaders, solution providers, and disruptors driving the healthcare revolution.
Partners 2025
GOLD PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Partners 2024
ORGANIZED BY
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
