CONSTRUCTION IN THE UAE – PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE. POWERED BY ESPA

Organized by the Spanish Business Council and powered by ESPA.

The construction industry in Dubai is thriving!
We are pleased to announce an upcoming high-level seminar exploring the fast-evolving construction landscape in Dubai. This event, set to take place at Dukes The Palm in Dubai with their institutional support, will gather experts from across sectors to reflect on key questions facing the industry today.

DATE  |  Tuesday, 28th October 2025

LOCATION  |  Dukes The Palm, Dubai

AGENDA  | Doors will close at 5:30 pm

• 4:30 – 5:30 pm  Welcome drinks & Networking
• 5:30 – 6:30 pm  Panel discussions – Round table
• 6:30 – 8:30 pm  Canapes & Networking

Discussion will be moderated by Dr. Neelivethil Rajeev from ESPA, a veteran of construction supplies in the Middle East.

Together with ESPA, we’ll address critical issues:

• What role do regulations, finance, and innovation play?
• Past, present and future of the construction sector in a power-packed panel discussion from a cross-section of speakers from the sector: Emirates Family Office Association, Emaar Development PSJC, BILT Middle East (ABM Group), Caixabank and the American University of Sharjah.

🎙️ PANEL DISCUSSION |

1)  HE Dr. Ahmed Al Banna
 Chairman of the Emirates Family Office Association

Dr. Ahmed Albanna is a distinguished Emirati diplomat, business leader, and strategic advisor, currently serving as Chairman of the Emirates Family Office Association. Widely recognized as the driving force behind the UAE-India CEPA initiative, he played a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral trade and economic ties. His diplomatic career includes serving as the UAE Ambassador to India and Dean of Arab Ambassadors, alongside senior leadership roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. With over four decades of experience spanning international relations, trade negotiations, legal reform, and quality management, Dr. Albanna continues to lead multiple ventures in architecture, investment, and construction. He holds a Ph.D. and MBA from Hull University and a dual BS & BA from American University, Washington, D.C.s.

2)  Mr. Mohammed Hussain Al Marzouqi
 Senior Director, Projects and Development, Emaar Development PSJC

He is a seasoned real estate professional with over 25 years of multidisciplinary experience, holding director-level roles across the UK and UAE. His expertise spans entrepreneurial leadership and corporate governance in diverse real estate ventures and destination developments. He has been instrumental in shaping iconic Emaar projects such as Downtown Dubai, Creek Harbour, Dubai Hills Estate, Opera House, Address Boulevard, Address Opera Residences and Address Fountain Views.

3)  Mr. Juan Roldan Martin
 Professor CAAD, American University of Sharjah

Mr. Roldan is a Spanish architect and educator with academic training in architecture and urban planning from Madrid and London. In 2019, he was appointed curator of the inaugural d3 Architectural Festival 2020 (Dubai Design District) and was awarded the International Charles Correa Chair by the Goa College of Architecture in India. His research on urban landscapes spans Spain and India, exploring the relationship between urban rituals and development. His recent years in Dubai bring a rich blend of European and Asian perspectives to the discussion.
 

4)  Mr. Kommineni Mahender
 Executive Director, BILT Middle East (ABM Group)

Mr. Mahender is a construction veteran with over 40 years of experience in Dubai. The ABM Group oversees a current order book of AED 5 billion. His portfolio includes major projects such as Marriott Marquis, Mandarin Hotel, Skyview Hotel, Skyview Tower, Le Méridien Hotel, and Arabian Ranches, among others.

5)  Mrs. Olga Jimenez

Chief Representative Dubai D.I.F.C at CaixaBank

With 25 years of experience in the banking sector, I bring deep expertise and a genuine passion for my work and professional relationships. Outside the office, I find joy in nature, travel, the arts, and reading.

6) Moderator Dr. Neelivithil Rajeev

A seasoned expert from the ESPA Group with over 30 years of experience across MENA and APAC. He is a specialist in building services, a respected speaker, and an active member of various business councils. He is also a well known figure among embassies and consulate circles, representing the brand in 27 countries.

Dr. Rajeev is both technically and commercially accomplished, and widely recognized in the industry. We trust his presence will bring expertise, charm, and humour to the session.

Follow us for updates and registration information. Full details will be announced shortly!