How are women helping shape the UAE’s next chapter in the built environment?
 
Join Grant Thornton UAE and Heriot-Watt University, Dubai Campus for the launch of the 2026 Discovery Series, exploring the trends, leadership perspectives and innovations shaping the UAE’s built environment, and the role women are playing in driving change across the sector.
 
Led by Hisham Farouk, Chief Executive Officer at Grant Thornton UAE, and Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost & Vice Principal at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, joined by guest speaker Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-founder and Treasurer/Board Member of the Emirates Green Building Council.
 
The session will explore how future-ready leadership and talent, sustainable and human-centred communities, AI and emerging technologies, and long-term economic, social and environmental impact are influencing the future of the built environment.

Speakers

  • Co-founder and Treasurer / Board Member

    Dr Habiba Al Mar’ashi

    Emirates Green Building Council

  • Executive Director and Head of Strategic Consulting

    Mireille Azzam-Vidjen

    Middle East and Africa, JLL

  • Head of Architecture and Associate Professor

    Dr Harpreet Seth

    Heriot-Watt University Dubai

  • Founder and Director

    Leila Sobek

    BMA Studio

  • Chief Information Officer

    Dr Sonia Zahiroddiny

    Innovo Group