Intelligence, for Every Dimension
- 30-31 March 2027
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Event Partners
Government Partners
Conference Overview
We are back for the 6TH edition of the MENA Geospatial & Space Technology Forum (GIS MENA), bringing together senior government officials, geospatial leaders, space organisations, technology innovators and industry decision-makers from across the region. The two-day conference will explore how geospatial intelligence and space technology are transforming the way we understand, plan and manage our world.
With keynote addresses, project showcases, expert panel discussions and industry presentations, alongside a technology-led trade floor, the Forum connects the latest thinking with the technologies and real-world innovations shaping the future of the geospatial and space sectors.
Key Focus Areas
Geospatial Intelligence
Real-time intelligence, spatial analytics, AI-powered mapping and predictive decision-making.
Space Technology
Satellite Imagery, remote sensing and Earth observation supporting infrastructure, security and environmental monitoring.
Digital Twins
GIS, IoT, 3D modelling and digital twins transforming how cities and infrastructure are planned and managed.
GSecurity and Sustainability
Disaster response, climate resilience and environmental management
Sectors
- Space
- Roads and Transport
- Oil and Gas
- Sustainability Energy
- Energy and Utilities
- Agriculture
- Ports and Maritime
- Renewable Energy
Event in Numbers
The Forum at a Glance
Market Drivers
Saudi Arabia enjoys leadership status in the Middle East and Africa Geospatial intelligence market holding a market share of about 28% due to its defense modernization initiatives and Vision 2030.
UAE is the fastest growing region in the market with a compounded annual growth rate over 14% until 2030 owing to its smart city initiatives.
Urban planning and infrastructure monitoring applications are the fastest growing owing to increased interests in smart cities and sustainability efforts.
Geospatial analytics software is the segment leader capturing more than 42% of the market share due to increased demands for predictive analysis and AI-driven mapping solutions.
Data collection services come second in the market capturing the largest share owing to the rising demand for satellite imaging and drone surveys.
AI-driven analysis platforms are set to grow significantly from 2025 to 2030 owing to increased automation levels in the geospatial intelligence industry.
Defence and security applications are leaders accounting for a market share of more than 35% owing to high investments made in surveillance and intelligence operations.
Government agencies dominate the geospatial intelligence market sharing almost 48% due to usage for security and planning purposes.
Commercial firms enjoy rapid growth owing to needs for logistics optimization and location-based services.
Who Will You Meet?
Government
Government • Ministry • National Security • Space Agencies
Infrastructure and Built Environment
Infrastructure • Construction • Engineering • Smart Cities • Real Estate
Technology and Geospatial
GIS • AI • Digital Twins • Satellite • Remote Sensing • Drones • Mapping
Energy and Utilities
Oil & Gas • Energy • Utilities • Water
Mobility and Logistics
Transport • Mobility • Logistics • Telecommunications
Environment and Natural Resources
Climate • Environment • Agriculture • Mining • Disaster Management
Knowledge and Investment
Research • Academia • Investment • Financial Services
Advisory Board
Mona Noureldin Husen
Deputy Head of Strategic Planning and Studies Unit
Ministry of Municipality, Urban Planning Department
Ahmed Almurshidi
General Director
Fujairah GIS Center
Mariam Shai
Regional Coordinator
CBL Holding
Cem Cesur
Project Portfolio Manager
Albasateen Real Estate
Saeed Al Mansoori
Director – Remote Sensing Department
Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre -MBRSC
Francesca Arici
Chief Of Planning & Development Sector
Aseer Development Authority
Aaron Addison
Executive Director
World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC)
Ahmed Salih
GIS Associate Principal
ARDARA
2027 Speakers
Mona Noureldin Husen
Deputy Head of Strategic Planning and Studies Unit
Ministry of Municipality, Urban Planning Department
Christopher Booth
Chief Technology Officer
Electronic Government Authority, RAK
Christelle Astorg-Lepine
Saeed Al Mansoori
Director – Remote Sensing Department
Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre -MBRSC
Dr. Abdelnasser Rashash Ali
Amro Ahmed
Ahmed Almurshidi
General Director
Fujairah GIS Center
Ahmad Younis
Emaar
Nizar Jegham
Director – Regional Digital Lead
Middle East
WSP
Aiham M Tayar
Aaron Addison
Juan Tena Florez
Digital Services Director (Middle East & Europe)
KEO International Consultants
Andrew Maksimov
Head Of Satellite Program
Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy
Iram Baqri
GIS Specialist
Ashghal (Public Works Authority)
Cem Cesur
Albasateen Real Estate
Mariam Shai
Regional Coordinator
CBL Holding
Dr. Sarath Raj
Francesca Arici
Chief Of Planning & Development Sector
Aseer Development Authority
Ahmed Salih
GIS Associate Principal
ARDARA
Why Be Part of the Forum?
Agenda
Day 1
09:00
Registration and Networking
09:15
Welcome Remarks from 6th MENA Geospatial & Space Technology Forum Director
09:20
Opening Address from Conference Chairperson
09:25
Opening Keynote Address: The Next Generation of Geospatial Intelligence
- Examining the evolution from traditional GIS and mapping towards GeoAI, digital twins and automated spatial decision-making.
09:35
Opening Panel Discussion: Regional Leadership: Building National Geospatial Capabilities Across the Middle East
- Comparing national approaches to geospatial governance, national mapping, spatial data infrastructure and digital transformation.
- Discussing investment in geospatial infrastructure, cloud GIS, national geospatial platforms and digital government.
Day 2
08:30
Registration and Networking
09:30
Welcome Remarks and Opening Address from Conference Chairperson
09:35
Opening Panel Discussion :From Satellite Data to Commercial Intelligence
- Exploring how satellite imagery and Earth observation data are being transformed into actionable intelligence for commercial and public-sector decision-making.
- Examining applications across infrastructure, urban development, environmental monitoring, agriculture, water and natural resource management.
- Discussing how organisations are moving from data acquisition to operational intelligence, analytics and decision-support.
- Exploring the growing role of commercial satellite providers, analytics platforms and AI in delivering scalable geospatial intelligence.
08:00
Registration and Networking
09:15
Welcome Remarks from 6th MENA Geospatial & Space Technology Forum Director
09:20
Opening Address from Conference Chairperson
09:25
Opening Keynote Address
- The Next Generation of Geospatial Intelligence
- Examining the evolution from traditional GIS and mapping towards GeoAI, digital twins and automated spatial decision-making.
09:35
Opening Panel Discussion :
- Regional Leadership: Building National Geospatial Capabilities Across the Middle East
- Comparing national approaches to geospatial governance, national mapping, spatial data infrastructure and digital transformation.
- Discussing investment in geospatial infrastructure, cloud GIS, national geospatial platforms and digital government.
- Examining how governments are developing national geospatial capabilities, standards and institutional frameworks.
- Exploring opportunities for greater regional collaboration, data sharing and interoperability.
10:20
Global Project Spotlight
- Protecting Space Assets: Spoofing, RF interference and resilient communications to safeguard satellites and critical space infrastructure.
- In-Orbit Computing: From seconds to milliseconds.
10:35
Industry Session I
- Three 10-minute presentations from technology providers showcasing the latest technologies, solutions and innovations.
11:10
Networking Break
11:50
Presentation
- 3D Data Acquisition: LiDAR, Photogrammetry & Next-Generation Mapping
- Analysing developments in LiDAR, 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, mobile mapping and point-cloud acquisition.
- Examining advances in hardware, processing, automation and 3D data workflows.
12:05
Fireside Chat
- Digital Twins for Smarter Cities: From Urban Data to Intelligent Decision-Making
- Exploring how digital twins, GIS, IoT, 3D city models and real-time data are creating more connected and intelligent urban environments.
- Demonstrating how cities can move from static spatial data towards dynamic, predictive and scenario-based decision-making.
- Examining how digital twins support master planning, mega developments, infrastructure management, utilities, renewable energy projects and development monitoring.
12:35
Regional Case Study
- How GeoAI is changing traditional approaches creating more intelligent and data-driven planning environments
- Transforming Decision-Making Through AI, Geospatial Data, Satellite Imagery and Real-Time Intelligence
12:50
Closing Remarks from Conference Chairperson
12:55
Networking Lunch
13:55
1-Hour Interactive Workshop
- GIS Digital Twin Workshop
- A practical, case-study-driven workshop exploring real-world urban planning, infrastructure and asset management challenges, with live examples and demonstrations.
14:55
Live Tech Showcase
- The GIS Digital Twin Challenge
- Four 15-minute presentations featuring emerging Digital Twin technologies, innovative solutions and real-world applications to solve real life challenges
15:55
End of Conference Day 1
08:30
Registration and Networking
09:30
Welcome Remarks and Opening Address from Conference Chairperson
09:35
Opening Panel Discussion
- From Satellite Data to Commercial Intelligence
- Exploring how satellite imagery and Earth observation data are being transformed into actionable intelligence for commercial and public-sector decision-making.
- Examining applications across infrastructure, urban development, environmental monitoring, agriculture, water and natural resource management.
- Discussing how organisations are moving from data acquisition to operational intelligence, analytics and decision-support.
- Exploring the growing role of commercial satellite providers, analytics platforms and AI in delivering scalable geospatial intelligence.
10:20
Presentation
- Digital Twins & 3D Cities: From Virtual Models to Operational Intelligence
- Examining how digital twins support master planning, infrastructure management, development monitoring and scenario simulation.
10:35
Panel Discussion
- The Geospatial Data Challenge: Building Interoperable Data Ecosystems
- Exploring data ownership, governance, stewardship, quality, privacy, standardisation, policy and accessibility.
- Examining how GIS, AI, BIM, IoT, satellite, drone, surveying, 3D and enterprise data can be integrated across platforms and organisations.
- Discussing Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI), APIs, common data standards and cross-agency data exchange to enable seamless access to trusted geospatial information.
- Exploring how governments are breaking down data silos and integrating diverse geospatial datasets to create a connected view of cities, infrastructure and the environment.
11:20
Industry Session II
- Three 10-minute presentations from technology providers showcasing the latest technologies, solutions and innovations.
11:55
Presentation
- Geospatial Intelligence for Climate Resilience, Disaster & Environmental Intelligence
- Examining how Earth observation, remote sensing and satellite imagery support environmental monitoring, climate-risk assessment, water security and desertification monitoring.
- Exploring satellite-enabled applications in disaster response, natural resource management, land-use change and environmental intelligence.
12:10
Networking Break
12:50
Panel Discussion
- Satellite & Space Technology: The Next Generation of Earth Observation
- Discussing advances in Earth observation satellites, high-resolution imagery, hyperspectral imaging, SAR and satellite constellations.
- Analysing how new satellite architectures are improving revisit rates, spatial resolution, data availability and real-time monitoring.
- Exploring the role of national space programmes, commercial satellite operators and Earth observation infrastructure across the Middle East and Africa.
- Examining how satellite technology can support national security, infrastructure, environmental monitoring, resource management and urban development.
13:35
Presentation
- Geospatial Intelligence for Infrastructure, Resources & Resilient Development
- Examining how GIS, remote sensing, GeoAI and spatial analytics are being applied across major infrastructure and development projects.
- Exploring applications in water security, desalination, renewable energy, mega developments and infrastructure planning.
- Discussing how geospatial intelligence supports environmental monitoring, desertification management, resource planning and climate resilience.
- Showcasing how organisations are using location-based intelligence to plan, monitor and optimise complex projects and assets.
13:50
Closing Remarks from Conference Chairperson
13.55
Networking Lunch and End of Conference
Opportunities to Participate
Gold Sponsor
Associate Sponsor
Associate Sponsor
Associate Sponsor
Associate Sponsor
OFFICIAL IMAGING & MAPPING PARTNER
Exhibitor
Exhibitor
Exhibitor
Networking partner
Official Logistics Partner
Media Partners
Partnership Message
Testimonials
“The MENA Geospatial Forum gives vital expertise on disaster management revealed the power of data-driven decisions. By showcasing how geospatial data can forecast, track, and analyze disasters, this event underscored its importance in saving lives and minimizing damage.”
“The MENA Geospatial Forum was not just a discussion; it was a glimpse into the future of how geospatial intelligence is reshaping sustainability. The synergy of AI, digital twins, and predictive analytics showcased real-world transformations beyond theory. Engaging with industry leaders on these groundbreaking innovations was truly inspiring. Excited to see how these technologies evolve and redefine our approach to environmental responsibility”
“I had the privilege of attending the 2nd MENA Geospatial Forum, and it was truly an inspiring experience! The event brought together industry leaders, innovative speakers, and passionate participants, all eager to explore the potential of geospatial technology in the MENA region. The discussions were insightful, and the networking opportunities were invaluable. I left with fresh ideas and a renewed enthusiasm for the future of geospatial innovations.”
“Conferences like the 2nd MENA Geospatial Forum are crucial for the GIS industry, as they bring together a wide range of stakeholders, from manufacturers and end-users to software developers. Events like this provide valuable opportunities for face-to-face interactions and the exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration and innovation. It’s these meetings of minds that truly drive the industry forward”
FLOOR PLAN
Accommodation
Please make sure you secure your room booking at Al Habtoor Grand Resort at the earliest as we have negotiated a very special discounted rate of AED 1320 + 5% Vat (single occupancy), inclusive of breakfast and taxes.
The rate is inclusive of Buffet Breakfast, 7% municipality Fee, 10% service charges, and 20 AED municipality room fee per room per night.
The rate is subject to 5% Vat
The hotel’s check-in time is: 3:00 pm and check-out time is 12:00 pm
Early check-in / Late check-out charges might apply.
Room bookings are non-refundable, due to special rates, however, changes for the names are accepted till 2 days prior to the check-in date.
Important: Please note that room rates and/or categories are subject to availability according to the hotel’s occupancy. Great Minds Event is not responsible in case of rate increase or unavailability of a room category as this is beyond our control.
For Bookings with the special rate: Kindly send the below details to Nada.tawfeek@gmevents.ae
Full Guest Name:
Room Type: Single or Double:
Check-in date and time:
Check-out date and time:
Method of payment: Bank transfer or Payment link
Registration
Online event registrations are now closed.
You may purchase your ticket at the event registration counter on the 1st day of the event.
Please refer to the agenda for timings.
Primary Delegate
- Government and Public Sector
- Municipalities & Urban Planning Authorities
- Space, Satellite & Earth Observation
- Infrastructure, Transport & Engineering
- Energy & Utilities
- Academia, Research & Consultancy
Vendor Delegate
- Vendor
- Solution Provider
REASONS TO
ATTEND
- Gain Cutting-Edge Insights: Stay informed on the latest advancements and trends in geospatial technology from industry experts and thought leaders.
- Expand Your Professional Network: Connect with government officials, industry leaders, and peers, creating valuable relationships for future collaborations.
- Discover Innovative Solutions: Learn about the latest tools and technologies that can drive efficiencies and improvements in your specific sector.
- Participate in High-Level Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of geospatial technology in the MENA region.
Venue
-
Al Habtoor Grand Resort,
Autograph Collection, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
