Global Enterprise Connect (GEC) successfully concluded the highly anticipated Government Vertical Day 2025 at the W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, bringing together visionary leaders, policymakers, and technology experts to explore the evolving digital landscape shaping the future of governance.
The event commenced with a warm welcome note from Ronak Samantaray, CEO of Global Enterprise Connect, who emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and responsible technology adoption in achieving national digital goals.
Dr. Nader Ghazal, Chairman of the African-Asian Council for AI and Cybersecurity, set the tone with an insightful session on “Beyond Borders, Within Values: Building the Intelligent Digital Sovereignty.” He highlighted the delicate balance between advancing cross-border innovation and preserving the core values of digital independence and data protection.
The program celebrated visionary leadership through the Government Change-Maker of the Year Award, honouring a transformative government leader who has championed innovation and advanced digital excellence in public service.
Ahmed Al Zarouni, Technology Advisor and author of Technical Thinking, captivated the audience with his thought-provoking session on “Securing the Generative AI,” addressing the pressing need for robust frameworks to ensure trust, transparency, and safety in the era of intelligent automation.
A dynamic Fireside Chat followed, focusing on “Citizen-Centric Digital Experiences.” Moderated by Jeevan Thankappan, Managing Editor at Global Enterprise Connect, the conversation featured insights from Dr. Claude Fachkha, Cyber Security Expert at the University of Dubai, and Ahmad Mohammad Al Mulla, Chief Technology Officer at Emirates Water & Electricity Company. Together, they explored how governments can design inclusive, secure, and seamless digital services that place citizens at the heart of transformation.
The Expert Panel on “AI, Data & Cybersecurity in Government Operations” brought together leading CIOs and security experts, moderated by George Yacoub, Chief Digital & Information Officer and Healthcare IT Executive. Panelists Hitesh Lodhi (Abu Dhabi Global Markets), Muhammad Affan (Sharjah Maritime Academy) and Fayid Kadambodan (Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority) shared their perspectives on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance resilience, data-driven policymaking, and secure national infrastructures.
The evening culminated with the Top Government Awards, recognizing exceptional government leaders and entities for their trailblazing contributions to digital innovation, operational efficiency, and citizen empowerment.
The event concluded with networking and dinner, offering attendees an opportunity to connect with leading technology providers, explore collaborations, and exchange ideas on shaping the future of digital government.
Government Vertical Day 2025 reaffirmed GEC’s commitment to empowering government transformation through dialogue, innovation, and partnership—driving forward a smarter, secure, and more connected public sector.
