GPMF 2026

Agenda

Lead. Strategize. Impact.
17 May
Masterclasses & Workshops
18 May
Forum Day 1
19 May
Forum Day 2
17 May
09:00 – 12:00
Room 1 - Al Taif Meeting Room
Learn and Apply- WORKSHOP: The dual mindset organization How to grow beyond innovation theatre and failed transformations.
Dual Mindset organizations: ones where the whole operation has two modes. One mode is about inventing the future, we call this “explore”. The other mode is about managing the present, we call this “exploit”. The best organizations seamlessly toggle between these two modes and have operating models that support this duality when it comes to how innovation and the development of products happen.
17 May
09:00 – 12:00
Room 2 - Mecca Meeting Room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: Beyond Delivery: Integrating Culture, Compliance & Control in Project Environments
Project success isn’t just built on timelines and tasks, it’s shaped by culture, compliance, and context. This masterclass explores how fire safety, civil engineering leadership, and experience-driven culture combine to redefine process excellence. Learn how to integrate safety, sustainability, and stakeholder experience into your project practices for resilient, responsible delivery.
17 May
09:00 – 12:00
Room 3 - Dammam Meeting Room
UnConference Style- WORKSHOP: Managing Competing Priorities – Balancing Stakeholder Expectations Amid Conflict
Main Challenge: Project professionals face conflicting demands from stakeholders with differing priorities, causing delays and misalignment in project Use the model: Share the pain, find the solution, define actions Challenge 1: Provide real life case study, difficult stakeholders, conflicts and misalignaments Challenge 2: Discuss in a team diving deeper in Challenge 1 and provide solution with focus on people Challenge 3: Present the solution in Story telling format and line up actions. Define assumptions and required competencies
17 May
09:00 – 12:00
Room 5 - Riyadh Meeting Room
Learn & Apply- MASTERCLASS: Build Your Storytelling Superpower!: Craft Your Character, Master Your Message & Command the room!
We are all heroes on a journey — navigating complexity, solving problems, and inspiring teams. But our ability to rise, lead, and create impact hinges on one thing: how well we communicate. In project management, communication isn’t just a skill — it’s the superpower that fuels clarity, connection, and change. From the moment we are born, communication shapes how we influence, inspire, and collaborate. So how do we make our messages truly land? Through storytelling. In this high-energy, hands-on masterclass, you'll discover how to master the art of compelling communication and powerful storytelling. Whether you're leading a project meeting, presenting to stakeholders, or managing difficult conversations, this session will give you tools to connect and communicate with confidence. What You’ll Learn: Craft Your Alter Ego – Develop a confident persona that helps you perform at your best, even under pressure. Supercharge Your Delivery – Harness vocal variety, strategic body language, and first-impression techniques to make every interaction memorable. Tell Magnetic Stories – Learn simple, repeatable story structures you can apply instantly to influence and engage any audience. You’ll walk away with practical techniques, a burst of creative energy, and a fresh toolkit to become the Superhero Storyteller your project world needs.
17 May
09:00 – 12:00
Room 4 - Jeddah Meeting Room
UnConference Style- WORKSHOP: Reprogramming Value Delivery: Combining Predictive and Adaptive Approaches
In a world of constant disruption, delivery models must evolve faster than the change they support. This interactive workshop explores how to design adaptive, principle-driven project, program, and portfolio processes using the LEAP framework and digital mastery techniques. Walk away with a custom-fit delivery blueprint built for agility, innovation, and long-term impact.
17 May
12:15 – 14:15
Room 1 - Al Taif Meeting Room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: Empowering the Next-Gen PM – Mentorship and Lifelong Learning in Project Management
Overview: This masterclass provides the essentials and fundamentals of mentorship, coaching, and continuous professional development for the next generation of project managers. Key Topics: The role of a mentorship in delivering successful projects Becoming a mentor and mentee in project environments Building professional development plans Leveraging industry certifications and knowledge-sharing platforms Fostering a growth mindset in project teams
17 May
12:20 – 15:20
Room 4 - Jeddah Meeting Room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: Emotional Intelligence in Project Management Navigating Team Dynamics with Empathy
Overview: This masterclass delves into the significance of emotional intelligence (EI) in project management in new era, highlighting how self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills can enhance team collaboration and project outcomes. Key Topics: Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Defining EI and its relevance in the project management context. Self-Awareness and Self-Regulation: Recognizing and managing one’s emotions to maintain professionalism and composure. Empathy and Social Skills: Understanding team members’ perspectives and fostering a supportive work environment. Conflict Resolution: Applying EI to navigate and resolve interpersonal conflicts within the team.
17 May
12:20 – 15:20
Room 2 - Mecca Meeting Room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: AI in Project Management – From Insights to Actions
(Laptop required when attending the session) Discover how Artificial Intelligence can revolutionize project management by automating tasks, providing insights, and improving decision-making. Key Topics: 1. Introducing and defining AI in Project Management. 2. Future trends of AI in Project Management. 3.Identifying and Prioritizing AI in PM Use cases. 4. Practical exercise in applying AI and building an AI Agent.
17 May
12:20 – 15:20
Room 3 - Dammam Meeting Room
SharkTank- WORKSHOP: Harmonizing Expertise – Managing Multi-Discipline Projects and Teams
Challenge: Managing projects involving multi-disciplinary teams often leads to communication breakdowns, conflicting priorities, and siloed efforts. Participants must create strategies to foster collaboration, alignment, and efficiency in diverse teams. Format: Introduction (20 minutes): Discuss the complexities of managing projects that span multiple disciplines, such as engineering, IT, finance, and operations. Share real-world examples of successful and challenging multi-disciplinary projects. Group Activity (120 minutes): 1. Scenario Simulation: Teams are presented with a project case study involving a cross-functional team (e.g., IT, construction, and environmental specialists). The scenario includes challenges such as conflicting deliverables, differing technical languages, and a lack of shared understanding. 2. Problem-Solving Exercise: Teams brainstorm solutions to improve communication, set common objectives, and integrate diverse technical inputs. Participants identify tools and frameworks to manage cross-functional collaboration, such as RACI matrices, integrated project schedules, and stakeholder alignment meetings. 3. Solution Presentation (40 minutes): Each team presents its proposed approach for aligning multi-disciplinary teams, addressing communication, role clarity, and conflict resolution. Joe Pusz Lan Phan Americo Pinto Frederic Casagrande Amireh Amirmazehri
17 May
12:20 – 15:20
Room 5 - Riyadh Meeting Room
Learn & apply- WORKSHOP: Decision-Making Under Pressure – Balancing Speed and Accuracy in Project Processes
(Laptop required when attending the session) Challenge: In high-stakes or time-sensitive project, project managers often face pressure to make quick decisions, which can lead to errors or ineffective decisions. Format: Introduction and Discussion Facilitators provide information that participants require to conduct Workshop Activities: 1. Decision-making models 2. Human decision-making augmented with machines 3. Framework for reducing AI operational risk 4. The AI Canvas example 5. Agile Project Management case study Workshop Activities: 1. Innovation Lab: participants will invent their own decision system using th AI Canvas and present their augmented decision-making invention. 2. Participants will use GenAI to automate and enhance agile project management processes. 3. Case Study discussion: evaluating long term value creation, decision-making framework and ethical considerations.
17 May
14:30 – 16:30
Room 1 - Al Taif Meeting Room
Presentation- WORKSHOP: Advancing Construction Excellence: Innovations in Technology Integration will explore the transformative impact of emerging technologies on the construction industry
This session will delve into the integration of advanced technologies that are reshaping construction practices. Innovative Construction Platforms: The development of integrated suites that combine industry-trusted applications with common data environments, enabling effective collaboration among owners and delivery teams. These platforms facilitate resource orchestration and transform data into actionable intelligence, promoting continuous improvement across project planning, delivery, and operations. Industry Innovation Labs: Simulated worksites demonstrating the transformative power of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, autonomous equipment, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These labs serve as testing grounds for innovative solutions that drive digital transformation in construction and engineering. Case Studies and Real-World Applications: Insights into how leading construction firms have leveraged these technologies to enhance project outcomes, improve efficiency, and drive innovation in their operations.
17 May
15:30 – 18:40
Room 2 - Mecca Meeting room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: Putting Leaders Back in Control: Integrating Agile and Traditional Approaches at the Portfolio Level.
Hybrid project delivery is a reality. Different teams use different methodologies and tools for their individual initiatives within hybrid portfolios, programs, or even single projects. Project reporting across these various working modes and tools can be somewhat managed through Business Intelligence (BI) platforms. But the greater challenge remains: How do you actively manage your portfolio, set priorities, allocate resources, and keep track of cross-portfolio dependencies and financials?
17 May
15:40 – 18:40
Room 3 - Dammam Meeting Room
Learn & Apply- WORKSHOP: From Execution to IMPACT: Elevating PMOs, Project Managers, and Transformation Leaders to Drive Business Value
Most PMOs and project leaders are stuck in execution mode—delivering projects on time and on budget but struggling to prove their true value to the organization. The reality is that project success isn’t about deliverables; it’s about business outcomes. To secure your seat at the leadership table, you must evolve from managing tasks to driving strategic IMPACT.
17 May
15:40 – 18:40
Room 4 - Jeddah Meeting Room
Learn & Apply- WORKSHOP: The Organizational Compass: Navigating Complexity and Unlocking PMO Potential with the PMO Competency Framework
This impactful Learn & Apply Workshop brings together industry-leading facilitators to help you master the art of navigating complexity in large-scale projects using The Organizational Compass approach. This session offers practical techniques to enhance collaboration, optimize processes, and align PMO capabilities with enterprise objectives through the PMO Competency Framework. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises to break down silos, bridge strategic gaps, and apply tailored solutions to real-world challenges. Gain the tools and insights you need to elevate your PMO’s performance and lead your organization to success.
17 May
15:40 – 18:40
Room 5 - Riyadh Meeting Room
Lego- WORKSHOP: Using Lego Serious Play in Bridging Minds and Generations: Redefining Project Collaboration in a Smart Era
Challenge: Technology alone cannot guarantee success in today’s rapidly evolving project landscape. The real challenge lies in bridging the gap between the mindset of seasoned leaders and the digital-first thinking of the new generation. Participants will develop strategies to harmonize these perspectives and foster a collaborative, future-ready project environment. Format: Introduction (20 minutes): Learn about Lego Serious Play, practice with the Legos, and use imagination and creativity to build metaphors. Discuss the mindset and generational gaps hindering effective collaboration in technology-driven projects. Group Activity (120 minutes): 1. Scenario Simulation: - Teams are assigned a case study illustrating a project with seasoned executives and younger, tech-savvy professionals. - Scenario highlights include misaligned communication styles, resistance to new tools, and conflicting expectations about project workflows. 2.LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Exercise: - Individual Build: Each participant builds a model representing their view of ideal project collaboration in a smart, technology-driven era. - Team Co-Build: Teams merge individual models into one shared model, representing a unified vision of secure, streamlined, and smart collaboration across generations. - Problem-Solving Reflection: - Teams discuss insights from their LEGO® models:  What assumptions surfaced?  What mindset shifts are needed?  What practical actions can bridge the human gap? Solution Presentation (40 minutes): - Each team presents their shared LEGO® model and explains: - The key barriers identified - The strategies they propose for bridging mindsets and generations
17 May
16:40 – 18:40
Room 1 - Al Taif Meeting Room
Presentation- MASTERCLASS: Your Seat At the Table: Should Project Managers and PMOs Collaborate With Executives In Strategy Design?
This masterclass is designed for project professionals, business leaders, and executives who seek to move beyond project execution and governance to become strategic enablers of business success. It will provide a structured, interdisciplinary approach, integrating neuroeconomics, strategic leadership, and the VALUE IN model, to address key challenges
18 May
08:00 – 08:45
Conference Hall
Registration & Networking
18 May
08:45 – 09:00
Conference Hall
Welcome and Day Highlights
18 May
09:00 – 09:15
Conference Hall
Presentation- KEYNOTE: Empowering Saudi Arabia: PMI’s Commitment and Building a Future of Excellence
In this keynote, Hanny will explore PMI’s strategic collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to empower project professionals and upskill the national workforce. We will highlight how PMI is enabling the success of AI-driven, sustainable giga projects through the three pillars of project excellence: people, processes, and technology. With a focus on innovation and impact, this session underscores PMI’s role in shaping a future-ready Saudi project economy.
18 May
09:15 – 09:30
Conference Hall
Presentation- KEYNOTE: The One Shift That Changes Everything
What if everything you thought led to success was actually holding you back? It’s not about working harder, delivering more projects, or following every best practice perfectly. In fact, this one shift might turn everything you know about success upside down. The professionals who understand this become the go-to leaders in their companies. The ones who don’t? They keep wondering why their value isn’t being recognized. Whether you’re managing projects, running a PMO, or driving business transformation, this shift will elevate your IMPACT, accelerate your career growth, and make you indispensable to your organization. It will change how you apply everything you learn at this conference and how you position yourself in your organization moving forward. This is the shift that changes everything. Want to know what it is? There’s only one way to find out. Be in the room.
18 May
09:30 – 09:45
Conference Hall
Presentation- KEYNOTE: Rewriting the Story – Rising Above with a Positive Mindset
Discover the power of perspective in this inspiring session on mindset transformation. Learn how to reframe challenges, overcome setbacks, and cultivate a positive outlook that fuels growth and resilience. It's time to rewrite your story—with intention, strength, and optimism.
18 May
09:45 – 10:00
Conference Hall
Presentation- KEYNOTE: 10 predictions for the future of games and media
Welcome to a world where creativity scales, reality blends with simulation, and tomorrow’s most beloved games won’t come from massive studios—but from passionate, nimble teams empowered by AI. In this session, we’ll explore the radical transformation underway across the gaming industry. As AI reshapes development pipelines, small teams are launching global blockbusters, defying the notion that size equals success. From Palworld and Valheim to Among Us, this is the age of the 10x developer and the 100x creator. Meanwhile, games themselves are evolving into living, breathing experiences. Non-player characters (NPCs) will know your name, remember your story, and engage in fluid, unscripted conversations that blur the line between code and consciousness. Your AI companion won’t just play beside you—it might play as you, learn your style, and continue the adventure while you’re away.
19 May
08:00 – 08:15
Conference Hal
Registration and Networking
19 May
08:30 – 08:45
Conference Hall
Welcome and Day Highlights
19 May
08:45 – 09:00
Conference Hall
Presentation- TECHNICAL TRACK: GPMF AI History Class
19 May
09:00 – 09:15
Conference Hall
Presentation- TECHNICAL TRACK: The Golden Thread of Technology Activation
How the activation of technology is critical to the evolution of efficient and forward-looking project management services delivery.