RICS in UAE: Resilience Through AI, Connection & Innovation

In-Person

Overview

Technology is reshaping every part of the built environment. Artificial intelligence, connected data ecosystems and emerging digital capabilities are creating new opportunities to improve decision-making, productivity and project outcomes. At the same time, organisations face increasing pressure to adopt these technologies responsibly, ensuring that innovation enhances professional judgement rather than replacing it.

As part of the RICS Middle East Regional Resilience Series, this session will explore how technology can strengthen resilience across the built environment sector.

Through a practical discussion between leaders in technology, innovation, governance and professional practice, the panel will examine how organisations can harness AI and innovation to improve adaptability, unlock new sources of value and respond more effectively to an increasingly complex environment.

The discussion will also consider the role of professional standards, governance and skills development, including the importance of the RICS AI Standard and maintaining human oversight in AI-enabled decision making.

Attendees will leave with practical insight into how organisations can embrace innovation confidently whilst preserving trust, accountability and professional excellence.

Agenda

08:00-08:30 - Arrival & networking

08:30-08:35 - Welcome & introduction

08:35-09:15 - Moderated panel discussion

09:15-09:25 - Audience Q&A

09:25-09:30 - Closing remarks
 

Speakers

Tim Shelton FRICS
Moderator

Tim Shelton FRICS

Operations Director, Technology & Innovation Advisory, Omnium International Ltd

A Fellow of RICS, Tim has been a chartered surveyor for over 20 years, beginning his career as a Quantity Surveyor in the UK before transitioning into senior leadership roles in digital transformation, innovation, and strategic advisory. Tim has been based in the Middle East for over 15 years, holding both client-side and consulting roles in the UAE and Qatar, and has worked on major capital programs, including the FIFA World Cup 2022. As the Operations Director for Technology and Advisory at Omnium International, he leads the firm’s digital transformation strategy, alongside providing advisory services to clients, focusing on AI adoption, data-driven decision-making, and innovative technology solutions. Previously, he held senior leadership roles at Arcadis, where he was instrumental in driving commercial strategies, product innovation, and AI-enabled business models on a global scale. His expertise spans business process automation, technology integration, and digital governance, positioning him as a key advocate for the digital future of the built environment. In addition to his corporate leadership, Tim is a visiting lecturer, mentor, and published author on smart cities and innovation. He has worked closely with government agencies, startups, and academic institutions, shaping the regional discourse on sustainability and emerging technologies. Tim’s appointment to the RICS UAE Advisory Board underscores his commitment to advancing professional standards, fostering innovation, and supporting the growth of RICS membership in the UAE.

Panelist

Gavin Britton

Co-founder & CEO, Innovaite Advisory

Panelist

Mark Collin (Remote)

Co-founder & CTO, Innovaite Advisory

Panelist

Dan Hughes FRICS

Omnium Board Director & Legal Counsel, LIQUID REI

Price summary

Event ticket

Free