Hello and welcome to the June issue of CEO Middle East.
As we embark on the summer season, it is evident that the pace of business in the Middle East continues unabated. The region is characterised by a perpetual drive for progress and innovation, and we are privileged to be a part of this exciting journey.
In this issue, we are thrilled to feature Geoffrey Alphonso, the CEO of Alef Education, on our front cover. Alphonso delves into the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and how digitalisation is poised to shape the future of learning.
“We envision a future where every student, regardless of where they live or their circumstances, has access to high-quality, personalised education,” Alphonso tells CEO Middle East. In order to achieve this, Alef has focused on expanding its offerings and leveraging the power of technology in education, utilising tools like AI.
“Our users play an essential role in guiding our products. We actively seek feedback from students, teachers, and administrators to continually improve our products and services,” he adds.
Be sure to turn to page 20 to gain valuable insights from this visionary leader.
Education remains a key theme throughout this edition, with a particular focus on financial literacy. Starting from page 8, we dive deep into the importance of equipping individuals with the necessary financial knowledge to navigate the complex world of finance. We explore social sustainability and strategies for growth, shedding light on the indispensable role they play in fostering a thriving business ecosystem.

The real estate market in the UAE is experiencing a tremendous boom, offering exciting opportunities for investors and developers alike. Across the border, a similar scenario unfolds in Riyadh, where the housing market faces significant constraints. On page 28, we delve into the Saudi office space market, providing valuable insights into this dynamic sector.
Technology enthusiasts will find plenty to satisfy their curiosity in this issue. With a dedicated section on artificial intelligence, we explore the practical applications of AI as a service, unravelling how businesses can harness its potential to drive growth and efficiency.
Additionally, on page 42, we shed light on the importance of safety in the metaverse, guiding you on how to navigate this virtual realm securely.
With that I’ll let you get to reading.
Until next time.