Following recent unrest in the region, critical infrastructure—such as ports and desalination plants—has become a top priority for the Gulf states. This session focuses on the strengthening, protection, and recovery of physical infrastructure, supply chain continuity, and digital modernization. We will explore how Dutch companies and knowledge institutions can contribute to this development and reinforcement. The panel shall discusses real-world examples of conflict-related disruptions in the Gulf states, as well as both ad-hoc and long-term solutions.

This session will be introduced and moderated by Marc Mazairac, Head of the Economic Department at the Dutch Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

Speakers: 
- Cyril van Widdershoven , Senior Advisor at Blue Water Strategy

- Harry Polman, Managing Director at H2O Biofueling