Program


Day 1: 2nd November 2025

Our Essentials

The Power of Nature: Innovating in Health and Nutrition

Official Opening Ceremony
Time Activity
8:00 – 9:00

Registration
9:00 – 10:00
Opening Ceremony
  • National Anthem
  • Opening Address - Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation
  • Welcome Remarks - Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center (Mawaird)
  • GenoBusiness Introductory Film
10:00 – 10:40
Opening Keynote
How Innovation Works: From Idea to Market through Incubators and Accelerators

Mr. Sven van der Vlies – Program Manager, PLNT, Netherlands
Mr. Christian Ramakers – Senior Program Manager, PLNT, Netherlands 		What does it take to turn a great idea into a successful innovation? In this keynote, Mr. Sven van der Vlies and Mr. Christian Ramakers from PLNT, the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Netherlands, explore the journey from idea to market. Drawing on startup and scale-up experience, they’ll show how incubators and accelerators support each phase and share tools, strategies, and insights that help ideas grow into impactful ventures.
10:40 – 11:00
Exhibition Inauguration
11:00 – 11:30
Break

Session 1: Nature to Medicine
Time Activity
11:30 – 11:45
Biodiversity as a Catalyst for Sustainable Industrial Development
Speaker: Prof. Ahmed Al-Harrasi – Vice Chancellor for Research, Graduate Studies and External Relations. Chair, Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center. Professor of Organic Chemistry, University of Nizwa, Oman 		We begin by exploring Oman’s future: unlocking its biodiversity potential in regional high-value sectors like medicinal biopharmaceuticals, oils, perfumes, and green technology. Prof. Ahmed Al-Harrasi highlights the untapped opportunities within Oman’s natural resources and shares insights into how they can drive innovation and sustainable economic growth. With a focus on bio-based industries, he envisions Oman becoming a regional leader in the emerging sustainable bioeconomy.
11:45 – 12:00
From Biodiversity to Market: Developing Scientifically Proven Natural Products
Speaker: Prof. Luay Rashan – Director, Biodiversity Research Center, Dhofar University, Oman 		But what does it look like when biodiversity meets innovation? This talk explores how Dhofar’s native plants are being developed into scientifically proven health and wellness products, such as supplements, functional foods, and natural remedies. Prof. Luay Rashan presents a compelling case study of how natural resources are transformed into market-ready solutions, illustrating the journey from biodiversity to product, and from regional knowledge to global value.
12:00 – 12:10
Geno-Hero Talk
From spider silk and Omani frankincense. A medical innovation that accelerates healing
Speaker: Ms. Chams Boujerda – Founder of the ILAJ treatment team, Oman 		Young researchers in Oman prove that innovation can originate from the country’s natural resources. From a unique blend that combines spider silk and Omani frankincense, the “ILAJ treatment” project was launched to develop a medicinal ointment that accelerates wound healing. The project represents an example of employing Omani resources in innovative therapeutic solutions, combining scientific knowledge with the Sultanate’s environmental identity.
12:10 – 12:40
Dialogue 1
Dhofar’s Biodiversity – A Gateway to Oman’s Bioeconomy (40 min)
Moderators: Mr. Christian Ramakers – PLNT Leiden, Netherlands
Speakers: Prof. Al-Harrasi, Prof. Rashan, Ms. Boujrada, Prof. Al-Rasadi 		Introduction (3 min):
“Dhofar’s biodiversity is more than heritage—it’s a launchpad for Oman’s bioeconomy. Today we focus on discussing how science, entrepreneurship, and policy can transform natural resources into sustainable industries.”

Moderator-Led Discussion (25 min):
Prof. Al-Harrasi: “Which biodiversity resources could drive a sustainable bioeconomy?”
Prof. Rashan: “What are the main hurdles in bringing Omani medicinal plants to global markets?”
Ms. Boujrada: “How can youth-led projects like ILAJ inspire innovation?”
Prof. Al-Rasadi: “How can the Oman Genome Project leverage biodiversity?”

Audience Interaction / Q&A (10 min):
Open Q&A from the audience.

Closing Prompt (2 min):
“What single policy or investment could accelerate Oman’s bioeconomy today?”
12:40 – 1:40
Lunch & Prayer Break
1:40 – 2:00
Strategic Keynote
The Human Genome Project: Transforming Biodiversity into Biotech and Health Advances
Speaker: Prof. Khalid Al-Rasadi – Director, Medical Research Center, Sultan Qaboos University. Professor of Biochemistry, Consultant Lipidologist, and President of OSLA, Oman 		The Oman Genome Project sits at the crossroads of science, healthcare, and economic transformation. In this talk, Prof. Khalid Al-Rasadi explores how decoding Oman’s unique genetic diversity enables advances in personalized medicine, disease prevention, and biotechnology. By connecting biodiversity with actionable data and commercial potential, he shows how genomic research can drive innovation, support precision health, and position Oman as a regional leader in the life sciences.


Session 2: Innovations in Food
Time Activity
2:00 – 2:15
The Story of Nectariss
How a Swiss Startup Offers Lessons for Developing Aromatic Potential in Food and Flavor
Speaker: Dr. Richard Splivallo – CEO & Co-founder, Nectariss, Switzerland 		What if Oman’s legendary aromatic plants could do more than scent the air? What if they could flavor the world? In this session, Dr. Richard Splivallo shares the story of Nectariss, a Swiss startup turning rare natural aromas into premium culinary ingredients. Drawing parallels with Oman’s aromatic heritage, frankincense, desert herbs, and botanicals, he offers a blueprint for building a high-value, innovation-driven flavor industry rooted in Omani biodiversity.
2:15 – 2:30
Large Fungi as High-Value Food
An Inspiring Success Story from Sri Lanka
Speaker: Dr. Aseni Ediriweera – Founder of B-Hood Myco-Tropic Innovations, Sri Lanka 		Mushrooms are emerging as food with multiple health benefits. Dr. Aseni Ediriweera highlights the potential of wild fungi, using her company’s success story in Sri Lanka as an example of how they were transformed into a successful investment opportunity. Her talk shows how Omani fungi can also become a high-value source by combining science and sustainability to attract health-conscious consumers worldwide.
2:30 – 2:40
Geno-Hero Talk – GELATOUS
Transforming Fish Waste into Organic Wealth
Speaker: Mr. Al Aiham Al Shuhaimi – CEO & Co-founder, GELATOUS, Oman 		Mr. Al-Aayham Al-Shihemi and his team at GELATOUS are innovating by converting fish waste, such as skin and bones, into 100% organic and halal gelatin by using bacteria extracted from the Omani environment. The project aims to develop Oman’s fisheries sector and diversify income sources by producing six different products from the same production line, which enhances local manufacturing and provides sustainable added value.
2:40 – 3:00
Featured Presentation
Intellectual Property in the Era of Bio-Innovation: Protecting Innovation and Enabling Growth
Speaker: Mr. Emmanuel Jelsch – CEO & Co-founder of IP2Go-Pro, Switzerland 		Mr. Emmanuel Jelsch explores how intellectual property (IP) protects biodiversity and drives sustainable innovation. Using global examples, he demonstrates how the protection of patents, trademarks, and traditional knowledge fosters equitable benefit-sharing, encourages research, and prevents biopiracy. The presentation highlights the challenges and opportunities for countries to develop strong legal frameworks and innovation ecosystems that support both conservation and growth.
3:00 – 3:40
Dialogue 2
From Nature to Table – Innovation in Food Products (40 min)
Moderator: Dr. Richard Splivallo – CEO, Nectariss Sàrl, Switzerland
Speakers: Dr. Ediriweera, Mr. Al Shuhaimi, Mr. Jelsch 		Introduction (3 min):
“Oman’s biodiversity feeds both body and economy. In this session, we discuss how innovative food products can create a high-value ecosystem.”

Moderator-Led Discussion (25 min):
Dr. Ediriweera: “What lessons from Sri Lanka’s mushroom success can Oman adopt?”
Mr. Al Shuhaimi: “How did you turn waste into a profitable product, and how can others replicate it?”
Mr. Jelsch: “Which IP tools should Oman prioritize to protect food and wellness innovations?”

Audience Interaction / Q&A (10 min):
Open Q&A from the audience.

Closing Prompt (2 min):
“What partnerships are essential to bring Omani food products to global markets?”

Day 2: 3rd November 2025

Our Well-being

Beauty, Wellness, and Experience: Celebrating Nature Refined

Session 1: Innovation and Identity in Fragrance and Functional Beauty
Time Activity
8:30 – 9:30

Discussing investment opportunities in Genetic Resources
9:30 – 9:50
Featured Keynote
Fragrant Wealth: Unlocking the Perfume and Cosmetic Potential of Oman’s Botanical Treasures
Speaker: Dr. Shahina Ghazanfar – Honorary Research Associate, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew; Academic Visitor, University of Cambridge, UK 		Dr. Ghazanfar explores Dhofar’s “green gold,” emphasizing how its exceptional biodiversity can boost Oman’s economic diversification. She highlights medicinal plants, aromatic species, and opportunities for sustainable growth and industrial development.
9:50 – 10:05
Latafa: Elevating Omani Heritage Through Natural Beauty and Innovation
Speaker: Honourable Dr. Rauhiya Al-Khaifi – CEO, Latafa LLC, Member, State Council of Oman 		Blending natural ingredients, traditional knowledge, and modern science, Latafa creates products that combine heritage with innovation, driving sustainable brands and economic opportunities.
10:05 – 10:20
Perfumed Peaks: The Aromatic Heritage of Oman’s Mountains
Speaker: Mr. Ahmed Al-Saqri – Founder, Al-Suqri Integrated Projects 		From rose oil to native plants like myrtle and lemongrass, this project revives ancestral methods to create oils for perfumes and cosmetics, adding lasting value to Oman’s botanical heritage.
10:20 – 10:35
From Scent to Signature: Building a Global Brand
Speaker: Mr. Ahmed Al Eisri – General Manager, Oman Luxury 		Showcases how Oman’s aromatic heritage is transformed into a global fragrance brand through tradition, biotechnology, and luxury branding.
10:35 – 11:00
Break
11:00 – 11:15
From Italy to Oman: Building Aromatic Bridges
Speaker: Ms. Astrid Beltrami – International Sales Director, Dr. Vranjes Firenze, Italy 		Explores partnerships between Oman and Italy to create sustainable, world-class fragrances integrating botanical richness and perfumery artistry.
11:15 – 11:25
Geno-Hero Talk
Distilling Aromatic Oils from Oman’s Nature

Speaker: Mr. Hamdan Al Saqri – Founder, Al-Fawah for Distinguished Aromatics 		Combining scientific knowledge and heritage, local aromatic oils are extracted and transformed into consumer products, increasing added value from natural resources.
11:25 – 11:55
Dialogue 3
The Power of Scent and Story: Emotional Branding in Beauty
Moderator: Mr. Sven van der Vlies – PLNT Leiden, Netherlands
Speakers: Dr. Ghazanfar, Mr. Al Saqri, Mr. Al Eisri, Ms. Beltrami, Mr. Hamdan Al Saqri 		Introduction (3 min):
“Perfume and beauty tell Oman’s story. We focus today on how scent, storytelling, and heritage can build globally competitive brands.”

Moderator-Led Discussion (25 min):
Dr. Ghazanfar: “Which Omani plants have the strongest potential for fragrance and beauty?”
Mr. Al Saqri: “How are traditional distillation methods being modernized for international markets?”
Mr. Al Eisri: “What makes an Omani luxury fragrance appealing globally?”
Ms. Beltrami: “How can Oman and Italy strengthen fragrance collaborations?”
Mr. Hamdan Al Saqri: “How can SMEs elevate heritage products into premium brands?”

Audience Interaction / Q&A (10 min):
Open Q&A from the audience.

Closing Prompt (2 min):
“What single message should Oman’s fragrance and beauty industry convey to the world?”
11:55 – 1:00
Lunch & Prayer Break
Session 2: Innovation in Sustainability
Time Activity
1:00-1:45

Limited Attendance Discussion
1:45 – 2:00
Inspirational Keynote
From Ancestral Wisdom to Modern Innovation: Unlocking the Industrial Potential of Traditional Knowledge
Speaker: Mr. Salim Al-Hilali – Science Laboratories Senior Supervisor, Dhofar, Ministry of Education 		Highlights the value of traditional knowledge for sustainable product development and bio-based industries, offering culturally rooted solutions for modern challenges.
2:00 – 2:15
Oman Botanic Garden: A Living Legacy
Speaker: Dr. Khalid Al-Farsi – Head of Horticulture, Oman Botanic Garden 		Discusses conservation, education, and innovation in natural medicine, ecotourism, and climate resilience.
2:15 – 2:30
Ecotourism: Sustainable Growth Through Nature-Based Experiences
Speaker: Mr. Christopher Dalzell – Director of Conservatory Operations, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore 		Showcases best practices in eco-friendly tourism and opportunities for connecting economic growth with biodiversity conservation.
2:30 – 2:40
Geno-Hero Talk Rummana: A Unique Ecotourism Experience
Speaker: Ms. Al Amjad Al Maawali – CEO & Co-founder, Teepee Tourism Developments 		Rummana offers immersive eco-experiences, educational programs, and investment opportunities for local families, enhancing sustainable development.
2:40 – 3:10
Dialogue 4
Living Landscapes – Biodiversity, Conservation, and Ecotourism (40 min)
Moderator: Forum presenter (will be suggested by the company)
Speakers: Mr. Al-Hilali, Dr. Al Farsi, Mr. Dalzell, Ms. Al Maawali, Dr. Ali Al-Hinai 		Introduction (3 min):
“Oman’s landscapes are living treasures. Today we discuss how ecotourism can showcase biodiversity while protecting it for future generations.”

Moderator-Led Discussion (25 min):
Mr. Al-Hilali: “How can ancestral plant knowledge be transformed into tourism experiences?”
Dr. Al Farsi: “What role can Oman Botanic Garden play in eco-tourism education?”
Mr. Dalzell: “From Singapore’s experience, what lessons can Oman apply?”
Ms. Al Maawali: “How does Rummana’s agritourism model connect communities and visitors?”

Audience Interaction / Q&A (10 min):
Open Q&A from the audience.

Closing Prompt (2 min):
“What strategies can Oman implement to ensure ecotourism growth while protecting biodiversity?”
3:10 – 3:30
Break
3:30 – 4:30
Closing Reflections and Recommendations
 As the 3rd GenoBusiness Forum draws to a close, this final session brings together key insights, shared aspirations, and pathways forward. Participants will reflect on the themes of the past two days, from Oman’s natural wealth to its innovation potential, and explore how collective action can turn ideas into impact. It is both a conclusion and a call to continue the journey
5:00 – 8:00
Excursion: Exploring Dhofar’s Living Heritage
 Experience Dhofar’s cultural and natural richness on a curated tour blending history, tradition, and local life. Start at Al-Baleed’s Museum of the Frankincense Land to explore Oman’s ancient incense trade and archaeology. Then visit historic Taqah Fort, showcasing traditional Dhofari architecture and lifestyle. The tour ends at Souq Al-Haffa, where frankincense and spices fill the air amid lively trade. This journey reveals how Dhofar’s heritage shapes identity, commerce, and sustainable development.