Work Experience
Dr. Usman Zafar, a forward-thinking leader with over 20 years of expertise in academia, industry, and innovation, serves as Executive Chairman of World Business Hub and holds a PhD in International Trade and Business from European International University - Paris. He excels in building strategic partnerships, optimizing organizational efficiency through technology, and aligning educational programs with market demands to enhance employability and entrepreneurship. His advisory roles include the Industry Advisory Committee at Higher Colleges of Technology, the College Advisory Board at Ajman University, the Advisory Board at Al Ain University, and Advisor at Datamatix, where he advances academia-industry collaboration, accreditation, and global event promotion.
As a Board Advisor for market acceleration, Dr. Zafar supports companies such as World Business Hub, Init Germany, X0PA Singapore, Sriven UK, Cloudbuy UK, Imex Canada, Bizmoni USA, and various global tech firms, guiding strategic alliances and market expansion. He has spearheaded impactful projects, including the "Just Ask a Local" travel website and the automation of Dubai Courts’ eNotary System. As a CEO and Board Advisor, he has driven over 100 tech projects, secured multi-million-dollar investments, and accelerated growth in Smart Cities, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), and Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) initiatives across the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Africa. His expertise spans smart cities strategy, digital transformation, and fundraising.
Recognized as a Top 51 Global Smart Cities Leader (2019) and honored with "The Leading Global Advisor of the Year 2024" by the International Prime Awards, Dr. Zafar is a prominent keynote speaker on smart cities, blockchain, and e-governance. He continues to shape innovation through university advisory roles and public sector leadership, including his former role as CIO in the UAE.
Spearheaded market entry strategies for smart cities, tech, healthcare, education, green energy, youth development, infrastructure, and real estate development firms, driving 30+ successful PPP/BOT projects across MENA and Africa. Enabled clients to secure multi-million-dollar contracts without expanding internal sales or business development teams, optimizing costs and accelerating time-to-market. Forged strategic partnerships with key public and private sector stakeholders to fuel client growth and innovation.Spearheaded market entry strategies for smart cities, tech, healthcare, education, green energy, youth development, infrastructure, and real estate development firms, driving 30+ successful PPP/BOT projects across MENA and Africa. Enabled clients to secure multi-million-dollar contracts without expanding internal sales or business development teams, optimizing costs and accelerating time-to-market. Forged strategic partnerships with key public and private sector stakeholders to fuel client growth and innovation.
Skills: Smart Cities Strategy · Global Market Expansion · Investment & Fundraising · Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) · Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) · C-Level Advisory · Digital Transformation · Strategic Partnerships · Executive Leadership
Dr. Usman Zafar, a seasoned thought leader, joins Bizmoni Corp USA's Advisory Board to drive global expansion and attract top-tier investors. Bizmoni, an AI-powered platform, revolutionizes digital interaction by integrating social media, marketplace, and CRM. Key features include AI-driven personalization, a global marketplace, advanced CRM, and seamless social integration. Join the Bizmoni revolution to experience the future of digital engagement.Dr. Usman Zafar, a seasoned thought leader, joins Bizmoni Corp USA's Advisory Board to drive global expansion and attract top-tier investors. Bizmoni, an AI-powered platform, revolutionizes digital interaction by integrating social media, marketplace, and CRM. Key features include AI-driven personalization, a global marketplace, advanced CRM, and seamless social integration. Join the Bizmoni revolution to experience the future of digital engagement.
Skills: International Business Development · Director level · Fundraising · Non-Executive Director · Digital Strategy · Working with Investors · Global Market Expansion · Strategic Partnerships · Board of Directors · Blockchain Consulting · Cryptocurrency Investment · Operations Management
Dr.Usman Zafar is an oustanding person and expert. I have the privilige to work with him under my leadership. He never stops surprising me in every positive way with his knowledge and drive. He is a must to have in every team.
Dr. Usman Zafar joins Sriven Solutions as Senior Board Advisor in Dubai, UAE. Sriven, a global tech and consulting firm, drives digital transformation through innovative digital strategy, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Dr. Zafar’s expertise in MENA and Africa will fuel Sriven’s expansion and investment growth.Dr. Usman Zafar joins Sriven Solutions as Senior Board Advisor in Dubai, UAE. Sriven, a global tech and consulting firm, drives digital transformation through innovative digital strategy, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Dr. Zafar’s expertise in MENA and Africa will fuel Sriven’s expansion and investment growth.
Skills: International Business Development · Investments · Executive Management · Board Development · Business Strategy · Channel Partners
With extensive experience in the MENA region, I've joined XOPA as a Board Advisor to help expand the company's operations. XOPA is a leading AI-powered recruitment platform designed to revolutionize the hiring process. Its patented technology ensures bias-free recruitment, helping companies find the best talent faster and more efficiently.With extensive experience in the MENA region, I've joined XOPA as a Board Advisor to help expand the company's operations. XOPA is a leading AI-powered recruitment platform designed to revolutionize the hiring process. Its patented technology ensures bias-free recruitment, helping companies find the best talent faster and more efficiently.
Skills: Artificial Intelligence (AI) · Board Advisory Services · Global Market Expansion · International Business Development · SaaS Development · Director level · Strategic Planning · Channel Partners · Strategic Partnerships
LetsFAME, a platform connecting talent with opportunities, has partnered with Dr. Usman Zafar to join its Senior Advisory Board. Dr. Zafar will guide LetsFAME's global expansion, develop a robust funding strategy, and foster strategic partnerships to accelerate its mission of democratizing the talent industry and connecting aspiring individuals with life-changing opportunities.LetsFAME, a platform connecting talent with opportunities, has partnered with Dr. Usman Zafar to join its Senior Advisory Board. Dr. Zafar will guide LetsFAME's global expansion, develop a robust funding strategy, and foster strategic partnerships to accelerate its mission of democratizing the talent industry and connecting aspiring individuals with life-changing opportunities.
Skills: Director level · International Business Development · Working with Investors · Fund Raising · Managing Director · Board Development · Strategic Partnerships
Smart City Advisor for EMEA, guiding cities and governments on smart city strategies and businesses on innovative urban solutions. At TR1ton Data, I connect cutting-edge tech with urban challenges like climate change and congestion to build sustainable, livable communities.Smart City Advisor for EMEA, guiding cities and governments on smart city strategies and businesses on innovative urban solutions. At TR1ton Data, I connect cutting-edge tech with urban challenges like climate change and congestion to build sustainable, livable communities.
Skills: Blockchain · International Business Development · Smart Cities · Cryptocurrency · Business Strategy · Marketing Strategy
As a Strategic Board Advisor and Jury Member for PRIME Awards, I guide the organization's strategic direction and global expansion. My work involves advising on international awards, securing C-level executive participation, and ensuring the credibility of the jury process. I also serve as a Guest of Honor at key events, celebrating the achievements of industry leaders and visionaries.As a Strategic Board Advisor and Jury Member for PRIME Awards, I guide the organization's strategic direction and global expansion. My work involves advising on international awards, securing C-level executive participation, and ensuring the credibility of the jury process. I also serve as a Guest of Honor at key events, celebrating the achievements of industry leaders and visionaries.
Skills: Digital Strategy · Director level · International Business Development · Non-Executive Director · Corporate Events · Awards · Market Research · Sponsorship · Keynote Speaking
Advising on strategic initiatives for digital media and marketing solutions, with a focus on smart city innovations and leveraging digital transformation for clients across government, education, and creative industries.Advising on strategic initiatives for digital media and marketing solutions, with a focus on smart city innovations and leveraging digital transformation for clients across government, education, and creative industries.
Skills: Blockchain · Channel Partners · International Business Development · Smart Cities · Business Strategy · Change Management · Social Media · Executive Management · Board Development · Cloud Computing · Artificial Intelligence (AI) · Digital Transformation
As a Strategic Board Advisor at Cinch Technologies, I drive the company's growth and market presence. My work focuses on global expansion, securing public sector engagement, and cultivating strategic partnerships across the MENA, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions. I also provide key insights into financial strategy and ROI optimization.As a Strategic Board Advisor at Cinch Technologies, I drive the company's growth and market presence. My work focuses on global expansion, securing public sector engagement, and cultivating strategic partnerships across the MENA, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions. I also provide key insights into financial strategy and ROI optimization.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Business Analysis · Smart Cities · Change Management · Executive Management · IT Management
Council Member at GLG, the world’s knowledge marketplace, connecting top businesses with global expertise. I deliver consulting projects for clients worldwide, leveraging GLG’s industry-leading compliance framework.Council Member at GLG, the world’s knowledge marketplace, connecting top businesses with global expertise. I deliver consulting projects for clients worldwide, leveraging GLG’s industry-leading compliance framework.
Skills: Channel Partners · Executive Management
Senior Board Advisor at Afik Group, a global construction firm founded in 1995, operating in Turkey, Cyprus, Germany, and Greece. I provide strategic guidance to drive key decisions and support the company's growth.Senior Board Advisor at Afik Group, a global construction firm founded in 1995, operating in Turkey, Cyprus, Germany, and Greece. I provide strategic guidance to drive key decisions and support the company's growth.
Skills: International Business Development · Smart Cities · Business Strategy · Consultancy · Marketing Strategy · Leadership
As the Senior Business Development Advisor for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific Regions at HYGEAR, I was responsible for expanding our global reach. My role involved signing distribution partners in the GCC and India, with the latter generating significant revenue for the company. I focused on bringing our premium, data-driven fitness solutions—including smart, portable equipment and personalized training—to new markets, empowering individuals to achieve their fitness goals anywhere.As the Senior Business Development Advisor for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific Regions at HYGEAR, I was responsible for expanding our global reach. My role involved signing distribution partners in the GCC and India, with the latter generating significant revenue for the company. I focused on bringing our premium, data-driven fitness solutions—including smart, portable equipment and personalized training—to new markets, empowering individuals to achieve their fitness goals anywhere.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Management Consulting · Team Management · Operations Management · IT Strategy · Executive Management
I'm proud to serve as the Business Development Director MENA at KSi Malta, a firm with 40 years of expertise in taxation, legal advisory, and corporate services. We value diversity and professionalism, fostering collaboration to advance our clients' business objectives. As a member of Morison KSi, a global association of leading professional firms, we offer efficient and tailored solutions to support local and international businesses. Connect with me to explore how we can help your business thrive.I'm proud to serve as the Business Development Director MENA at KSi Malta, a firm with 40 years of expertise in taxation, legal advisory, and corporate services. We value diversity and professionalism, fostering collaboration to advance our clients' business objectives. As a member of Morison KSi, a global association of leading professional firms, we offer efficient and tailored solutions to support local and international businesses. Connect with me to explore how we can help your business thrive.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Customer Relations · Strategic Planning · Business Management · Consultancy · Executive ManagementSkills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Customer Relations · Strategic Planning · Business Management · Consultancy · Executive Management
Senior Advisor & Partner at TNC Group, providing strategic guidance to blockchain companies. Specialize in securing funding, advising on board composition, and leading M&A. Analyze merger candidates, develop marketing strategies, and represent TNC at industry events, leveraging an extensive network to drive growth and success for blockchain ventures.Senior Advisor & Partner at TNC Group, providing strategic guidance to blockchain companies. Specialize in securing funding, advising on board composition, and leading M&A. Analyze merger candidates, develop marketing strategies, and represent TNC at industry events, leveraging an extensive network to drive growth and success for blockchain ventures.
Skills: Channel Partners · Investment & Fundraising · Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) · Cryptocurrency · Network and Relationship Management · Strategic Advisory · Board Composition & Governance · Industry Event Representation · Blockchain Strategy
Global Expansion Specialist at DUC International Consulting in Dubai, driving international business growth in the MENA region. Successfully supported 80+ companies from the UK, US, Europe, India, and Africa, securing 100+ projects worth over $100M. Raised $500M+ in funding for strategic initiatives. Provide C-level advisory, lead technology-driven solutions, and manage diverse teams to deliver tailored market strategies.Global Expansion Specialist at DUC International Consulting in Dubai, driving international business growth in the MENA region. Successfully supported 80+ companies from the UK, US, Europe, India, and Africa, securing 100+ projects worth over $100M. Raised $500M+ in funding for strategic initiatives. Provide C-level advisory, lead technology-driven solutions, and manage diverse teams to deliver tailored market strategies.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Smart Cities · Cryptocurrency · Business Strategy · Entrepreneurship · IT Strategy · Board Development · Digital Strategy · Smart Cities Strategy · Global Market Expansion · Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) · Public-private Partnerships · Blockchain Consulting
As a business development professional at the Locus Foundation, I was dedicated to expanding the global footprint of Locus Chain and introducing its innovative blockchain solutions to the MENA region.
My responsibilities included:
Strategic Consultancy: I nurtured a network of channel partners.
Investor Relations: I led fundraising efforts and engaged with private and public investors.
Key Account Management: I built strong relationships with key strategic accounts, including those in the public sector.
Localization & Branding: I guided market entry and branding efforts, with a focus on the GCC region.
Global Representation: I represented Locus Chain and presented our platform at international events.As a business development professional at the Locus Foundation, I was dedicated to expanding the global footprint of Locus Chain and introducing its innovative blockchain solutions to the MENA region. My responsibilities included: Strategic Consultancy: I nurtured a network of channel partners. Investor Relations: I led fundraising efforts and engaged with private and public investors. Key Account Management: I built strong relationships with key strategic accounts, including those in the public sector. Localization & Branding: I guided market entry and branding efforts, with a focus on the GCC region. Global Representation: I represented Locus Chain and presented our platform at international events.
Skills: Blockchain · Channel Partners · International Business Development · Business Planning · Customer Relations · Management Consulting · Business Strategy · Team Management · Consulting · IT Strategy · Board Development · IT Management
As a Regional Advisor at eTakeaway, I lead our strategic expansion across the Middle-East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. My focus is on establishing strong partnerships, securing essential investments, and overseeing the successful launch and operational setup of the platform in new markets. I am passionate about driving international growth and collaborating with partners to bring eTakeaway’s mission to a global audience.As a Regional Advisor at eTakeaway, I lead our strategic expansion across the Middle-East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. My focus is on establishing strong partnerships, securing essential investments, and overseeing the successful launch and operational setup of the platform in new markets. I am passionate about driving international growth and collaborating with partners to bring eTakeaway’s mission to a global audience.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Business Planning · Investments · Operations Management · Executive Management · Board Development · Marketing Strategy
I served as a Board Advisor at Imex Systems Inc., a global leader in e-Government and smart city solutions. I specialized in driving digital transformation by pioneering internet-based applications for the public sector. During my tenure, I played a key role in Imex's journey, helping to secure several multi-million dollar public sector engagements. My focus was on leveraging the i-Gov Platform, our one-stop shop for public services, to empower governments and create smarter cities.I served as a Board Advisor at Imex Systems Inc., a global leader in e-Government and smart city solutions. I specialized in driving digital transformation by pioneering internet-based applications for the public sector. During my tenure, I played a key role in Imex's journey, helping to secure several multi-million dollar public sector engagements. My focus was on leveraging the i-Gov Platform, our one-stop shop for public services, to empower governments and create smarter cities.
Skills: International Business Development · Business Analysis · Customer Relations · Smart Cities · IT Governance · Enterprise Software
From my time as a Board Advisor at CloudBuy PLC UK, a leading transactional eCommerce Cloud Platform, I was responsible for the company's growth and market strategy in the Middle East. I successfully secured several government contracts for eMarketplace and spend analysis solutions, driving significant revenue. My role involved developing regional business plans, building strategic partnerships, and providing key insights to the UK board to expand our presence in the region.From my time as a Board Advisor at CloudBuy PLC UK, a leading transactional eCommerce Cloud Platform, I was responsible for the company's growth and market strategy in the Middle East. I successfully secured several government contracts for eMarketplace and spend analysis solutions, driving significant revenue. My role involved developing regional business plans, building strategic partnerships, and providing key insights to the UK board to expand our presence in the region.
Skills: Channel Partners · International Business Development · Business Analysis · Enterprise Software · Consulting · Competitive Analysis · Marketing Strategy · Cloud Computing
Senior business leader with a proven track record of securing and delivering large-scale public sector projects in the MENA region. Expert in forging strategic partnerships, driving significant revenue growth, and leading teams to deliver state-of-the-art government solutions. Passionate about leveraging technology to transform public services.Senior business leader with a proven track record of securing and delivering large-scale public sector projects in the MENA region. Expert in forging strategic partnerships, driving significant revenue growth, and leading teams to deliver state-of-the-art government solutions. Passionate about leveraging technology to transform public services.
Skills: Team Leadership · Software Project Management · Team Management · Enterprise Software · IT Management
As Country Manager for ]init[ in the UAE, I led our expansion and secured over AED50 million in public sector deals across the GCC, specifically in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain. I successfully partnered with key government entities, including the Economic Department, Health Authority, ADSIC and Municipality, to deliver large-scale eGovernment and eBusiness solutions.
My role included crafting and executing business development strategies, leading all aspects of the sales cycle from qualification to closing, and providing expert consulting for complex proposals. I also worked closely with the board to shape the company's long-term strategy and solidify our reputation as a trusted partner for public sector digital transformation.As Country Manager for ]init[ in the UAE, I led our expansion and secured over AED50 million in public sector deals across the GCC, specifically in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain. I successfully partnered with key government entities, including the Economic Department, Health Authority, ADSIC and Municipality, to deliver large-scale eGovernment and eBusiness solutions. My role included crafting and executing business development strategies, leading all aspects of the sales cycle from qualification to closing, and providing expert consulting for complex proposals. I also worked closely with the board to shape the company's long-term strategy and solidify our reputation as a trusted partner for public sector digital transformation.
Skills: International Business Development · Business Analysis · Smart Cities · Software Project Management · Board Development
Experienced Managing Director who transformed a startup into a multi-million-dollar business in under 3 years. Skilled in leading major public sector projects, aligning IT with corporate strategy, and driving innovation for organizations such as Dubai Chamber, ENOC, Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, and the Ministry of Health.Experienced Managing Director who transformed a startup into a multi-million-dollar business in under 3 years. Skilled in leading major public sector projects, aligning IT with corporate strategy, and driving innovation for organizations such as Dubai Chamber, ENOC, Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, and the Ministry of Health.
Skills: Customer Relations · Team Management · Enterprise Software · Consulting · Business Management · IT Strategy · Executive Management · IT Management · Marketing Strategy · Project Management · Client Relations
Experienced IT leader with a proven track record of pioneering e-Government initiatives for the Emirate of Ajman, UAE. As Chairperson of the IT Steering Committee, I've led key projects from infrastructure and data center setups to deployment of major systems like ERP, GIS, and DMS. My accomplishments include saving AED 90 million through strategic program management and creating a 5-year e-Government roadmap. I specialize in deploying long-term IT strategies, managing project portfolios, and leading technological advancements to drive digital transformation.Experienced IT leader with a proven track record of pioneering e-Government initiatives for the Emirate of Ajman, UAE. As Chairperson of the IT Steering Committee, I've led key projects from infrastructure and data center setups to deployment of major systems like ERP, GIS, and DMS. My accomplishments include saving AED 90 million through strategic program management and creating a 5-year e-Government roadmap. I specialize in deploying long-term IT strategies, managing project portfolios, and leading technological advancements to drive digital transformation.
Skills: Business Analysis · ERP · Smart Cities · Project Planning · Management Consulting · IT Governance · Operations Management · Change Management · Project Management · IT Strategy · IT Management · Leadership
Jaber AL Lamki
Advisor & Media & Strategic CommunicationsI have known Dr. Usman for more than 2 years now and one of the ways to describe him would be very talented, practical and smart person who has lots of connections globally. Dr. Usman will never stop to surprise me with his ability to take complex project and problems and come up with easy and cost effective solutions. He is defiantly someone you would like to know and become friends with him. Very proud and fortunate that I met and had the chance to work with him.
Mahemed Noureldin A. Abdelhakim
PhD, Associate Professor at Jumeira UniversityDr. Usman is very creative, talent, smart team leader. He is a prefect lecturer and professional consultant and trainer. Dr. Usman is a competent and hard work researcher.
Rodrigo Rivera
C-Level Executive |Technology Delegate Global Wealth Forum U.K.-Chile |Apogee Speaker |AIIA Industry Scientist |Bizmoni Investment Member |Venture Capital |Cyber Defense A.I. | Top 25 Tech Leaders LATAMJanuaryI’m pleased to recommend Usman for his professional experience working with investors, entrepreneurs and global multidisciplinary technology teams. When I joined Bizmoni’s board of directors, he was one of the first staff colleagues to support me with directions to meet our strategic objectives worldwide. He is a great business and technical leader.
Thomas Cort Hansen
CEO at Takeout GroupDr Usman has been our advisor screening potential business partners in UAE region and facilitating relevant links to other clients throughout Europe via the DUC network and associates. Dr Usman has been very professional in all aspects and he has contributed with several key connections from which we have benefited. Above all Dr Usman is friendly and competent which ensures the best atmosphere for business discussions and negotiations.
Jonny Holden
B2B Commercial CardIt is a pleasure to work with Dr Usman, a world class professional in ecommerce. I have been working with him just for a few months and already we are meeting with C level officers in large Corporates and Governments, and committing to high value commercial contracts in the Emirates. We are also enjoying commercial discussions in other countries which Dr Usman has instigated.
Martin Moser
Director Sales at CCH Tagetik | Strategic Advisor | Board MemberDirector Sales at CCH Tagetik | Strategic Advisor | Board MemberTransformative leaders who genuinely understand both technology and global markets are rare – Dr. Usman Zafar exemplifies this exceptional combination. As a fellow Board Member at Bizmoni, I’ve witnessed firsthand how his strategic vision consistently translates into actionable growth opportunities across international markets.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Dr. Zafar’s global expertise, engaging presentation style, and tailored content on topics like smart cities, AI, blockchain, and global business strategies make him a dynamic speaker and MC, recognized at events like the International Prime Awards.
Dr. Usman has received numerous accolades, including:
The Leading Global Advisor of the Year 2024 (International Prime Awards)
The Leading Global Investment Advisor 2024 (International Peace and Leadership Awards)
Innovation Provider of the Year 2024 (World Business Hub, presented by UAE Royal Family member)
Leading Smart City Expert in the MENA Region (8th International Smart City Conference & Expo)
Top 51 Most Impactful Smart Cities Leaders Globally (World CSR Day & World Sustainability)
[Follows the keynote speaker question to highlight his recognized achievements, reinforcing his authority.]
You can reach Dr. Zafar at advisor@usmanzafar.com or connect via LinkedIn to discuss AI advisory, board advisory, market acceleration, keynote speaking, or smart city initiatives.
