From Middle East Skyscrapers to Medieval Hilltops: A New Chapter Begins
After more than two decades abroad, homecoming feels like discovering new horizons
After more than two decades in Qatar, I have recently returned to Europe, opening a new chapter in both my personal and professional life. This move brings with it a sense of homecoming and new beginnings, along with exciting opportunities in digital transformation and cultural management. The journey from Qatar's modernistic skyline to a 9th-century hillside village in Europe marks more than just a change of scenery. After 21 years immersed in the rapidly evolving landscape of the Middle East, I've returned to the family home that has weathered five centuries of history, and closer to my children, who are now studying at universities in Europe.
I am deeply grateful to Qatar, to my friends and former colleagues there —Omran, Mike, Joe, Richard, Danny, Aicha, Walaa, Nabeel, the RDI Office and QSTP teams, Hamad and the Covid-19 task force, Alper—, to Qatar Foundation's senior leadership, H.H. Sheikha Moza and H.E. Sheikha Hind, for their unwavering support, warm welcome, and the incredible opportunities they provided throughout my time in the country. Their trust and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my professional journey and personal growth over these two decades.
My time in Qatar was transformative. I had the privilege of working with hundreds of brilliant minds, turning innovative ideas into business reality across industries. From establishing applied research centres to launching international ventures, each project was a lesson in managing complexity and driving digital transformation in a fast-paced environment. And this was all against the backdrop of Qatar's phenomenal growth, culminating in the festive 2022 FIFA World Cup that captivated global audiences. The country's rapid development provided a unique and exciting context for our work.
Now, I find myself in a setting that couldn't be more different. Our family home, built around 1460, sits in a village perched on a hilltop, with views rivalling Tuscany and a rich history at every turn —I mean literally every turn, for next door to my house you will find the 11th century church and crypt. The joy of being able to visit my children more frequently, to be a more present part of their university experiences, adds a deeply personal dimension to this homecoming.
What makes this transition particularly intriguing is the area's deep connection to the arts. Within reach are several well-preserved Roman and Etruscan theatres, still hosting vibrant summer festivals. This juxtaposition of ancient culture and modern innovation feels symbolic of the path ahead.
As I settle into European life, I'm keen to apply my experience in new ways, particularly in the field of digital transformation. I'm also delighted to be embarking soon on teaching and research collaborations with renowned universities and business schools, focusing on cultural management. The performing arts sector, facing its own digital revolution, presents an exciting opportunity globally. How can we use technology to support artists, engage audiences, and ensure the sustainability of cultural institutions? These questions fuel my curiosity and drive to contribute.
This isn't a complete career pivot, but rather an expansion of focus. I'll continue working on digital transformation and technology integration across various industries and geographies, now with the added dimension of the cultural sector. It's a chance to blend the fast-paced innovation I've known with the timeless value of art and heritage.
Returning to Europe offers new perspectives, allowing me to combine insights from a rapidly developing economy with the rich cultural landscape here. As I begin this new chapter, I'm open to fresh connections and collaborations, eager to explore how we can address the challenges and opportunities of our digital world.
This transition is about more than changing locations. It's about broadening horizons, both personally and professionally. As I balance innovative work with the simple pleasures of European life and cherished time with family, I'm excited to see where this new path leads. The future feels full of possibility, much like the view from our ancient hilltop home – expansive, inspiring, and ripe with potential.