Successful eSolutions User Group Conference 2025 in Riyadh
AI and Digital Twins: Redefining the Asset Lifecycle Management
Event explored how IBM Maximo, AI and digital twin technologies reshape the way critical assets are managed, maintained and optimized
April 30, Riyadh – eSolutions Saudia, in collaboration with IBM, hosted the 2025 edition of the IBM Maximo User Group Conference in Riyadh – a high-impact gathering tailored specifically for asset managers, operations leads and maintenance professionals across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
The Conference brought together a powerful mix of industry leaders from facility, infrastructure, utilities, manufacturing, transportation and entertainment, all with a shared goal: to explore how IBM Maximo, AI and digital twin technologies are reshaping the way critical assets are managed, maintained and optimized.
Video credit: MDS SI
With a carefully curated agenda, the conference offered real-world success stories, product innovation and actionable insights. It kicked off with a warm welcome from Ziad Lamaa (General Manager, eSolutions Saudia) and Olga J. Parra (Data and AI Brand Leader, IBM), setting the stage for a day of focused discussions on smarter, more resilient asset operations.
“It’s an honor to bring together our clients once again for our second conference, creating a platform to exchange knowledge, celebrate successes and explore the future of asset management. We sincerely thank our clients for sharing their journeys and extend our gratitude to our partners and valuable speakers for their contributions. We look forward to continuing to drive innovation through AI and digital twin technologies” said Ziad Lamaa, GM, eSolutions Saudia.
A high-energy kickoff
Renowned World Champion Public Speaker and TEDx Speaker, Mohamed Qahtani, captivated the room with a keynote titled “What AI Can Do for You,” energizing the crowd with forward-looking insights and relatable storytelling on the practical potential of AI in daily operations.
IBM’s vision for AI-infused operations
The spotlight then shifted to Gayathri Magie, IBM’s KSA Lab Director and Development Director, who unveiled IBM’s product roadmap and painted a clear picture of the future of AI-infused asset lifecycle management – an essential direction for any enterprise navigating the digital era.
From strategy to action
The conference emphasized more than just vision – it delivered practical insight. Alex Sanders, Director of Consulting and Pre-Sales at eSolutions Saudia, walked the audience through how Maximo is being delivered as a managed solution, streamlining operations while maximizing returns.
This momentum continued with a second keynote by Shukri Habib, Managing Director at QualiServ, who explored how AI and digital twins are transforming reliability strategies across industries.
Real-world impact: clients take the stage
Client success stories brought the conference to life, illustrating how IBM Maximo is driving real transformation across diverse sectors — from public infrastructure to global manufacturing and entertainment.
Mohammed Al Marshoud, Assistant Director General of the General Department of Road Maintenance, shared how Maximo is enhancing operational governance and streamlining road maintenance across the Kingdom.
Robert Berkel, Global Head of Digitalization and IT at Quant, demonstrated how their adoption of IBM MAS is fueling smart maintenance strategies with measurable returns.
Meanwhile, Annas Abu Laban, Associate Director at SEVEN, spoke about building a smarter, safer entertainment ecosystem – with Maximo as a foundational tool for innovation.
Technology partnerships and innovation
The day also featured a spotlight on innovation with Hani Obeid, Co-Founder and VP of Business Development at Picacity, presenting their integrated AI and Digital Twin platform, and Alan Hughes, President of Digital Business Automation at BMC Software, sharing data-driven strategies for proactive asset management.
A collaborative future
The event concluded with final remarks from MC Rob Day, reflecting the core message of the conference: collaboration, innovation and real-world transformation.
As digital transformation accelerates across the Kingdom, the eSolutions User Group Conference reinforced its position as the region’s go-to gathering for those serious about unlocking the power of IBM Maximo, AI, and intelligent asset management.
About eSolutions Saudia LLC
Founded in 2012 with offices in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, IBM Business Partner, eSolutions provides business consulting and digital technology services. The company offers special expertise in IBM Watson® IoT and IBM Maximo solutions. eSolutions is a member of the Midis Group of companies.
