Overview of the 2nd Edition of Disrupting for Good: AI, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainable Circular Economy

The inaugural International Conference on Disrupting for Good: AI, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainable Circular Economy  was held from January 28-29, 2026, at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) in the United Arab Emirates. Co-hosted by The Majan University College Oman, the conference brought together leading academics, researchers, and professionals to discuss innovative approaches to business, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

 Day 1: January 28, 2026
The conference commenced with a registration session and welcoming speeches by distinguished leaders, including:
- Prof. Khalid Hussian, Provost, American University of Ras Al Khaimah- United Arab Emirates.
- Dr. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research Sustainability and Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, AURAK, and Conference Chair.
- Ms. Nabila Al-Macki, Deputy Dean – Academic Affairs – Majan University College, Oman.

A brief presentation followed, introducing IEREK as a key collaborator, outlining its activities and contributions to academic and professional development.

 Keynote Session
The opening plenary session featured an inspiring keynote speech by Prof. KC Santosh, , Professor and Chair, University of South Dakota, United States.
Dr. Basil M. Hantash, Chairman, CEO & CSO of Escape Therapeutics, Serial Entrepreneur, and Regenerative Medicine Pioneer.

 Parallel Sessions
After a networking lunch, four parallel sessions covered critical topics:
- Session 1: AI, Data Analytics & Digital Transformation
Moderator: Dr. Muataz Hazza
- Session 2: Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Business Ecosystems
Moderator: Dr. Pranav Kumar
- Session 3: Social Responsibility, Culture & HumanCentered Management
Moderator: Prof. Irshad Ahmad
- Session 4: Digital Innovation for Sustainable Economies: Finance, Circularity, and Data-Driven Decision Making
Moderator: Dr. Khalid Khan

Authors presented their research both in-person and online, engaging with the audience in discussions and Q&A sessions. The day concluded with a Panel session summarizing key insights and feedback.

 Day 2: January 29, 2026
The second day began with registration and a morning coffee, followed by a keynote speech delivered by Dr. Jasmina Locke , CEO Integrated Development Solutions Group – IDSG UNWTO Expert & Auditor.

 Parallel Sessions
Four additional parallel sessions explored diverse topics:
- Session 5: Circular Economy & Sustainable Innovation
Moderator: Prof. Ahmad Sakhrieh .
- Session 6: Tourism, Markets & Competitive Advantage
Moderator: Dr. Tariq Bhatti .
- Session 7: Digital Transformation, Fintech, Cybersecurity & Smart Markets
Moderator: Dr. Lakkimsetty Nageswara Rao .
- Session 8: AI and Sustainable Practices: Transforming Finance, Experience, and Creativity
Moderator: Dr. Khouloud Salameh

As with the first day, authors presented their findings and participated in interactive Q&A sessions.

Closing Master Class
The conference concluded with a final Master Class, ringing the day to a close with an interactive and insightful learning experience. The session provided participants with practical perspectives and valuable takeaways, encouraging reflection, discussion, and future collaboration.

The conference successfully fostered dialogue on innovative strategies for sustainable business and entrepreneurship, leaving attendees inspired to implement the ideas and solutions discussed.