Building Agentic AI Systems: A Practical Guide with LLMs and Retrieval-Augmented Generation

10 November (Day 1), 9:30 to 11:00

Abstract

Large Language Models (LLMs) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) are rapidly transforming how businesses interact with and utilise information. While LLMs, such as GPT and Claude, have achieved unprecedented performance in natural language understanding and generation, they often exhibit limitations, including hallucination, outdated knowledge, and a lack of interpretability. RAG addresses these challenges by combining LLMs with external information retrieval mechanisms, enabling systems to generate responses grounded in relevant, real-time data. This hybrid architecture follows a retrieve-then-generate paradigm, retrieving contextually relevant documents from a knowledge base and then using them to guide the generation of more accurate and trustworthy responses.

This tutorial offers a hands-on introduction to integrating LLMs and RAG into practical business workflows. Participants will explore the foundational concepts of tokenisation, embedding-based retrieval, vector databases, and prompt engineering. Emphasis is placed on applying RAG to knowledge-intensive applications such as customer service chatbots, intelligent document summarisation, and dynamic content generation. By incorporating up-to- date and domain-specific information into the generation process, RAG allows LLMs to deliver more reliable outputs for enterprise use cases.

Live demonstrations will guide attendees through building an end-to-end intelligent chatbot using LLMs, LangChain, and Streamlit, showcasing how RAG can be deployed with minimal infrastructure using cloud-based environments such as Google Colab. Attendees will receive codebases and implementation templates to replicate and customise in their workflows.

The session concludes with a discussion of implementation challenges, including latency, retrieval accuracy, and the ethical risks associated with automated decision-making. We also explore future research directions such as adaptive retrieval agents, integration with multimodal inputs, and responsible fine-tuning techniques to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Collectively, this tutorial equips participants with the practical tools and theoretical insights to harness LLMs and RAG for intelligent automation, enhancing the quality and efficiency of digital decision-making in modern enterprises.

Speakers

Charles Liu: A researcher at the Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute (AAII), University of Technology Sydney, focusing on intelligent computing and systems engineering with applications in smart agriculture, carbon intelligence, and renewable energy. He proposed the KACINO system for digitising carbon-neutral assets.

Imani Abayakoon: A PhD student at the University of Technology Sydney specialising in Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), with research dedicated to advancing AI systems' accuracy, reliability, and interpretability.

Autonomous Agents, Smart Contracts and Distributed Ledgers for engineering trust in the Carbon economy

10 November (Day 1), 11:15 to 12:45

Abstract

Carbon credits hold significant potential to support climate mitigation efforts by providing financial incentives for emissions reductions and carbon sequestration. However, the current carbon credit ecosystem faces critical challenges that undermine its integrity, transparency, and trustworthiness. A primary issue is double counting, where the same carbon credit is claimed by multiple parties, leading to unreliable emissions reporting and inflated climate mitigation claims. This issue is exacerbated by the absence of robust frameworks for carbon credit provenance, including unclear ownership histories and ambiguous project documentation. Consequently, it is challenging to verify and ascertain whether a credit is emanating from a genuine emissions reduction activity, or is previously unused, or accurately represents its claimed environmental benefit. These problems are aggravated by manual and inconsistent reporting processes, which introduce inefficiencies and human- induced errors into the evaluation of carbon offset projects. Without intelligent, reliable and standardised mechanisms for automatically assessing project impact, the credibility of carbon markets is severely compromised.

Emerging technologies offer promising solutions to these longstanding issues. Artificial intelligence and advanced sensing technologies now enable high-frequency, real-time tracking of carbon-related activities. These tools could be used to intelligently detect land-use changes, estimate carbon sequestration, and monitor emissions with a level of precision and scalability that manual inspections cannot achieve. When combined with blockchain infrastructure, this data can be securely recorded and time-stamped, providing an immutable audit trail for each carbon credit.

This tutorial systematically explores how blockchain technologies and AI can be leveraged to engineer more trustworthy systems that support the transition to achieve Net-Zero emissions. We focus on two high-impact sectors, namely agriculture and transportation, to illustrate current applications, implementation challenges and emerging best practices.

Finally, the tutorial concludes by outlining future research directions, including the deployment of autonomous agents for intelligent and continuous verification, the integration of smart contracts for automating carbon credit issuance, and the concept of carbon tokens and fractionalisation. Collectively, these innovations offer a path towards restoring the credibility and impact of the carbon markets, while opening new avenues for research, government policy and research translation.

Speakers

Dr. Asma Alkhalaf: A leading researcher specializing in engineering research-inspired solutions that leverage emerging technologies to advance environmental sustainability. With a PhD in Distributed and Cloud Computing, her work bridges environmental sustainability with emerging digital technologies such as blockchain and AI.

Asma Mistadi: A researcher with a strong commitment to the use of technology for environmental sustainability, with a focused interest in the tokenisation and fractionalisation of carbon credits. Her PhD research combines Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain to develop intelligent solutions for carbon credit ownership provenance.

How to build your own AI Agent

10 November (Day 1), 13:45 to 15:15

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) agents are rapidly transforming productivity by combining the capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) with structured reasoning, memory, and tool-use. Unlike static chatbots, AI agents can autonomously plan, execute, and refine complex workflows—bridging user intent with automated action across digital environments. These systems leverage agentic reasoning loops (“perceive–plan–act”) to perform dynamic tasks such as email summarisation, meeting scheduling, and report generation with minimal human supervision.

This hands-on tutorial introduces participants to the principles and practice of building AI productivity agents using modern frameworks such as LangChain, CrewAI, and OpenAI function calling. Attendees will learn to design the core architectural components of agentic systems, including prompt-driven reasoning, persistent memory, contextual retrieval, and API integration. Guided exercises will lead participants in developing an end-to-end AI agent within Google Colab or a local Python environment, demonstrating real-world applications in intelligent automation and workflow enhancement.

Speaker

Dr. Abdulaziz Almaslukh: An RDI Executive at SITE and an Assistant Professor at King Saud University, specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Data Management. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of California, Riverside. Dr. Almaslukh leads innovative AI initiatives across multiple domains and industries, driving the development of advanced solutions that integrate research, technology, and real-world impact.

AI for Leaders and Decision-Makers

10 November (Day 1), 13:45 to 15:15

Abstract

This insightful talk explores the fundamental role of Artificial Intelligence in reshaping the paradigms of leadership and corporate success in the digital age. It serves not merely as an informational overview, but as a strategic compass designed to provide leaders and decision-makers with the foresight to harness this transformative power, translating it into intelligent decisions and sustainable growth.

The talk delves into several core themes:

• Deconstructing AI: Moving from ambiguity to clarity by exploring AI's true potential and its capacity to create innovative business models.
• Formulating Strategy and Vision: Translating technological capabilities into measurable corporate objectives and charting a clear, methodical roadmap (ACADIC) for successful and effective adoption.
• Building Institutional Capacity Laying the groundwork for an integrated and agile ecosystem that fosters innovation and ensures the long-term sustainability and evolution of AI initiatives.
• From Vision to Reality: Reviewing effective methodologies for efficiently leading and managing AI projects and navigating the common challenges of implementation.

In essence, this talk provides an intellectual and practical framework that empowers leaders to move beyond a reactive stance to technological advancements, enabling them to become active architects in shaping their organization's future in the age of AI.

Speaker

Eng. Fayadh Mohammed Hani Bayan: The CEO of Renad Al Majd (RMG) and a leading expert in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and strategic planning, with over 20 years of experience supporting national and international initiatives.

AI in Action, at the Heart of Cyber Security and Resilience

11 November (Day 2), 10:00 to 11:00

Abstract

The rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) has reignited the ever-going debate over the true value of AI in our digital lives and daily routines. In this keynote, I challenge the skeptics by showcasing how AI can revolutionize Cybersecurity and Resilience across Space, Air, Land, and Sea—through a dozen real-world applications. Yet, I also target the AI capitalists, exposing the risks of rushing immature AI into harmful or mission-critical domains. I conclude with how to harness AI’s power wisely, knowing when to push forward, when to pause, and probably when to step back!

Keynote Speaker

Prof. Ali Shoker

Smart Disruption: AI’s Role in Creating Next-Generation Digital Markets

12 November (Day 3), 9:30 to 10:30

Abstract

The presentation examines key AI-driven technologies and strategies that are transforming traditional e-business models and redefining competitive landscapes. There will be insights into the future prospects of AI-enabled disruption and how organizations can leverage these advancements to stay ahead in the evolving digital marketplace.

Keynote Speaker

Ms. Fadwa Saad AlBawardi

11 November (Day 2), 14:15 to 15:45

Moderator

Eng. Abdullah Aldosari

Panelist

Dr. Mazen Shawosh

Mr. Ahmed Al-Saleh

Dr. Riyad A. Alshammari

AI in Cybersecurity: Opportunities and Reality Checks

12 November (Day 3), 13:30 to 14:50

Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence reshapes industries, cybersecurity stands at the frontline of both innovation and risk. This panel brings together experts and practitioners to explore how AI is revolutionizing cyber security while confronting the real challenges of data integrity, model trust, and human oversight. Through an open, fast-paced exchange, panelists will share opportunities, challenges, and actionable insights on how to advance AI responsibly.

Moderator

Prof. Ali Shoker

Panelist

Ms. Arwa Alhamad

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Mr. Ed Sleiman

Prof. Ali Shoker is a Research Associate Professor at KAUST, where he leads the Cyber Security and Resilience Technology (CyberSaR) Lab, dedicated to addressing societal challenges through Cyber Resilience by Design. He was a founding member of KAUST’s cybersecurity and resilience initiatives, including the Resilient Computing and Cybersecurity New Space, Mobile Systems, and Blockchain/Fintech technologies.

Prof. Shoker earned his PhD with European distinction from the University of Toulouse and has held research positions at EPFL, INSA, INESC TEC, and Capgemini in Europe, contributing to both academic breakthroughs and industrial innovation. He is recognized for his pioneering work on resilient decentralized systems (Conflict-free Replicated DataTypes and Blockchain), for which he holds a sole-inventor patent, and has received international honors including the IFIP Best Paper Award.

Ms. Fadwa Saad AlBawardi is the founder/CEO of FSAB Consultancy office in Digital Transformation.

Ms. AlBawardi is a Certified Strategy and Business Planning Professional, with more than 22+ years of working experience.

Moreover, she is a certified trainer in KSA as well as with UN Training and Research (UNITAR).

She is an Elsevier reviewer for international AI & technical research papers and articles, as well, and a public speaker in several national and international conferences including: United Nations ITU IGF and UN ITU AI for Good Summits 2024 and 2025, in Geneva.

She has earned a Masters dregree in Computer Science from Boston University, in 2003.

Eng. Abdullah Aldosari is the Founder and Managing Director of T2, where he leads innovative projects in technology, digital transformation, and cybersecurity. With extensive experience spanning both the public and private sectors, he has played a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s digital ecosystem and strengthening national capabilities in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

He has held leadership positions in strategic organizations, contributing to policy-making, national programs, and cutting-edge technology initiatives. Throughout his career, Eng. Aldosari has been recognized for bridging the gap between industry and academia, supporting entrepreneurship, and mentoring the next generation of technology leaders. At the conference, he brings a wealth of expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and digital innovation, offering unique insights into how these domains can drive resilience, growth, and sustainable development.

Dr. Mazen Shawosh is an Assistant Professor of Management Information Systems. His research, teaching, and consultation focus on organizational privacy, IS strategic leadership, and data governance. He is the founder and past president of the Saudi AIS. Mazen earned his Ph.D. from the University of Georgia, an M.S. from the University of Florida, and a B.S. from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals. He won the Best Paper Award at the Southern AIS Conference (SAIS) 2018 and the Saudi Conference on Information Systems (SaudiCIS) 2024. Mazen actively participated in organizing different major regional conferences such as ECIS2025, SaudiCIS2024, MENACIS2022, and IEEE International Conference on Computing and Information Technology (ICCIT) 2023.

Ahmed Al-Saleh is a distinguished OT cybersecurity leader overseeing the cybersecurity program for Saudi Aramco’s Northern Area Gas Operations. With 18 years of expertise in safeguarding critical infrastructures, he has a proven track record in developing and managing Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) and OT cybersecurity programs, as well as strengthening cybersecurity governance, risk, compliance, and operational controls.

In addition to his cybersecurity leadership, Ahmed drives Digital Transformation initiatives aimed at enhancing operational reliability, safety, and innovation—uplifting digital capabilities to support gas operations and strengthen HSSE performance. Ahmed holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) and a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He also holds multiple globally recognized cybersecurity certifications.

Passionate about knowledge sharing and community engagement, Ahmed is an active member of the Information Security Association (Hemaya), serves on advisory committees for several industry conferences, and is a frequent international speaker contributing to discussions on OT cybersecurity, digital transformation, and the future of critical infrastructure protection.

Arwa Alhamad

• Data & Cybersecurity Executive with 16+ years of experience.
• Board member and advisor shaping strategy, governance, and resilience. Speaker and advocate for digital resilience and innovation.
• Global Executive MBA, Misk 2030 Leader Graduate.

Dr. Naveed Ahmad is an Associate Professor and College Research Director at the College of Computer and Information Sciences (CCIS), Prince Sultan University (PSU) in Riyadh, KSA. He holds a PhD in Cybersecurity from the University of Surrey, UK, and brings 15+ years of experience across research, teaching, and consultancy. Dr. Ahmad has advised the UN, World Bank, USAID, GIZ, and the Government of Pakistan. His current work centers on open-source cybersecurity solutions from both applied and research perspectives. He has deep expertise in GRC, privacy, and trust, has authored 120+ publications, and holds eight design and utility registrations in the UK and Canada, with additional filings under review in the United States.

Dr. Ed Sleiman is the Chief Security Advisor for Microsoft in the Middle East, where he provides strategic guidance and support to customers' cybersecurity and IT executives, as well as boards. With over 40 years in the IT industry, including 16 years in senior cybersecurity roles, Ed brings a wealth of experience and insight to his position.

As a CISO Advisor, Ed leverages his extensive expertise in cybersecurity leadership, security program management, risk management, data governance, business continuity, data security and privacy, and information security awareness to help Microsoft customers achieve their vision and mission.

He spent a decade as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where he managed cybersecurity for both the university and the surrounding city. His efforts also focused on capacity building, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity field.

Before joining KAUST, Ed worked in security program management and executive management roles at several US based companies, including Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Informobility, Inc., The Orkand Corporation, and CACI among others.

Ed is a frequent keynote speaker, panel moderator, panelist, and review board member at numerous cybersecurity and risk management conferences. He is best known for his pioneering work on The Human Firewall Program™. Additionally, he has served on advisory boards for leading global cybersecurity companies.

Academically, Ed holds various degrees, culminating in a PhD ABD in Software Engineering from the George Washington University in 2014. He has received five CISO awards and holds over a dozen professional certifications in cybersecurity.

Passionate about cybersecurity knowledge transfer, Ed has taught thousands of professionals throughout his career.