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Steven Nasser

CTO at Saber

Building the Future of Intelligent Infrastructure Through Vision, Precision, and Purpose

In a rapidly transforming world where digital disruption is redefining the fundamentals of mobility, infrastructure, and security, Steven Nasser stands as a formidable force of innovation and foresight. As Chief Technology Officer of SABER Investment Company and Chairman of the IRF MENA Committee, he is not only driving the advancement of intelligent transportation systems and infrastructure innovation—but helping shape how entire regions envision and execute next-generation development.

From Engineer to Global Strategist: A Career Engineered for Impact

Steven’s journey began at Boston University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering. Grounded in design, systems thinking, and precision manufacturing, his early education gave him a strong foundation for solving complex technical problems. His first role at Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC) immersed him in enterprise technology, where he mastered the skill of translating intricate systems into language that non-technical executives could understand—a rare and vital skill that would follow him throughout his career.

Over the years, Steven’s path unfolded through a variety of sectors—industrial automation, aerospace, automotive, defense, and smart city innovation. His move from engineer to business strategist was shaped not just by technical growth, but by an ability to link technology with strategic outcomes. “I’ve always been interested in what a system can do, and how it can be adopted towards lasting transformation,” he says.

Technology with a Purpose: Engineering Transformation at SABER and Beyond

Since joining SABER Investment Company in 2009, Steven has overseen major shifts in how the company leverages engineering to diversify into future-focused domains. He led the transformation of a legacy manufacturing facility into the region’s first “machining-as-a-service” platform—an advanced, digitally integrated production site. Positioning SABER as a leader in smart manufacturing in the MENA region and leveraging the opportunities created by the ‘MAKE IT IN THE EMIRATES’ initiative.

Steven also spearheaded the creation of IKARIS, a spin-off technology division under SABER dedicated to system integration and smart city solutions. Under his guidance, IKARIS deployed innovative platforms for traffic control, AI surveillance, automated tolling, and V2X communications. His clients include government bodies like the Abu Dhabi ITC, Dubai RTA, and Abu Dhabi Police—agencies that rely on his insight to modernize and digitize their operations.

But for Steven, transformation is never just about the tech. “Before you can implement any digital infrastructure, you have to understand the human landscape,” he says. “Technology should serve a purpose—and that purpose must always begin with people.”  More importantly, he believes that knowing what challenges and problems need to be solved is ‘half the battle’.  “Sometimes technology is being deployed as a quick fix solution without really tackling the core issue at hand.”, he continues.

Driving Innovation Through Collaboration and Intelligence

In his role as Chairman of the IRF MENA Committee and Co-Chairman of the ITS Committee, Steven champions inclusive innovation by engaging academia, private enterprise, and government agencies in co-designing future roadmaps. His leadership has helped steer initiatives across smart infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI-enabled mobility, and connected vehicle ecosystems.

Whether working on AI-based traffic signalization systems or overseeing integrated digital signage platforms, Steven’s approach is pragmatic yet forward-looking. He sees every project as a living ecosystem—an interplay of machines, data, policy, and people.

He is especially focused on the ethical design of intelligent systems. With the rise of autonomous vehicles, Agentic AI, and real-time city management platforms, he advocates for accountability frameworks and values-based design. “The question isn’t whether a system can act on its own. It’s whether we’ve given it the right priorities to act in our best interests,” he notes.

Strategic Thinking in Action: Building Resilience in a Connected Age

Steven’s signature strength lies in his ability to bridge technological potential with enterprise strategy. With experience in cloud computing, software automation, AI, and cybersecurity, he crafts cohesive digital transformation plans that span both IT and OT systems.  While ensuring the human creativity and ingenuity continues to be developed and nurtured.

His leadership has unlocked new revenue streams for US defense sector giants, aligning their innovations with Abu Dhabi’s industrial vision. In doing so, he not only opens up market opportunities but also ensures compliance with regional offset programs and stakeholder expectations.

At SABER, he has digitized the company’s manufacturing ecosystem—creating connected work cells that allow for real-time, end-to-end supply chain management from design to delivery. It’s a process that reflects his belief in vertical integration, real-time insight, and platform interoperability.

“True transformation happens when data, devices, and decisions align in real time,” he says. “That’s when efficiency becomes intelligence and intelligence drives productivity.”

A Leadership Style Rooted in Resilience and Action

Steven’s leadership style is a blend of pragmatism and passion. He is a listener first, asking sharp questions to uncover hidden patterns before building solutions. Colleagues often describe him as a steady presence in high-pressure scenarios, with a mindset wired for both strategy and scale.

He is also a firm believer in failing fast and learning faster. “My greatest teachers have been my failures,” he admits. “When you’re building something new, you won’t always get it right the first time. But if you’re open to the lesson, it always moves you forward.”

His adaptability, emotional intelligence, and ability to lead cross-functional teams have made him a mentor to rising leaders. He continues to mentor tech professionals across the MENA region and is frequently invited to speak at international forums on mobility, defense innovation, and AI ethics.

Legacy in Motion: Shaping the Future of Intelligent Mobility

From developing connected smart cities to revolutionizing the MENA region’s defense and transportation infrastructure, Steven’s work is about creating ecosystems that are as resilient as they are innovative.

His vision is clear: a world where vehicles, cities, and infrastructure speak to each other in real-time, optimizing energy, movement, and human potential. It’s a future that demands not just digital tools, but thoughtful design and inclusive thinking.

Steven is deeply committed to ensuring that this future is guided by values—transparency, sustainability, and shared growth. Whether working on government infrastructure projects or advising startups on AI integration, he carries with him the same mission: to create systems that uplift economies, empower communities, and redefine what’s possible.

Words of Wisdom: Advice for the Next Generation

To emerging engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs, Steven offers grounded advice: “Don’t be afraid to take detours. Some of my greatest breakthroughs came from places I didn’t expect to go.”

He urges young professionals to balance technical mastery with emotional intelligence. “Be curious, not just about systems, but about people. Technology changes fast—but relationships, trust, and values are what sustain real impact.”

As someone who has walked the long road from technical engineer to visionary strategist, Steven Nasser proves that innovation is not just a destination—it’s a continuous, purposeful journey. And for him, that journey is just getting started.