Global contractors and vendors using cutting edge technologies to create “The stores of future”. What are your thoughts on this?

It’s an exciting time for the industry. The “stores of the future” are no longer a distant concept— they’re being built today. From immersive digital experiences to AI-driven personalization and seamless online-to-offline integration, we’re witnessing a real shift in how retail environments operate. Global contractors and vendors are playing a huge role here, bringing innovation to every layer—from construction to customer engagement. The key is making sure all this tech feels intuitive and actually enhances the experience, rather than overwhelming it.

What’s your take on mall construction and management when we say “Sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable”?

Sustainability isn’t just a trend anymore—it’s an expectation. Today’s shoppers are more conscious than ever, and they want to engage with brands and spaces that align with their values. From the materials used during construction to how a mall manages energy, waste, and water long-term, sustainability has to be baked into the process from day one. It’s also an opportunity—not just a requirement. Green design and operations can reduce costs, create healthier spaces, and set the tone for responsible innovation.

Share your thoughts on “Vision 2030” in terms of mall management.

Vision 2030 is an incredible catalyst for transformation. It’s pushing the entire region to rethink how malls operate—not just as retail spaces but as lifestyle and cultural hubs. We’re seeing a bigger emphasis on community, inclusivity, and smart infrastructure. Mall management under Vision 2030 has to be agile, forward-thinking, and deeply customer-centric. It’s not just about managing tenants anymore—it’s about curating experiences and ecosystems that add value to people’s daily lives.

What’s the biggest challenge you see for customer experience when aligning their expectations with your transformation?

The biggest challenge is probably the pace of change. Customers are evolving fast—they expect personalization, convenience, and innovation—but they also want simplicity and familiarity. Balancing those can be tricky. Internally, we might be rolling out new technologies or redesigning entire touchpoints, but if that shift doesn’t resonate with or benefit the end user, then we’ve missed the mark. Communication and education are key—we need to bring customers along the journey with us.

How would you think attendees will benefit by attending MENA MALL SUMMIT?

The MENA MALL SUMMIT is where ideas, challenges, and innovations all converge. Attendees will get a front-row seat to the latest trends, hear firsthand experiences from industry leaders, and most importantly—connect. There’s immense value in sharing lessons learned, discussing what’s working (and what’s not), and building partnerships. Whether you’re a developer, tech provider, or operator, this summit offers real takeaways and inspiration for what’s next in our sector.