VOX Cinemas has set a new standard for luxury cinema experiences with the grand reopening of THEATRE at Mall of the Emirates, unveiling a complete transformation that promises to captivate audiences like never before. The reimagined THEATRE, meticulously designed with audiences in mind, marks a significant milestone in VOX Cinemas' commitment to enhancing its portfolio and delivering elevated guest experiences.Ignace Lahoud, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, emphasized the evolving nature of cinemagoing, stating, "Cinemagoing is about more than just watching a movie. For decades, it has captivated audiences by bringing them together to enjoy a shared experience." Lahoud highlighted the importance of innovation and reimagining the cinematic experience to maintain a competitive edge and foster audience engagement.THEATRE at Mall of the Emirates epitomizes the next generation in luxury cinema, embodying VOX Cinemas' dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in entertainment excellence. Lahoud outlined the strategic priority to continue investing in the regional portfolio, ensuring guests receive a best-in-class theatrical and immersive experience.Guests of THEATRE can indulge in the exclusive Private Lounge, offering stylish seating options, a billiards table, and shuffleboard, creating the perfect environment for socializing or enjoying a meal before or after the show. The lounge's laid-back luxury design draws inspiration from cinema culture, featuring film memorabilia and digital posters from iconic movies.The four auditoriums have undergone extensive renovations, boasting state-of-the-art updates for enhanced comfort and functionality. Responding to customer feedback, THEATRE now offers enhanced seats with additional legroom and various seating configurations, complete with plush blankets, pillows, wireless chargers, swivel tables, personal lighting, and privacy screens.Technological advancements enhance the cinematic experience, with THEATRE featuring new large-format cinema screens, 4K Laser Projectors, and Dolby Atmos Sound for stunning visuals and crystal-clear audio.Complementing the luxury experience, VOX Cinemas' in-house chefs have curated a diverse gourmet menu, allowing guests to order at the touch of a button without leaving their seats.Beyond THEATRE, VOX Cinemas has enhanced the overall customer experience at Mall of the Emirates, upgrading its Standard experience to Premier earlier this year. Following the completion of renovations at Mall of the Emirates, enhancements will extend to flagship destinations across the region.

Carrefour, which Majid Al Futtaim owns the exclusive rights to operate in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has introduced this year’s Eid campaign, “Sweeten your Eid with great deals.” Between April 3 and 16, the brand will be offering discounts of up to 68 per cent, making Eid Al Fitr more affordable for customers by providing them with diverse offers available in-store and on the Carrefour app.The two-week-long mega sale will witness promotions across a variety of categories ranging from locally sourced fruits and vegetables, festive desserts, dates, and nuts, to toys, kitchenware, and appliances.Laurent Hausknecht, Regional Director of Gulf at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, commented: “Eid is a joyous occasion for communities across the Kingdom of Bahrain, and at Majid Al Futtaim, we are dedicated to making it even more special for our customers. Carrefour is proud to offer unbeatable value on a range of products, ensuring our customers can enjoy their favourite items at affordable prices. From exclusive discounts to special promotions, we are committed to providing added convenience and accessibility, making every shopping experience during Eid a memorable one. At Majid Al Futtaim, we believe in creating great moments for everyone, everyday, and our Eid offers at Carrefour are a testament to that commitment.”Customers can also win 10 BD gift vouchers through an in-store competition and 30 BD MyCLUB points via an Instagram competition. On the Carrefour app, customers will be provided with a special promo code for discounts on their purchases. Additionally, there will be weekly discounts of 10 per cent on various categories for MyCLUB members, along with instant discounts on leaflet items.

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, today released its annual ‘State of the UAE Retail Economy’ report for 2023. The report, which highlights key economic data, trends and insights into consumers’ behaviour patterns, spending habits, and sentiment across the Emirates, revealed that the UAE economy has remained resilient amid recent geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds, with the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding 3% on the back of a robust performance from non-oil sectors. Consumer spending in the retail economy displayed robust growth throughout the year, delivering a 13% increase in 2023 vs. 2022. While data showed a slowdown across the retail sectors in H2 2023 vs. H2 2022, this was found to be the result of a higher base effect from the previous year’s FIFA World Cup, which had given impetus to consumer spending due to a surge in tourism for that period. Overall, absolute consumer spend in 2023 was split evenly across the first half and the second half of the year, driven by a 14% increase in the UAE’s retail economy, including fashion (31%), general retail (16%), leisure and entertainment (15%), and hypermarkets and supermarkets (3%), and a 12% increase in non-retail spending in areas such as real estate services (100%), petrol and gas stations (28%), transportation (57%), and airlines (25%).Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer at Majid Al Futtaim – Holding, said: “The UAE’s far-ranging social and economic ambitions continue to fuel the Nation’s success in creating long-term prosperity for its people. Over the past 12 months, its proven resilience to external pressures, coupled with progressive policy-making and an investor-friendly business environment has seen the UAE further strengthen its position as a lighthouse for the MENA region.Bucking global trends, the Nation’s ability to act as a magnet for global talent, investors and entrepreneurs, has translated to a record number of visitors, far surpassing pre-COVID levels, fuelling consumer confidence and further contributing to its thriving retail sector. Looking ahead, buoyed by positive retail economy indicators, the UAE is well-positioned to continue its remarkable growth trajectory.”The UAE successfully reduced inflation from a high of 5.2% in 2022, to 3.3% in 2023. Inflation in the country remained below the global average (at 6.9%), and considerably lower than the Middle East average (at 13.9%), sheltering consumers from most of the pressures emanating from the cost-of-living crisis experienced around the world in 2023.E-commerceE-commerce penetration in the UAE has more than doubled since 2019, rising from 5% in 2019 to 12% in 2023, with approximately 70% of transactions attributed to mobile phones. Consequently, the recorded growth in consumer spending was spurred by higher levels of accessibility brought on by an e-commerce boom, which has not slowed since the onset of the pandemic. Supported by the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy which aims to double the contribution of the digital economy to GDP by 2032, and owing to world-class logistics and advanced digital infrastructure, there was a 15% increase in e-commerce consumer spending in the UAE retail economy in 2023, according to Majid Al Futtaim Point of Sales (POS) data.A majority of the growth in e-commerce spend was driven by increases in consumer spending within hypermarkets and supermarkets (19%), and retail general categories such as F&B (57%), electronics (271%), and hotels (10%), supported by a digitally savvy population and a strong fintech sector.Travel and TourismThe UAE's travel and tourism sectors witnessed significant growth in 2023, with tourist numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time. More than half (53%) of international visitors came from Western Europe, South Asia, and the GCC. There was a notable surge in Chinese visitors, which rose by 287% compared to 2022.Dubai alone hosted 17.2 million overnight international visitors in 2023, a 19% year-on-year increase, with Dubai International Airport (DXB) experiencing its highest quarterly traffic in Q3 since 2019. As a result, hotel occupancy records hit a record high of 77% in 2023, up from 73% in 2022. The success of the country’s travel and tourism sector is in line with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to attract AED 100 billion in tourism investments and accommodate 40 million hotel guests by 2031.  Real EstateFollowing a very strong performance in 2022, the UAE’s real estate market continued to thrive in 2023 marking a record-breaking year both in terms of property sales volumes and value. Transactions were up 18% compared to 2022, with sales values increasing by 39% to AED 370 billion in 2023. Dubai, in particular, has seen a rapid increase in property prices, growing by over 20% annually in 2023, making it the second-fastest growing real estate market in the world.

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, has unveiled a humanitarian campaign ‘From City Centre to Gaza’ with a host of initiatives aimed at giving back and supporting distressed communities in Gaza this Ramadan and Eid.Taking place at various City Centre malls across the UAE in coordination with several leading NGOs and charitable organizations in the country, the campaign stems from Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to providing continued support to communities in Gaza through humanitarian initiatives. The activities under the ‘From City Centre to Gaza’ campaign include:Kaak El Eid Charity Sale: Visitors of City Centre Mirdif can bite into delicious Kaak El Eid cookies (traditional biscuits baked during Eid) served by the iconic Palestinian restaurant Mama’esh. All proceeds from the sale will be donated to provide pediatric medical assistance to children with physical disabilities from Gaza through the Al Jalila Foundation.When: April 5 Time: 7:00pm to 12:00amWhere: City Centre MirdifTarahum - for Gaza: A brilliant evening bazaar laden with products related to Palestine awaits visitors at this special initiative supporting the UAE relief campaign, Tarahum - for Gaza. All proceeds from the sale of the items will be donated to Emirates Red Crescent to provide emergency food assistance to people in Gaza.When: April 6Time: 7:00pm to 12:00amWhere: The Plaza at City Centre Al ZahiaMedia Contact:Sarah Alsalemsarah@gambit.ae

Dubai Media Council has launched #RamadanInDubai campaign in collaboration with public and private entitiesUnder the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC), the #RamadanInDubai campaign was launched today by the Dubai Media Council. The innovative campaign marks the first time that the public and private sectors have come together in a unified celebration of the Holy Month. The initiative was announced at a press conference held on Wednesday at the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO).HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed extended his wishes to the UAE leadership and the community on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan. “The #RamadanInDubai campaign has been designed to bring to the community the unique spirit, beauty and warmth of Ramadan and share the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are an integral part of celebrations during the Holy Month in the UAE. By bringing Ramadan festivities organised by various public and private organisations in Dubai under the umbrella of the campaign, we seek to create a memorable experience for the community. The campaign is aligned with the vision of Dubai’s leadership to consolidate its status as the world’s best city to live, work and visit,” His Highness said.Dubai Media Council has assigned Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), with overseeing the campaign's execution. His Highness expressed his appreciation for the efforts of all partners that are part of the campaign to organise events and activities that capture the spirit of Ramadan. His Highness remarked: “This campaign is aligned with the Dubai Media Council’s (DMC) goal to enhance the profile of various national and community festivities. Apart from highlighting Dubai’s cultural identity, the campaign also aims to the promote peaceful co-existence and harmony among people of diverse cultures in Dubai.”HH Sheikh Ahmed issued directives to streamline and consolidate the efforts of various entities participating in the #RamadanInDubai campaign to ensure that this year's celebrations offer a truly distinctive experience to both the local community and visitors. His Highness said the initiative aims to create a unique ambience across the city that captures the true essence of Ramadan, reflecting the authentic Emirati customs and traditions that make this occasion truly special.His Highness said that partnership and teamwork are hallmarks of Dubai's society across all its sectors. He highlighted the exemplary collaboration between the government and private sectors as a key factor in strengthening Dubai's reputation as a city that fosters the happiness and wellbeing of its residents.The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai has been named as a Strategic Partner of the campaign. The campaign’s other partners include the Department of Economy and Tourism, EMAAR, Dubai Municipality, Majid Al Futtaim Group, Community Development Authority in Dubai, Dubai Holding, Expo City Dubai, Nakheel, Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department, Wasl Properties, Dubai Police, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA), Ferjan Dubai, Dubai Media, Dubai Sports Council, and Global Village.During the press conference, Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, and Director General of GDMO, expressed her gratitude to all partners who are part of the campaign. The initiative, she said, will contribute to raising Dubai’s status as a global destination that offers unique experiences.Her Excellency further said the #RamadanInDubai campaign seeks to bring the vibrance and joy of Ramadan celebrations to people across the city. Guided by the directives of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, the campaign is focused on merging the efforts of various entities into a unified campaign. Through close coordination and collaboration between public and private partners, the campaign aims to foster a sense of shared celebration during the Holy Month, she added.The campaign provides a unique opportunity to showcase festivities both locally and internationally and offer all sections of the community a chance to immerse themselves in the spirit of Ramadan, she added.Her Excellency Mona Al Marri also highlighted the role of media as a key partner in promoting the celebrations. She said the Government of Dubai Media Office is committed to providing media with all the support and information needed to cover the events and celebrations during the Holy Month.

Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, a pioneering leader in lifestyle retail across the GCC, today announced the grand opening of Poltrona Frau the 112-year-old luxury Italian furniture brand, at Mall of the Emirates. The milestone marks the brand’s second store in Dubai and the first mall-based store worldwide.Following the successful debut of the newly designed showroom in Jumeirah, the iconic Poltrona Frau brand now graces a line-up of high-end luxury names in the UAE’s premier shopping destination. Since partnering with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle in January 2023, Poltrona Frau has seen around a 30% growth in the UAE, with revenue expected to double this year. The local brand success is largely attributed to effective designer collaborations, strategic partnerships, and operational enhancements including the significant reduction in stock order fulfillment, streamlined from three months to just a few days.Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, said:"Introducing Poltrona Frau's first-ever mall store worldwide is about more than just expanding our offerings, it's a strategic move to enhance the luxury living and shopping experience for our customers.”"Mall of the Emirates perfectly aligns with Poltrona Frau's ethos of offering a unique blend of luxury and sophistication, resonating seamlessly with the discerning tastes of customers who frequent the destination. We're not merely showcasing a brand, we're creating an immersive destination for luxury furniture design enthusiasts. This store is an opportunity for visitors to delve into the essence of Italian craftsmanship and design, a celebration of sophistication and comfort that defines Poltrona Frau's enduring legacy." The new 500 sqm store at Mall of the Emirates features an immersive layout designed by AMDL CIRCLE for Poltrona Frau, and includes distinct rooms, an exhibition path to engage customers and material, and object libraries. The store design incorporates recurring structural elements to create versatile settings with a neutral palette, extensively using wood on floors and ceilings, reminiscent of traditional Italian lacunari.This dynamic layout creates a fluid and flexible environment that encourages interaction, and serves as a source of inspiration, drawing influences from the hotel industry, fashion retail and industrial spaces.The store showcases a curated selection of Poltrona Frau’s most renowned collections, including the 2023 Beautilities range, which introduces everyday accessories for well-being such as The Pet Collection, Games Collection, and Fitness Collection, enhancing the brand’s commitment to holistic living. The Infinitamente sculptural table, a masterpiece by Roberto Lazzeroni is also available in-store. As a limited edition piece, the table is a testament to the ongoing artistic exploration of marble, boasting intricate workmanship and a unique visual appearance.Nicola Coropulis, Chief Executive Officer of Poltrona Frau, said:“This new store marks a significant milestone for Poltrona Frau as we expand our partnership with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle and extend our footprint and craftsmanship excellence to a broader audience. The decision to open our inaugural mall store in the heart of Dubai is a testament to the seamless synergy between the refined preferences of the region's customers and the timeless allure of Poltrona Frau's luxury furniture.”Renowned architect and designer, Roberto Palomba joined Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle and Poltrona Frau leadership for the store’s ribbon-cutting ceremony on 1 February. Known for contributing to Poltrona Frau’s legacy, Palomba’s signature pieces took centre stage at the opening, providing guests a glimpse into the seamless fusion of artistry and functionality, and the elegance and innovation synonymous with Poltrona Frau. His creations for Poltrona Frau include the soft, rounded, and welcoming Happy Jack sofa, his latest design for the brand; the iconic Let It Be, inspired by the famous Beatles song; and the Get Back Sofa & Come Together Sofa currently displayed in the store.

Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, one of the leading lifestyle retailers across the GCC, is expanding lululemon's presence in the Middle East by opening two new stores, bringing the total to 20 in the region. The 20th store in Dubai's City Walk features an immersive lululemon studio, the first of its kind in the area. This expansion is part of lululemon's "Power of Three x2" global growth plan, aiming to double business from $6.25 billion in 2021 to $12.5 billion by 2026. The growth strategy emphasizes product innovation, guest experience, and market expansion, with specific goals including doubling men's and direct-to-consumer sales and quadrupling international net revenue relative to 2021.Commenting on the new store opening, Fahed Ghanim, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “In 2015, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle embarked on a transformative journey with lululemon, bringing the global athletic apparel leader to the Middle East. Today we proudly announce the opening of our 20th store at City Walk and celebrate the launch of the shop-in-shop in our very own THAT Concept Store, a testament to the brand’s phenomenal success in the region.” “Over the last three years in particular, the brand has achieved impressive double digit growth in the region, owing to its popularity and resonance with the Middle East’s growing fitness culture. This reflects the unwavering commitment of both Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle and lululemon to redefine the local athletic apparel landscape through the brand’s transformative products and unique community-led approach.”The elevated lululemon shop-in-shop space at THAT Concept Store in Mall of the Emirates takes over the ground floor of the two-floor space. The brands embody a perfect synergy, as lululemon’s luxury sportswear collections resonate with THAT’s premium consumers, who seek to blur the lines between performance, fashion, and formal wear apparel. Marking a milestone as the 20th store in the Middle East, the City Walk lululemon location in Dubai spans 599 square metres and offers a unique shopping experience that blends contemporary, creativity, movement, and community. The store also features a lululemon studio, the first-of-its-kind in the region, offering a variety of sweat classes including Yoga, high-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), and much more. This engaging studio space is set to inspire and empower customers to elevate their fitness journeys and embrace a holistic approach to wellness. Established in Vancouver in 1998, lululemon has since grown into a global brand, opening 14 net new company-operated stores during the quarter, ending FY23 Q3 with 686 stores globally. lululemon’s impressive growth in the Middle East, in partnership with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, highlights the brand’s dedication to delivering innovative products that blend fashion and function, empowering individuals to live an active and healthy lifestyle.

Forbes Middle East has released its third annual list of the Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East, spotlighting the business heads that are running the region’s biggest and most influential homegrown companies. Combined, the 100 CEOs managed revenues of over $1 trillion in 2022. Their firms are collectively worth more than $5 trillion.Amin H. Nasser, President and CEO of the world’s largest crude oil producer Saudi Aramco, topped the ranking. ADNOC Group’s Sultan Al Jaber and Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group rounded up the top three spots. These three executives have retained their ranking for the third consecutive year.The 2023 cohort represents leaders from 22 nationalities. Emiratis dominated with 23 entries, followed by Egyptians with 19 and Saudis with 18. These three groups comprise 60% of the ranking, signaling positive momentum for localization. With 17 CEOs, the banking sector claimed the most entries, followed closely by real estate and construction with 14 and telecommunications with nine. Among the top 10 alone, six different industries are represented, illustrating the sector diversity in top leadership.Against the recurring priority of sustainability this year, the leaders on this ranking have accelerated their corporate sustainability measures to align with global commitments. Majid Al Futtaim – Holding’s Ahmed Galal Ismail led the group to achieve an 82% reduction in single-use plastic consumption in the first half of 2023. At the COP28 held in Dubai, ADNOC Group’s Sultan Al Jaber served as the president-designate of this year’s climate change conference for global transformative climate action. Meanwhile, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer intends to increase its water desalination capacity to 730 million imperial gallons per day by 2030, up from 490 million in 2023.To construct this ranking, Forbes Middle East assessed the CEOs using various metrics, including the individual's accomplishments and implemented innovations over the past year, size of their company, and their impact on their firm and the wider industry. Only CEOs of companies headquartered in MENA were considered.Top 10 CEOs In The Middle East 2023Amin H. NasserNationality: SaudiPresident & CEO, Saudi AramcoSultan Al JaberNationality: EmiratiGroup CEO & Managing Director, ADNOC GroupAhmed bin Saeed Al MaktoumNationality: EmiratiChairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & GroupSaad Sherida Al-KaabiNationality: QatariDeputy Chairman, President & CEO, QatarEnergyIsam Jasem Al-SagerNationality: KuwaitiVice Chairman & Group CEO, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK Group)Nawaf S. Al-SabahNationality: KuwaitiDeputy Chairman & CEO, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC)Sultan Ahmed Bin SulayemNationality: EmiratiGroup Chairman & CEO, DP World Olayan AlwetaidNationality: SaudiGroup CEO, stc GroupSyed Basar ShuebNationality: EmiratiCEO & Managing Director, International Holding Company (IHC)Hatem DowidarNationality: EgyptianGroup CEO, e&

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, is offering one lucky shopper the spectacular opportunity to become part of the millionaires’ club during the ongoing Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF).Customers can enter the draw in the most fun way possible – by indulging in a shopping spree at Mall of the Emirates or City Centre malls in Dubai.The millionaire campaign runs until 14 January to coincide with DSF. Shoppers at Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Me’aisem and City Centre Shindagha are eligible to enter.To enter this draw, visitors who spend Dh300 or more during the campaign period need to scan their receipts on the SHARE Rewards app. This automatically enters them into the draw to win the grand prize of AED 1 million. One e-coupon will be granted for every receipt worth AED 300 and above – whether single or cumulative – made at any of the participating stores at the mentioned malls.The grand prize winner will be announced at the end of Dubai Shopping festival through a draw. This marks the first time that Majid Al Futtaim malls is rewarding winners in cash instead of SHARE Reward points.

A significant pledge has been made by Majid Al Futtaim Retail and its Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) partners, in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), during the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28). Majid Al Futtaim Retail and 16 FMCG partners, supported by MOCCAE, have pledged at COP28 to advance the forum’s Collaborative Impact Goals (CIGs), emphasizing a commitment to sustainability. The pledge signifies a collaborative effort among Carrefour and its industry partners to work together towards achieving the forum’s Collaborative Impact Goals, demonstrating a commitment to a sustainable future.The event saw the presence of Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, along with the FMCG partners. The initiative sets a benchmark for end-to-end sustainability operations in modern retail. The focus is on ensuring a secure future for the planet and local communities through sustainable practices.Collaborative Impact Goals (CIGs):CIG 1: Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Members are committed to measuring, reporting, and taking steps to reduce carbon emissions of their products on Carrefour shelves. The goal is to eliminate one billion kilograms of CO2 by 2030.CIG 2: Sustainable Packaging (Optional): Parties can choose to implement this goal, which focuses on sustainable packaging.CIG 3: Healthier and More Sustainable Products (Optional): Another optional goal for parties to implement, emphasizing the production of healthier and more sustainable products.During the event, the importance of private sector involvement in achieving national climate action goals, including the UAE's commitment to sustainable agriculture and food systems, has also been addressed. The private sector, including retail businesses, is acknowledged for playing an essential role in achieving the UAE's national Net Zero target by 2050.Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri appreciates businesses, including Majid Al Futtaim Retail, for committing to Collaborative Impact Goals and taking significant steps to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions.Hani Weiss, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim – Retail, expresses gratitude to Her Excellency for recognizing and trusting Carrefour’s proactive efforts in sustainability.Carrefour has launched a store exclusively within COP28’s Blue Zone, showcasing tangible actions in line with their sustainability efforts.

Carrefour, operated by Majid Al Futtaim in the UAE, reaffirms its commitment to sustainability by opening a one-of-a-kind store at COP28’s Blue Zone in Expo City, offering a unique, eco-conscious shopping experience. As part of its participation in the event, and further emphasising its dedication to pioneering sustainable initiatives, Carrefour will also be launching its innovative ‘Choose Better’ programme at this store.According to the UAE’s National Nutrition Strategy, 83% of the adult population do not consume their recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Carrefour’s customer insights reveal that while customers aspire to lead healthier lifestyles, they struggle to find a range of healthier food options at affordable prices. Derived from this powerful insight, the ‘Choose Better’ programme aims to educate, empower, and reward customers by making healthier and more sustainable choices accessible, affordable, and appealing, both in-store and online. This programme is built on three pivotal pillars – Choose Better, ‘For You’, ‘For the Planet’, and ‘For Communities’ – each playing a crucial role in fostering positive change with healthier lifestyles that protect the planet and support local communities. Customers can also find the ‘Choose Better’ offering at Carrefour’s Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, and City Centre Mirdif stores, in addition to Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. The Carrefour store at COP28, which ensures circular design using repurposed material and smart lighting, and promotes product sustainability, spotlights Carrefour’s sustainable journey to 30,000 visitors from across the world.Commenting on the occasion, Hani Weiss, Chief Executive Officer at Majid Al Futtaim – Retail, stated: “COP28 is a strategic platform to role model our efforts and demonstrate Majid Al Futtaim’s unwavering commitment to a more sustainable future. Our engagement at the event underlines our relentless pursuit of sustainability goals, marking a pivotal stride in our mission to achieve Net Positivity by 2040.” “The launch of ‘Choose Better’ is a testament to our dedication to health, wellness, and sustainability, aligning with our purpose to enable people to shop smarter and live better. It stands as a fundamental component of our mission, aligning seamlessly with Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to the Consumer Goods Forum and the transformative goals set forth by the Forum’s Collaboration for Healthier Lives coalition. We invite COP28 visitors to step into our store and witness the unique shopping experience in person,” he added.Under the ‘Choose Better – For the Planet’ pillar, Carrefour encourages and rewards customers for making informed choices that protect the environment. As an industry first, Carrefour will become the only retailer in the region to transparently share the sustainability ratings of its products by partnering with “HowGood”, an independent research database that assesses ingredients and products for environmental and social impact. “Customers around the world are making clear demands for increased transparency into product impact,” said Ethan Soloviev, Chief Innovation Officer of HowGood. “To make meaningful progress towards a net-positive future, we must collectively turn to data-driven measurement and communications, and we are honoured to be powering those efforts for Carrefour on the global stage at COP28.”

Majid Al Futtaim owns the exclusive rights to operate Carrefour under Majid Al Futtaim’s distinct logo and name in 15 markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. These include, the United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Bahrain, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Uganda. The Company remains dedicated to its communities and people, including its 46,000 colleagues regionally.Majid Al Futtaim* is deeply saddened by the ongoing events in the region and in light of the crisis in Gaza. The Company is donatingUSD 1 million to the Emirates Red Crescent to support the national relief campaign launched by United Arab Emirates, “Tarahum- For Gaza”.This donation comes in addition to the substantial support provided by other Majid Al Futtaim Group entities in the region through donations, that exceeded a further USD 1 million, and various customer fundraising campaigns.Majid Al Futtaim also launched a fundraising drive for its customers with Emirates Red Crescent. Customers can donate through Carrefour UAE’s cash counters, website and mobile app, or contribute with in-kind donations using Red Crescent’s donation points at Carrefour stores, or across the Company’s shopping malls and THAT concept store. Customers can also donate SHARE points through the app.

Dubai: Microsoft expanded its long-term partnership with Majid Al Futtaim with a new strategic agreement that will enhance Majid Al Futtaim's operations across the retail, real estate, and entertainment sectors by utilizing Microsoft's robust suite of technologies and services.Both organizations will be working together on a number of strategic objectives that will leverage their strengths to enhance innovation, data monetization and capacity building. The partnership will also see them drive digital transformation through a Governed Innovation Hub, which will be led by a team of experienced professionals from both organizations. The Innovation Hub will focus on developing advanced applications that drive automation, enhanced customer experiences, and smart mall solutions. These applications will be powered by Microsoft’s Azure data analytics and AI capabilities, which will help Majid Al Futtaim to better understand its customers, optimize its operations, and create a more seamless and personalized shopping experience.“We are proud to have been a key partner in Majid Al Futtaim’s digital transformation journey for many years,” said Naim Yazbeck, General Manager, Microsoft UAE. “Our partnership will accelerate this journey even further, empowering Majid Al Futtaim’s employees to tackle new challenges, create new innovative customer experiences, and improve business efficiency. We are confident that this work will help pioneer new possibilities for the retail industry across the region and beyond.”Under the partnership agreement, both organizations will be jointly working on a Data Strategy aligned with Majid Al Futtaim’s business objectives to deliver actionable insights and transform decision making horizontally across functions and operating companies.“We are excited to embark on the next phase of our partnership with Microsoft. This alliance will not only enhance our digital capabilities, but also allow us to jointly explore and enter new markets in MENA,” said Mohamed Tolba, Senior Vice President, Majid Al Futtaim Global Solutions. “The partnership is a testament to our commitment to innovation and our belief that advanced technologies hold the key to future growth. We look forward to working with Microsoft to create new and innovative ways to better serve our customers and partners.”Under the agreement, the companies will jointly develop comprehensive end-to-end roadmaps for innovative products and solutions and foster specialized expertise, collaboration, and advanced practices in key digital domains like automation, data, AI, employee experience and others.To support Majid Al Futtaim in reducing its carbon footprint, Microsoft will also leverage various tools to enable compliance with sustainability standards. And in line with Microsoft’s mission of empowering today’s professionals for the workforce of tomorrow, the partnership will also see both sides setting up joint training programs, online courses, and certifications to upskill employees in areas like AI, cloud computing, and data analytics.

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping malls, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, has launched a transformational brand refresh of its flagship Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, embracing a unique human-first approach to offer customers a 360-degree lifestyle destination for today and tomorrow where they are celebrated as individuals and feel valued for their choices and preferences at every moment.Building on its legacy as the Mall of Firsts, the pioneering concept at the heart of the Mall of the Emirates’ brand refresh focuses on the incredible human experience that revolves around the unique array of outstanding retail options, shopping rewards, conveniences and digital services that transform the idea of a shopping mall into a personalised space of unfettered possibilities and unlimited discovery.As a part of the campaign, the iconic logo of Mall of the Emirates has also been elevated and simplified to give it a refreshing new look.“The launch of our brand refresh campaign is an extraordinary moment for Mall of the Emirates, as we firmly position ourselves at the heart of the region’s lifestyle of the future and strengthen our reputation as the Mall of endless possibilities,” said Michelle Walsh, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Majid Al Futtaim — Asset Management Business Unit. “This disruptive brand refresh stems from our belief that shopping is just the beginning at Mall of the Emirates – at the heart of this campaign is our unique individual-centric approach to our customers. With a wealth of distinct features, the reimagined Mall of the Emirates invites customers to explore their own personal version of the mall through high-touch experiences that go beyond conventional shopping. Through this brand-new positioning, we invite our valued customers to embark on an inspiring journey to experience what’s yet to be tried, tasted, or watched, and a glimpse of our exciting future.”For those seeking an opulent customer experience , two conveniently located VIP lounges – Cle D’or and The 9, allows a luxury respite as they dip in and out of the world’s most iconic brand stores, and ensures that shoppers do not need to go out of their way to access luxury shopping. An unbeatable range of mainstream brands located in close vicinity to luxury brands provide shoppers with a wealth of options for personal style curation, making Mall of the Emirates their preferred destination.The unique experience of visiting Mall of the Emirates is backed by unmatched conveniences that have become a hallmark of the mall. The foremost among these is its signature facility to reserve exclusive parking spots in advance, along with ticketless Smart Parking, hands free shopping, and more. Thanks to Mall of the Emirates’ highly sought after Digital Concierge service, its unrivalled shopping experience now extends to customers who want to shop the whole mall from anywhere. Using the service, customers can coordinate with a dedicated concierge through WhatsApp to select items of their choice from anywhere in the mall, and receive their shopping delivered for free within four hours.The new campaign also highlights innovative, attentive services and the human-first focus that set Mall of the Emirates apart. This includes pampering guests with industry-leading loyalty points, perks and partner benefits through the SHARE lifestyle rewards program to make shopping for anything at the mall an instantly rewarding experience. Leisure and entertainment also take on an enticing new dimension at Mall of the Emirates, with the award-winning Ski Dubai indoor snow park and ski resort providing the perfect backdrop for snowfights and snow chalet retreats in the desert.Whether big or small, every experience and interaction at the newly-rebranded Mall of the Emirates is transformative for customers in one way or the other – from refreshing the mind and refueling the body over a stimulating cup of coffee with a side of exceptional service, to discovering a brand new self and reigniting a passion for life, or experiencing exclusivity with the mall’s members-only lounges. With the brand refresh , Mall of the Emirates once again takes the lead in embracing the endless possibilities of the future with a personalised customer experience at the heart of it.

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, has announced the opening of Launchpad X a dynamic concept store for local startups. The new concept store includes local startups and winners from Majid Al Futtaim’s Launchpad Accelerator Programme, which launched last year as an initiative that nurtures entrepreneurship, and supports small and medium entreprises in the pursuit of innovation, creativity and growth.  Located in City Centre Mirdif, the brand-new Launchpad X concept store is home to a diverse range of local brands that have displayed outstanding innovation, creativity, and growth potential. It connects these budding businesses with the unparalleled go-to-market opportunities offered by Majid Al Futtaim shopping malls. With ‘X’ symbolising the spirit of collaboration, the inauguration of Launchpad X aligns with Majid Al Futtaim’s constant endeavour to support homegrown brands in their journey to become globally recognised businesses. The eclectic mix of brands at Launchpad X includes start-ups that are already part of Majid Al Futtaim’s pioneering Launchpad Accelerator Programme, as well as additional small and medium businesses from around the region with demonstrated new product or service capabilities. Launched in 2022, Majid Al Futtaim’s Launchpad Accelerator Programme is all about uplifting start-ups and SMEs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in strategic categories. It offers successful participants access to innovative technology, mentorship, training, and go-to-market opportunities.The brands showcased at Launchpad X include the leading luxury home fragrances company Wallace & Co; sustainable luxury fashion and home essentials brand Reform; premium active and loungewear brand LC; healthy snacks for families Koala Picks; the upcoming sneaker and streetwear boutique HypeSelection; premium matcha and coffee drinks spot Blue Matcha; the fashion line and women’s boutique Bambah; and Egyptian sustainable and ethnic crafts brand Kiliim. Commenting on the occasion, Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director of the UAE Shopping Malls at Majid Al Futtaim Properties said: “We are delighted to announce the inauguration of Launchpad X, the region’s first truly collaborative commercial store for start-ups and entrepreneurs. The launch of this concept store marks the next major milestone in Majid Al Futtaim’s strategic focus to help unlock the incredible potential of startups in the region. It builds on the extraordinary success of our Launchpad Accelerator Programme over the past couple of years.”“We are confident that Launchpad X will not only connect the region’s leading start-ups to new opportunities that strengthen their commercial footprint but also be a catalyst for innovation and a powerful force for driving the region’s economic development.”In partnership with AstroLabs, Microsoft and DIFC Launchpad, Majid Al Futtaim’s Launchpad Accelerator Programme unlocks value by partnering with and investing in innovative startups and SMEs that benefit from the reach and scale of the Majid Al Futtaim ecosystem. Catering to homegrown brands across segments such as fashion and lifestyle, leisure, climatetech, and community, the Launchpad programme is a pillar of support for local entrepreneurs. Nearly 50% of its initial cohort of winners were female entrepreneurs, who gained access to tangible growth opportunities with Majid Al Futtaim, such as accelerating customer acquisition, improving operational efficiencies, and access to new revenue streams.Programme winners who earlier had the opportunity to introduce their innovative solutions within Majid Al Futtaim’s portfolio through fully funded pilot programmes, can now explore a commercial customer base with the rollout of Launchpad X, in line with the group’s vision of building a meaningful and globally integrated business environment. The new winners for the second edition of Majid Al Futtaim’s Launchpad Accelerator Programme will be announced by September 27, and will cater to homegrown and climatetech segments. 

Dubai: Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure group across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, today announced a long-term strategic partnership with Tabby, the MENA region's leading shopping and financial services app.This partnership, which is the first of its kind, brings together a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) provider and an end-to-end shopping malls and retailer ecosystem to best serve customers. The partnership aims to replicate the successful BNPL model of seamless customer experience and affordable convenience into an omnichannel ecosystem, by offering interest-free credit over short-term instalment plans. This will be achieved while utilising cutting-edge payment product capabilities from both organisations. The collaboration will further enable customers to better manage their spending and make purchases more conveniently both in-store and online.Currently, Tabby can be used in 15% of Majid Al Futtaim’s UAE mall tenants, particularly, in Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdiff and City Centre Al Zahia. Tabby’s BNPL platform can also be used when shopping online with Carrefour and Majid Al Futtaim’s lifestyle brands such as Lululemon, Crate & Barrel, The Lego Store and THAT Concept Store. As phase two of the partnership, Majid Al Futtaim plans to expand the offering across the GCC and the company’s entire ecosystem. While using the facility in-store, customers will be given a Tabby Card, Tabby’s offline payment solution that will be further rolled out in the UAE across Majid Al Futtaim’s brands and mall tenants before being expanded internationally.Joe Abi Akl, Chief Corporate Development Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding, said: "According to Majid Al Futtaim’s point of sale data, Buy Now Pay Later sales more than doubled in 2022 compared to the previous year. This is a clear indication that customers prefer convenience and flexibility when it comes to their shopping experience. Our partnership with Tabby addresses this growing demand for omnichannel payment solutions and provides the 4 million Tabby shoppers access to Majid Al Futtaim’s retail and lifestyle brands.”Hosam Arab, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder at Tabby, said: "We are thrilled to partner with Majid Al Futtaim, a leading retail and leisure pioneer in the MENA region. This partnership will allow us to bring the power of flexible payments to millions of people across the region, online and in-store. With Tabby, customers shopping at Majid Al Futtaim’s malls and stores can make the most out of their money and work towards reaching their financial goals."

Dubai: Gambit Communications has won the accounts for Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) Shopping Malls and Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment. Gambit, now the public relations agency for the retail giant, will take charge of communication efforts for both business units in the region.Gambit will oversee the properties of Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls, which consist of Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Zahia, and City Centre Bahrain. Additionally, the agency will manage the group's entertainment attractions, including VOX Cinemas, Ski Dubai, Magic Planet, Dreamscape, Snow Oman, and the recently opened Snow Abu Dhabi.This appointment follows a pitch process spanning the last six months.Founder and Managing Director of Gambit Communications, Jamal Al Mawed, expressed his pride in collaborating with the Majid Al Futtaim Group. He acknowledged the significance of these destinations and attractions in the region's national, social, and tourism landscape. Being a local agency, deeply familiar with these malls and attractions from personal experiences, Gambit holds a fundamental understanding of their cultural importance. Al Mawed emphasized the agency's excitement to share their stories with the world.Gambit Communications recently expanded its team with six new hires, as part of a rapid growth phase that includes prominent additions to its portfolio, such as Aramex, Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls, and Entertainment.Gambit Communications, an independent communications agency born in Dubai, handles various brands, including TikTok, Acer, BMW, Amazon Payment Services, Porsche, Mandarin Oriental, Aramex, and more.pc:https://unsplash.com/photos/vWchRczcQwM

Dubai: FOO, an award-winning fintech solutions provider operating in the MENA region, has partnered with XSIGHT Future Solutions, Majid Al Futtaim’s newly formed digital arm accelerating the company’s digital transformation journey, to provide an embedded wallet experience for Majid Al Futtaim’s retailers.Carrefour, owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim in the UAE, is the first retailer to adopt this technology and has already launched the solution in the UAE, KSA and Egypt, with many more countries to follow. FOO has expedited Carrefour’s current refund process by integrating its closed-loop mobile wallet and stored value account (SVA) solution into Carrefour’s existing mobile app, enabling customers to receive instant refunds to their personal accounts.The collaboration with FOO will streamline the hypermarket chain’s refund procedure and provide a more seamless shopping experience for its customers. The embedded wallet solution is just the beginning of a long-term partnership between FOO and XSIGHT Future Solutions, laying the groundwork for additional fintech capabilities that will soon be implemented.The agile and efficient closed-loop solution offers several benefits for both Majid Al Futtaim and the end user. For instance, the credit received from the refund can be used immediately against purchases from any of its merchants, helping to drive customer retention. Moreover, retaining a significant portion of revenue within the Majid Al Futtaim ecosystem contributes to the company's further growth and success.Hussam Kayyal, Chief Revenue Officer at FOO commented: “There’s no doubt that customer satisfaction is the number one priority for all businesses. Embedded finance can significantly enhance consumer experience by eliminating traditional pain points. Integrating a closed-loop mobile wallet into the various Majid Al Futtaim consumer apps improves ease of service, therefore enhancing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.”By leveraging an in-house design and development approach, FOO crafts solutions using a modular platform built on microservices. This unique 'plug and play' model enables the delivery of super-personalized solutions with exceptional time to market. FOO’s products and services offer an unparalleled level of flexibility and scalability, aligning perfectly with Majid Al Futtaim's plans to implement the same solution across all its retailers and markets.Joe Abi Akl, Chief Corporate Development Officer at Majid Al Futtaim Holding and Managing Director of XSIGHT Future Solutions, added: “We are delighted to partner with FOO to elevate our digital services and deliver an exceptional shopping experience to our customers. By leveraging FOO’s advanced capabilities, we can enhance our existing digital infrastructure and optimize our operations to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We are confident that this strategic partnership will enable us to set new industry standards and redefine the future of retail.”

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: VOX Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, is excited to announce the launch of a new menu at THEATRE, its luxury cinema concept which combines fine food and film. Now available at all THEATRE locations in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, the new menu has been specially curated by our master chefs to elevate the in-cinema dining experience and is the result of an extensive customer research and trial-based study which focused on food variety and convenience. Featuring more than 20 mouth-watering dishes, highlights on the contemporary menu include Dynamite Shrimps; freshly-picked Falafel Salad; oven-baked Roasted Fig & Goat’s Cheese Flat Bread; irresistible Pepper Beef Skewers; vegetarian-friendly Impossible Meat Sliders; and chicken-stuffed Theatre Tacos. along with a variety of handcrafted desserts and a bubbling selection of signature mocktails. The new THEATRE menu also caters for vegetarians and vegans.Joe Teixeira, Managing Director - F&B, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, said, “We are thrilled to usher in a fresh new chapter in the ever-evolving world of fine dining and film as moviegoers become increasingly discerning with their choice of cinema F&B. At VOX Cinemas, we are committed to exceeding our guests’ expectations and continuously enhancing the unparalleled eatertainment experience only VOX Cinemas can deliver.”Since launching in 2015, VOX Cinemas’ in-cinema dining concept THEATRE has been redefining the luxury moviegoing experience. THEATRE combines the emotional power of film with the gastronomic pleasure of fine food. Guests can choose to dine in the exclusive lounge or enjoy meals delivered straight to their seat through the unique in-theatre waiter service. THEATRE boasts reclining leather seats, plush blankets and pillows, as well as cutting-edge audiovisual technology in a stylish and intimate setting.For more information, visit voxcinemas.com or download the VOX Cinemas app.About Majid Al FuttaimFounded in 1992, Majid Al Futtaim is the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and entertainment pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.A remarkable business success story, Majid Al Futtaim started from one man’s vision to transform the face of shopping, entertainment and leisure to ‘create great moments for everyone, every day’. It has since grown into one of the United Arab Emirates’ most respected and successful businesses spanning 16 international markets, employing more than 46,000 people., and obtaining the highest credit rating (BBB) among privately held corporates in the region.Majid Al Futtaim owns and operates 29 shopping malls, 13 hotels and four mixed-use communities including Tilal Al Ghaf, Al Zahia, Al Mouj and more. The shopping mall portfolio includes Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, Mall of Oman, City Centre malls, My City Centre neighbourhood centres, and five joint venture community malls with the Government of Sharjah. The Company also operates its own health and beauty concept brand, myli, and is the exclusive franchisee for Carrefour in over 30 markets, with a portfolio of 460 outlets including City+, the region’s first checkout-free store, and an online store.Majid Al Futtaim operates more than 600 VOX Cinemas screens as well as a portfolio of world-class entertainment experiences across the region including Ski Dubai, Snow Oman, Dreamscape, Magic Planet, Little Explorers and iFLY Dubai. The Company is also parent to a lifestyle business representing international brands such as SHISEIDO, Poltrona Frau, CB2, Crate and Barrel, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, AllSaints, lululemon athletica, LEGO and THAT, a Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle concept store and app. In addition, Enova, a facility and energy management company, is part of the portfolio through a joint venture operation with Veolia.

Microsoft today announced that Majid Al Futtaim Retail - operator of the Carrefour retail brand across 16 countries in the Middle East, Africa and Asia - has transformed its financial planning and analysis (FP&A) capabilities through the power of the trusted, intelligent, versatile Microsoft Azure Data Platform. Majid Al Futtaim Retail’s finance team leveraged Azure Analytics Platform to fully automate financial and operational reporting and create a single source of truth for decision-makers.Majid Al Futtaim Retail faced the significant challenge of data silos. Waiting periods for reports were long, as data had to be manually extracted and modified using Excel. Reporting needs of the organization were subsequently skewed depending upon which function had requested information.Through Azure Synapse and PowerBI, Majid Al Futtaim Retail was able to fully automate its financial and operational reporting, eliminating human intervention. The transition enabled faster, deeper insights for stakeholders. While creating a unified view of the business for all division leaders, Majid Al Futtaim Retail’s automation of Excel reporting has saved a calculated annual minimum of 6,530 labour-hours. The company now intends to incorporate Microsoft Azure Machine Learning into its technology mix, to drive AI use cases within its finance function.By increasing efficiencies in finance, Majid Al Futtaim Retail was able to significantly accelerate its digital transformation journey. Additionally, the organisation’s new information ecosystem allows its commercial team to gain insights in seconds, through a few clicks, from more than 35 million records of daily data.“Our aim was to have the finance function reinvent itself and create a holistic information ecosystem that serves all our processes and people,” said Rahul Bhandari, Chief Financial Officer at Majid Al Futtaim Retail. “We were able to accelerate the digitisation of our performance data management, and the results speak for itself. Our automated reporting and analysis are now available on the go and allow faster access to actionable intelligence. We have been able to unify our KPIs and consolidate data financial, commercial, operational and industrial data points to give us holistic views of our business.” “The modernisation of Majid Al Futtaim Retail’s finance data platform will serve as a reference point for every finance team that still struggles with siloed data systems and manual reporting,” said Tariq Halawani, Executive Director, Enterprise Solutions at Microsoft UAE. "Through the power of the Azure Data Platform, hosted in our UAE data centres, Majid Al Futtaim Retail was able to build a solution with customised and controlled access to all types of data, thereby democratising data access across the organisation.”