CEO of Dubai retail giant sees ‘better and faster’ rebound from virus blow

CEO of Dubai retail giant sees ‘better and faster’ rebound from virus blow

After a challenging 2020, dominated by the coronavirus pandemic, retail and entertainment in Dubai are coming back “better and faster than everyone”, according to the CEO of retail giant Majid Al Futtaim (MAF).

Alain Bejjani believes this comeback will look different than the pre-pandemic retail concepts as consumers seek more digital and community-focused experiences.

It is this belief that guided the creation of THAT, MAF's first ever concept destination, which aims to take shoppers on a complete lifestyle journey.

Majid Al Futtaim launches first concept to offer fashion, fine jewellery, home, beauty, grooming, fitness, art and dining

In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business following THAT's launch earlier this week, Bejjani spoke about the changing retail trends and how MAF is adapting to them.

He also elaborated on why he is optimistic about the UAE economy in 2021 and what is in store for MAF in the year ahead.

Are you optimistic about 2021 going forward when it comes to the economy?

Well, I would say generally, yes. I think 2020 has been a story of the soft shaped W. We had a great start of the year, then we had the big dip, then we came back into activity in May and things continued to get