JLL releases its Makkah H1 marketplace report showing signs of positivity as quotas are lifted on Hajj pilgrims Expected increase in visitors will benefit the retail sector  Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – July 27, 2017:   JLL, the world’s leading real estate investment and advisory firm, today released its H1 2017 Makkah Real Estate Market Overview report which assesses the latest trends in the office, residential, retail and hotels sectors.  The overall sentiment in the Makkah market was boosted during H1 2017 as the government lifted the quota on Hajj pilgrims despite ongoing major infrastructural work on the Holy Mosque. This shift in policy should further benefit retailers in Makkah who typically enjoy above average sales during the Hajj season. Retail rents declined by 7.5% in the central area ......read more

Boutique showcases latest collections of finely crafted lifetime accessories 18 June 2017:  International luxury Maison Montblanc has announced the opening of its latest boutique in the Middle East, in Riyadh’s Panorama Mall in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Managed by Montblanc’s longstanding partner, the Al Hussaini Group, the new boutique will showcase a wide selection of the Maison’s core writing instruments, jewellery, timepieces and leather collections. Providing the perfect inspiration for discerning shoppers and gift givers alike, the boutique’s latest highlights include the recently launched UNICEF Collection in support of child literacy and education programs around the world. Each piece in the collection is designed with a hint of blue sapphire and alphabet-inspired motifs from six ......read more

Paris Gallery, the leading luxury retailer in the region, opened its new opulent store in Al Hamra Mall. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage and presence of Mr. Yaqoub Al Sharif Al Hashemi, Sara Group Executive Director and other chief guests including senior officials and diplomats led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Faisal bin Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, French Ambassador François Gouyette, Doctor Rosela Rosi, the deputy Ambassador and the Italian Trade supplement in Al Riyadh, accompanied by the director of public relations at the Italian Embassy, and the Charge Affaires of the UAE Embassy Ahmad Al Tanayji and an elite of businessmen and society. Paris Gallery has been catering to the unique needs of customers in KSA with distinctive merchandise and superior customer service. The launch of the new outlet ......read more

New partnership between JLL and Effat University signed in Jeddah  MoU showcases real estate sector as career option for women in the Kingdom Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – May 31 2017:  JLL, the world's leading real estate investment and advisory firm, and Effat University, a private non-profit institution of higher education for women in Saudi Arabia, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that encourages students into the real estate sector. The MoU was signed in Jeddah between Jamil Ghaznawi, National Director and Country Head of JLL KSA, and Dr. Haifa Jamal AlLail, President of Effat University. The MoU is a collaboration that aims to increase the participation of students in real estate through internships at JLL’s offices in KSA. As part of the agreement, JLL will also deliver ......read more

RECon Forum Jeddah will be held at the Hilton Hotel Jeddah, 7th & 8th May 2017 Saudi Arabia, May 3, 2017 – The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) hosts the first RECon Forum Jeddah on 7th& 8th of May at the Hilton Hotel, Jeddah Saudi Arabia. RECon Forum Jeddah is themed “Retail of the Future – Saudi Vision 2013”; the event is under the patronage of HRH Prince Mishaal bin Majed Al Saud, The Governor of Jeddah and in association with Jeddah Chamber, Jeddah Tourism Development Council and Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage. David Macadam, CEO, MECSC says, “This year we are pleased to offer the very first Recon Forum Jeddah; aiming to highlight expert industry speakers & influencers from the GCC and the Saudi region in a large platform. We have enjoyed ......read more

Hospitality firm secures its third project in the country in just two years as agreement to manage Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Lahore is finalised Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 19 April 2017 – Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has expanded its footprint in Pakistan after finalising an agreement to operate its third property in the country. The Swiss hospitality firm has signed a deal with the Orient Group of Companies to manage the 310-key Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Lahore, part of a new mixed-used development the government has earmarked as the city’s new commercial hub. Set to be one of the tallest buildings in Pakistan when it opens in 2021, the property will be the focal point of the high-profile Finance and Trade Centre project in Johar Town, an up-and-coming district earmarked for significant ......read more

Saudi Arabia based Ma’ather for Real Estate Management LLC invests in Asteco’s proven franchise brand, the first in the country  Dubai, April 19, 2017:  Asteco, the Middle East’s largest independent full-service real estate company, has added its first franchise in Saudi Arabia to its growing integrated network, taking the tally of franchises to 15 in the GCC. Following the signing of the agreement with Asteco’s licensing division, Ma’ather for Real Estate Management LLC, the main real estate division of the Rabiah & Nasser Group (RANCO), a leader in the Saudi construction, industrial and real estate industry, will now operate under the Asteco brand. The signing ceremony, which took place yesterday at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, was attended by Asteco Managing Director, John Stevens; Asteco ......read more

Twin Towers represent quality and modernity in the heart of the city Jeddah: Sloanes Real Estate Brokers, a subsidiary of the SABBAN Group of Companies, has announced the completion of Bayat Plaza’s sample floor, and will soon be transforming the skyline of central Jeddah with its luxurious residential development and contemporary landmark. Strategically located in the business hub of the city, Bayat Plaza will provide a unique concept in the heart of Jeddah, combining residential, retail and leisure amenities all at one location on Madina Road.  Bayat Plaza is built up over 32 stories and serviced by over 2,600 square meters of retail space on the ground and first floor. Bayat Plaza is by far the tallest development in the area and can be seen for miles on approach from any direction. Its illuminated glass crowns at the ......read more

As the Mall opens its doors with a celebratory bang, the Mall promises even more entertainment and surprises are yet to come!  Doha, 6th April 2017: Doha Festival City, the largest entertainment, retail and hospitality destination in Qatar, managed and operated by Al-Futtaim, opened its doors to the public yesterday, 5th April 2017. Thousands of visitors flocked to the new Mall from 10am to be amongst the first to shop, dine and be entertained. With something for everyone, visitors enjoyed the country’s biggest Marks & Spencer, the market’s first West Elm, the much anticipated Muji and the new flagship stores from H&M and Centerpoint. Over the next few weeks visitors will also be able to enjoy brands including the first VOX Cinemas in Qatar and the world’s largest Monoprix Hypermarket amongst many ......read more

Pictured: Quarry owners from Turkey – renowned internationally for their vast supply of exceptional natural stone and marble (left) – will touch down in the Kingdom today ahead of the first Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia trade show, starting in Jeddah (middle) tomorrow evening. Stefano Iannacone (right) of Dubai-based Mapei Construction Chemicals LLC described the Saudi market as having “enormous potential” Saudi Arabia, April 1, 2017:  Suppliers of the world’s most sought-after stone have targeted the booming Saudi construction industry as a major market for expansion in the next six years. Quarry owners from Turkey – renowned internationally for their vast supply of exceptional natural stone and marble – have touched down in the Kingdom ahead of the first Stone & Surface Saudi ......read more

Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel Opens, Bringing Largest Convention Centre to the Heart of the Holy City  MAKKAH, Saudi Arabia, 2 April 2017 – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today opens the doors of Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel. With majestic views overlooking the Sacred Mosque, Al Masjid al Haram, and the city’s largest ballroom and convention centre, Hilton proudly welcomes Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel to its growing Middle Eastern portfolio.  “The opening of Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel marks Hilton’s 12th hotel in Saudi Arabia,” said Andreas Lackner, regional head, brand management, Hilton. “With more than 30 hotels under development, Saudi Arabia features our largest development pipeline in the Middle East and we look forward to extending our renowned hospitality across the ......read more

Nikken Sekkei appointed architect for SAR 1.2billion project at Obhur waterfront Jeddah, 15thMarch, 2017—Cayan Group, the leading Saudi property developer in the Middle East, today announced plans for a new mega project at the Obhur waterfront in Jeddah. Attending the world’s leading property market, MIPIM in Cannes, France, Cayan Group outlined some details of the planned project, and signed the architectural contract with Nikken Sekkei, the leading architectural firm which was also presented Cayan’s Cantara project in Dubai, UAE. Cayan’s new project will sprawl across a built-up area of 140,000 sqm at a cost of SAR 1.2billion and will consist of two towers: one a 5-star hotel and the other branded residences offering high-end living. This is another foray for Cayan Group into the hospitality sector in the ......read more

Nearly AED 20,000 of goodies were hand-gifted to customers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Dubai, 20th March, 2017:  Swedish home furnishing retailer, IKEA - part of Al-Futtaim – marked International Day of Happiness this morning with a series of ‘Happiness Drops’ at Dubai Festival City as well as in-store at both its Dubai and Abu Dhabi locations.  Throughout the day IKEA chose shoppers at random and surprised them with nearly AED 20,000 of gifts to brighten their day. The activity was in recognition of the globally recognised day, designed by Action for Happiness that promotes wellbeing and progress through spreading happiness and was also in line with the Dubai Government’s drive to ensure a happy society for all its citizens.   According to new research*, practical gifts make people happier, so ......read more

Dubai, UAE, March 16, 2017:  The Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the most dynamic hotel companies in the world, is proud to mark a new milestone in its history by appointing its first Saudi female General Manager in the company and the hospitality industry. Miss Maram Kokandi will be the General Manager of a new Park Inn by Radisson hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, scheduled to open later this year. The appointment complements the Saudi Vision 2030 launched last year, which emphasizes the significance of Saudi women and their role in leading the development of both social and professional growth of the Kingdom. Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of The Rezidor Hotel Group said “We are very proud to be part of this historic appointment. We are committed to empowering our women in leadership at Rezidor, and this announcement ......read more

MECSC’s Next Generation Events – connecting retail professionals across Middle East Dubai, 9th March 2017 – The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres and the International Council of Shopping Centres host the Next Generation Networking reception in Riyadh, on Wednesday March 15th at Ritz Carlton Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. David Macadam, CEO, MECSC says “Saudi Arabia has been progressively developing its shopping malls and retail industry; including hosting Recon Jeddah Forum this May. We are excited to host the Next Gen in Riyadh on 15th March and offer a unique platform for professionals to network and develop their business.” The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres emphasizes on educating and offering a successful Networking platform to its members and therefore MECSC has progressively ......read more

Jeddah: Danfoss – a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency electronic and mechanical components and controls for air-conditioning, heating, refrigeration, industrial, and water systems – has announced the launch of its first technical support office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Revealed at an event held at Sofitel Cornice Hotel in Jeddah yesterday, Danfoss senior executives from Dubai welcomed Mr. Mazen Batterjee, Vice Chairman, Jeddah Chamber of commerce, and Mr. Mutlaq Al- Tayyari, General Manager, SASO Makkah Al-Mukarramah Branch, as well as Mr. Ole Frijis-Madsen, the Ambassador of Denmark to Saudi Arabia. Serving clients in KSA for over 50 years through distributers and agents, Danfoss is now expanding its presence in the region through investing in an office that will provide technical support on the ground and ......read more

The company will unveil its specialized facility that produces various interior decoration materials for the furniture applications  Dubai, UAE, 6 March 2017:  According to a new market report published by Credence Research Furniture Market – Growth, Future Prospects, Competitive Analysis, and Forecast 2016 – 2023, the furniture market has been estimated to be valued at US$ 137.5 billion by the end of 2016, and is expected to reach US$ 186.5 billion by 2023, expanding at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2016 to 2023. With the global furniture market experiencing a high, the Middle East wood furniture industry, particularly Saudi Arabia is witnessing a vibrant growth as well. The growing number of real estate development, increasing demand for residential property and the governmental initiatives to develop socio-economic ......read more

New lifestyle focused mall for southern Dubai to be anchored by IKEA and ACE.  Dubai, UAE, 06 March 2017:  Al-Futtaim, one of the most progressive business houses in the Gulf region, has broken ground on the development of a 78,500 sq. metre site, which forms part of the Jebel Ali Development (JAD) mixed use master planned community.   Al-Futtaim plans to expand its retail offering through the development of the new mall, located in Jebel Ali, the southern part of Dubai along the main Abu Dhabi – Dubai Highway. The project will be a mixed use development that combines living, working and entertainment with popular retail brands.  In the first phase of its development, which also includes a strategic partnership with wasl properties, a subsidiary of wasl Asset Management Group, the new retail offer is ......read more

Saudi Arabian investors occupy second position among the non-local real estate investors in Dubai Dubai, UAE, 2 March 2017:  A report issued by Dubai Land Department (DLD) stated that 3,294 Saudi Arabian investors made transactions worth AED 8 billion in the real estate market in Dubai in 2016. The statistics demonstrate an annual growth in the real estate investment in Dubai by GCC investors, particularly from Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabian investors occupy the second position among the non-local real estate investors in Dubai while the Indian investors lead the first position.   “The Saudi investments in Dubai’s real estate market are governed by quantitative and qualitative investments.  The prime reason for the investments is the positive investment climate offered by Dubai, along with the economic ......read more

JLL’s 2016 review of the market highlights the major economic factors affecting the office, residential, retail and hotel sectors in the Kingdom’s three largest real estate markets of Riyadh, Jeddah and the DMA  Riyadh/Jeddah, KSA, January 12, 2017:  2016 saw the release of the Saudi Vision 2030 and National Transformation Program (NTP), both major initiatives in response to the 2015 challenges of declining oil prices and resulting need to cut government spending.  In JLL’s ‘2016 Year in Review’ report of Saudi Arabia’s highlights the impact of the ‘new age of austerity’ and other macroeconomic challenges of weakened spending power, new tax law establishments and the introduction of new real estate investment traded funds on the real estate sector.  Despite a ......read more

KSA’s petrochemical sector is largest non-oil sector, with investment estimated at USD 63.5–150 billion expected in 2020 alone, according to the Saudi Arabia industrial overview report published by Jeddah Chamber Dubai, UAE, Riyad, Saudi Arabia, 22 December 2016: Tasnee, the leading industrial company in Saudi Arabia, is the platinum sponsor of ArabPlast Show to be held from 8th to 10th of January 2017 at the Dubai Exhibition and convention Centre. Co-organised by Al Fajer Information and Services and German exhibition organiser Messe Dusseldorf, ArabPlast is expected to bring together key players in the plastics, petrochemicals and rubber industry with exhibitors and visitors coming from different countries around the Middle East region and the world.  “With proven track record success, ArabPlast has ......read more

Supporting new directive from His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum which aims to enhance Hatta’s economic and social capabilities Developing a 60,000sqft community mall, which will be ready 2018. Dubai, UAE, December 18, 2016:   aswaaq has announced the launch of a new aswaaq Mart in Hatta. The store is part of the new ‘Marts’ concept from the leading UAE supermarket and community malls chain. Serving the needs of the local neighborhood, the mart will provide a range of high quality produce and fresh daily essentials, including groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, and fresh meat. With its welcoming ambiance and world-class service at the heart of the community, the new store aims to give Hatta residents more choice than ever before. This latest addition to the aswaaq Mart portfolio ......read more

‘Makkah, A City within a City’ report follows collaboration with Makkah Chamber of Commerce & Industry to support  greater real estate market transparency in Saudi Arabia  KSA, Makkah, 06, December 2016:  JLL, the world's leading real estate investment and advisory firm, today released its first report on ‘Makkah, A City within a City’ which assesses the real estate market in Saudi Arabia’s most globally notable city given its status as Islam’s most holy city.  With the world’s 1.8 billion Muslims required to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah at least once in their lifetime the report addresses the trends and opportunities this presents across the city’s hotel, office, residential and retail sectors.  Earlier this year JLL signed a Memorandum of ......read more

Dubai, 5th December, 2016:  Centrepoint, the region’s largest fashion retailer, is renowned for the breadth of its fashion and cosmetics product range. The popular retailer caters to the mid-market segment across the Middle East and houses homegrown concepts, Babyshop, Splash, Shoe Mart and Lifestyle, under its umbrella. Centrepoint has now announced the introduction of a sunglass concept, titled Eyeworks within its overall offering. Eyeworks was originally established in 1997 to supply house brand sunglasses, namely Occhiali and Brand X, to the Landmark concepts of Splash and Shoemart. The introduction of world class brands such as Ray-Ban and Prada, earlier this year, have enabled Eyeworks to see a rise in customer numbers and revenue, making the concept an attractive addition to Centrepoint. The retailer has since ......read more

The Biggest Online Sale in the Middle East begins tomorrow: 23rd to 26th November Dubai, UAE, November 22, 2016:   The most awaited White Friday 2016, the biggest online sale in the Middle East by SOUQ.com starts tomorrow across the GCC and Egypt. SOUQ.com, the largest online and marketplace retailer in the region is offering incredible White Friday deals that will go live from the            23rd – 26th November on SOUQ.com  as well as its mobile app.   THE ULTIMATE DEALS Women Dresses Up to 70% Off Athletic Shoes men Up to 70% Off Bags Women Up to 70% Off Watches Up to 70% Off Eyewear Up to 70% Off Perfumes  Up to 80% off  Sports & Fitness Up to 70% ......read more