Speaking at the Sharjah Investment Forum during the "Leadership in the Age of Change" session, Emaar Properties founder and managing director Mohamed Alabbar stated that customer non-payment rates increased during the recent regional conflict before returning to normal levels after it ended, Emirates 24|7 reported. Alabbar added that hotel occupancy rates are currently recording strong growth.
Addressing real estate market practices, Alabbar described offering discounts to new property buyers without offering them to previous buyers as unfair. He added that the United Arab Emirates continues to pursue growth and development on an ongoing basis.
Reflecting on his business career, Alabbar noted that while he has made significant money over the years, he was not immune to losses at certain points, highlighting the importance of preparing for and navigating change. On leadership and management, he stressed the need to appreciate the contributions of employees and partners, observing that people in the Middle East region are not adequately appreciated.
Turning to technological transformations, Alabbar emphasized the necessity of keeping pace with advancements in artificial intelligence and learning how to properly instruct AI tools. He revealed that he previously consulted an AI tool on whether he should pursue a career change, and the system advised him to continue rather than change.
Sources
- Emirates 24|7 · 2026-10-15
