REGIONAL ROUND UP - UAE | SHARJAH FEATURE
THE MIXED-USE
COMMUNITY LIVING Jamal Al Shawish, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Alef Group, is an expert in shopping mall and real estate development, boasting nearly two decades of experience locally. In this role, he has facilitated sales of more than AED2.5 billion in the past two years, achieving the highest quarterly sales record.
T
he demand for real estate across the United Arab Emirates increased last year, with property market shares continuing to grow, largely due to increased efforts and support from various government initiatives. Growth trends, fruitful business, economic conditions, speedy recovery from the pandemic, and the UAE’s status as the world’s leading luxury destination have intrigued investors and families globally to consider UAE their new home. The UAE, as a whole, has witnessed tremendous growth, particularly in the creation of fully-fledged communities for families to thrive. This comes in response to an influx of newcomers to the region, who wish to settle and avail opportunities, and have a better life within the UAE. Recent visa reforms have made it easier than ever to relocate to the region from any part of the world. The Emirates collectively host more than 190 nationalities coexisting in peace and harmony in communities constructed under the guidance of best international practices, promoting
RETAIL PEOPLE . MAY - JUL 2022
.48
Jamal Al Shawish
Chief Sales & Marketing Officer Alef Group the highest quality and standard of living. The prolific business environment and excellent infrastructure make the UAE an excellent locale for both singles and families to flourish. However, finding adequate space to accommodate the growing needs of the urban landscape has been a constant battle for large cities, not just in the UAE but around the world. Unlike many parts of Europe where greenfield sites can be problematic due to issues around land ownership and possible contamination, the UAE has historically been able to provide a blank canvas of greenfield sites for mixed-use developments. With more flexibility shown towards urban planning, the UAE has also benefitted from the freedom to be innovative with its vision to develop mixed-use developments within a sustainable urban environment. There has been an increased focus on sustainability and driving energy
