WELCOME

Welcome to the exhilarating Q2 issue of The Retail People Magazine, where we delve into the dynamic realm of retail and explore how cutting-edge technology is reshaping its future. We are thrilled to present Yardi Middle East as our featured cover story, shedding light on their exceptional journey in shaping the real estate landscape with cloud-based technology.

Since 1984, Yardi has evolved into the premier provider of high-performance software solutions for the real estate industry. Their unwavering commitment to innovation has propelled them to where they are right now. Yardi has cemented its position as a true industry leader, pushing boundaries and transforming the way real estate professionals operate.

In 2012, Yardi set foot in the Middle East with just two employees and a handful of clients. Fast forward to the present day, the company now boasts a dedicated team of over 80 professionals, passionately serving more than 100 clients across the region. Within these pages, you will find an exclusive interview with Said Haider, Senior Director of Middle East Sales at Yardi, who graciously shares insights into the rapidly expanding real estate market in the region. His expertise and perspective shed light on the key trends and opportunities that lie ahead, highlighting the pivotal role Yardi continues to play in driving the industry forward.

This issue of RPM is filled with captivating articles, offering a comprehensive overview of the retail landscape in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. From revitalizing retail assets to transforming malls into ultimate destinations, we explore the innovative strategies and forward-thinking approaches that are shaping the future of shopping centres.

Moreover, we delve into the enduring presence of cinema in the retail experience, uncover the power of frictionless retail and how technology is streamlines the shopping process, enhance customer satisfaction, and revolutionizes business-consumer engagement.

Furthermore, this edition is brimming with our signature sections, News Brief and What’s New, providing you with a roundup of the latest industry happenings, noteworthy developments, and exciting innovations. We keep you at the forefront of the retail revolution, equipping you with the knowledge to thrive in this rapidly changing landscape.

On behalf of The Retail People Magazine and MECS+R, we extend our deepest gratitude to Yardi Middle East for their invaluable contribution to this issue. We are honored to showcase their remarkable achievements and the pivotal role they play in shaping the real estate industry. Our appreciation also goes to our sponsors: The Clock Towers Shopping Center, Times Square Center, Kinan International Real Estate Development Company, AZAD Properties and Marie France. Lastly, we thank all our contributors for enriching this edition with their insightful articles.

Immerse yourself in the pages ahead and let the stories, insights and ideas inspire you. The future of retail is here, and together, we have the power to shape it.

Happy reading!