Al-Habtoor Group plans to reopen its mall and amusement park in Lebanon, pending government security assurances. Chairman Khalaf Al-Habtoor trusts the newly elected leaders to implement reforms. Despite political instability, the group has maintained employee support and hopes for a secure environment for future investment. Al-Habtoor also emphasizes the need for public backing of the government to facilitate national progress.
Al-Habtoor Group is preparing to reopen its five-story shopping mall in Beirut and revive the Habtoorland amusement park in Jamhour, dependent on the Lebanese government providing security assurances. Chairman Khalaf Al-Habtoor underscored that these projects are priorities for the group, hinging on safety and stability from Lebanon’s new leadership.
The new Lebanese leadership includes Joseph Aoun as the president and Nawaf Salam as prime minister, with Al-Habtoor expressing his confidence in their capabilities to enact crucial reforms for the nation’s economic renewal. Al-Habtoor stated, “I fully believe in the president, even though we haven’t met, and I believe in the prime minister.”
Throughout Lebanon’s turbulent political climate, including the Beirut Port explosion, Al-Habtoor Group has kept its operations running, ensuring job security for its employees. “We paid them their salaries because they are part of us, like a family, like partners with us,” Al-Habtoor remarked, emphasizing the company’s commitment to its workforce.
Al-Habtoor has highlighted the importance of the Lebanese people supporting their government to enable Lebanon to thrive. He said, “If the Lebanese people want Lebanon to compete with successful countries, they have to support the president and the prime minister.” He also indicated that strong security is essential for attracting investments.
If the new governmental figures establish their authority quickly, Al-Habtoor expressed his willingness to return personally to Lebanon to oversee group projects. Previous political instability had hindered the expansion of new ventures, but he noted that he is open to revisiting these once the security situation improves.
Additionally, Al-Habtoor underscored the need for a clean leadership team in Lebanon’s Cabinet, ensuring no foreign influence. Despite challenges, he remains hopeful about Lebanon’s future under the new administration, expressing confidence in their sincerity and commitment.
Reflecting on his ties to Lebanon, Al-Habtoor shared, “My family and I spent a lot of time in Lebanon. I have a lot of friends there. I miss them, and they miss me.” Meanwhile, he is also launching a luxury hotel in Budapest, with plans for further expansion in Dubai, which he described as “the jewel of the world.”
Al-Habtoor concluded by expressing his desire for similar safety and security in Lebanon as experienced in Dubai, reinforcing his hope for the country’s revival through effective governance.
The Al-Habtoor Group is a prominent UAE-based conglomerate known for its diverse investments in hospitality, real estate, and entertainment. The group has a historical presence in Lebanon, particularly through various projects aimed at enhancing local job creation and economic development. With Lebanon facing protracted political challenges, including recent leadership changes, the Al-Habtoor Group stands poised to reinvest and rejuvenate its assets in the country, contingent on improved security and governance conditions.
In summary, Al-Habtoor Group is eager to reinstate its operations in Lebanon, contingent upon the government ensuring safety and security. The group’s chairman, Khalaf Al-Habtoor, expresses optimism regarding Lebanon’s new leadership and its ability to implement necessary reforms. The company has consistently demonstrated commitment to its employees and clients, and hopes for a revival in the Lebanese economy through stable governance and public support.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
