Al-Habtoor Group intends to reopen its mall and amusement park in Lebanon, dependent on the government providing security guarantees. Chairman Khalaf Al-Habtoor has expressed trust in the newly elected leaders to implement necessary reforms. The group remains committed to the Lebanese workforce, emphasizing job retention during political turbulence. Future investments hinge on creating a secure environment in the country.
Al-Habtoor Group is preparing to reopen its five-story shopping mall in Beirut and relaunch the Habtoorland amusement park in Jamhour. These plans are contingent upon Lebanon’s government providing necessary security and stability guarantees. Khalaf Al-Habtoor, Chairman of AHG, underscored that reviving these attractions is crucial, depending on the new leadership’s commitment to governance and safety. He expressed trust in President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to unify the country and implement vital reforms.
Despite Lebanon’s history of political instability and challenges such as the Beirut Port explosion, AHG has maintained operations at its facilities, prioritizing employee retention during difficult times. Al-Habtoor emphasized that no employees were terminated throughout the turmoil; they received their salaries as part of the company’s family-oriented approach. He reiterated AHG’s long-standing commitment to Lebanon, stating that the group aims to create jobs and foster development in the region.
Acknowledging the political hurdles, Al-Habtoor remains optimistic about Lebanon’s future, urging public support for the government’s agenda. He mentioned, “If the Lebanese people want Lebanon to compete with successful countries, they have to support the president and the prime minister.” Security is deemed essential for attracting future investments in the country, he noted. If the new leadership establishes stability within three months, Al-Habtoor plans to return to oversee the group’s projects.
AHG has considered launching new ventures, including a production studio, but prior political instability has delayed these initiatives. Al-Habtoor affirmed his willingness to reconsider these opportunities once Lebanon stabilizes, stating that safety and security are the group’s primary concerns. He also highlighted the need for transparent leadership and emphasized that foreign influences should not infiltrate Lebanon’s governance.
In expressing hope for Lebanon under its new leadership, Al-Habtoor praised their sincerity and commitment to reform. He reflected on his personal ties to Lebanon, sharing fond memories from visits and friendships forged there. Looking forward, AHG also plans international expansion with the opening of a new luxurious hotel in Budapest, alongside ongoing projects in Dubai, which he deems a safe and secure environment.
Al-Habtoor concluded by stressing that Lebanon requires a similar sense of safety and security for its citizens.
Al-Habtoor Group, a prominent UAE-based conglomerate, has a significant presence in Lebanon through various business ventures, including a mall and an amusement park. Following the appointment of new political leaders in Lebanon—President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam—the group is considering reviving its operations. The company’s future plans hinge on the establishment of security and stability in the nation, central to attracting investment and reigniting economic growth.
In summary, Al-Habtoor Group is poised to revive its operations in Lebanon, pending the establishment of necessary security measures by the new government. Despite ongoing challenges, the group remains committed to creating jobs and fostering local development. Al-Habtoor expresses optimism about the new leadership’s potential to enact meaningful reforms, emphasizing the criticality of public backing for their initiatives. The group’s future plans are closely tied to the political stability of Lebanon, which is vital for ensuring successful investments.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
