Al-Habtoor Group plans to reopen a mall and amusement park in Lebanon, pending security guarantees from the government. Chairman Khalaf Al-Habtoor emphasizes the importance of safety for investment and expresses optimism for the new leadership’s ability to implement necessary reforms. He highlights the group’s ongoing commitment to Lebanon, focusing on job creation and maintaining employee support during turbulent times.
Al-Habtoor Group is eager to revive its five-story mall in Beirut and the Habtoorland amusement park in Jamhour, pending security assurances from the Lebanese government. In an interview with Arab News, Chairman Khalaf Al-Habtoor underscored that successful restoration hinges on the new leadership’s ability to guarantee safety and stability.
The group’s optimism stems from the recent election of former army commander Joseph Aoun as president and the appointment of Nawaf Salam, chief judge of the International Court of Justice, as prime minister. Al-Habtoor believes that the leadership can reconcile the country and implement vital economic reforms.
Despite Lebanon’s history of political turmoil, including catastrophic events such as the Beirut Port explosion, Al-Habtoor Group has maintained operational status for its facilities and has prioritized job retention for employees. Al-Habtoor remarked, “We don’t close our hotels. Even when we closed (temporarily), we didn’t terminate anyone.”
He expressed a commitment to local development, highlighting the Group’s efforts in job creation and community support in Lebanon. Al-Habtoor stated, “The Lebanese are part of us,” reflecting a familial bond with the workforce. He also emphasized the need for public support to enable governmental success.
Security remains crucial for any investment in Lebanon, as Al-Habtoor put it, “Nobody will invest a penny unless there is 100 percent safety and security in the country.” He has pledged to return to Lebanon to oversee projects if the government’s authority is effectively established in three months.
The potential for new ventures exists, including a production studio, but is contingent on improved security conditions. The chairman affirmed, “I will definitely reconsider, but the country’s shift to safety and security remains priority No. 1.”
Clean leadership is deemed essential for Lebanon’s Cabinet, with Al-Habtoor insisting local governance without foreign involvement. He holds hope for Lebanon’s rejuvenation and expressed faith in the sincerity of current leaders.
Reflective of his connection to Lebanon, Al-Habtoor shared personal anecdotes, stating, “My family and I spent a lot of time in Lebanon… I miss my friends there.” The Al-Habtoor Group also plans international expansion, including the opening of the Al-Habtoor Palace luxury hotel in Budapest.
In concluding remarks, he noted the safety and security associated with Dubai and stressed, “This is what we need in Lebanon,” highlighting the need for similar conditions to foster growth.
The Al-Habtoor Group is a major player in Lebanon’s economy, involved in hospitality and entertainment sectors. The group’s future projects hinge on the current political climate, especially given Lebanon’s history of instability and recent political developments. The appointment of new government leaders provides a fresh opportunity for change and investment, but full confidence in safety and security remains paramount for foreign investments.
In summary, the Al-Habtoor Group is poised to reinvest in Lebanon, focusing on reopening its mall and amusement park once security is assured. The current governmental leadership is viewed positively by Al-Habtoor, who stresses the importance of stability for economic revitalization. He remains committed to Lebanon, aspiring for a thriving partnership that fosters local development and job creation while ensuring a safe environment for investment.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
