As the world’s leading beauty company, L’Oréal continues to push the boundaries of innovation. From AI-powered skincare diagnostics to groundbreaking advancements in sustainable packaging, the company is shaping a more personalised and eco-conscious industry.

We recently spoke to Vismay Sharma, president of L’Oréal South Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa (SAPMENA), to discuss the company’s presence at LEAP 2025 and explore how the beauty and skincare giant is leveraging beauty tech, driving sustainability initiatives, and setting new industry benchmarks in the Middle East and beyond.

Here are excerpts from the chat.

Tell us about L’Oréal’s participation at the recent LEAP show.

Science, innovation and technology have always been at the core of what we do. If we look at the history of L’Oréal, it was founded 116 years ago by a scientist, Eugène Schueller. Today, we have more than 4,000 scientists working on creating patented molecules, and we have also embarked on a significant digital transformation journey.

A few years ago, we recognised the disruptive potential of emerging technologies: Web3, the internet of things, artificial intelligence (AI), and generative AI. Given our deep roots in science and innovation, we decided to fully embrace these technologies and establish ourselves as a leader in beauty tech.

Beauty tech is about integrating cutting-edge technology with beauty to create outstanding experiences for consumers and drive sustainability. We now have over 8,000 digital and data experts who are pushing the boundaries of technology, ensuring that we enhance the consumer experience.

LEAP was a strategic choice for us because it brings together the most advanced technology leaders. Visitors at the event had the chance opportunity to connect with our experts and explore more than 20 innovations, diagnostic tools and solutions.

We also showcased our Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program, which we launched in the region. The programme is designed to foster partnerships and collaborations., as we firmly believe that solving the big problems of tomorrow requires working together.

Last year, the programme attracted 1,000 startups, with 600 coming from the Middle East alone. The three winners are now engaged in commercial pilot projects with us, and this year, we are expanding it further across different regions, with a grand finale in Singapore in November.

How does technology intersect with sustainability in the beauty industry, and how is L’Oréal leading this transformation?

There is often a fear that AI and technology will eliminate jobs, but we see technology as a force for good — enhancing lives, solving global challenges, and driving sustainability. As a company that has always prioritised science and innovation, embracing technology is natural for us.

Technology helps us understand consumer needs, accelerate product development, improve formulation efficiency, and enhance logistics. For example, we leverage AI to create virtual beauty advisors that provide personalised recommendations. We’ve also developed the HAPTA makeup applicator, which enables people with limited motor skills to apply lipstick and mascara more easily.

Another breakthrough is our AirLight Pro hair dryer, which uses infrared rays instead of traditional heating coils. This innovation is not only better for hair health but also reduces energy consumption, benefiting the planet.

Sustainability is embedded in everything we do. We are focused on reducing water consumption, cutting down emissions, and using green science for our formulations. For example, through partnerships, we’ve developed solutions that help salons reduce water consumption by up to 70 per cent.

Technology enables us to reimagine beauty with a lower environmental footprint.

How does sustainability influence decision-making at L’Oréal, from ingredient sourcing to packaging, and what are the key areas of focus in your sustainability strategy?

Sustainability is a non-negotiable priority for L’Oréal and deeply influences every aspect of our operations, from ingredient sourcing to packaging. At the start of this decade, we launched ‘L’Oréal for the Future’, a comprehensive programme that sets ambitious environmental and social goals. Our sustainability strategy is divided into three key areas:

1. Our footprint: We focus on reducing the environmental impact of our activities. For example, by 2025, we committed to using 100 per cent renewable energy across all our sites, and we achieved this milestone by 2023. We’re also ensuring that 100 per cent of our packaging is recyclable or compostable, and we’re sourcing ingredients through responsible methods. Green science is revolutionising our formulations, and we’re investing heavily in research to create high-performance, sustainable beauty solutions.

2. Our extended ecosystem: This includes our partners, distributors, retailers, and even consumers. We’re working to educate and empower consumers to make sustainable choices, especially in regions where sensitivity to sustainability issues is lower. For instance, we’re launching a water-saving tool to address water stress in areas most impacted by climate change.

3. Solving global challenges: We’re addressing critical issues such as climate change, water stress, and economic and social mobility. In 2021, when my region was established, we placed responsibility at the heart of every decision. We’re positively impacting over 20,000 people annually through community initiatives and aim to create employment opportunities for 100,000 people in our region by 2030. Additionally, we’re working on coral reef regeneration in Australia and mangrove restoration in Southeast and South Asia.

Technology plays a crucial role in our sustainability efforts. We use AI to optimise formulas, blockchain for transparency in ingredient sourcing, and digital tools to educate consumers on sustainability. By integrating sustainability with technology, we’re driving meaningful change while continuing to create the best beauty experiences for our consumers.

This holistic approach ensures that sustainability is embedded in every decision we make, from sourcing ingredients to designing packaging, and ultimately, in how we contribute to solving global challenges.

How do you address the challenge of consumer sensitivity to sustainability issues in your region?

In this part of the world, consumers are generally less sensitive to sustainability issues compared to other regions. This places greater responsibility on organisations like L’Oréal and media partners to educate and empower consumers to make sustainable choices. We’re actively working to educate consumers on reducing their environmental impact and making responsible consumption decisions.

For instance, if the region’s three billion people were to consume like American consumers, who have the largest environmental footprint, the world’s resources would be depleted. Therefore, we’re focused on fostering a sense of responsibility and promoting sustainable consumption practices.

Which beauty categories are the strongest in your region, and how do you maintain leadership in these areas?

We operate across all beauty categories — skincare, haircare, hair colour, fragrance, and makeup — and hold strong positions in most. Skincare is our largest business, and we lead in dermatological beauty with brands like La Roche-Posay. We’re also number one in luxury and professional beauty in the region.

Fragrance and makeup are the most dynamic categories, while haircare, particularly hair colour, remains a forte for us, though it’s slightly less dynamic compared to other categories.

The beauty market in this region is growing at nearly 15 per cent, and consumers are increasingly seeking technologically advanced, sophisticated products. E-commerce has also played a significant role in driving awareness and accessibility.

Given L’Oréal’s presence in the SAPMENA region, what key trends have you noticed among consumers here?

This is by far the most dynamic region in the world, with 40 per cent of the global population. The average age here is just 27, compared to 33 or 34 in many other regions. This young population is tech-savvy, optimistic, and quick to embrace innovations.

Unlike in developed markets where consumers may be more hesitant, people here adopt technology almost instantly. We see this in the rapid growth of platforms like TikTok and e-commerce. Beauty trends are evolving fast, and digital interactions are shaping purchasing behaviour in unprecedented ways.

How has the male beauty and skincare market evolved in your region, and what trends are you seeing?

Men in this region have always been more conscious about grooming and skincare compared to other parts of the world. Historically, they’ve used products like shampoos and skincare items borrowed from female family members. Fragrance, in particular, has been a significant category, with men mixing traditional and modern scents.

With the rise of social media and technology, men are becoming more aware of skincare needs, such as sunscreen and acne solutions. For example, we created Garnier Men in India, which has become a leading skincare brand for men in the region. Men are now realising they can look even better with the right products, and we’re seeing very positive trends in this segment.

What is your strategy for driving growth in the region, especially during key cultural events like Ramadan?

Our strategy is centred on understanding consumer needs and creating hyper-localised content. We’ve built capabilities to develop products tailored to local preferences and to run campaigns around key cultural events like Ramadan, Diwali, Christmas, and Chinese New Year.

For example, last year’s Ramadan campaigns were highly successful, and we’re replicating that approach this year. We also leverage learnings from different markets — retail expertise from the Middle East and e-commerce best practices from Southeast Asia — to strengthen our position across the region. This cross-regional sharing of knowledge and strategies has been instrumental in our growth and market share gains.

As a leader, what drives you and L’Oréal to achieve better results and maintain leadership in the beauty industry?

L’Oréal’s leadership is driven by a century-long dedication to our mission of creating beauty that moves the world. Since the turn of the century, we’ve placed a stronger emphasis on responsibility. Despite being the largest beauty corporation, we maintain a startup mindset, always behaving like a challenger. We’re open to ideas, partnerships, and collaborations, constantly seeking inspiration from external sources like startups, Alphabet, and Microsoft.

Humility is key to our leadership. We acknowledge that there’s always room for improvement and strive to learn from others. This mindset keeps us innovative and forward-thinking. I’m driven by my team and their passion. Every day, I learn from the talented and intelligent people around me, and I’m motivated to have a positive impact on consumers, communities, and the planet.

What initiatives are you most passionate about that drive positive change in the communities you operate in?

One initiative I’m particularly passionate about is ‘Beauty for a Better Life’. This programme empowers women from economically challenged households by teaching them beauty skills like hair cutting, colouring and makeup application. We then help them find employment.

We’ve expanded this programme to countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and India, to impact 100,000 women.

These initiatives excite me because they create tangible, positive changes in people’s lives.

Finally, where do you see the beauty industry heading in the future?

The future of beauty is deeply intertwined with technology. AI-powered personalisation, virtual beauty advisors, and sustainable innovations will continue to redefine the industry. We are moving towards a world where beauty is more inclusive, accessible, and responsible.

L’Oréal will remain at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging technology to empower consumers and protect the planet.

We are excited about what’s ahead and look forward to working with partners who share our vision for the future of beauty tech.

Read: Meet the 2024 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science winners

A new art experience, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, is set to open its doors to the public in Saadiyat Cultural District on April 18.

A collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Miral, and the Japanese art collective teamLab, the 17,000-square-metre attraction will offer visitors an immersive journey at the intersection of art, technology, and nature.

The installation is the latest addition to Abu Dhabi’s cultural scene, joining existing landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat. Saadiyat Cultural District is part of the emirate’s broader commitment to expanding cultural and educational institutions, creating spaces for creative exchange and fostering new ways of thinking.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the significance of the new installation: “Saadiyat Cultural District reflects Abu Dhabi’s dedication to balancing heritage with a future-focused vision. It will serve as a platform for cultural diversity, encouraging connections and inspiring new ways of thinking. Together with teamLab, we aim to explore the possibilities of art and technology.”

Art, science and technology

At the core of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is the concept of “Environmental Phenomena”, developed by teamLab. In this approach, art is not a fixed object but is created and sustained by its environment. This design ensures that the exhibits evolve with time, offering visitors a different experience each time they visit.

Toshiyuki Inoko, founder of teamLab, explained the philosophy behind the exhibits: “The artworks in teamLab Phenomena are not fixed objects. They are created by the environment itself, which produces the phenomena that shape the artworks. This design blurs the lines between the environment and the artwork, making the experience ever-changing.”

This focus on environmental interaction ensures that no two visits to the exhibit will be the same, as the artworks are shaped by their surroundings.

Immersive exhibits at teamLab Phenomena

One of the key installations at teamLab Phenomena is Massless Suns and Dark Suns, where radiant spheres of light challenge traditional ideas of form. These spheres exist only in the visitor’s perception, responding to touch and altering the surrounding environment. Another installation, Levitation Void, features a void of energy that floats in the air, seemingly unaffected by gravity, offering visitors a chance to interact with it.

“The artworks are not independent; they depend on the environment,” Inoko said. “Elements like air, water, and light transform the surroundings and, in doing so, bring the artwork to life.”

Ongoing cultural development

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi will complement the growing number of cultural institutions in Saadiyat Cultural District, including the forthcoming Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. These institutions will contribute to the district’s goal of promoting creative exchange and fostering cultural interaction.

With its immersive exhibits, teamLab Phenomena offers a space where technology and art intersect to create an engaging experience. “Once opened, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi will provide a space for curiosity and imagination,” Al Mubarak said. “It will encourage exploration of the relationship between art, technology, and nature, creating opportunities for creative engagement.”

Tickets to the venue can be purchased on its website.

Telco and tech giant e& has delivered a record financial performance in 2024, reporting a consolidated net profit of Dhs10.8bn, marking a 4.3 per cent increase year-over-year (YoY).

This milestone reflects three years of strategic transformation, reinforcing the group’s position as a global leader in technology, the company said in a statement.

Consolidated revenues reached Dhs59.2bn, reflecting a 10.1 per cent growth YoY, and a 12.6 per cent increase in constant exchange rates, driven by growth across all business verticals.

The group’s consolidated EBITDA rose 2.7 per cent YoY at constant exchange rates, reaching Dhs26.5bn.

e& UAE continued its strong growth, surpassing 15 million subscribers, an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to the previous year.

The group’s total subscriber base grew to 189.3 million, marking an 11.7 per cent increase compared to 2023.

The company also reported a notable commitment to its shareholders, delivering on its three-year progressive dividend policy. The policy calls for an incremental increase of 3 fils (Dhs 0.03) each year for the fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026.

For FY 2024, the board has proposed a cash dividend of 41.5 fils (Dhs 0.415) per share for the second half of the year (July to December), bringing the total annual dividend to 83 fils (Dhs 0.83) per share.

Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, chairman of e&, said: “2024 was a year of growth, driven by bold vision, AI-driven innovation, and relentless commitment to digital empowerment. Emerging as the ‘World’s Fastest Growing Brand’ and establishing our first operational footprint in Europe were defining moments in e&’s journey.

“With a net profit of Dhs10.8 bn and subscribers growing to 189.3 million, our performance reflects our strategic foresight and unwavering focus on value creation. Beyond financial success, real growth is measured in impact. Guided by the UAE’s visionary leadership, we continue to drive economic progress, empower businesses, and transform lives across three continents.”

Commitment to technology-driven progress

Alzaabi further emphasised the group’s ongoing commitment to technology-driven progress, highlighting investments in AI ecosystems, intelligent platforms, and workforce upskilling, especially in Emiratisation. “At the heart of our success is our talent — the driving force of our innovation.

Our leadership in Emiratisation and commitment to workforce upskilling is not just a business responsibility but a strategic advantage. By equipping the next generation with AI and digital expertise, we are building the UAE’s digital future,” he said.

Hatem Dowidar, group CEO of e&, added: “In 2024, we accelerated our transformative journey as a Global Technology Group—scaling AI, expanding into Europe, and driving impact across three continents. Our consolidated revenues surpassed Dhs 59.2 bn, growing by 10.1 per cent YoY, while consolidated EBITDA rose 2.7 per cent in constant currency to Dhs 26.5 bn. Our financial performance reflects the trust we’ve built, the bold investments we’ve made, and the transformative added value we continue to create.”

e&’s expansion across markets

Dowidar further highlighted e&’s expansion into Central and Eastern Europe with the majority acquisition of PPF Telecom’s assets, adding over 10 million new subscribers across Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, and Slovakia.

This move strengthens e&’s global presence and unlocks scalable digital solutions. The acquisition of GlassHouse has also enhanced e&’s capabilities in cloud, data, and SAP services across Türkiye, South Africa, and Qatar.

“These strategic moves are at the core of our long-term aspirations—to build a robust, future-ready digital ecosystem that enables businesses to scale, governments to innovate, and communities to thrive,” Dowidar said. “We will continue to push the boundaries of AI, scale intelligent platforms, and ensure technology is a force for good, creating lasting positive impact for societies worldwide.”

As e& enters 2025, the company is poised for continued growth, with plans to expand its digital footprint, pioneer AI-driven innovations, and deliver impactful solutions.

The group is also committed to its vision of digital empowerment and driving the next phase of digital transformation.

EVIQ, Saudi Arabia’s leading electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure provider, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Remat Al-Riyadh Development, the development arm of the Riyadh Municipality, to install and operate a comprehensive network of EV charging stations across the capital city of Riyadh.

This partnership supports the Riyadh Municipality’s strategy to enhance quality of life and facilitate efficient transportation solutions for both residents and visitors, in line with Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on sustainability and clean energy.

EVIQ is committed to sustainable mobility

EVIQ, a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), is committed to building a nationwide EV charging network with a target of over 5,000 fast chargers by 2030, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in clean transportation.

Mohammed Bakr Gazzaz, CEO of EVIQ, commented on the agreement: “We are pleased to formalise our partnership with Remat Al-Riyadh through this agreement. This initiative will not only accelerate the transition to electric mobility in Saudi Arabia but also create an advanced, city-wide EV charging network that ensures convenience for drivers.

“By 2030, EVIQ aims to establish over 5,000 fast chargers across key locations in Saudi cities and highways, supporting a greener, smarter future.”

Initiative to boost EV adoption

Abdullah bin Sulaiman Abu Dawood, CEO of Remat Al-Riyadh Development, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “This is a major step towards providing the necessary infrastructure for EV users, ensuring that Riyadh offers a seamless and sustainable urban mobility experience.

“The agreement supports the kingdom’s goals to reduce carbon emissions while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s major clean energy and EV investment initiatives. Additionally, this project will complement the city’s ongoing efforts in enhancing public parking and alternative mobility solutions.”

The collaboration will focus on strategically placing EV chargers across Riyadh, integrating smart urban planning solutions, and contributing to the national goal of achieving 30 per cent EV adoption by 2030.

Additionally, Remat Al-Riyadh is working on complementary mobility projects, including “Riyadh Parking” and other alternative transportation initiatives, to further support urban sustainability.

Abu Dhabi-based global sovereign investor ADQ and Australia’s Plenary Group, an independent investor, developer, and manager of public-private infrastructure projects, have announced the launch of Plenary Middle East, a co-development and investment platform aimed at driving public and social infrastructure projects across the Middle East and Central Asia.

The establishment of Plenary Middle East builds on ADQ’s acquisition of a 49 percent stake in Plenary Group in April 2024.

The co-development platform will focus on public-private partnership (PPP) models to deliver sustainable infrastructure solutions with lasting socioeconomic benefits in key sectors such as education, transportation, and healthcare.

By utilising PPPs, the platform aims to bridge the infrastructure financing gap, which the Global Infrastructure Outlook estimates will reach $15tn by 2040.

Plenary Group has already demonstrated success in the UAE, having led the development of the nation’s first schools under a PPP framework.

In collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, Plenary Group delivered three state-of-the-art schools, providing world-class education infrastructure for over 5,000 students.

Hamad Al Hammadi, deputy group CEO at ADQ, emphasised the strategic alignment of the initiative: “The establishment of Plenary Middle East aligns with ADQ’s focus on building world-class foundational systems and infrastructure essential to the functioning of economies and societies.

“Together with Plenary, a global leader with a proven track record in successfully delivering infrastructure projects, we aim to capitalize on the potential of public-private partnership opportunities in our key target markets. By leveraging our mutual expertise, we are well-positioned to drive sustainable growth and create lasting value.”

Paul Oppenheim, chairman of Plenary Group, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting: “We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring, positioning us to participate in significant upcoming projects in new and existing markets, accelerating our growth. In particular, the Middle East co-development and investment platform will supercharge our expansion into new markets and unlock valuable opportunities for both companies.”

Plenary Middle East to boost UAE-Australia ties

The joint platform further strengthens the ties between the UAE and Australia, following ADQ’s landmark acquisition of a 49 per cent stake in Plenary Group in April 2024.

This was the first major inbound investment from the UAE into an Australian company since the signing of the Australia-UAE comprehensive economic partnership agreement.

Plenary Middle East will be integrated into ADQ’s newly established infrastructure and critical minerals cluster.

The platform is expected to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value.