Hussam Baghdadi, senior director at Arabian Automobiles Company (AAC), spoke to Gulf Business about how the company is navigating a competitive UAE automotive market. From digital-first buying journeys and flexible ownership models to data-driven insights and emerging mobility trends, Baghdadi shares how Arabian Automobiles is redefining customer experience and staying ahead of evolving consumer expectations.

Here are excerpts from the conversation.

How is AAC adapting to shifting consumer expectations in the UAE, especially with the rise of digital-first car buying journeys and demand for greater transparency in the purchase process?

Customer-centricity remains a core pillar of our strategy. Rather than responding to changes, we aim to anticipate and shape them, especially as the UAE consumer becomes increasingly digital-first.

This approach has driven a comprehensive transformation across our retail and service ecosystem.

We’ve focused heavily on e-commerce enablement and digital campaign integration, ensuring customers can engage, explore, and act seamlessly across digital platforms.

Our AWR Connect app allows customers to manage their entire ownership experience, from booking services and tracking delivery to accessing aftersales support, all via a single interface.

Our Customer Experience Division has undergone a full digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency, reduce wait times, and increase service productivity.

Looking ahead, advanced technologies such as AI-powered concierge services and dynamic inventory systems, driven by predictive analytics, are helping us personalise the customer journey, optimise stock allocation, and provide seamless online-to-offline experiences.

Our goal is clear: a frictionless, transparent, and connected experience that consistently exceeds expectations.

With Dubai investing heavily in transforming its automotive ecosystem, how is the company aligning its strategies to stay ahead in areas like aftersales innovation, mobility services, and customer experience?

Dubai’s vision for a future-ready automotive ecosystem is one we actively support. We focus on placing the customer at the heart of every decision and delivering value throughout the ownership journey.

Our aftersales initiatives include real-time service booking, seasonal maintenance programmes, proactive service alerts, and pick-up and drop-off services during peak periods.

State-of-the-art facilities are continuously upgraded with interactive screens and advanced systems, creating faster and more intuitive service experiences.

We are also expanding our parts business digitally and developing a new platform to enhance speed, transparency, and flexibility.

Our mobility services are evolving with flexible lease offerings, bundled packages, and digital tools to empower customers.

By connecting sales, aftersales, and mobility services, we aim to deliver a seamless and future-forward experience reflecting Dubai’s momentum as a hub for smart, sustainable mobility.

Given the ongoing recovery from global supply chain disruptions, how is AAC managing inventory planning, vehicle availability, and delivery timelines?

The UAE benefits from world-class infrastructure and advanced customs systems, keeping supply chains efficient.

Our proactive planning and forecasting, developed with global OEM partners, help manage inventory effectively and maintain availability across our network.

Early container bookings, diversified shipping routes, and strong supplier relationships allow us to respond to global challenges with minimal disruption.

The upcoming Parts Distribution Center (PDC) will further streamline planning, optimse inventory, and maximise order fulfillment, reinforcing the high standards of service Arabian Automobiles is known for.

Dubai’s economic stability across logistics, tourism, real estate, and finance supports sustainable automotive growth.

With car ownership in the UAE evolving beyond just new vehicle purchases, how is AAC addressing the growing demand for used cars, flexible financing, and lease-to-own options?

Customer-centricity drives every offering. Our ‘Rent to Own’ and ‘Lease to Own’ campaigns provide convenient, cost-effective pathways to vehicle ownership, particularly across Nissan and INFINITI models.

Flexible financing is a core pillar, supported by leading banks offering competitive EMI plans, deferred payments, and streamlined approvals.

Our NXT brand ensures used cars meet strict inspection and certification standards, emphasising quality, safety, and reliability.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to modern, adaptive mobility solutions across all stages of the ownership journey.

How do you see customer preferences shifting between buying new vs. used vehicles, and what insights has AAC gathered about what today’s buyer prioritises most — price, warranty, tech, or convenience?

Customers today are empowered, research-driven, and increasingly open to alternative ownership pathways. While new vehicles appeal to those seeking innovations and design, the used car segment is growing due to value, flexibility, and reassurance.

Key factors shaping this shift include price sensitivity, value consciousness, and confidence in certified pre-owned programmes.

Convenience has emerged as a decisive driver, with transparent, secure digital transactions making the buying and selling process simpler. Investments in rigorous inspection, flexible financing, trade-ins, and predictive analytics ensure inventory aligns with demand.

Price, flexibility, warranty, aftersales support, technology, and convenience are now all key differentiators across new and used segments.

Given the UAE’s diverse and competitive automotive market, what consumer trends have surprised you the most in recent years, and how is AAC using data to adapt and stay ahead of expectations?

A defining trend is growing consumer appetite for innovation and design-led experiences. UAE customers increasingly seek vehicles with advanced technology, intelligent safety, electrified powertrains, and contemporary aesthetics.

Younger, tech-savvy drivers view vehicles as extensions of their lifestyle.

Demand for smart mobility, intuitive infotainment, and sustainable engineering is rising. Data and analytics play a central role in demand forecasting, inventory optimisation, and personalised offers.

Every touchpoint — from showroom layout to digital engagement — is informed by real-time data to ensure relevance. Sustainable mobility adoption continues to grow, supported by national policies and infrastructure investments.

Staying competitive in 2025 means embedding these priorities across the value chain in alignment with evolving customer expectations.

Read: How Arabian Automobiles Company is empowering tomorrow’s marketers today

Saudi Arabia’s mining industry must embed cost discipline and transparency to secure long-term value and deliver on Vision 2030, Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) said in a new report.

In its latest Middle East publication, Optimizing Cost Control in the Industrial Sector, the global professional services firm outlined a four-part strategy to strengthen financial resilience.

The framework includes activity-based budgeting, real-time cost visibility platforms, structured cost review meetings, and cost capability building.

A&M said the approach could reduce operating costs and embed cost insights into decision-making across the sector.

Saudi Arabia’s mining sector is backed by SAR246bn in committed investments and untapped resources valued at around $2.5tn, according to government data.

The industry is expected to become the kingdom’s third economic pillar under Vision 2030, alongside oil and petrochemicals.

“Saudi Arabia’s mining sector is now central to the kingdom’s economic transformation,” said Alexander Shvets, MD, Infrastructure & Capital Projects – Metals and Mining, Alvarez & Marsal Middle East.

“Building on this momentum with embedded cost visibility and performance tracking will help operators to achieve global competitiveness and long-term value creation.”

Renat Akimbitov, MD at A&M Middle East, added: “Control is not just a finance function – it’s an operational discipline. In mining, where complexity and capital intensity are high, real-time cost visibility and team capability are what turn strategy into measurable results.”

Sector reforms and growth prospects

Saudi Arabia has already enacted reforms to streamline licensing and established the Saudi Geological Survey to attract investors.

Activity in gold, phosphate, bauxite and rare earth exploration is accelerating, positioning mining as a catalyst for wider industrial growth.

From extraction to industrial empowerment

The kingdom’s mining ambitions extend beyond resource extraction, with investments in smelting, refining and processing aimed at reducing import reliance and strengthening industrial self-sufficiency.

Mega-projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project are also driving demand for locally sourced raw materials.

Global stakeholders, A&M said, increasingly expect mining operations to demonstrate cost discipline, local sourcing and data-led innovation. Meeting these expectations could help Saudi Arabia position itself as a forward-looking, globally competitive mining hub.

Ras Al Khaimah is undergoing one of the fastest property expansions in the UAE, backed by long-term planning under the vision of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

The emirate has seen property sales and prices climb sharply over the past three years as new hospitality, commercial and residential projects come online.

Its population, currently about 400,000, is forecast to rise to 650,000 by 2030, creating demand for an estimated 45,000 additional homes.

Global players such as Emaar, Aldar and Ellington have entered the market alongside domestic developers Marjan, Al Hamra and RAK Properties. Investor-friendly regulations, a diversified economy and rising foreign interest are reinforcing the momentum.

Al Marjan Island is at the centre of growth

At the centre of development is Al Marjan Island, led by CEO Engineer Abdullah Al Abdooli, which has attracted high-end hospitality brands including Wynn, JW Marriott, Nobu, Missoni and The Address.

Marjan is also behind RAK Central, a planned hub for offices, retail and lifestyle that will rank among the Northern Emirates’ largest commercial districts and incorporate green building standards aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s 2030 Vision.

Developer Al Hamra, headed by CEO Benoy Kurien, is expanding its integrated living model with projects such as Al Hamra Village, Waldorf Astoria Residences, Falcon Island, Al Hamra Waterfront and Manar Mall, the emirate’s biggest retail destination.

Meanwhile, RAK Properties is pushing ahead with its Mina development, home to Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah and InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah.

The site will also add Nikki Beach, Staybridge Suites and a planned Four Seasons.

“The vision for Ras Al Khaimah is becoming a reality,” RAK Properties chairman Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Zaabi said. “We are creating a vibrant, sustainable environment that is attracting global investment while maintaining the unique culture and natural heritage of our Emirate.”

CEO Sameh Muhtadi added: “What we have seen over the past couple of years is remarkable. We are witnessing unprecedented global interest – and this momentum will only continue.”

Read: RAK Properties H1 net profit jumps 80% on higher sales, Mina project growth

Also read: Why RAK’s Al Marjan is set for a big ‘Wynn’

RAK invests in infrastructure, tourism

The emirate has also invested heavily in infrastructure, with eight hospitals including RAK Hospital and a regulated private education system overseen by the Department of Knowledge.

Consistently ranked among the world’s safest locations, Ras Al Khaimah has strengthened its appeal as a place to live and invest.

Tourism continues to expand, with visitor numbers reaching 1.28 million in 2024.

Attractions include Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp and 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant. RAK Hospitality Holding, led by CEO Alison Grinnell, has supported growth through hotel acquisitions and new tourism offerings.

Industry executives say Ras Al Khaimah’s rise is anchored in its 2030 Vision, which prioritises sustainable urban growth, livability and community development.

With international and local developers adding new beachfront apartments, luxury villas and golf communities, the emirate is positioning itself as one of the Gulf’s most dynamic real estate and tourism markets.

TECOM Group has announced the appointment of Dr. Christoph Berentzen as chief financial officer (CFO), effective August 18, 2025.

Dr. Berentzen brings more than 20 years of international experience in driving financial performance across real estate portfolios in Europe and the United States. Before joining TECOM Group, he served as CFO for Central Europe at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), one of Europe’s largest commercial real estate groups. He has also held senior roles as CFO of Westfield LLC in the US and Director of Finance for URW Germany, where he successfully oversaw multi-billion-dollar portfolios and led complex real estate transactions and financing strategies.

Read: TECOM Group reports 22% profit growth in H1 2025, declares Dhs400m dividend

He holds a PhD in Accounting from the University of Münster in Germany, where he also earned his Diplom-Kaufmann (MBA equivalent). He further expanded his global perspective with studies in International Relations and East Asia Studies at Seoul National University in Korea.

The Board of Directors expressed its appreciation to the exiting acting CFO Haissam Baydoun for his dedicated service since February 2025. Baydoun will continue in his role as vice president of corporate finance at TECOM Group.

Kuwait-based low cost carrier Jazeera Airways is offering a limited-time “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” promotion, enabling travellers to book one-way or round-trip flights and receive a second ticket at no additional cost.

The offer is available from August 18 to August 24, 2025, for travel between September 1 and December 15, 2025.

The promotion applies to Jazeera Airways’ Light fare, which includes basic seat selection.

Passengers can enhance their travel experience by adding extras such as checked baggage, preferred seating, in-flight meals, or packages at a 60 per cent discount.

Jazeera Airways offer available with promo code

To redeem the offer, customers must use the promo code ‘J9B1G1’ at checkout on the Jazeera Airways website or mobile app.

Paul Carroll, CCO of Jazeera Airways, stated, “At Jazeera Airways, we believe that incredible travel experiences should be accessible to everyone. Our ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer’ isn’t just a deal — it’s a way to unlock new destinations and make travel more affordable.”

The promotion has no limit on the number of tickets that can be booked, making it ideal for families, friends, or group travellers seeking to share the adventure.

Terms and conditions apply.

Read: Air Arabia CEO Adel Al Ali on the strategy behind the airline’s rise