Alabaar shares secrets to business success with AUS students at SBA Distinguished Lecture Series

The key to business success is understanding its basics, committing to high quality, continuous learning and hard work, said H.E. Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar, Founder and Chairman of Emaar Properties, in an online fireside chat as part of the American University of Sharjah (AUS) School of Business Administration (SBA) Distinguished Lecture Series in celebration of the AUS Silver Jubilee.

H.E. Alabbar is a global entrepreneur with active interests in real estate, retail, hospitality, e-commerce, technology, logistics, food and beverage, and venture capital. He has spearheaded the growth of Emaar Properties, attaining an unmatched track record of successfully developing iconic futuristic residential, retail, entertainment, hospitality and leisure assets transforming the lifestyles of people globally. Over the years he has developed world-class mixed used projects, including his retail businesses, across more than 20 markets in the Middle East, North and Sub-Saharan Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, South and Southeast Asia, and US.

“My years of experience have taught me that you can excel in any field you decide to venture into as long as you love it, provide a service or product of the highest quality at a favorable price, surround yourself with great people who support you and work hard. There are so many businesses out there doing all sorts of innovative marketing, but their products lack quality. When you forget the basics, your business will suffer,” said H.E. Alabbar in his talk.

Reflecting on his early beginnings after graduating university, H.E. Alabbar urged students to never stop looking for their passion, noting that he went on a journey of self-discovery until he was able to achieve success.

“It is absolutely normal to be confused after graduation and not know what you want to do. However, you need to keep searching and never stay idle. For the first 15 years of my life, I entered into many small business ventures that fell short, but what I gained in the process was great experience until I found my passion. You need to do something that you really love to enjoy your journey. Do something meaningful and have a higher purpose in life. Also, remember that you will always be a student in this life,” he said.

H.E. Alabbar added: “It is also important to stay humble and appreciate the gifts God has given you. Be grateful for the privileges that God has given you like your health, friends and safety. Stay grounded and continue pushing on.”

Reflecting on his experience of managing a large portfolio of mixed businesses in global markets, H.E. Alabbar said that it takes discipline, focus and teamwork.

“Seize the opportunities that come your way, have a good team supporting your operations, and ensure that your business can withstand challenges. We live in a world of great instability, so we always work to ensure that this does not stop us. Also, think of the experience you want to give your customers. Once you get your basics right, you need to be creative. This is something we pursue in our current and ongoing projects,” he said.

This year, AUS celebrates 25 years of academic excellence, innovative research and community impact. The celebrations will run over a 12-month period and include a series of festive, reflective and scholarly activities that celebrate faculty, staff, students, alumni, and AUS business and community partners. For more information, visit www.aus.edu/jubilee.