Majid Al Futtaim was a visionary entrepreneur whose legacy continues to shape the retail and leisure landscape of the Middle East. As the founder of Majid Al Futtaim Group (MAF Group), he created an empire that redefined shopping, entertainment, and urban living in the Arab world.
Known for his innovation and quiet leadership, Majid Al Futtaim brought international standards of customer experience to the region. His influence is visible in every Carrefour, VOX Cinema, and Mall of the Emirates across the MENA region.
Born into a prominent UAE business family, Majid Al Futtaim was driven by ambition and a deep understanding of changing consumer behavior. In 1992, he founded the Majid Al Futtaim Group with a vision to bring modern retail experiences to the region.
At a time when the Middle East’s retail sector was largely fragmented, Al Futtaim set out to build integrated shopping and entertainment destinations. His first major project, City Centre Deira, opened in 1995 and instantly changed the retail scene in Dubai.
Majid Al Futtaim’s boldest vision came to life with the Mall of the Emirates, launched in 2005. Featuring over 600 stores, a five-star hotel, and the world-famous Ski Dubai, it was a groundbreaking concept. A ski slope in the desert? For Al Futtaim, that was just the beginning.
Under his leadership, the group expanded into:
What made Majid Al Futtaim different was his commitment to customer experience. He once said, “We exist to create great moments for everyone, every day.” This vision wasn’t just a slogan—it was the company’s DNA.
He focused on building destinations that combine shopping, leisure, and lifestyle. His strategy included vertical integration, owning everything from the shopping malls to the cinemas, hotels, and supermarkets inside them.
In short, he didn’t just build malls. He built ecosystems.
Majid Al Futtaim passed away in December 2021, but his legacy endures. The group operates in over 15 countries and employs more than 45,000 people.
He kept a low public profile throughout his life, preferring results over recognition. Yet today, his impact is impossible to ignore—from Dubai to Cairo, Riyadh to Muscat.
Wouldn’t you agree that true visionaries leave behind not just buildings, but new ways of living?
Majid Al Futtaim was more than a businessman. He was a master builder of modern life in the Middle East. Through innovation, quality, and a people-first mindset, he revolutionized retail and real estate across the region.
His story is a reminder that greatness isn’t just about scale—it’s about vision, purpose, and lasting value.
Who was Majid Al Futtaim?
He was the founder of Majid Al Futtaim Group, a UAE-based conglomerate known for its malls, supermarkets, and entertainment ventures across MENA.
What is Majid Al Futtaim Group known for?
The group is known for developing Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai, VOX Cinemas, and managing Carrefour in the region.
When did Majid Al Futtaim start the group?
He founded Majid Al Futtaim Group in 1992 to bring world-class retail and leisure experiences to the Middle East.
Is Majid Al Futtaim still alive?
No, he passed away in December 2021. However, his legacy lives on through the group’s ongoing impact.
How large is Majid Al Futtaim Group today?
The group operates in over 15 countries, employs more than 45,000 people, and continues to expand in real estate, retail, and entertainment.
