Nadia Akil has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi, effective January 1, 2025. With a robust background in commercial real estate and facilities management, Akil is set to lead the mall, which has quickly become a premier retail and entertainment destination in the UAE.
Key Takeaways
- Nadia Akil will assume the role of CEO on January 1, 2025.
- She previously led the completion of Reem Mall while at UPAC.
- Reem Mall features over 400 retail outlets and the largest Snow Park in the UAE.
- Akil has been recognized as one of the 100 most powerful businesswomen in the region by Forbes Middle East.
Background of Nadia Akil
Nadia Akil has an extensive career in the commercial real estate sector, having spent over a decade at United Projects for Aviation Services Company (UPAC). During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in the company’s expansion and the management of various government concessions, including those at Kuwait International Airport.
Before her appointment as CEO of UPAC in 2012, Akil held several positions at Agility for six years and worked for Citigroup in London. Her leadership at UPAC has been marked by significant achievements, including a recent 17-year contract to manage Al Messilah Beach, a multi-use beachfront facility.
Reem Mall: A New Era in Retail and Entertainment
Reem Mall officially opened its doors in February 2023 and celebrated its formal opening in May. Developed by Al Farwaniya Property Developments (AFPD), a partnership that includes Agility Global, UPAC, and the National Real Estate Company (NREC), the mall is a $1.3 billion investment that aims to redefine the shopping experience in the region.
Features of Reem Mall
- Retail Outlets: Over 400 stores offering a diverse range of products.
- Dining Options: 80 food and beverage locations catering to various tastes.
- Entertainment: Home to Snow Abu Dhabi, the largest Snow Park in the UAE, along with various leisure activities.
Vision for the Future
In her new role, Akil expressed her enthusiasm for leading Reem Mall, emphasizing its potential as a must-visit destination for both tourists and residents. She stated, "Reem Mall is a must-visit for tourists and residents alike as one of the region’s unique and most exciting family destinations."
Akil aims to enhance the mall’s offerings, aligning them with the UAE’s growing reputation as a top tourism destination, which includes world-class attractions, concerts, cultural events, and sports.
Transition of Leadership
As Akil transitions to her new role at Reem Mall, Hamad Mallallah, currently the VP of Operations at UPAC, will succeed her as CEO of UPAC, effective January 1, 2025. This leadership change marks a significant moment for both organizations as they continue to expand their influence in the retail and entertainment sectors.
With her extensive experience and vision for Reem Mall, Nadia Akil is poised to make a lasting impact on the retail landscape in Abu Dhabi and beyond.