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A VISION BUILT ON DETAIL

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A professional headshot of Mr. Ravi Menon of Sobha Group, a leader in the luxury furniture and real estate division, smiling in a formal setting.

Exclusive Interview with Mr. Ravi Menon, Chairman of Sobha Group and Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture.

Ravi, as the chairman of Sobha Group and the titan in the real estate market, can you share your journey and experience with us and how has it been for you so far?

    For me, the journey has been both deeply personal and professionally gratifying. Although I relocated to Dubai only three years back, Sobha Group’s foundation in the UAE was laid long before my move. Since then, particularly post-2020, it has been nothing short of exceptional. Year on year, our business has seen sustained growth and our sales performance is tracking ahead well, cementing our vision of becoming a global benchmark for world-class real estate.

    We also recently expanded into Umm Al Quwain with two new projects and are preparing to enter the Abu Dhabi market as part of our long-term strategy to build a diversified UAE-wide portfolio valued at approximately USD8 billion. Overall, it has been an extraordinary journey, but for Sobha Group, this is just the beginning.

    How are you competing with other brands in the market, especially when it comes to UAE? And what makes you one step ahead?

    At Sobha, we stand out in the market because of our ‘Backward Integration’ model. Our model is fundamentally distinct because we are one of the very few developers globally who have a fully backward integrated model, which is extremely rare in our industry, where most developers limit themselves to land acquisition, sales, and outsourced execution. This means that from concept to design to final delivery, every stage is managed in-house, ensuring that all projects are integrated with the highest standards of quality that Sobha Group is known for. This also helps us reduce dependencies on external suppliers, providing us with stronger control over quality, delivery timelines, and execution.

    What also makes us unique is the culture we have built over the decades. The Group is driven by my father’s legacy and passion for design, passion for construction, and passion for continuous improvement. The moment we complete a project; we are already thinking about how we can raise the benchmark for the next one. That mindset keeps the entire organization’s future focused.

    Now with Sobha Furniture, this entire project marks a new milestone. What does this launch mean for the brand? And for Sobha Realty as a whole?

    Sobha Furniture is not the beginning of something new; it is the return to where it all began. In fact, 50 years ago, when my father started his entrepreneurial journey, it started with interior decoration. For him, he has always been extremely passionate about the art of details and accuracy, within a millimetre precision.

    From the outset, our philosophy has always been simple – to invest in the best of machinery, technology, and talent. This mix has allowed us to maintain a standard of quality that is non-negotiable in our business. We understand that a home is a very personal space and when we decided to launch Sobha Furniture, we were very mindful of the pinch points that customers face and wanted to create a business that sets a new benchmark for large-scale, design-led furniture manufacturing — Made in the UAE, for the world.

    There has long been a gap between design ambition and furniture manufacturing capability in this region, and Sobha Furniture shall be bridging that gap. What this launch ultimately signifies is the formalization of something that has always been intrinsic to Sobha Group: design excellence, engineering precision, and a culture of co-creation. With ‘The Gallery’ and our expanded manufacturing capabilities, we now have a space where clients can experience our craft firsthand, collaborate with our teams, and shape pieces that reflect their exact vision.

    Our business approach follows the same philosophy to build a unique fully integrated ecosystem that is capable of handling everything under one roof. And furniture is also part of that. When I say furniture, the cabinets, the kitchen cabinets, the wardrobes, the bathrooms, everything. So, every apartment that we have delivered in this market reflects these capabilities.

    Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture Insights:

    A professional portrait of Mr. Anuj Jain of Sobha Furniture, respectively,

    Furniture has always been part of the game, and we’re just giving light to the vision of what Mr. PNC Menon has. So right now, this is a B2B co-creating space. We’ll soon be catering to B2C audience as well.

    We will have a lot of offerings for the end customer as well as the B2B partners and developers and designers in the upcoming coming years.

    So Mr. Anuj, how does The Gallery embody the direction and the future of Sobha Furniture as a brand, especially when it comes to showcasing the replica projects here that is showcased, the walk-in closets and materials and finishings?

    The Gallery is a preview into what our vision for Sobha Furniture is. We did not want to create a traditional setup, which is why we have designed this as a working space for architects, interior designers, developers, and project partners rather than just a retail showroom. Every space has been thoughtfully curated to embody our outlook to connect, collaborate, and co-create with the community and showcases our passion for being partners from start to finish.

    Designed as fully functional spaces, each of our mock-up areas serve a specific purpose and gives customers a deep insight into our design concepts, materials, finishes, and overall approach to furniture manufacturing. This is the first step to fulfilling our mission to set the foundation of a new standard and deliver projects that will showcase the precision and exceptional quality that Sobha is known for.

    Mr. Ravi, looking towards the future, let’s say in the next 20 years ahead, what plans are looking forward to?

    The industry we work in is very dynamic; it pushes us every day to ensure that our long-term direction is clear. Sobha Furniture is a brand rooted in legacy – one that we envision to be Made in the UAE for the world. Setting up our foundation here has given us unparalleled access to infrastructure, connectivity, talent, and an overall ecosystem that has set us up for success on the scale we are aiming for.

    One of our immediate priorities is the launch of our flagship factory in Dubai Industrial City. It is an enormous, 53,000 sqm facility that will house the best-in-class full automated machinery and will bring an integrated approach to furniture manufacturing with everything from foaming to cutting, stitching, framing and upholstery.

    As part of our strategic expansion, we are looking to establish our presence in key international markets. In fact, we have already shortlisted three potential properties in the US market and are also exploring the potential of entering the Australian market. 20 years is a long time, but we are steadfast in our commitment of building on a scale with exceptional quality that has not been seen in the region before.

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    A SEASON OF RADIANT HOSPITALITY: NATUZZI ITALIA CELEBRATES MOTHER’S DAY AND THE SPIRIT OF EID WITH MASTERPIECES OF ITALIAN COMFORT

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    As the UAE prepares for a season of profound celebration, Natuzzi Italia, the world’s most recognized luxury furniture brand, is proud to unveil a captivating collection curated to honor both Mother’s Day and the upcoming Eid al-Fitr festivities. This year, the brand invites clients to redefine the art of gifting and hosting by blending the soul of Italian craftsmanship with the warmth of regional traditions.

    Whether seeking to elevate the home for festive Eid hospitality or searching for a heartfelt tribute for Mother’s Day, Natuzzi Italia presents a collection that captures the essence of both occasions. This curated selection ranges from the sculptural elegance of the Fiore armchair to a suite of lighting and art objects designed to embody the spirit of the season.

    The Fiore Armchair: A Symphony of Nature

    Designed by the acclaimed Marcantonio, the Fiore armchair is a masterpiece that blurs the boundary between functional furniture and fine sculpture. Inspired by the delicate strength of petals and the organic flow of nature, Fiore envelops the body in fluid, sinuous lines. Reflecting Natuzzi’s Apulian heritage through a poetic fusion of artisanal precision and emotional design, the piece invites the softness and growth of the natural world into the heart of the home.

    Illuminating Elegance by adding a layer of radiant artistry to the interior:

    The TEA Floor Lamp: Designed by Danelo de Rossi, this piece stands with the grace of a floral bouquet. Three stems rise from the base in a harmonious interplay of heights, culminating in satinated blown glass spheres that diffuse a soft, encompassing glow.

    The MUNETTA Table Lamp: Designed by Danilo De Rossi, Munetta embodies the charm of a moment frozen in time. This cordless, dimmable lamp features precious blown glass and a touch sensor, casting a delicate, moonlight-inspired glow that brings a sense of magic and timeless elegance to any setting.

    Artisanal Accents: SkLO

    The seasonal transformation is completed by sophisticated accessories that function as contemporary art:

    LAVA Bookends: A striking sculptural accessory composed of nearly solid glass, creating captivating visual depth. Ground and polished to perfection, they serve as both practical anchors and sophisticated decorative statements.

    BLOOM Wallpiece: An organic sculptural composition meticulously crafted by layering individually blown glass pod-shapes. Each multi-dimensional form is precision-cut and polished, offering a sophisticated, nature-inspired focal point for any interior surface.

    Celebrate the extraordinary women in your life and the joy of Eid with pieces that resonate with timeless beauty. Explore the ideal fusion of form and functionality at Natuzzi Italia showrooms or online.

    •        Natuzzi, Sheikh Zayed Road between 2nd and 3rd interchange, Dubai

    •        Natuzzi, near Al Maktoum Bridge, Umm Hurair Road, Dubai

    •        Natuzzi, The Galleria, Abu Dhabi

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    CASA MILANO EXPANDS UAE FOOTPRINT WITH 7TH SHOWROOM LAUNCH IN AL AIN AMID MARKET UNCERTAINTY

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    At a time when global and regional markets continue to face uncertainty, Casa Milano announced the opening of its 7th showroom in the UAE, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s growth journey and reinforcing its confidence in the country’s long-term outlook.

    The new showroom in Al Ain reflects Casa Milano’s continued expansion strategy despite wider conversations across industries around slowdowns, caution, and consolidation.

    Speaking on the occasion, Azhar Sajan, Founder of Casa Milano, said, “Today is a very special and proud moment for all of us at Casa Milano. In the middle of a difficult and uncertain time, when many choose to pause, we choose to move forward with courage and belief. I am happy to have launched this during Ramadan. I feel the Al Ain market is buzzing, and this is the right time to enter it.”

    The launch sends a strong signal about the resilience of the UAE market, with Casa Milano underscoring its belief that the country’s strong fundamentals continue to create opportunities for sustainable growth.

    The Al Ain showroom is set to bring Casa Milano’s range of premium improvement solutions closer to homeowners, designers, architects, and developers in the city and surrounding regions. The brand has built its reputation on design-led offerings across sanitaryware, tiles, kitchens, wardrobes, and complete home concepts, serving both residential and hospitality projects.

    Sajan added that the opening represents more than physical expansion, “This milestone is not just about opening another showroom. It represents the dedication, passion, and hard work of every member of the Casa Milano family. This success belongs to all of us.”

    He further noted, “Challenges test our strength, but they also create opportunities. Today, we have shown that even in tough situations, with unity and determination, growth is always possible.”

    With the launch of its Al Ain location, Casa Milano is expected to further strengthen its presence in the UAE and support rising demand for high-quality, luxury home improvement solutions in the market. Concluding his remarks, Sajan said, “I would like to sincerely congratulate the entire Casa Milano team for this achievement. Let this be another step toward an even brighter future.”

    As businesses navigate an evolving market environment, Casa Milano’s latest expansion highlights its confidence in the UAE’s vision, the resilience of its economy, and the strength of continued forward momentum.

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    GORENJE ELEVATES MIDDLE EASTERN HOMES WITH PREMIUM EUROPEAN APPLIANCE EXPERIENCE

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    Gorenje, one of Europe’s leading home appliance brands operating under Hisense Group, continues to strengthen its long-standing commitment to the Middle East by bringing its premium European appliance experience closer to modern households across the region. As families prepare for Ramadan, a time centered around togetherness, hospitality, and shared moments at home, Gorenje highlights a curated selection of appliances designed to simplify daily routines while enhancing comfort, efficiency, and contemporary living.

    With more than seven decades of heritage rooted in European craftsmanship and innovation, Gorenje has built a reputation for combining advanced technology with refined aesthetics. The brand’s philosophy focuses on creating appliances that seamlessly integrate into everyday life, delivering intuitive functionality while elevating the overall home experience.

    Responding to the growing demand for modern, design-led living spaces across the Middle East, Gorenje continues to emphasize its built-in appliance solutions, developed to complement contemporary architecture and open-plan homes. Designed around the concept of “Life Simplified,” Gorenje’s built-in range blends minimalist European design with intelligent functionality, allowing appliances to integrate naturally into kitchen environments while maintaining clean lines and visual harmony.

    During the Ramadan period, Gorenje is spotlighting selected appliances across its key categories, offering consumers an opportunity to upgrade their homes with thoughtfully designed European solutions that combine performance, energy efficiency, and timeless aesthetics. The seasonal selection reflects the brand’s commitment to supporting families as homes become central spaces for connection, cooking, and shared experiences throughout the holy month.

    “Gorenje has a strong and established presence in the Middle East, and we continue to see growing demand for appliances that combine design, innovation, and everyday practicality,” said Ismail Al Horani, Vice President for Middle East & Africa at Hisense. “Ramadan represents a meaningful time when homes bring people together, and our goal is to provide solutions that simplify daily living while enhancing the overall home experience through European design and innovation.”

    Gorenje’s comprehensive portfolio spans cooking solutions, refrigeration, dishwashing, and laundry appliances, supporting every stage of home living. From advanced ovens designed to simplify meal preparation during busy Ramadan gatherings to refrigeration solutions that preserve freshness and optimize food storage, the brand delivers practical innovations tailored to modern lifestyles.

    As lifestyles evolve and modern homes increasingly prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, Gorenje remains focused on delivering appliances that balance technology, design excellence, and user simplicity. By combining European heritage with innovation-driven development, the brand continues to support households across the region with solutions designed for contemporary living.

    Gorenje appliances are available across leading retailers and project partners throughout the Middle East.

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