Shereen Shabnam
The Retail Congress MENA 2025, organized by the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres & Retailers (MECSR), returns to Dubai from October 13–14 at The Ritz‑Carlton, DIFC. I have been attending this for nearly a decade, and it is one of the main highlights in our event calendar.
Under the theme “Hit Reset: Transforming Retail for Impact,” the congress brings together industry leaders, innovators, developers, tech providers, and decision-makers from across the Middle East and North Africa.
Over two dynamic days, participants will immerse themselves in inspiring keynote sessions, interactive workshops, and a cutting-edge exhibition, culminating in the prestigious MECSR Shopping Centre & Retailer MENA Awards that honour the region’s best in retail innovation and excellence. We speak to David Macadam, CEO of MECSR to find out more about the event.
What is the primary vision behind ‘Hit Reset: Transforming Retail for Impact’ and how does this year’s theme reflect current trends and opportunities in MENA’s retail sector?
The theme “Hit Reset: Transforming Retail for Impact” is both timely and forward-looking. The retail sector across the MENA region is undergoing significant transformation, driven by rapid urban development, the rise of digital commerce, sustainability goals, and evolving consumer expectations. Hitting reset is about pausing, reflecting, and rethinking business models to ensure they deliver meaningful impact—economically, socially, and environmentally. This year’s theme reflects the opportunities available to retailers and developers to embrace innovation, align with Vision 2030 strategies across the region, and adapt to a new generation of consumers who demand experiences, technology integration, and responsible business practices.
Could you share highlights of the exhibition? What kinds of innovations, technologies, and solutions will be showcased, and how are they shaping the future of retail in the region?
The exhibition floor will be a hub of innovation, showcasing everything from smart retail technologies and AI-driven solutions to sustainability-focused products, omnichannel platforms, and customer engagement tools. Visitors will experience first-hand how digital analytics, and immersive design concepts are reshaping the retail journey. The exhibition also features leading developers and mall operators presenting their newest projects, which illustrate how physical retail continues to evolve as a destination for lifestyle, leisure, and community. Collectively, these innovations demonstrate how the region’s retail ecosystem is future-ready, agile, and committed to delivering value at every touchpoint.
How does Retail Congress MENA serve as a platform for meaningful networking and partnerships?
Networking lies at the heart of Retail Congress MENA. Over two days, the event creates a highly curated environment where decision-makers, retailers, developers, tech providers, and investors connect. Through keynote sessions, networking, and the exhibition, participants gain access not only to insights but also to potential partners. Many of the region’s most successful retail collaborations, joint ventures, and market entries were initiated at past editions of RCM. The Retail Congress acts as a bridge—connecting global expertise with regional opportunities—ensuring that delegates leave with both knowledge and concrete relationships that can drive their business forward.
Awards play a major role in celebrating excellence. How has the response been this year?
The MENA Shopping Centre & Retailer Awards have become the benchmark for excellence in the region, and this year we witnessed an outstanding response, with over 200 submissions across categories. The entries reflect not only innovation in design, leasing, marketing, and operations but also the industry’s growing commitment to sustainability, digital integration, and community impact. The finalists represent the best of what our industry has to offer—trailblazers who are pushing boundaries and raising standards. We look forward to celebrating these achievements and showcasing how retail in MENA continues to set global benchmarks.
As retail evolves, digital transformation is becoming critical. How are these themes incorporated into RCM 2025’s agenda and speaker programming?
Digital transformation is a core pillar of this year’s agenda. We have designed sessions that cover AI, data-driven decision-making, omnichannel strategies, and the role of technology in enhancing customer experience. Our speaker line-up includes global tech leaders, regional innovators, and retailers who are successfully integrating digital solutions into their business models. Beyond the sessions, the exhibition itself provides live demonstrations of digital platforms and solutions. By embedding digital transformation across our programming, we are equipping delegates with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven retail landscape.
Looking ahead, what legacy or lasting outcomes does MECSR hope to achieve through this Retail Congress?
Our goal is for Retail Congress MENA 2025 to leave a lasting impact by inspiring bold thinking, sparking collaborations, and accelerating transformation across the industry. The legacy we aim to create is one of resilience, sustainability, and innovation—where retail is not just about transactions, but about building communities, enriching lifestyles, and driving regional economic growth. For MECSR, the Congress also serves as a platform to reinforce our commitment to supporting members, advancing professional development, and championing the evolution of retail in MENA. Ultimately, we want delegates to walk away empowered, connected, and ready to shape the future of retail with confidence and purpose.
