Emaar’s cautious approach to managing costs and commitment to delivery drives 2010 growth strategy

Emaar’s cautious approach to managing costs and commitment to delivery drives 2010 growth strategy

• Focus on ‘affordable luxury’ segment to meet needs of youthful population in Emaar’s key growth markets
• 12th AGM reiterates commitment to project delivery and business segmentation
• Emaar currently operates in 16 countries and has over 94 million sq ft of completed real estate development


Dubai, UAE; April 29, 2010: Emaar Properties PJSC, the global property developer, announced today at its 12th Annual General Meeting that its growth strategy for 2010 derives strength and momentum from the cautious approach followed by the company in managing costs and reducing reliance on debt capital markets during 2009, one of the challenging years for businesses globally.

At the 12th AGM of Emaar, the assembly approved the non-distribution of dividends for 2009 and to reinvest the profits for the sustained, long-term growth of the company. The assembly also approved the Directors’ Report, Auditor’s Report and financial statements, and appointed Ernst & Young as the Auditors for the year 2010. The assembly also approved the report of the Board of Directors on the activities and financial position of the company for the fiscal year 2009, the balance sheet and profit & loss account.

Addressing shareholders, Mr Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties, explained that Emaar’s achievements in 2009 are a mark of the company’s inherent strength and robust fundamentals. “At Emaar, we have always adopted a cautious approach to managing costs at the early stage. We have made concerted efforts to reduce our reliance on debt capital markets and have depended mostly on internal resources.”

He said: “During the most challenging year for businesses globally, we focused on the timely completion of existing projects in Dubai and other global markets through efficient resource optimization.”

Among the key growth strategies for Emaar is its focus on developing real estate projects in the mid-market, affordable housing segment across all the countries in which it operates. Mr Alabbar said this focus on the “affordable luxury” segment will be complemented by the company’s continued commitment to project delivery and business segmentation. “We understand the need to develop real estate targeting the needs of youth in our markets. Emaar will meet their lifestyle aspirations.”

The crowning accomplishment of Emaar was the opening of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. “This singular feat of architecture and engineering reminds us that dreams, when grounded on firm foundations, will result in world-class achievements,” said Mr Alabbar. “All our business segments recorded tangible growth in 2009, with malls and hospitality making strong contributions to our revenue stream. Continuing this growth momentum, we recently opened the world’s first Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa.”

Emaar today operates in 16 countries and has over 94 million sq ft of completed real estate development. The company delivered approximately 3,100 units during 2009, and revenues from malls and hospitality businesses increased significantly.

In 2009, Emaar Properties recorded annual net profits from continued operations of AED 2.051 billion (US$ 558.5 million) and annual revenue of AED 8.413 billion (US$ 2.290 billion).

About Emaar Properties PJSC:
Emaar Properties PJSC, listed on the Dubai Financial Market, is a global property developer with a significant presence in key markets world-wide. Besides building residential and commercial properties, the company also has proven competencies in shopping malls & retail, hospitality & leisure, healthcare and financial services sectors.

Emaar inaugurated Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building and free-standing structure, and has opened The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping centre.

In Saudi Arabia, Emaar is developing King Abdullah Economic City, the region's largest private sector-led project in Saudi Arabia, featuring a Sea Port, Central Business District, Industrial Zone, Educational Zone, Residential Communities and Resort District.

Emaar has joined hands with Giorgio Armani to strengthen its presence in hospitality. For more information, visit www.emaar.com.