Dubai, UAE — Oct. 2026 — AI agents now play a role in about 9 percent of Majid Al Futtaim Holding’s customer transactions, up from virtually zero a few months ago, CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail said on Wednesday.
The agents recommend products, influence choices or direct purchases, Ismail told “The Consumer of 2035” session at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum 2026.
The group’s businesses serve more than 600 million customers annually. Ismail pointed to rising demand for value for money amid inflationary pressures, exceptional experiences and AI-assisted purchases.
“Preparing for the consumer of 2035 starts today,” he said, citing investment in human capabilities, data assets, algorithms and AI agents as intellectual capital, alongside financial and human capital.
Online and in-mall
Ismail said 25 percent of the group’s retail business is conducted online, with growing demand for home delivery of groceries, entertainment and other services. He said this does not diminish the role of shopping malls, as consumers increasingly seek social and entertainment experiences outside the home.
He expects most commercial transactions in the coming years to involve AI agents, directly or indirectly, requiring businesses to rethink their operating models and customer engagement.
Advertising and delivery
The group is investing in AI-enabled digital advertising through its Precision Media business, which uses apps and loyalty platforms to present relevant advertisements at the right moment. It is also developing rapid delivery services that could take as little as 15 minutes.
Ismail said trust will become more important in brand choice as AI improves price and product transparency, and highlighted the UAE’s strong position in institutional trust and AI adoption.
The forum, organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) with the Ministry of Investment, runs from Oct. 14 to 15 at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre under the theme “Building Adaptive Economies.”
