The Sharjah-based developer Alef Group ‑ a pioneer in developing premier lifestyle communities, destinations and experiences through investment and strategic joint ventures, has announced substantial financial support amounting to AED10 million to help retailers from tenants investing in Zero 6 Mall, one of the Group’ projects in the emirate. The financing will cover the value of this year’s rent for qualified tenants whose business has been affected by the repercussions of the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19), pandemic.

His Excellency Issa Ataya, Director-General of Alef Group, said: “The financial support comes after an emergency meeting recently held by Alef Group’s management, to discuss the best and most effective ways to support merchants and tenants in Zero 6 Mall following the decrease in the number of visitors to the commercial centers according to the instructions issued by the competent authorities to contain the spread of the virus, foremost among which is the call upon the public to stay home.”

Ataya added: “Zero 6 Mall accommodates a wide range of shops, restaurants, cafes and entertainment destinations, which have as a matter of course been affected, by the recent measures involving COVID-19. Our financial support reflects the high national sense of corporate social responsibility enjoyed by the private sector in the Emirate of Sharjah, and their determination to continue supporting the domestic economy.”

Attaya added: “Alef Group will continue to support the society and our investors in line with the visionary vision, directives and general plans chartered by the Emirate of Sharjah’s wise leadership. We will maintain our channels of communications with all our tenants using remote working systems to provide all required facilities and fil needed transactions.”

He appreciated the country-level efforts in general, and the endeavours made by Emirate of Sharjah in particular, to mitigate the impact of the novel coronavirus and support the economy in innovative and responsible ways that reflect the paramount interest directed by leadership to the country’s business community.