Doha: Safari Group of Companies continues to chart a path of remarkable growth and retail excellence — a success story rooted in the unwavering support of both Qatari nationals and the expatriate community.
This was emphasized by Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Safari Group Zainul Abideen following the company’s recent recognition by the Indian Pravasi Forum with the prestigious Best Business Group Award.
The accolade acknowledges Safari’s outstanding contributions to both business innovation and corporate social responsibility.
In his remarks, Abideen highlighted the vital role of the expatriate community in the group’s journey.
“Our core philosophy has always been to offer high-quality products and services at affordable prices,” he said.
“It is this commitment that has helped us earn the trust and loyalty of our customers — a trust that continues to be our most valuable asset.”
From its modest beginnings with a single retail outlet, Safari has grown into one of the region’s leading retail conglomerates, with multiple hypermarkets, department stores, trading ventures, and e-commerce platforms across the GCC.
Alongside its commercial achievements, Safari has consistently prioritized social responsibility, supporting numerous community welfare initiatives and fostering inclusive growth.
Looking ahead, the company is preparing to launch a range of new customer-centric initiatives, further reinforcing its values of quality, affordability, and service excellence.
Abideen described the recent award as both a milestone and a motivation to strengthen Safari’s engagement with the community while continuing to drive business innovation.
One of the founding members of the Safari brand, Zainul Abideen brings over 46 years of experience in the retail industry.
His recent appointment as Deputy Chairman and Managing Director marks a defining moment for Safari Group, positioning it for the next phase of strategic expansion.
Recognized as a key figure in Gulf retail, Abideen is equally respected for his influential role in community service and public affairs.
From the inception of Safari Hypermarket to its regional expansion, Abideen has been instrumental in steering the brand’s development.
His strategic vision and deep understanding of consumer behavior have transformed Safari into a household name, known for its customer-first approach and reliable service.
More than a corporate leader, Abideen is a well-regarded public figure across all communities in Qatar, particularly among the Indian expatriate population.
He is widely acknowledged for his active participation in social initiatives and has received numerous honors in recognition of his service and commitment to the welfare of others.
He has also consistently raised his voice on key issues affecting expatriates, including the need for voting rights and fair air travel fares.
His advocacy is bold, informed, and grounded in compassion — attributes that have earned him broad respect in both the Gulf and India’s southern state of Kerala.
Reflecting his rising national stature, Abideen was recently appointed as National Vice President of the Indian Union Muslim League, a major political party in India.
His appointment highlights the growing recognition of expatriate leadership and underscores his influence beyond the corporate sphere.
As the retail industry undergoes rapid transformation, Abideen is leading Safari Group through a forward-looking agenda focused on technology, sustainability, and social impact.
Key priorities include enhancing customer convenience through digital platforms, integrating sustainable business practices, and launching expatriate-friendly initiatives tailored to Qatar’s diverse population.
“Retail today is a space of both challenges and opportunities,” Abideen stated. “Our focus will remain on customer-centricity, value pricing, quality service, and social responsibility. This is the next chapter of Safari.”
In line with this vision, Safari is currently implementing several key initiatives: the digitization of retail stores for smarter, more efficient operations; the adoption of green retail practices to support environmental sustainability; and a suite of community engagement programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the expatriate community.
Zainul Abideen’s leadership is defined by a rare combination of business acumen, social consciousness, and political insight. As he assumes his new role, he carries forward a legacy of integrity, empathy, and progressive thinking, poised to guide Safari Group into a new era of excellence.
His appointment is not just a corporate transition but a reaffirmation of Safari’s broader mission: to serve communities, empower consumers, and lead with purpose.
Under his stewardship, the Safari Group remains committed to creating lasting value for customers, society, and the region as a whole.
