Sultan shared some key figures: fitout costs were up 25-40% on average, with gypsum nearing 70% and aluminium extrusion close to 100%. Finasi’s response drew on lessons from its Covid-era playbook securing key materials early and reintroducing escalation clauses into contracts. “We don’t want the client to absorb cost where they don’t have to,” he said, pointing to Finasi’s long-standing investment in local production as a decision that placed the company ahead of the curve.
Other voices on the panel added their own perspective: Patti argued that procurement now needs to be part of the creative process from day one, without allowing cost pressure to compromise design. Watts noted that while clients ultimately hold the budget, the panel’s role is to steer toward the best possible outcome within it. Haber described an especially costly shipping ordeal and the value of long-term relationships in absorbing shocks together. Gusmaroli mapped how regional shipping routes have shifted through alternative ports, adding weeks where there used to be days.
The session concluded, fittingly, over a traditional Emirati Ragag breakfast, a reminder that even in moments of uncertainty, the industry continues to gather, exchange, and build together.