Israeli Real Estate Mogul Shlomi Nahaisi Acquires Yes Planet Complex for NIS 300 Million
Shlomi Nahaisi, founder and owner of Ami Group, has rapidly expanded his commercial real estate portfolio with the recent acquisition of the Yes Planet entertainment complex in Rishon Lezion for NIS 300 million. The deal, completed within a month of initial contact, marks a significant step as Nahaisi targets larger-scale properties beyond his established neighborhood shopping centers. The Yes Planet complex spans nearly 30 dunams and includes 24 cinemas, event halls, 20 retail outlets, and 2,000 parking spaces, situated in a prime location adjacent to the Red Line light rail and a major residential area.
Nahaisi, 61, who began his business career managing his late father's Judaica store, now owns 18 shopping centers across Israel, totaling 164,000 square meters of commercial space and 20,000 square meters of offices. His recent acquisitions between 2024 and 2025 include centers in Or Yehuda, Or Akiva, Karmiel, and Netanya, with investments ranging from NIS 50 million to over NIS 330 million. He also holds four gas stations and land for future development.
Unlike previous purchases, Nahaisi has leased the entire Yes Planet complex to an international cinema operator for the next decade, avoiding direct management responsibilities. He plans to leverage significant building rights on the site to develop an additional 15,000 square meters of commercial space within five years, aiming to serve the growing local population and visitors.
Financed primarily through Bank Hapoalim with 70% credit and 30% cash, Nahaisi expresses confidence in the banking sector despite current interest rates, anticipating future declines. He emphasizes his acquisition strategy relies heavily on intuition and location, often purchasing properties that others overlook or undervalue.
Looking ahead, Nahaisi is evaluating a much larger deal, three times the size of the Yes Planet purchase, though details remain confidential. He also plans to take Ami Group public soon, a move postponed since 2021 due to rising interest rates. His two daughters, already involved in the company as legal and financial professionals, are expected to succeed him. Nahaisi remains sole owner of Ami Group, preferring to maintain control for future generations.
