Abu Dhabi tops in regional retail space development
Al Ain, July 15, 2014
Abu Dhabi has more retail space under development than anywhere in the Gulf, out of the total of 39 million sq m of shopping centre retail space currently under construction in the world’s biggest cities, according to a new study.
The study conducted by property adviser CBRE found that the emirate is set to add 778,000 sq m of retail space over the next three years, which represents eight per cent of the total new shopping space opened last year in 180 cities globally.
Bassam Saleh, marketing manager at Al Ain’s Bawadi Mall, said: “It does not come as a surprise to many that Abu Dhabi has the largest retail space under development in the GCC, because the capital of the UAE has been taking firm steps in becoming a world class city.
“Malls in the emirate have standards that are on par with leading shopping destinations in the world, such as Paris, London and New York. Visitors feel they are in a five-star shopping arcade, in terms of services, ambience, promotions, outreach programmes and staff in stores and management.”
“Bawadi Mall has adopted the ‘edutainment’ concept that has converted the shopping service into an experience enjoyed by all members of the family,” said Saleh.
“We adopt global best practices to make the visitors welcome and comfortable. One of the main reasons for the success of our approach is that we consider the visitor a tourist rather than a customer coming to shop. We greet them with entertainment and social activities that address the diversity of cultures living in the UAE.”
Abu Dhabi in general and Al Ain in particular offers superior shopping ambience, driven by strong collaboration between mall management, tenants representing international, regional and local brands as well as visitors who remain the central part of any shopping experience, said Saleh.
“These visitors with high purchasing power, a strong shopping culture and appreciation of classy brands are energising the shopping industry, as supply keeps pace with the huge demand, translating into high footfall.”
Bawadi Mall has 400 food and beverage, fashion, entertainment outlets, and it is one of the leading destinations for UAE residents and tourists. - TradeArabia News Service
