Tuesday 19 March 2024
 
»
 
»
Story

Manar Mall ... boasts a capacity of over 100 retail outlets.

RAK mall expansion project on track

ABU DHABI, July 5, 2015

Al Hamra Real Estate Development said the expansion work at its shopping mall in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, was progressing well with its completion likely in the third quarter of next year.

Once ready, the net leasable area in the Manar Mall will double to 60,000 sq m from the current 30,000 sqm, said its developer and owner.

The Dh230-million ($62.6 million) development includes a spectacular waterfront retail promenade overlooking local mangroves and a brand new entertainment centre, stated Al Hamra.

The expansion and refurbishment of Manar Mall has been designed by Cadiz International, a leading global shopping mall architect, with Shankland Cox appointed as lead consultants.

Since the work on Ras Al Khaimah’s largest shopping mall started this April it has evoked excitement amongst some of the world’s biggest global retailers, who see business opportunities to be created through the redevelopment, said a senior official.

"The expansion of Manar Mall continues to generate huge interest from tenants looking to take advantage of new space. Demand for existing retail space was also high," remarked Barry Ebrahimy, the head of commercial at Al Hamra Real Estate Development.

"Despite the fact that we had already received expressions of interest for the majority of the new leasable area when the project was announced, we have continued to receive large volumes of enquiries. Some of those enquiries include major global fashion brands and discussions are ongoing," he noted.

Currently, Manar Mall has a capacity of over 100 retail outlets, featuring a comprehensive array of entertainment and dining facilities, along with an extensive parking facility with over 2,200 car parking spaces.

Accordng to him, leading international retail franchise operator MH Alshaya, which currently operates eight brands in Manar Mall (H&M, Next, Milano, Dorothy Perkins, Mothercare, Claire’s, MAC and Pinkberry) has underlined its ongoing commitment to the mall.

“Alshaya will be opening its pharmacy brand Boots in the mall later this year, and is looking at further food brands in the future,” said its company spokesperson.

Alshaya operates over 2,800 stores across diverse customer sectors, including fashion and footwear, health and beauty, food, optics, pharmacy, home furnishings, and leisure and entertainment.  Its portfolio includes some of the world’s most recognised retail brands, including Starbucks, H&M, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, and Victoria’s Secret.

Commenting on the expansion, Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen, the CEO of Novo Cinemas, said: "Our aim is to provide the ultimate cinema experience and part of that means securing prominent locations for our entertainment centres."

"As the most popular shopping and leisure destination in the northern emirates Manar Mall fits the bill, and as populations continue to grow, its expansion has the potential to create opportunities and increase footfall, creating synergies between the retail and entertainment industries," she added.-TradeArabia News Service




Tags: UAE | RAK | mall | Al Hamra Real Estate Development |

More Retail & Wholesale Stories

calendarCalendar of Events

Ads