Dubai Mall 1 million sq ft expansion started

Dubai: The expansion of The Dubai Mall has started in anticipation of 100 million annual visitors to the mall.

The first phase will expand the mall by 1 million square feet, the fashion portfolio of the mall will be further strengthened, enhancing the city’s high-end retail offerings.

“Our strategy to create compelling new retail and lifestyle experiences also supports the city’s growth outlook of further strengthening its core economic sectors, including retail, tourism and hospitality. The current expansion will redefine Dubai’s retail sector, cementing its reputation as a global hub for the latest in fashion,” said Mohammad Al Abbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties, in a press release.

The mall saw traffic of over 65 million visitors in 2012, and a record 20 million visitors in the first three months of the year, the highest so far during a three-month period.

The Fashion Avenue in The Dubai Mall will add new and personalised flagship stores; The overall expansion will also bring in other high-end lifestyle and entertainment brands.

The new additions to The Dubai Mall are being implemented with minimal impact on the ongoing mall operations. Visitors will continue to have full access to the mall.