Abu Dhabi World Trade Centre to open in 2014

Abu Dhabi: Residents in the capital will be able to enjoy a unique combination of world class shopping, dining, entertainment and living in the heart of Abu Dhabi when the World Trade Centre opens its doors next year.

The Aldar-developed WTCAD (World Trade Centre Abu Dhabi) located on the 12-acre site of the old Central Market, will have a shopping mall, residential tower, business tower, a souq and The Courtyard by Marriott Hotels — all creating an unrivalled downtown experience unique to the capital.

The Souq has been open since August 2010. The mall and the offices are expected to be operational later this year. Construction of The Residences and The Courtyard hotel will be completed in 2014.

Big names

The line-up of international retail outlets in the WTC mall, that combines traditional architecture with modern luxury, include the first House of Fraser in the Middle East, Ted Baker, Rodeo Drive, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Gerry Weber and Escada to name a few.

Casual dining outlets will include favourites such as PF Chang, Le Pain Quotidien and Fatburger.

Entertainment comes in the form of an eight-screen cinema complex, and the WTCAD will also have a medical clinic, Spinney’s supermarket and beauty salons to complete the mix.

“From the first House of Fraser outside the UK to the unique rooftop gardens and the extensive retail and dining offerings, we are really excited and looking forward to the time when shoppers will be able to enjoy an unrivalled shopping experience in a beautifully designed space,” said David Wallace, retail mall manager at the World Trade Centre Abu Dhabi.