Dubai

Ajman’s new mall in the making is anchoring itself around culture. The Mirkaaz — which is targeting 10 million visitors in the first year of operations — will have a special section mirroring an old-style souq.

“At the core of the Mirkaaz experience is our value of staying true to what we are and where we come from,” said Yahya Al Jasmi, Managing Director of Ajman Holding. “The old souq will be dedicated to promoting local talents and entrepreneurs, and is bound to become a tourist destination where traditions are constantly renewed.”

Spread over 1,000 square meters, it will feature a majlis-like seating section.

Mirkaaz will also offer budding entrepreneurs distinct work spaces to operate their business. Taking up space on the first floor of the mall, next to the entertainment area, these facilities spread across 1,108 square metres and will the business owners to “discover and test their products and services without breaking the bank”.

“Unlike traditional mall spaces which require long and expensive leases that are difficult for some start-ups, Mirkaaz will offer special spaces which are set up as separate stores in the form of booths,” said Al Jasmi. “While the distinct spaces will help start-ups and SMEs benefit from the foot traffic, it will also help them establish a mall presence.”

The developer, Ajman Holding, had earlier signed an agreement with China State Construction Engineering Corp. to construct the mall. The overall cost of development is estimated to be Dh500 million.