Dubai Festival City Mall has announced plans to introduce a range of new brands this winter as part of its transformation strategy.
The mall reported a 95 per cent gross leasing area (GLA) occupancy across over 332,000 sq. ft. and 400 stores, with a footfall of 23 million visitors last year.
Hayssam Hajjar, Asset Management Director at Al-Futtaim Real Estate said: “Despite significant changes in the retail sector, such as the rise of e-commerce and shifting consumer behaviours, the demand for in-person shopping experiences remains strong. For years now, we have stirred several firsts for the city. We continue to lead with unique offerings, and this latest positioning is a testament to our enduring commitment to innovation.”
Dubai Festival City Mall expands offerings
The mall, which houses over 400 outlets including the UAE’s first IKEA, plans to introduce more than 30 new stores in 2024, with 24 of these being first-to-market brands. These additions will occupy a GLA of over 200,000 sq. ft.
Recently, Market Island, described as the largest food hall in the Middle East, opened its doors. The 70,000 sq. ft. dining concept features over 16 first-to-market offerings from international brands.
The mall has also unveiled new stores for established brands such as Jijil, Bueno, Pull & Bear, and Monkeys Everywhere. Upcoming additions in the fashion sector include Calliope, Okaidi, Faiz Couture, Tanjim, Key Town, Cotton Collection, and Jules & Juliette.
In the beauty sector, Russian cosmetics retailer L’Etoile has opened a flagship store. Technology brand HONOR has also launched a new outlet. The food and beverage offerings will be expanded with the addition of Ilforno, Wayback Burger, and Kafu Coffee.
Hajjar added: “To remain at the forefront of retail innovation, strategic partnerships and fresh concepts are crucial. ‘Shopping for Growth’ by Strategy& sheds light on the region’s annual retail sales slated to grow to $300 billion by 2028. It reveals master plans and diversified retail approaches as key success enablers, especially for wider economic development and quality offerings for tourists and residents alike.
“This is important for any urban retail destination and is a top priority for us. Reflecting on our history of pioneering initiatives, such as introducing IKEA and early community malls, we remain committed to reinventing the retail experience and driving growth in this new era. By continuing to introduce exclusive brands and experiences, we reaffirm our role as a pioneer in the evolving retail landscape.”
