Latest news with #KhalifaBinBraik


Gulf Today
17-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Dhs5 billion expansion plan announced for Mall of the Emirates
Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, has announced a landmark DHS 5 billion investment to transform Mall of the Emirates into a next-generation lifestyle destination. Marking the mall's 20th anniversary, the project represents a bold refounding of a regional retail icon, building on the Group's enduring legacy of creating great moments, and delivering world-class experiences. The 'Mall of New Possibilities' vision will introduce new retail, dining, wellness, entertainment, and cultural offerings. As part of the transformation, 20,000sqm of additional retail space will be added, welcoming 100 new stores across luxury, fashion, and lifestyle categories. Dhs1.1 billion has already been allocated to major enhancements currently underway, including a new wellness club, cultural hub, dining precinct, and infrastructure upgrades. Khalifa Bin Braik, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management, said: 'Two decades ago, Mall of the Emirates set a new benchmark for retail and entertainment in the region. Today, we're building on that legacy with a bold investment that redefines what a mall can be. This transformation goes beyond physical expansion — it's about creating new ways for people to connect, unwind, and be inspired, all in one destination.' 'As we mark 20 years, our focus is firmly on the future. By introducing world-class wellness, cultural, and dining experiences, we're enhancing quality of life and supporting Dubai's vision as a global city — all while remaining committed to innovation and sustainability at every step.' Among the upcoming features is the SEVEN Wellness Club, bringing premium fitness, spa, and recovery experiences to the Kempinski Hotel. The 'New Covent Garden' cultural hub, developed with Dubai Performing Arts Academy, will open in early 2025 and include a 600-seat theatre and rehearsal spaces. As part of the transformation, a new indoor-outdoor precinct will introduce a dynamic mix of fast-casual dining and interactive entertainment, designed to foster social connection and vibrant lifestyle experiences. At its heart will be the mall's first-ever outdoor F&B courtyard, set to debut in early 2027. This adaptable space will transform into a lush green oasis during the cooler months, offering visitors a refreshing new way to enjoy the mall's evolving culinary scene. Majid Al Futtaim is also redefining its entertainment portfolio to cater to all ages, with four new entertainment concepts set to launch by late 2026. VOX Cinemas has further enhanced its offering at the mall, debuting the world's most advanced IMAX experience to deliver cutting-edge cinema for its audiences. The investment also includes a full revamp of the West End district, modernising its design and atmosphere to create a vibrant social hub. Infrastructure enhancements are already underway, including the rollout of the Parkin barrierless parking system, improved access roads, and bridge upgrades in collaboration with Dubai's RTA, expected by September. With sustainability at its core, the transformation will integrate energy-efficient technologies, smart systems, and eco-conscious design—reinforcing Majid Al Futtaim's commitment to shaping spaces that are innovative, inclusive, and future-ready. Mall of the Emirates is poised to redefine the retail experience for a new era.


Trade Arabia
16-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
$1.4bn revamp plan for Mall of Emirates; 100 new stores
Majid Al Futtaim, a leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer in the region, has announced a landmark AED5 billion ($1.36 billion) investment to transform Mall of the Emirates into a next-generation lifestyle destination. The project, which comes as part of the mall's 20th anniversary celebrations, represents a bold refounding of a regional retail icon, building on the Group's enduring legacy of creating great moments, and delivering world-class experiences, said the Emirati retail pioneer in a statement. The 'Mall of New Possibilities' vision will introduce new retail, dining, wellness, entertainment, and cultural offerings. As part of the transformation, 20,000 sq m of additional retail space will be added, welcoming 100 new stores across luxury, fashion, and lifestyle categories. AED 1.1 billion has already been allocated to major enhancements currently underway, including a new wellness club, cultural hub, dining precinct, and infrastructure upgrades, it stated. Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management CEO Khalifa Bin Braik said: "Two decades ago, Mall of the Emirates set a new benchmark for retail and entertainment in the region. Today, we're building on that legacy with a bold investment that redefines what a mall can be." "This transformation goes beyond physical expansion - it's about creating new ways for people to connect, unwind, and be inspired, all in one destination," he stated. "As we mark 20 years, our focus is firmly on the future. By introducing world-class wellness, cultural, and dining experiences, we're enhancing quality of life and supporting Dubai's vision as a global city - all while remaining committed to innovation and sustainability at every step," he added. Among the upcoming features is the Seven Wellness Club, bringing premium fitness, spa, and recovery experiences to the Kempinski Hotel. The 'New Covent Garden' cultural hub, developed with Dubai Performing Arts Academy, will open in early 2025 and include a 600-seat theatre and rehearsal spaces, said the mall developer. As part of the transformation, a new indoor-outdoor precinct will introduce a dynamic mix of fast-casual dining and interactive entertainment, designed to foster social connection and vibrant lifestyle experiences, it stated. At its heart will be the mall's first-ever outdoor F&B courtyard, set to debut in early 2027. This adaptable space will transform into a lush green oasis during the cooler months, offering visitors a refreshing new way to enjoy the mall's evolving culinary scene, it added. Majid Al Futtaim said it aims to redefine its entertainment portfolio to cater to all ages with four new entertainment concepts set to launch by late 2026. VOX Cinemas has further enhanced its offering at the mall, debuting the world's most advanced IMAX experience to deliver cutting-edge cinema for its audiences. The investment also includes a full revamp of the West End district, modernising its design and atmosphere to create a vibrant social hub. Infrastructure enhancements are already underway, including the rollout of the Parkin barrierless parking system, improved access roads, and bridge upgrades in collaboration with Dubai's RTA, expected by September.


Filipino Times
16-04-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Mall of the Emirates to undergo AED 5 billion makeover; adds 100 new stores, major upgrades
Mall of the Emirates is set for a major transformation as Majid Al Futtaim announces a AED 5 billion investment to turn the popular shopping and leisure hub into a next-generation lifestyle destination. The announcement comes as the mall marks its 20th anniversary. The redevelopment aims to enhance the overall visitor experience by adding more shops, entertainment, wellness, and dining options tailored to a wider community, including residents, tourists, and families. Khalifa Bin Braik, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management, emphasized that the goal of the project is not only to expand the mall but to create a space where people can connect, relax, and be inspired. 'As we mark 20 years, our focus is firmly on the future. By introducing world-class wellness, cultural, and dining experiences, we're enhancing quality of life and supporting Dubai's vision as a global city — all while remaining committed to innovation and sustainability at every step,' the CEO said. As part of the project, 20,000 square meters of additional retail space will be added to accommodate 100 new stores across luxury, fashion, and lifestyle categories. Out of the total investment, AED 1.1 billion has already been allocated for ongoing upgrades, including a wellness facility, cultural venue, revamped dining areas, and infrastructure improvements. These include the development of a premium wellness facility called the SEVEN Wellness Club at the Kempinski Hotel, as well as the cultural hub 'New Covent Garden,' featuring a 600-seat theatre and dedicated rehearsal spaces set to open this year. A new indoor-outdoor precinct is also in the works, featuring casual dining, entertainment spaces, and the mall's first open-air food courtyard, set to open in early flexible space will be designed to transform into a green, open-air oasis during the cooler months. Majid Al Futtaim will also introduce four new entertainment concepts by late 2026, to cater to visitors of all ages. In addition, VOX Cinemas at Mall of the Emirates will debut the 'world's most advanced IMAX experience.' The mall's West End district will undergo a redesign, with plans for improved infrastructure, including a barrierless parking system and upgraded roads, expected to be completed by September. According to Majid Al Futtaim, the project will incorporate sustainable, energy-efficient technologies, reinforcing the group's commitment to innovation and future-ready development.


Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Majid Al Futtaim announces AED 5bln transformation of Mall of the Emirates to redefine retail and lifestyle experiences
20,000 sq. m of additional retail space, introducing 100 new stores. AED 1.1 billion already allocated to key enhancements, including a luxury wellness club, immersive cultural hub, improved access, a new indoor-outdoor dining precinct, and next-generation entertainment concepts. Four new entertainment offerings launching by late 2026, alongside the debut of the world's most advanced IMAX experience at VOX Cinemas. Dubai, UAE: Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, has announced a landmark AED 5 billion investment to transform Mall of the Emirates into a next-generation lifestyle destination. Marking the mall's 20th anniversary, the project represents a bold refounding of a regional retail icon, building on the Group's enduring legacy of creating great moments, and delivering world-class experiences. The 'Mall of New Possibilities' vision will introduce new retail, dining, wellness, entertainment, and cultural offerings. As part of the transformation, 20,000 sq. m of additional retail space will be added, welcoming 100 new stores across luxury, fashion, and lifestyle categories. AED 1.1 billion has already been allocated to major enhancements currently underway, including a new wellness club, cultural hub, dining precinct, and infrastructure upgrades. Khalifa Bin Braik, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management, said: 'Two decades ago, Mall of the Emirates set a new benchmark for retail and entertainment in the region. Today, we're building on that legacy with a bold investment that redefines what a mall can be. This transformation goes beyond physical expansion — it's about creating new ways for people to connect, unwind, and be inspired, all in one destination.' 'As we mark 20 years, our focus is firmly on the future. By introducing world-class wellness, cultural, and dining experiences, we're enhancing quality of life and supporting Dubai's vision as a global city all while remaining committed to innovation and sustainability at every step.' Among the upcoming features is the SEVEN Wellness Club, bringing premium fitness, spa, and recovery experiences to the Kempinski Hotel. The 'New Covent Garden' cultural hub, developed with Dubai Performing Arts Academy, will open in early 2025 and include a 600-seat theatre and rehearsal spaces. As part of the transformation, a new indoor-outdoor precinct will introduce a dynamic mix of fast-casual dining and interactive entertainment, designed to foster social connection and vibrant lifestyle experiences. At its heart will be the mall's first-ever outdoor F&B courtyard, set to debut in early 2027. This adaptable space will transform into a lush green oasis during the cooler months, offering visitors a refreshing new way to enjoy the mall's evolving culinary scene. Majid Al Futtaim is also redefining its entertainment portfolio to cater to all ages, with four new entertainment concepts set to launch by late 2026. VOX Cinemas has further enhanced its offering at the mall, debuting the world's most advanced IMAX experience to deliver cutting-edge cinema for its audiences. The investment also includes a full revamp of the West End district, modernising its design and atmosphere to create a vibrant social hub. Infrastructure enhancements are already underway, including the rollout of the Parkin barrierless parking system, improved access roads, and bridge upgrades in collaboration with Dubai's RTA, expected by September. With sustainability at its core, the transformation will integrate energy-efficient technologies, smart systems, and eco-conscious design—reinforcing Majid Al Futtaim's commitment to shaping spaces that are innovative, inclusive, and future-ready. Mall of the Emirates is poised to redefine the retail experience for a new era. Media Contact: Sarah Alsalem sarah@ +971 54 464 9772 About Majid Al Futtaim Founded in 1992, Majid Al Futtaim is an Emirati-owned, diversified lifestyle conglomerate operating across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The Group started from one man's vision to transform the face of shopping, entertainment, and leisure to 'create great moments for everyone, every day'. It has since grown into one of the region's most respected businesses, employing more than 43,000 people, with owned assets valued at US$19 billion and has the highest credit rating (BBB) among privately held corporates in the region. Majid Al Futtaim owns and operates 29 shopping malls, seven hotels and five mixed-use communities, welcoming more than 600 million customers through its doors every year. It is the proud owner of the flagship Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, and Mall of Oman with the iconic City Centre shopping malls rounding out its portfolio across the region. As the developer of choice for the region, Majid Al Futtaim is the creator of mixed-use communities including Ghaf Woods and Tilal Al Ghaf in Dubai and Al Mouj in Muscat. Majid Al Futtaim holds the exclusive rights to operate Carrefour across 12 markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, with a network of over 390 stores. In Egypt, it also owns and operates Supeco, a low-cost hybrid grocery retail concept while HyperMax is its newest grocery retail brand recently launched in Jordan and Oman. The Group operates more than 600 VOX Cinemas screens as well as a portfolio of world-class leisure and entertainment experiences across the region. These include two ski locations in Dubai and Cairo, two snow parks in Abu Dhabi and Oman, as well as family entertainment centres such as Magic Planet, Little Explorers, Activate, Yalla! Bowling, Dreamscape and IFLY. Majid Al Futtaim partners with world-class fashion, home, specialty retail and beauty brands, operating over 90 stores across the GCC and 27 e-commerce platforms. Its portfolio includes lululemon, LEGO, Crate and Barrel, Shiseido and THAT, a Majid Al Futtaim multi-brand concept store and app. These offerings are powered by the UAE's fastest growing loyalty programme SHARE, which offers customers a more personalised and data driven experience.


Gulf Insider
30-01-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Insider
Dubai: Dh150 Fine For Unpaid Parking As 3 Popular Malls Roll Out Barrierless System
As the barrierless parking rollout begins at three popular malls in Dubai, motorists are warned that a Dh150 fine applies if the fee is not paid three days after leaving the shopping centres. The new parking system has already been activated at City Centre Deira and it will be introduced at Mall of the Emirates (MOE) early next month, Majid Al Futtaim confirmed to Khaleej Times . Without barriers, motorists can freely drive through the malls' parking lots, not having to stop for tickets. Vehicles' licence plates are automatically tracked by cameras as they enter and exit the car park. An SMS with a payment link is sent to drivers for any charges. Parking fees have to be paid within three days; otherwise, a fine of Dh150 will apply, based on the information available on the MOE website. 'If you don't pay within two days of leaving the mall, you'll receive an SMS reminder and a phone call the next day,' said the statement. 'If you still haven't paid after three days, you'll be fined Dh150 as per the UAE's standard parking fine.' Those who leave their cars in spaces where parking is not permitted will be fined Dh1,000. 'If you park in spaces without the relevant permit — or are unable to validate such permit in the moment — you'll be fined Dh1,000,' said the statement. Parking barriers have been removed at MOE and replaced with sensors before the rollout of barrierless parking in early February, the Dubai-based conglomerate said. Motorists are required to park in specific areas at MOE because parking in spaces without a relevant permit could result in a Dh1,000 fine. In October last year, Majid Al Futtaim said it would introduce barrierless parking at three of its most popular malls – MOE, City Centre Deira and City Centre Mirdif — in partnership with Dubai parking operator Parkin. The new system will make the entry and exit seamless for more than 20 million cars annually across the three malls. Parking fees at these malls will remain unchanged. There is no plan to increase parking fees, said Majid Al Futtaim. 'As part of phase one, we've announced a plan to implement the barrierless system in our three most popular malls. Importantly, the fees have not changed. We're not looking at increasing fees,' Khalifa Bin Braik, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management, told Khaleej Times earlier in an interview. Parking is free for the first three hours at City Centre Deira and free during the first four hours at MOE. If shoppers exceed the free parking timing and spend a certain amount, they can get the ticket validated and the fee will be waived off. 'If you've made purchases in the mall, you can extend your parking for the day by validating at the Mall's Customer Service Desk, the Vox Customer Service Desk, or the Parking Management Office. The fee notification will be sent to the number registered with the vehicle,' according to information available on the Mall of the Emirates' website. Shoppers will have free parking for spending Dh150 and two additional hours free parking for buying tickets at Vox or Ski Dubai. Overnight parking from 6am to 6am is prohibited, resulting in a fine of Dh200. Parking is free on weekend and public holidays. Mall of the Emirates Hours Price 0-4 Free 4-5 20 5-6 40 6-7 60 7-8 100 8+ 150 City Centre Deira Hours Price 0-3 Free 3-4 20 4-5 40 5-6 60 6-7 100 7+ 150 The new system uses advanced licence plate recognition technology. When customers arrives at one of the malls, their vehicles' licence plate are automatically tracked by cameras as they enter and exit the car park. If there is a parking fee, an SMS is sent with a link to make the payment instantly through a web-based platform. For added convenience, customers can link their account to Parkin's wallet, allowing for faster and simpler transactions.