Bahrain City Centre announces outlets almost fully leased

The three-level shopping and leisure destination, which is sure to be a landmark development for Bahrain when it opens in the second quarter of next year, will have almost 330 retail units, spread out over a total leaseable area of 150,000-square-metres. A total of 317 units have been taken up since marketing efforts began two years ago, with tenants ranging from the world's most recognizable brands to popular local retailers, catering to all tastes and budgets.

"The retailing industry recognized that the Bahrain City Centre, with its spacious, yet contemporary and visitor friendly design, is bound to be a tremendous hit with locals, expatriates and visitors to the Kingdom," said Maher Al Shaer, Vice President - Asset Management and Business development, MAF Investments - Bahrain. "In addition to being the largest shopping centre in Bahrain, Bahrain City Centre will also have the largest concentration of food and beverage outlets with 54 units serving cuisines from all over the world. Bahrain's first Carrefour Hypermarket will be a main attraction as will the Virgin Megastore, which will carry a huge range of entertainment products," he said.

The multi use destination will also feature the largest cinema complex in the Middle East, with 20 screens, and the biggest indoor/outdoor water park, important additions to Bahrain's leisure scene.

"We have attracted retailers at the cutting edge of fashion, jewelry and homeware products, including many top international brands," said Al Shaer. "What is unique about Bahrain City Centre is that it will cater to all income brackets. Luxury fashion brands such as SAKS 5th Avenue, Ferragamo, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Rolex and Roberto Cavalli will exist alongside other popular brand names, such as Kiabi and Max Fashion, which will target shoppers who want the latest fashion trends at great prices."

"These different markets will be seamlessly integrated at the Bahrain City Centre, which will be managed to the highest international standards. About 55% of the retailers will be completely new to Bahrain, raising the Kingdom's profile as one of the most attractive retail and leisure destinations in the Middle East," he added.

Other major destinations at Bahrain City Centre will include retailers like Debenhams, Centrepoint, Home Centre, Paris Gallery, Zara, H&M, Mango and Massimo Dutti. Bahrain City Centre will also include two hotels, a four-star and a five-star, offering a combined 550 rooms.

A family entertainment centre, Magic Planet and a 10-pin bowling centre totaling 5,600 square meters will be another main anchor destination. More than 5,500 parking spaces will be available to accommodate the huge number of visitors the landmark project is expected to attract.