Ramadan boosted retail sector in Al Ain with 30% increase in footfall in shopping malls

Khalid Shraim, Marketing Manager, Bawadi Mall, said the mall, which opened in April 2009 attracted over than 800,000 visitors during the month of Ramadan and the Eid holidays.

He indicated that the retail and shopping sectors in Al Ain and the UAE have begun to show signs of recovery and great potential for future growth.

Shraim added:

"Every time a new mall is announced, sceptics say it won't succeed. Bawadi Mall has proved to be one of the most successful, taking a lead position among UAE nationals, expatriates and visitors in Al Ain."

The month of Ramadan saw Bawadi Mall hosting various entertainment programs. A live band played at the mall every day, giving three daily performances and specialized performances for children. There was also a circus performing during the Eid holidays. Abu Dhabi TV broadcast the program "Soual Ala El Tayer" from the mall.

Shraim added: "Stores offering fast moving consuming goods in the mall reported overwhelming demand. We are happy that we have organized these activities that reflected the spirit of this holy month of Ramadan. They brought exceptional joy to all visitors."

Shopping malls are preferred locations for consumers to buy goods because of the special ambience it provides them with especially families. Bawadi Mall has attracted international brands and it provides its visitors with unrivalled shopping experience.

"Every mall has to enhance the tourism industry by developing shopping programs cater to the needs of customers driven by its strategic role as an entertainment center," added Shraim.

The 140,000 square metre Bawadi Mall, with a gross leasable area of 110,000 square metres, positioned as Al Ain's ultimate shopping, dining and leisure destination, is located only 5 minutes from the town center on "Mezyad Road", which can be conveniently accessed, avoiding the congested city roads.

Bawadi Mall, developed by Nael & Bin Harmal Inv. Co. L.L.C., houses a mix of international as well as regional retail brands of fashion, food, jewellery and much more, all in a bright, spacious, and inviting environment, distinguished by a wide curved vaulted skylight that soars above the main corridor and its main three spacious courts.

New brands have made their debut in the Al Ain city through our mall, such as Zara, Mango, Max , Marks & Spencer, Kotton, New look, H&M, ACE Hardware amongst others. The mall has attracted more than 380 retail outlets, including international names."