The Dubai Mall to feature a 'floating island' of high fashion and haute couture

A floating island of high fashion, designed as a four-way fashion ramp within a water feature, will become available for The Dubai Mall fashionistas to hold exclusive fashion shows and previews.

With the world's largest fleet of fashion brands gathered under one roof, the 'floating fashion island' will break new ground in creating an exciting destination for shoppers.

'Not only will we dedicate 850,000 square feet of retail space to high and mid-fashion brands within The Dubai Mall, but we are also creating a platform for them to display their wares in the most spectacular way,' explained Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Executive Director of EMAAR Properties Retail and Leasing Department.

Four large circular stages, interlinked by walkways to a central stage, will take pride of place in the centre of this space. Measuring 30 meters in diameter, the floating island sits atop a reflecting pool of water to provide one of the most visually striking permanent catwalks anywhere in the world. With the world's leading fashion outlets banking the floating island, shoppers will be treated to an interactive 'view and choose' experience where they can view and shop for the items they see and like.

Cross-merchandising will be encouraged and outlets presenting beauty, hair and bridal services will use the 'Fashion Island' to display their products . The fashion shows will also provide the perfect opportunity for gold and jewellery retailers who will be housed in the world's largest gold souk, to display their products and items.

Situated on levels one and two of The Dubai Mall, 350,000 square feet will be allocated for high fashion, 500,000 square feet for mid fashion and a further 40,000 square feet for beauty and hair products and services. Bridal wear, a fast growing industry in Dubai, will be allocated 5,000 square feet of retail space.

'We want to build on Dubai's reputation as the world's leading shopping destination. To do that we have to offer the best shopping experience imaginable. This includes attracting the world's best brands. Having shows for haute couture inside the mall in such magnificent surroundings will complement our efforts,' Al Hashemi continued.

Since announcing this global shopping giant, EMAAR has received thousands of enquiries from leading regional retailers and international marquee brands, keen to be associated with the prestige of the world's most ambitious retail project.

The Dubai Mall will comprise five million square feet of retail space and retail amenities. The mall itself, over 50 soccer pitches in size, will be the largest single shopping space in the world, ahead of both Edmonton Mall, Canada, and the Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota.

The Dubai Mall is an integral part of the Burj Dubai project and will provide spectacular views of the world's tallest tower and the surrounding skyline. Hotels, private residences, cinemas and entertainment sites will radiate out in a series of ellipses from Burj Dubai.