Record opening sales for Sahara Centre retailers

"We were very impressed with the volume of people, of all age-groups who visited Adventureland over Eid. In just one day we had over 20,000 adults and children trying out different rides - a UAE record for an indoor family entertainment centre," said Shahram Foroughi, Managing Director of Elite Research Management Consultants.

With over 90 per cent of the retail space already leased, and 65 per cent of Sahara Centre open, key anchor stores include Debenhams, Toys 'R' Us, Adventureland and Century Cinemas. Additional anchors, Marks & Spencer and THE One will open in the second quarter this year.

"Our Toys 'R' Us store had a very successful opening period over the Eid holidays - the store received several thousands of visitors a day, and we are delighted with the response to the opening of Sahara Centre. The quality of family entertainment has to be one of the best in the UAE," said Jim McCallum, Group Director, Retail, Al- Futtaim Group.

Meanwhile, Steve Vickerstaff, Regional Development Manager for Alshaya Co which opened ten outlets at Sahara Centre including Debenhams, Starbucks and MAC is "very pleased with business so far. Footflow in the mall has exceeded expectations and we are optimistic about the future as more and more outlets open their doors. The mall is attracting families from both Sharjah and some existing customers from Dubai and Abu Dhabi."

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