Dubai Festival City hosts retailer update

The briefing was held on the unique Dubai Festival City presentation barge, currently berthed on the Creek. Omar Al Futtaim, CEO of Dubai Festival City greeted prominent CEO's and Managing Directors from fashion, homewares, lifestyle, furniture and sports retailing groups and updated them on the 1600-acre project. Particular attention was paid to the development's extensive retail offerings, including its 1.8 million square foot, Festival Centre, the waterfront retail, entertainment and hospitality destination.

"Partnership is fundamental to a successful business relationship," said Al Futtaim. "We regard building and developing long term relationships as essential and part of that involves the sharing of important information to enable our partners to make informed decisions."

Al Futtaim spoke of the development's progress since inception and stressed the importance placed on building Dubai Festival City's identity and brand awareness.

"We have invested a great deal of time and resources into developing branding for the development that communicates its promise," he said.

"Dubai Festival City is unique. There are numerous choices in the market where retailers can consider opening new outlets, but we have always been committed to a masterplan that is well thought out and will create a desirable offering that has a true point of difference."

Brett Schafer, Dubai Festival City's Development Director, provided a unique insight into the development's status, and updated the gathering on the project's milestones, and planned landmark openings in the next two years.

"The colourful hoardings on Al Rebat Road disguise a great deal of activity," said Schafer. "Already, we have the first phase of Al Badia Golf Resort close to completion with the first residences due for occupation this August and the golf course itself opening in September.

"And the first section of the Dubai Festival City corniche, which will eventually extend along four kilometres of the Creek, is due for completion in December."

Schafer added there are several major announcements to be made in the coming months that will enhance the Dubai Festival City offering, including the latest developments on Dubai Creek's fourth crossing - the access and egress of which strategically filters traffic directly into the heart of Dubai Festival City's retail destinations.

Abdullah Al Fahim, Chairman and Managing Director of Paris Gallery, the leading luxury retail outlet in the UAE, said the update gave a clear indication of the draw Dubai Festival City will offer to visitors; "This is very exciting; the retail, hospitality and entertainment waterfront centre offers truly mixed elements that make it not just another mall."

Vipen Sethi, Group Finance Director for the Landmark Group agreed, adding that the fourth crossing will positively impact the development. He said; "Access is important because Dubai Festival City is a one-of-a-kind development that will cater to a huge market with its broad spectrum of offerings."

Work is well underway on piling for the 1.8 million square feet waterfront retail, hospitality and entertainment centre that is at the focal point of Dubai Festival City. The initial stages of construction on the retail park and automotive park will also begin soon.