Mixed-use projects function as a blueprint for Dubai's future, Dubai Properties

Speaking at the recently concluded Retail City Conference held in Dubai, he said the mixed-use plan of Dubai Properties' pioneering retail projects, Bay Avenue and The Walk, could function as a blueprint for accommodating Dubai's future population growth, and tackling the challenges of aggressive urban development, including traffic and crowd congestion.

"An extensive analysis of city life establishes the fact that people thrive on spontaneous and circumstantial interaction. Mixed-use developments, such as the Business Bay and Jumeirah Beach Residence, complement the city's architectural objectives, even while providing amenities for people to live, work, and play within the same premises," Tawana told delegates.

Mixed-use projects are gaining popularity in both large and small cities around the world. Retail and services businesses are an important component in these developments. Through extensive studies, Dubai Properties identified mixed-use projects as providing optimum return of investment and benefits to both investors and end-consumers.

Tawana said:

"Mixed-use projects are a sophisticated trend that offers smart growth to the retail industry, bringing greater lifestyle convenience to communities. Facilities such as gardens, parkways, waterways and children play areas, create relaxing zones and comfort in mixed-use developments."

Explaining that mixed-use developments required detailed planning to meet architectural design challenges and optimise retail space, he said the concept made it imperative for developers and designers to collaborate with urban planners.

Tawana said that effective branding is imperative to the success of any retail-mix project. While marketing and leasing of mixed-use projects required focused surveys and in-depth analysis, it also demanded an appropriate selection and range of retailers to ensure the concept's success.

Dubai Properties is one of the developers building self-sustaining communities in the region. It plans to increase its investment in mixed-use projects as part of its retail expansion strategy.