Dubai Ruler launches Meydan One Mall

Groundbreaking works for Dubai's planned Meydan One Mall, due for completion by 2020, have been launched by Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The Dubai Ruler broke first ground for construction at a ceremony recently held in the city.

Part of the Meydan One mega development launched in August 2015, the mall will feature 620 retail shops including two departmental stores, and a 1.2ha (131,150 sqf) hypermarket.

According to Dubai Media Office, the mall will be "the first to ever be constructed in close partnership with leading international retailers".

Retailers have been involved since the mall's inception to ensure design spaces meet brand requirements, maximise space, and boost customer experience.

High-end luxury brands will be situated across Central Canyon, a designated 1,315ft shopping strip that is directly accessible from the road.

A 160m x 100m retractable skylight has also been planned for installation at the mall.

Remarking on the mall's development, Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, chairman of Meydan, said: "In our vision for Meydan One we have brought together all the wonders of a retail and leisure experience into one space, making this the number one destination for the UAE and indeed, the Middle East.

"With construction now underway, the Meydan One Mall is scheduled to be completed by 2020, in line with Phase 1 of the Meydan One mega development."