Marina Mall Abu Dhabi’s $817m extension to begin in 2018

Marina Mall Abu Dhabis $817m expansion will see 300,000m2 of space added to the existing facility.

National Investment Corporation (NIC) has announced that its planned 300,000m2 expansion of Marina Mall Abu Dhabi is scheduled to commence in 2018.

The $816.7m (AED3bn) initiative will also involve the upgradation of the mall’s existing facilities.

In addition to the extension, NIC intends to develop Marina Walk, a 546m-long promenade that will offer 123,000m2of leisure and entertainment activities, including Abu Dhabi’s first skate park.

Work on the upgradation of Marina Mall Abu Dhabi’s existing facilities will start in H1 2018. The mall’s expansion activities and the development of Marina Walk are due to begin during the second half of the year.

Rami Chehabeddine, chief investment officer of NIC, commented: “There is no dispute that Marina Mall’s location is unparalleled in Abu Dhabi as it is one of the iconic sites of the capital, and this has been one of the key reasons for our continued success. These new plans will allow us to rejuvenate and heighten the experience we offer our customers for many years to come.

“By adding to the incredible mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options we already offer, as well as building an even greater environment for our customers, we will reinforce our position as the destination of choice for people and families of all ages,” Chehabeddine added.

The Marina Walk development, which will boast a gross leasable area (GLA) of 19,500m2, will feature a dining precinct, 15,000m2of open park areas for community events, multiple water features, three helicopter pads, and 900 additional parking spaces.

The extension project will begin with the mall’s south block, which will become home additional retail spaces, food and beverage (F&B) outlets, and a new residential tower. In turn, the premises’ north block will be expanded to include a series of extra entertainment attractions.

The upgradation portion of the programme will involve the installation of LED screens, the renovation of existing store-front fixtures, and the enhancement of the mall’s luxury area and main entrance.