Kuwait's $407m retail, leisure destination set for Q1 launch

Kuwait’s leading property developer Tamdeen Group has announced that its Al Kout Project, the largest waterfront retail and entertainment destination in the country, has entered the final stages of construction. Occupying a plot of 300,000 sq m, Al Kout Project offers six diverse experiences reflecting the unique architectural heritage of Kuwait. The most modern of these experiences is Al Kout Mall, which is expected to open for visitors during the first quarter of 2018, said the developer. The mall will increase the overall leasing area of Al Kout Project to 100,000 sq m, it stated. The KD123 million ($407 million) Al Kout Project compromises 360 stores and a 12-screen cinema, which is equipped with the latest Imax and 4DX systems and will be managed by Kuwait National Cinema Company (Cinescape). Dining features prominently at Al Kout Mall, with an array of local and international restaurants and cafes, including 11 Kuwaiti trademarks which affirms Tamdeen’s constant support for ambitious initiatives from Kuwaiti entrepreneurs. Al Kout Mall is also home to Infunity Sea Family Entertainment Centre, the largest indoor facility-of-its-kind in Kuwait. The Centre is themed around marine life and is an ideal edutainment for visitors of all ages eager to learn more about the marine environment, said the statement from Tamdeen. In addition, Al Kout Mall will house the first ever Q8 Karting, the biggest indoor track of its kind in the Middle East, offering an exhilarating experience that simulates pro racing. The Q8 Karting track is designed to suit all types of races, and age groups, it added. Al Kout Project has a seafront stretching 1.6 km in Fahaheel area, with captivating views of the Arabian Gulf, particularly at Al Kout Marina, which can accommodate more than 150 boats. Meanwhile, Al Kout NaG’at, a favourite pier for fishermen, is one of the rare spots that has preserved its heritage, with traditional sailboats, fishing methods, and commercial activities. Tamdeen pointed out that another highlight of the project was Al Kout Souq which reflects the area’s heritage. It features a traditional-style marketplace where traders sell fruits, vegetables, fish and meat. The design of the Souq area reflects the simplicity of shopping in old Kuwait, it stated. The project not only offers variety in entertainment and shopping, but also caters to the tourists via its five-star Al Kout Rotana Hotel. Strategically placed, it is 25 minutes’ drive from Kuwait International Airport and a 45-minute drive from the Saudi borders. The project promotes easy accessibility, with Al Kout Mall connected via a footbridge to Al Kout Souq, offering stunning views of fountains, and the marina, said the statement from Tamdeen.

The mall also incorporates a multi-story car park and external parking, with 3,600 parking slots, it added. Muath B. Al Roumi, the general maanager at Tamdeen Group Marketing, said: "The first quarter of 2018 will witness the birth of an exceptional tourism and retail destination in Kuwait. " "With many exciting tourist attractions for all, Tamdeen Group is proud of Al Kout Project, and Al Kout Mall in particular, as a multiuse destination that goes beyond mainstream concepts of shopping centres. This will be one of the leading urban landmarks in Kuwait offering an enthralling mix of modernity and Kuwaiti heritage,"