Al-Ghurair City (AGC) has undergone an architectural transformation as part of a multi-million dollar refurbishment and expansion program. The new look of AGC combines Arabic culture and tradition with a modern design that has been incorporated into the retail mall, the external streetscape, across the offices and residential area of the complex. AGC has also revealed a new indoor multi-storey car park.
As part of the $120 million development program, AGC will also launch a new eight-screen multiplex cinema and entertainment complex. Due to be opened in October 2002, the new multiplex facility will have a seating capacity for 1,200 cinemagoers. AGC is also planning to launch the Book Corner, the largest Book Store in the Middle East.
All retail outlets in AGC now feature wall-to-wall glass facades for maximum visibility of their merchandise for consumers while the newly refurbished food court was designed to integrate the theme of United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s rich marine life.
A newly constructed sky bridge provides quick easy access to shoppers from the car park directly into the Mall. Over 3000 square meters of pedestrianized pavement have been created on Riqqa Road and this streetscape is currently being continued on all four sides of the complex.
Marking the new look, AGC also launched a new marketing campaign with the theme of Surprise Yourself Everyday. “We have transformed AGC and we have many more surprises in store for customers as they walk through our doors,” said AGC General Manager Fred Watts.
In addition to high street names such as Austin Reed, Paris Gallery and BHS, AGC’s retail offering now includes Evans and Milano in addition to the Middle East flagship store of Mexx. Other recent retail developments include the relocation of the international brand Mothercare to a larger 3,000 square foot facility and the refurbishment of Benetton and Espirit. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
