The National Investment Corporation (NIC) has announced plans to upgrade the existing Marina Mall Abu Dhabi.
The expansion project is said to be worth $817m and is being spearheaded by NIC, developer and owner of Marina Mall Abu Dhabi.
The expansion project is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2018 and will add 300,000sqm to the mall’s footprint. The extension is projected to increase footfall by 35%. NIC will also begin upgrading some of the mall’s current facilities in early 2018.
Rami Chehabeddine, chief investment officer, said: “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.”
Along with the mall extension, NIC says it is also working on the Marina Walk, a promenade that offers 546m of waterfront views and 123,000sqm of leisure and entertainment experiences. The promenade will also host Abu Dhabi’s first skate park.
Work on the promenade will also commence in the second half of 2018 and will focus on outdoor experiences, including 15,000 sqm of open park areas for community-led events, multiple water features, three helicopter pads and 900 additional parking spaces.
NIC announced the expansion at the RECon Middle East & North Africa 2017 Conference and Exhibition in Dubai, the largest annual retail industry event in the region.