Turner & Townsend says Dubai’s second IKEA outlet, the largest within the UAE, is on-track for its December opening.
The firm was appointed to support the delivery by Al Futtaim Group Real Estate and is providing planning and project controls for IKEA’s 30,000 square metre store.
IKEA will be opening in a retail destination that includes other flagship tenants such as M&S and Lulu Hypermarket, as well as over 120 other stores.
The retail offer will be complemented by a 500-seat food court, over 40 dining and eating options, a Stay and Play offering, family entertainment Kids Club and over 2,300 parking spaces, Turner & Townsend said in a statement.
It added that it is working with Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG), which is overseeing design and delivery of the Festival Plaza project.
With IKEA openings in Europe, Asia and the Middle East under its belt, Turner & Townsend explained it is drawing on its previous experience and understanding of the brand – including IKEA’s prioritisation of environmental sustainability in store design,
Hudson Fountain, Director at Turner & Townsend, said: “IKEA is a much-loved global brand that is known for its commitment to sustainable working practices and environmental stewardship. Our expertise working with the company across global regions ensures we can play our part in delivering high quality retail space that meets these credentials.”
“The new store will act as a major anchor for the wider Festival Plaza project, acting as an exemplar project for the development of high-quality mixed-use neighbourhoods across Dubai and the region as a whole.”
Solar panels will enable the store to receive 20 percent of its power from solar energy, while efficient AC units and lights with motion-based control will help save energy that could power more than 400 homes yearly. IKEA also recycles 90 percent of its dry operational waste annually. IKEA’s target is to use only renewable or recycled materials for its products by 2030.