Majid Al Futtaim, the UAE-based shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer operating across the Middle East, Africa and Central Asia, has officially opened its newest lifestyle and retail experience in the Northern Emirates – City Centre Al Zahia.
Placing a strong emphasis on learning, connection and the arts, City Centre Al Zahia aims to bring the Sharjah and wider UAE community together, a statement from Majid Al Futtaim said.
Featuring distinct architecture and offering exceptional hospitality options, City Centre Al Zahia is expected to become a popular destination within the Emirate, with art and culture at the heart of the unique experiences it offers.
The Mall has partnered with the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah, with students from both institutions and faculty members offering lectures and workshops on architecture, photography, filmmaking and art, the statement continued.
These classes and seminars will be held in a new and modern in-mall art centre, The Studio, and will cement the partnership, exhibiting award-winning projects and engagements all year round.
The mall will also connect to Majid Al Futtaim’s one-million-square-metre residential community, Al Zahia. A short walk away from the new mall, Al Zahia has been envisioned as Sharjah’s premier lifestyle destination and is part of the strategic partnership between Majid Al Futtaim Properties and Sharjah Asset Management.
Shireen El Khatib, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim — Shopping Malls, said: “The only new super-regional mall to be launched in the Middle East and North Africa in the wake of COVID-19, City Centre Al Zahia is a testament to the resolve, commitment and optimistic spirit of Sharjah and the wider Northern Emirates.
“An immersive destination designed to bring people together, the Mall is an achievement of hope and innovation in the face of adversity. In spite of the global challenges that have beset so many people, communities and businesses, we have remained as focused and diligent as ever to deliver yet another world-class offering – one that speaks to the confidence of consumers in the regional retail industry and our ability to create even more great moments for families to enjoy.”
In addition to featuring artistic, social, theatrical and sporting hubs, the Mall will feature professional and educational workspaces; as well as a grand plaza offering access to kids’ play areas, and an art zone. Visitors to the Mall will also be treated to a range of unique experiences, Majid Al Futtaim added.
VOX Cinemas will also have a significant presence within the new Mall with a state-of-the-art 16-screen multiplex, which will be the largest cinema in Sharjah. The opening marks the second VOX Cinemas in Sharjah, following the launch of VOX Cinemas City Centre Sharjah in 2018.
The mall also features Magic Planet, which spans over two floors and is integrated with a selection of F&B outlets. Downstairs, a new adult family concept can be found; complete with an eight-lane bowling alley and the UAE’s first digital putting concept. Upstairs, younger guests can immerse themselves in a world of fun and excitement enlivened by the latest games, rides and attractions.
A curated selection of existing and new brands will be making their retail debut in Sharjah, alongside anchors such as Carrefour Hypermarket and VOX Cinemas. The destination will also house and become an incubator for home-grown, regional and international brands; including nine retailers — such as Lululemon, Crate and Barrel, and Lego — new to the Sharjah market.
Fuad Sharaf, Managing Director, UAE Shopping Malls, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, commented: “Sharjah is home to over 18-plus museums and hosts an inspiring range of illustrious events and gatherings — including the Sharjah Biennial, the Sharjah International Book Fair and the Sharjah Architecture Triennial. With the arts being so vital to life and culture in the Emirate, it is only fitting that City Centre Al Zahia reflects this vision, becoming a focal point and pillar of the community, while offering people a platform to entertain and educate themselves in equal measure.
“This focus on the community is especially important to us. Whether catering to our visitors’ needs, contributing to the local economy or supporting our tenants to deliver the quality of service they are renowned for, we aim to be a positive force for the entire Northern Emirates, further distinguishing it as one of the most gratifying places to live, visit and work,” Sharaf concluded.