PROJECT: The Garderns Mall, Dubai, UAE
COST: 800 million dirham retail and leisure development.
OWNER: Nakheel
SIZE:
PARKING: 5,000 cars.
CONSTRUCTION START: March 2003
CONSTRUCTION END: Feb 2005 ( Back from 2004 )

http://ameinfo.com/images/press/gardens110303.jpghttp://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/8/1198-Mall020803.jpg

Official Web Sites
http://gardensshoppingmall.ae/
http://www.nakheel.ae/nakheelweb/


The mall, which is the largest themed mall in the Middle East, is being developed as a distinctive retail, entertainment and family interactive experience and will be the first of its kind in the region. The design will enable people to literally follow the footsteps of legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta, as he traversed through the lands of Spain and Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China.

Over 300 units will be available for lease throughout the single level mall covering 3.1 million square feet. In addition there will also be provisions for 5000 car parking spaces and unique family activities to take the total site space up to 5.4 million square feet,


The Mall will have a IMAX. . The Gardens Shopping Mall will be the first development in the UAE. Middle East's largest cinema entertainment centre, 'Grand Gardens Megaplex',Grand Gardens Megaplex will boast 21 screens including an IMAX theatre, all built to international standards with cutting edge entertainment technology, including automated cinema, wall-to-wall screens, stadium seats with extra legroom, full digital sound and a ultra stylish lobby. Grand Gardens Megaplex will seat, over 3,000 people, in addition to over 350 at the IMAX.

Food Court:
'The food court will be a major highlight of the mall, offering a diverse range of international cuisine. The new concept will create a welcoming atmosphere with 16 individualised food court outlets to choose from, all in one destination,

A Maze. The Gardens Shopping Mall is being built on Sheikh Zayed road near Jebel Ali, and will feature the world's biggest-ever maze.

Car SHow Room:Toyota and Lexus will offer full sales, service and parts facilities, as will Honda, Volvo, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Al Futtaim Automall will also have showrooms.

just cause this one will open soon and noone here is really talking about it
and because this one is already sold out they will be another expansion started soon after the first stage opens in FEb

" There has been a huge demand for retail space and almost the entire available retail space has already been booked by international and local retail houses." and more and more enquires have been coming

really really nice. for pics, info,... visit project website!

http://gardensshoppingmall.ae/

or

http://www.nakheel.ae/nakheelweb/

another very interesting article!

Building palaces to shop in – Gardens Shopping Mall
Nakheel, together with Marketing Themed Environments (MTE) Studios, are constructing one of the world's most unique shopping destinations, Gardens Shopping Mall.

http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/1/8091-china.jpg

Scheduled to open in February 2005, the mall is guaranteed to become one of Dubai's most visited sites due to its astounding architectural design.

Gardens Shopping Mall's theme has been designed around the travels of renowned 14th century explorer, Ibn Battuta, a man who travelled over 75,000 miles during his lifetime. In a time before the luxuries of modern transportation existed, this was no small feat. Thus, the architecture within the Mall's six main courts is a reflection of the most influential places Ibn Battuta travelled during his time, allowing visitors an invaluable glimpse into the past.

The six courts are comprised of the Andalusian Court, the North African Court, the Egyptian Court, the Persian Court, the Indian Court and the Chinese Court. No expense has been spared in order to ensure that each court is able to maintain the look and feel of the represented regions through the attention to detail in the architecture.

For example, the major Egyptian Court mirrors 14th century Cairo, while the minor court and exterior is themed with hieroglyphic friezes. Likewise, in the Chinese Court, a life-size Chinese junk boat similar to the one used by Ibn Battuta during his voyage through China is positioned in the centre of the court. As Ibn Battuta's boat had crashed off the shores of China, visitors will be able to walk in through an opening in the front of the boat and experience a virtual 3-D aquarium.

'No aspect in the construction of the mall has been overlooked,' said Andrew Chambers, general manager of Gardens Shopping Mall. 'The architecture is going to capture peoples' imaginations, allowing them to experience a world that has long since disappeared. Our customers will benefit from the best of all worlds- 14th century-style architecture in a 21st century shopping mall.'

Nakheel and MTE are both known for their creativity and innovation, having been involved in some of the most extraordinary landmark projects to date. Gardens Shopping Mall has been designed with the same ingenuity and attention to detail in mind.

Following Gardens Shopping Mall's mission 'To provide tenants, residents, visitors and staff from all demographic and cultural segments with the perfect retail and entertainment environment,' all those involved have spent much time in the planning and design of the mall so that when it opens it will not only be a shopping mall, it will be a destination as well.

http://www.ameinfo.com/news/Detailed/44167.html

21st Century Shopping in the 14th Century World - introducing the unique themes of Gardens Shopping Mall
Working together with MTE (Marketing Themed Environments) Studios, specialists in themed environments, Gardens Shopping Mall, the world's largest themed mall to be completed in February of 2005, will be capturing the adventure and excitement of the life of Ibn Battuta, the famous Arabian traveller and scholar.


http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/8/8348-gardens.jpg


Gardens Shopping Mall together with MTE will position the mall as a unique shopping and entertainment destination that appeals to all demographics. MTE Studios have already helped in theming some of the world's most unique property developments and have years of experience in project and production management.

According to Andrew Chambers, general manager of Gardens Shopping Mall, the idea is to create a consumer environment that people want to revisit having many memorable experiences. People can shop anywhere but at Gardens, they enjoy the historical perspective in the six themed courts, based on Ibn Battuta's dangerous and thrilling adventures as he journeyed through Andalusia, North Africa, Egypt, Persia, India and China.

'Engaging MTE Studios to handle Gardens Shopping Mall's themes was easy as their credentials worked perfectly with our requirements. The materials they use are of the best quality and their main asset is their international team of art directors, designers, engineers and architects, ensuring that Gardens Shopping Mall is in the hands of experts who have had extensive experience in their line of work,' Mr. Chambers stipulates.

Gardens Shopping Mall is confident that their link with MTE will take the concept of shopping to another level by reflecting the region's history in a mall that transforms the traditional souk concept into a modern mall experience, combining shopping, recreational activities and an appetizing world class food court to visit.

Ludo Verheyen, Director of MTE Studios adds, 'A project like Gardens Shopping Mall is very exciting as we get to create a modern shopping experience in a historical context. We have immersed ourselves in researching the architecture and landscapes of the different countries represented in the Mall, as a result, allowing us to easily reflect the culture of each individual place.'

Elements that will be major attractions include the distinct retail experience offered by each of the six courts. For instance, the China Court will prominently feature an impressive sinking ship at the busy port of Guangzhou, while the Persian Court will highlight the theme of Ibn Battuta's discovery of a hidden cave of gold and other treasures.

We have also adapted retail zoning into the planning of Gardens Shopping Mall. In doing so, a consumer can comparatively shop with ease rather than rush around a mall in search of a particular product or service. The zones will be divided into three sections, the first being Family Convenience, then Major Department Stores, Up-Market Brands & Lifestyles and finally with Entertainment World. Thus, zoning ensures that consumers enjoy a trouble-free shopping experience.

Gardens Shopping Mall, with its unique themes and zones, ensures that today's generation learns more about the life and travels of Ibn Battuta as they enjoy shopping or taking a break with the many recreational activities that are integral to the overall mall experience.

Interesting, any larger images?

I like this mall especially that cinema megaplex. Hopefully it turns out really good.

Images from Nakheel website

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/gardens1.jpg
http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/gardens2.jpg
http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/gardens3.jpg
http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/gardens4.jpg

very excited about this one. will be real fun to shop in a themed mall. never seen something like this before.

oh yes me to
come back in march and will be great seeing it finished
anyone going to go out and get photos of the site maybe ?

5-september-2004

http://www.projectdubai.com/projects/prj34_1.jpg
http://www.projectdubai.com/projects/prj34_3.jpg
http://www.projectdubai.com/projects/prj34_9.jpg
http://www.projectdubai.com/projects/prj34_8.jpg

http://www.projectdubai.com/projects.php?prj_id=34

this is a great mall with great history attached and shown in it

i think dubai needs more of this stuff! all the other shopping malls are nice to shop, but there's nothing special!

The new interchange connecting to Gardens Mall

http://www.propertyworldme.com/content/images/article_410.jpg

The interchange will be located at the northerly end of the mall, between interchanges 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road. Access (entry and exit) will be provided from both the Abu Dhabi and Dubai directions.

alrady taking shape so much love those domes !

Wow it has grown up fast :D lol

U-P-D-A-T-E

20th Sep 2004

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d704b3127cceb71cd4bcc03f0000001610

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d704b3127cceb71cd5aa80b10000001610

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d704b3127cceb71cec6ac0f50000001610

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d704b3127cceb71cfe23c0b50000001610

looks great! thanks for the update
i'm counting the days for this to open

Can't wait for it either. Do you realise the nearest major mall at the moment for people living around Dubai Marina is Mercato in Jumeirah 1? We really do need some malls around here soon!

yes, right!
but soon you'll have the emirates mall and even earlier the gardens mall. so, you got the best down there and i still think that mercato is the best for shopping
we always go to spinneys there for groceries. i don't wanna be in the chaos of city center or carrefour, although these are much closer to hyatt. i/we even accept the traffic in the evening, but anyways the traffic direction city center is not really better than to jumeirah 1.

Dewan architect's team on course to complete mega project: Garden Mall
Dubai-based Dewan Al- Emara Architects and Engineers are rapidly progressing on the Garden Shopping Mall project, which is due to be completed by February 2005.

http://www.ayuplanet.com/dxblover/Gardens Shopping Mall/Gardens Mall1.jpg

The Mega-Mall being developed between Interchange No. 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road, boasts of various interesting and unique features based on the regional flavors of the life and travels of legendary Arab explorer, Ibn Battuta.

Established in 1976, Dewan Al-Emara Architects and Engineers have grown into a leading architectural and engineering consultancy firm in the UAE and the region. The firm has designed numerous landmarks involving the construction of commercial, residential and industrial property, landscaping, urban planning and other activities. Through consistent performance, Dewan has repeatedly displayed its architectural and engineering brilliance in various projects, which has resulted in numerous design awards and recognition. Currently, Dewan is working on several prestigious projects such as the 30-storey Thuraya office tower at the Dubai Media City, the Green Community, Dubai Sports City, and the Fairmont Hotel & Resort in Abu Dhabi.

In addition to the design stage of this project, Dewan has a 16-strong full-time team of on-site architects and engineers who are responsible for the supervision of the construction of the Gardens Mall which is fast becoming a unique visible mega development Sheikh Zayed Road. Dewan's on-site team are supervising the advanced stages of development in the Garden Mall project and aim to complete the Garden Shopping Mall by early 2005.

Touted to be one of the largest themed malls in the world and certainly with largest façade of over 1.2 km, the Garden Shopping Mall is being architecturally designed and constructed to resemble the lands visited by the 14th century traveler. The design will provide a unique retail experience through literally allowing shoppers to follow the path taken by Ibn Battuta as he traveled through the lands of Spain and Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China. The architecture of these six regions is to be reflected through the construction of five courts comprising of the Tunisian Court, the Egyptian Court, the Persian Court, the Indian Court and the Chinese Court. The mall will also house the Grand Gardens Megaplex with 21 cinemas and one IMAX Theater.

'The unique architectural design of the Garden Shopping Mall is going to be a major attraction for shoppers throughout the world. Dewan is working hard to give shoppers from all parts of the world, a historical view of 14th century architecture with 21st century features.' Said Mr. Mohammed Al- Assam, Founder and Managing Director of Dewan Architects and Engineers.

Mr. Falah Al- Salman, Regional Director of Dewan's Dubai office and the Project Director of the Gardens Mall added: 'Soon, people can witness unique historical architectural wonders, wile comfortably shopping and enjoying at the mall. With a capacity to hold over 5,000 cars and over 300 retail outlets, some of them mega-size retail outlets, the themed mall is expected to soon become an important landmark in Dubai and the region.'

Geant gets keys to Gardens Mall
Geant, the French hypermarket chain, has become the first tenant to move into Dubai's Gardens Shopping Mall. Geant has been handed the keys to its anchor plot at the mall, which opens in February 2005. Gardens Shopping Mall is a flagship out-of-town retail development from Dubai-based developer Nakheel.

some more good news about the gardens mall, which is likely to be expanded for the second tinme


Gardens mall plans phase-II

The Gardens Shopping Mall being developed by Nakheel on Shaikh Zayed Road will eventually have a second phase expansion, which could add another one million sq ft of built up area to the present 1.6 million sq ft, according to a top official.

"Given the kind of feedback that we have had from retailers who could not get in during the first phase, it is inevitable that we have to look to an expansion at some stage in the future," said Andrew Chambers, general manager, according to a Gulf News report.

"But we will give some time for the market to absorb the launch of the mall on February 26 next year before taking the decision to go for additional space."

Entering the final phase of its development, the Gardens Shopping Mall has been conceived as the "largest" themed facility of its kind in the world, borrowing elements from Arabic, Far Eastern and European lore in its architecture and settings, the report said.

It will also have the region's first IMAX cinema, plus 20 other screens, making it the biggest cinema destination in the region. All available retail space has been sold out prior to launch. The developers had raised the area from the initially planned 1.2 million sq ft to 1.6 million sq ft.

"There were some changes made to the original extension designs. However, the whole project is moving ahead on schedule," added the official.

yup just read that and its good news.

it could even be bigger
i love themed developments
why is this one not the largest? would be so cool
damn it will be finsihed in february, so i can see it in june the earliest. grrr

LOL i will there in march should be good
2nd release not together unexpected

Looks like it has been delayed again coz the last time I heard it was going to open in Jan

i have only heard feb as long as i can remeber

It always been February 2005.

According to my car's meter, driving paralel to it on SZR, the Mall is at least 900 meters long.

It always been February 2005.

According to my car's meter, driving paralel to it on SZR, the Mall is at least 900 meters long.

It would be the biggest mall in the UAE for now right?

Gardens Shopping Mall is set to meet new deadline


http://www.itp.net/pictures/features/43%20Project%20Update%20body2.jpg
Gardens Shopping Mall is set to meet new deadline
Sitting alongside Sheikh Zayed Road in front of the Gardens residential development beside Interchange 6 is one of the most visible construction sites in Dubai, the Gardens Shopping Mall.

According to the developers, the mall will offer “21st Century shopping in the 14th Century World” in what will be the world’s largest themed mall covering an area of 310 000 m2. The parking lot will accommodate over 6500 cars, taking the total site space up to 540 000 m2. The themed features will capture the adventure and excitement of the life of Ibn Battuta, a famous Arabian traveller and scholar.

The idea is to create a consumer environment that people want to revisit. Shoppers can enjoy the historical perspective of the six themed courts, based on Battuta’s travels through Andalusia, North Africa, Egypt, Persia, India and China. The six courts will offer distinct retail experiences. For example, the China Court will prominently feature a sinking ship at the busy port of Guangzhou. Other facilities will include a Geant hypermarket, restaurant area, and a fast food court.

The mall will also contain the Middle East’s largest cinema entertainment centre, ‘Grand Gardens Megaplex’. The facility will have 21 screens including an IMAX theatre, all built to international standards. The Megaplex will seat over 3000 people, in addition to over 350 at the IMAX.

Construction of the mall is now set for completion in February 2005. However, the project had effectively stalled earlier this year as the project team struggled to get the project moving along.

A major part of the problem was the fact that the scope of the project changed significantly during construction. The mall was originally conceived as a factory outlet mall and was awarded to a single main contractor, Obaidullah, who began work onsite in November 2001. Later on the client, Nakheel, had second thoughts and opted to build a more upmarket shopping mall to capitalise on the large number of people moving into the major residential developments in the surrounding area. By the end of 2004, the population within a 5 minute drive from the Gardens Shopping Mall is expected to reach in the order of about 150 000 and then in the region of 275 000 by 2008. More significantly, by 2008, over 880 000 people will be living within a 15-minutes drive from the mall. Additionally, some 600 000 tourists a year will be staying in hotels within a 15 minute radius and will visit the Mall.

This major design change increased the size of the mall and the quality of the finishing. The original factory outlet mall did include some themed elements, but the new design was completely themed, which meant much more work for the contractor to deal with. Parts of the original design had already been built and one area of the mall, including the sub structures, had to be demolished.

These problems persisted and at the end of April this year Turner Construction was brought in to manage the project. A new completion date of February 2005 was also set. That left just 10 months to complete the project and as only 18% had been completed at that point, time became the major challenge.

Turner initially conducted a two-week study and examined the various issues that the project was struggling to overcome. The study showed that the previous managers had delegated much of the design and field supervision work to consultants. This approach changed when Turner took over the management of the project. “We adopted a far more hands on approach, which meant we could be much more involved in the decision making process and direct the project the way we wanted to,” says John Milton, project director, Turner Construction International.

The balance of the work was also repackaged to ease the burden placed on the contractor. Obaidullah had a general contract to do all the works. Working with Nakheel, Turner stripped the MEP and theming packages out of the main contract and re-awarded them leaving the contractor with just the structural work. “We wanted to make sure that the contractor completed the structures on time rather worrying about the rest of the work,” says Sanjay Patel, project manager, Turner Construction International. “We would have recommended that route anyway because you are at the mercy of the main contractor otherwise,” he adds.

By September Obaidullah had completed the structures and theming work had begun. The theming was split into six packages, one for each zone in the development. There are five interior packages: Andalusia, North Africa, Egypt, Persia, India and China and one separate package for the exterior. These six packages are split between, AAB out of France together with local partner Al Ahmadiah, JC MacLean out of Dubai, and Fujian Construction Eng. Who are doing the theming for the Chinese court. All the other major contractors are also on board, including ETA who was awarded the MEP works.

The decision to repackage the balance of the works also reflects the size of the project. “On a job of this size [awarding a general contract] its not what we would recommend. We prefer to manage the packages so that the client doesn’t lose control of the job,” says Milton. The tight schedule was another factor. “The schedule is very tight so we wanted to be involved on an hourly basis so that we know how the contractors are progressing,” adds Milton.

Packaging can also lead to better pricing for the client because it effectively cuts out the middleman. “By dealing directly with specialist contractors instead of giving all the work to a general contractor who still passes it onto specialist contractors you avoid the mark up that the general contractor factors into his pricing,” says Patel.

Although these benefits are quite clear, many do still question the benefits that packaging can bring because developers often don’t want to be exposed to risk, and prefer to pass that risk on to a general contractor. “Packaging still sells on the risk, each contractor takes on part of the risk instead of a general contractor taking on all of the risk,” says Milton.

This method of managing risk creates a massive challenge when it comes to co-ordination, so clients must make sure that the project managers they employ are capable of performing the task. The new approach appears to have worked as the mall is now about 40% complete. “It really depends on how you measure it, but we are where we want to be. The structure is complete and all the major contracts have been awarded. But if you measure progress by the value of work in place then we still have a lot of work to do because there is a lot of money in the theming works and the MEP equipment,” says Milton.

i can't wait for this project no more
it will contain the world's biggest maze ever, did you know that?

Used to love mazes when i was a kid
when to a cool hedge maze some where here in austalia an d few in the UK
this will be cool !

i can't wait for this project no more
it will contain the world's biggest maze ever, did you know that?

What is a "maze"?

maybe you've heard the word "labyrinth"?

i myself had to look up in the dictionary what a maze is, never heard this word before ;)

maybe you've heard the word "labyrinth"?

i myself had to look up in the dictionary what a maze is, never heard this word before ;)


Oh right ... yes they're similar if not identical words. What kind of maze it will be? By vegetation like in Mid-Age European caste's gardens?

Maybe it would be on the Spanish section.

don't know exactly, but have a look at the huge green areas and all the water next to the mall, seems to be a small leisure park

http://www.ayuplanet.com/dxblover/Gardens Shopping Mall/Gardens Mall1.jpg

here's another master plan of the development

http://www.irebdxb.com/garden_mall/images/garden_mplan.jpg

wow, the gardens is huge!!!

nice masterplan :O

puuuuh, the wholoe mall will be 1km long!!!
some good news right here


Designing the world’s largest themed mall was no small order, but Dewan Al Emara learned its lessons well, so to speak.

The architectural and engineering consultancy was tasked to draw inspiration from the life of Arab traveller and adventurer Ibn Battuta, while designing the Gardens Shopping Mall in Dubai, which is due to open next February.
‘‘The 150,000 sq m, single-level mall, which is over a kilometre long, has five courts themed on the journeys of Ibn Battuta through Spain and Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China,’’ says regional director Falah Al Salman.
The concepts are vivid and imaginative: for instance, the China Court prominently features an impressive sinking ship at the busy port of Guangzhou, while the Persian Court highlights Ibn Battuta’s discovery of a hidden cave of gold and other treasures.
The themed environments are being handled by MTE Studios.
The mall, being developed by Nakheel, will also boast the UAE’s first IMAX theatre. It is due to open in the first quarter of 2005.
Dewan Al Emara is a three-decade-old practice that handles projects worth Dh2 billion ($545 million) a year. Established in Iraq in 1974, it moved to Abu Dhabi in 1976 and quickly found its place in the capital among its top three consultancies.
Five years ago, it opened its regional office in Dubai, which is staffed by 60 designers and engineers. The practice has a total of 150 professionals on its roll – half of whom are busy at its design boards. The other half is engaged in supervising ongoing construction across the UAE.
Another mega project that Dewan Al Emara is currently busy with in Dubai is the Green Community Shopping Centre.
‘‘We are handling all the apartment buildings, the shopping centre, hotel apartments and the units in front of the central lake in the Green Community, which is being developed by Union Properties,’’ says Salman.
‘‘In addition, it is involved several other projects that are at various stages of design and construction, including three buildings in Dubai Media City – one of which is a 10-storey hotel – and three modest-sized commercial projects in Dubai.
Dewan Al Elmara has also recently ventured into war-devastated Iraq.
“We are among the first few to venture into Baghdad. Obviously, business is a priority as we want to tap the countless opportunities in the reconstruction process, but we also want to contribute to rebuilding the country which was once known for its architectural beauty and diversity,” Salman comments.
He firmly believes there is no city like Dubai anywhere in the world, pointing out to the diversity this city has to offer. “It has the diversity of culture which is more than evident in the architecture and building designs. Dubai is being built by people who come from various backgrounds and cultures and their imprint can be found in their creative work. Take the Burj Al Arab and the Mina Salaam, for example: both are iconic in their own right but are poles apart in architecture and design. This is commonplace in a cosmopolitan society but in Dubai it is more pronounced,” he stresses.
“However, the construction boom which Dubai is now experiencing could last till the end of a decade, depending on how well Dubai projects itself as an attractive tourist destination,” Salam says.
“As long as there are people coming in to occupy the places built for them, the boom will last. Once this changes, building new projects would take a back seat – as obviously we cannot keep on developing new projects forever –and the next boom will be in the maintenance and renovation all the projects which have been built.’’

puuuuh, the wholoe mall will be 1km long!!!
some good news right here

...


Just check post No. 29 ... :)

seems like the mall will be renamed to ibn battuta shopping mall

at least it is listed on www.nakheel.ae like this
it was formerly listed as gardens shopping mall

Although i respect ibn batutta it sounds stupid. would i say to my friend that m going to go to ibn batutta mall.

i like the gardens better
but thats just me

Although i respect ibn batutta it sounds stupid. would i say to my friend that m going to go to ibn batutta mall.

would appreciate it if you could just throw some light on the background of ibn batutta, was he an explorer smussuw? just curious. maybe not the right thread to ask this, but in my opinion, these forums are great for learning some local history too alongside developments...

cheerz.

yeah he was a navigator , he even showed Colombos the way to india :)

what the mallls themes is based on

there's a little introduction on their website www.gardensshoppingmall.ae

the new name's a mouthful, the old one is much better

believe it or not
many villas in the gardens have already been completed!
but the location is crap, crap, crap!

soooooo close to power lines!!

Dubai_lover did u take photos of the mall :?

no
it was already getting dark and the roads were very bumpy and rough, so i didn't reach the mall
an e-class is not built for construction sites :D

Oh !!! i could of lent you my fathers

http://www.autogaleria.sitenet.pl/tapety/img/dodge/dodge_durango_2001_01_s.jpg

;)

a dodge durango?
i prefer the new model :D

but yes, these are the cars you need for this area
our car is a bit lower than the normal e-class you know, so sometimes you hear a cccrrrrtssshhh under your cheeks :lol:

Oh no , i think the new durango is UGLY , it has a beutiful face to it , but the side and back make it look too much of a family van , yuck , its a taxi now

anyway , i will come to dubai and race your mercedes anytime ,

0 to 60 = i will lead

60 to 225 = i will lead

then i guess u will lead coz yours might go over 225 km / hr

believe it or not
many villas in the gardens have already been completed!
but the location is crap, crap, crap!

soooooo close to power lines!!

Not to mention they are uninhabitable because of dangerous structural cracks

where did you get this from?
this is supposed to be an ultra-luxurious development

As far as I know, the gardens is Nakheel's cheapest development.

where did you get this from?
this is supposed to be an ultra-luxurious development


Are we talking about the Nakheel Garden View Villas? I'm referring to those, they were finished in 2003 but early tenants have moved out and the whole villa development is a ghost town. Nakheel is moving owners in that development to its other projects when they're completed.

no
it was already getting dark and the roads were very bumpy and rough, so i didn't reach the mall
an e-class is not built for construction sites :D


Hope that you will not stay in the e-class during all your stay in dubai and take the time to enjoy beach restuarants shoppin malls ect... :cheers:
:eat:


By the way why don't you work as a tourist guide you should know dubai better than dubai locals

Taken on Jan 7, 2005

Looks like still quite a bit work left, dont know how they will open next month!

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/0garden1.JPG

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/0garden2.JPG

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/0garden3.JPG

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/0garden4.JPG

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/sahmad/0garden5.JPG

good to see it coming along nicely
can't wait for it

are they going to make it in time or more delay

I really wonder how they will open this mall next month, I mean look at the mess there and all the work that's left.

didnt they change its name though ? from gardens shopping mall to IBN BATTUTA shopping mall or something like that ? check the nakheel website, the new name is sorta questonable.hmm.

Nice update!

All the posters on Dubai Roads still say Gardens Mall.

Well it's now called Ibn Batuta Mall, haha, sounds funny, am goin to the Ibn Batuta Mall hehe.


The completion of the Persia Dome at the Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall is another architectural landmark as the Mall progresses towards completion.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/0/11340-ibnb.gif
The Persia Dome at the Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall

Comparable in size and grandeur to the Taj Mahal dome, the Persia Dome will add yet another skyline feature to the already impressive development.

Deemed as being one of the finest pieces of Islamic architecture in this century by Professor Salim Al Hassani, Chairman of the UK based Foundation for Science Technology and Civilisation, FSTC, the spectacular Persia Dome is further evidence of the attention to detail given to make Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall not only a retail experience but a truly visual and entertaining experience as well.

'The arrangement of mosaics on the Persian Dome is placed in perfect symmetry, reflecting classical Islamic architecture and it looks magnificent,' he adds.

One of the objectives of Professor Salim Al-Hassani's visit to Dubai has been to monitor the progress and historic authenticity of ancient Islamic Inventions that are being recreated for the mall. FSTC and MTE Studios, Dubai, are working together to incorporate reconstructions of 1000 year old inventions from Islamic Civilisation that will feature interactive displays for educational as well as entertainment purposes.

Twinned with wind towers, the domes and the exhilarating themeing of the Mall is a testament to the life and travels of the Arabic explorer Ibn Battuta. The six themed courts reflect Ibn Battuta's great journeys through the Far East, Middle East and North Africa.

In fact it has been upon reflection of the continued completion of the themeing such as that of the Persia Dome, that Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, formerly known as Gardens Shopping Mall has finally crystallised its name as a tribute to the homecoming of a hero from the pages of history.

With increased consumer interest in the traveller and the architecture of the Mall as the anticipation of the opening comes ever closer, the management has made the strategic move of elevating Ibn Battuta, one of the Islamic world's most revered scholars to the title role.

Chairman of Nakheel, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, adds, 'We are very satisfied with the progress of the mall so far. As the architecture of the mall reflects the journey of Ibn Battuta, we have named the mall after the Arab hero which will not only appeal to the regional customers who are part of our key target audience, but also generate interest among the tourists who will find the mall exotic, entertaining, educational and at the same time enable them to experience a themed, shopping experience.

Ibn Battuta was a brave and adventurous young man who left behind the comforts of home and set off on his journey to discover the world and beyond. The mall has been constructed and designed to trace the route that had the most impact on his life. Ibn Battuta crossed oceans and deserts, but after 30 years, he returned home to tell his story to the world.

This great Arabian explorer was and remains to this day, a powerful and fearless personality. By embracing his name, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall will now more accurately represent this hero to the world.

Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall will house the UAE's largest cinema, Grand Cinema Megaplex. This twenty-one screen theatre will also include the very first IMAX cinema in the Emirates.

Other attractions to the mall will be the fully themed children's play zone, an authentic Chinese garden, a state of the art gymnasium run by the internationally recognised fitness and health care provider Fitness First and a uniquely designed food court. Indeed, every shopper to the Mall becomes an explorer simply because every visit is an adventure.

What a terrible name

^ Well, all the road signs says Garden Shoping Mall and the name is so accepted so even taking a taxi wouldn't be a problem explaining to the driver where you want to go.

...our car is a bit lower than the normal e-class you know, so sometimes you hear a cccrrrrtssshhh under your cheeks :lol:

Is that a E500 with AMG packagge or even a E55 AMG? Or maybe with FAB Design, or Lorinzer or Carlsson packagge :nuts:

nah, he sounds more like the kinda guy who would have a brabus.

and a driver!!

no no
too expensive
it's a normal e240 but they (gargash enterprises, you locals know this company) have tuned it a little bit
and it's a bit lower than normal, maybe 1cm :dunno:
i didn't buy the car :D

anway, back to the topic
comparable to the taj mahal dome
i don't think it'll be that tall! i don't know, but you people who have passed by how tall is the dome?

You know what i kinda like this stupid new name IBN BATUTA!!!!

You know what i kinda like this stupid new name IBN BATUTA!!!!

Oh god NOOOOOOOOOOOO! :llama:

It sounds like the name of either a zoo, or a refuse tip. it fills my mouth with a rancid taste whenever i say it. ugghh :puke:

it sounds like a product of diarrhoea to me

> It sounds like the name of either a zoo, or a refuse tip. it fills my mouth
> with a rancid taste whenever i say it. ugghh

> it sounds like a product of diarrhoea to me

Grow up.

Ibn Battuta was a Arab Hero, although i dont know much about him. You guys should have some respect. Its great Nakheel have chosen a Middle Eastern name for their Mall, after all, it is located in the Middle East!

Alt-Tab

> It sounds like the name of either a zoo, or a refuse tip. it fills my mouth
> with a rancid taste whenever i say it. ugghh

> it sounds like a product of diarrhoea to me

Grow up.

Ibn Battuta was a Arab Hero, although i dont know much about him. You guys should have some respect. Its great Nakheel have chosen a Middle Eastern name for their Mall, after all, it is located in the Middle East!

Alt-Tab

It is ur first time writing this way !!! :cheers:

i didnt mean to be offensive, i didnt even know it was a persons name. i just dont like it.

maybe Aladins cave would have been better?

i think Ibn batutta suits the mall because they are building it to represent the places he discovered or visited

they could have named it discovery mall or the discoverer mall

how would that sound in arabic? someone please translate

markaz al mostakshef = al mostakshef mall = the discoverer mall.

doesn't really sound better, but we should stick to an arabic name here

Majestic Persia Dome
The Persia Dome, currently being built at the Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall in Dubai, has been described as one of the finest pieces of Islamic architecture this century, by UK based Foundation for Science Technology and Civilisation Chairman, Professor Salim Al Hassani. The mosaics on the Dome are placed in perfect symmetry, reflecting classical Islamic architecture, he said.

excited about how it will look then
i mean, they are talking big

Well we are not too long from the opening day ^_^

Older malls may be forced to reposition themselves

Dubai: As more shopping malls are built in Dubai, the established retail outlets will have to reposition themselves in the market, a mall executive said.

"While it may seem there are too many malls on-stream, demand will absorb most of the new outlets," said general manager Andrew Chambers of the Gardens Shopping Mall, which is set to open next month.

He said while the better of the big malls would still be successful, the smaller, older malls will "do what has happened in many economies. They may change their use, they may change their style.

"But with the growth of Dubai, even if you are not an optimist, you can see that most of the retail outlets coming on-stream will be absorbed by demand," he said.

Studies show the growth in population in Jebel Ali, which he dubbed the "New Dubai," would be able to sustain the proliferation of shopping malls, he said.

Chambers said in just three years there will be about 200,000 residents within five minutes of the Gardens.

He spoke of such developments as Dubai Marina and the Discovery Gardens (which will stretch all the way to the Emirates Road).

The 3,000 furnished studio apartments, which will be completed by the end of the year, have already been fully leased, he said.

The "southern corridor" beyond junction one (Defence Roundabout) on Shaikh Zayed Road is a key area of residential growth, according to studies.

The population here is expected to increase rapidly by 2008. At present, more than 30,000 people visit the Jebel Ali Free Zone every day.

Chambers said the "key driver" for the Gardens Mall was its favourable position.

"It is the first mall Abu Dhabi customers will hit," he said, adding it is also closest to the two major Palm developments.

Studies also show that more than 50 per cent of Abu Dhabi residents regularly shop and enjoy the entertainment facilities in Dubai.

He said an interesting phenomenon is that people enjoy coming to Dubai with their families for the weekend because it is a different experience.

The manager said his mall would also cater to tourists. About 11 million tourists visit Dubai in a year and that figure is expected to double over the next five years.

"Generally there is a very high spend by Dubai shoppers," Chamber said.

He said shopping is not a functional task, "as much as an entertainment and a pastime. People will come, go to the cinema, eat and do their shopping."

Dubai has assimilated and experimented with all the latest food trends around the world, he said.

"It has already gone past the fast food, the junk food trend. People are now looking for healthier alternatives. This has happened in three or four years, while in the Western countries it took 20," said Chambers.

Talking about the weekend traffic jams he said: "The contemporary view is that in a big population area, people tend to go out of the city to shop, not back into the city.

"I live in the city and can never predict how long it will take, certainly not on Wednesdays and Thursdays,"

The Gardens Mall was initially going to be a "big box outlet", but the design was changed to make it a themed mall. The mall is based on the travels of Ibn Batuta, the Islamic explorer.

"The exciting part is North Africa, where the entire ceiling replicates the natural sky.

"In a one-hour period it goes from dawn to dusk," Chambers said.

The mall will also feature large-scale models of various Islamic inventions.

"There is a fully working ten-metre high water clock to show that Islamic scholars invented timepieces much earlier than Europeans did."

The mall is anchored by the French hypermarket Géant, the first to open in Dubai and identical to its newest store in France.

this is a problem i see as well
all the people will run to the new malls for shopping

not sure how they want to change their life style :dunno:
what big changes may occur?

Salaamz,

This scan is from the Nakheel 2005 calender...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/peff3523516fe9f99dcfebf83d3b82f9d/f557d749.jpg

Cant wait to see this mall, when i visit Dubai again in March, hope it is open by then..

AltTab

Chinese garden in Dubai
Nakheel's Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, will have the first authentic Chinese garden in the UAE. Australian-based company DesignInc has created the concept of the China Court Garden, which includes three garden cafes as well as adjacent seating pavilion areas. The garden forms a link to the retail mall leading into the China Court.

a more detailed article


Nakheel's upcoming project, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, will be the setting for the first and only authentic Chinese Garden in the UAE.

http://www.tradearabia.com/source/2005-01/27/mall.jpg

Together with DesignInc, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall management have created this concept to serve as a place to relax, unwind and have a meal before or after indulging in shopping.

Australian-based company, DesignInc, have been involved in creating the concept of the China Court Garden, which includes three garden cafes as well as adjacent seating pavilion areas. The garden forms a link to the retail mall leading into the China Court.

Nakheel executive chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem adds: "At Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, we are committed to raising the level of quality of the mall environment for customers to enjoy and appreciate.

"The central idea is that the garden will be an area of tranquillity within the extensive retail space of the mall.

"By incorporating the Chinese Garden into the mall, we are creating a space for visitors unlike any other.

"Our goal is to reinvent the shopping experience, and the Chinese Garden enables us to offer this unique concept to mall visitors by transporting them to another world.

"As soon as the visitor enters the mall the visitor will experience various entertainment options within the Chinese court," he said.

"The entertainment elements are reflected in the landscaped garden, architecture and water features, these lifelike features will be unique to the Mall and will be a definite attraction for visitors," added Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

Carolyn Varney, Principal at DesignInc, comments that one of the main areas of research for the garden is the plant life.

"The DesignInc team travelled to China to study and research first hand what components make up an authentic, traditional Chinese Garden; these ideas were then exported to Dubai.

"We also brought in a landscape designer to advise on the possible plants we could use that are native to China but would withstand the Dubai climate," she explained.

"Some of the plants include Chinese Fan Palm, Papyrus, Bamboo, Umbrella plants along with feature Flame trees and Pistache trees."

Carolyn believes that water plays an integral role in the Chinese Garden theme.

"The vast majority of Chinese gardens are anchored around pools or lakes; these water features create a calming effect for visitors as they walk through the garden.

"Local sculptors will be employed to create complementary pieces that will be set within these pools."

Three cafés located in the garden area will host their very own seating pavilions.

The pavilions can be adapted for use in both the cooler winter months as well as in the sweltering months of summer.

Glass panels and air-conditioning will permit visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the China Garden without having to endure the summer heat.

The overhanging roof structure and shading from the trees will make them pleasant indoor areas with 360-degree views to the gardens around.

This unique concept has not been attempted before in the Middle East, and Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall has considered every minute detail in the design and construction of the China Garden.

"With the mall itself themed throughout, we wanted, as a contrast, to create a modern simplified version of a Chinese garden where lighting and the natural materials were the dominant feature," says Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem.

Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall and DesignInc have a shared vision of how the Chinese Garden will look and have made every attempt to create an area of serenity.

The objective is to offer visitors the peace of mind they deserve.

Moreover, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall would like to give visitors the opportunity to experience an authentic Chinese Garden, right here, in the middle of the desert.

Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, a Nakheel Project, is conceived to celebrate Dubai's increasing role as one of the world's top shopping destinations.

Located adjacent to Shaikh Zayed Road between interchanges 5 and 6, the Mall will combine retail, entertainment, restaurants and family activities all within a uniquely themed environment that is designed to reflect the unique combination of various heritages and cosmopolitan lifestyle that is the very essence of Dubai.

Construction is opening on schedule.

The architectural inspiration behind the unique design of the shopping mall is based on the travels of the legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta.

The mall will be segmented into six distinct architectural zones, representing key destinations visited by Ibn Battuta. Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall will also feature a 21 screen cinema Megaplex, including the UAE's first IMAX cinema, a fully themed children's play zone, themed garden areas and a uniquely designed food court.

The Garden at Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall
Nakheel's upcoming project, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, will be the setting for the first and only authentic Chinese Garden in the UAE.


Together with DesignInc, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall management have created this concept to serve as a place to relax, unwind and have a meal before or after indulging in shopping.

Australian based company, DesignInc, have been involved in creating the concept of the China Court Garden, which includes three garden cafes as well as adjacent seating pavilion areas. The garden forms a link to the retail mall leading into the China Court.

Nakheel Executive Chairman, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, adds, 'At Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, we are committed to raising the level of quality of the mall environment for customers to enjoy and appreciate. The central idea is that the garden will be an area of tranquillity within the extensive retail space of the mall. By incorporating the Chinese Garden into the mall, we are creating a space for visitors unlike any other. Our goal is to reinvent the shopping experience, and the Chinese Garden enables us to offer this unique concept to mall visitors by transporting them to another world. As soon as the visitor enters the mall the visitor will experience various entertainment options within the Chinese court.'

'The entertainment elements are reflected in the landscaped garden, architecture and water features, these lifelike features will be unique to the Mall and will be a definite attraction for visitors,' added Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

Carolyn Varney, Principal at DesignInc, comments that one of the main areas of research for the garden is the plant life. 'The DesignInc team travelled to China to study and research first hand what components make up an authentic, traditional Chinese Garden; these ideas were then exported to Dubai. We also brought in a landscape designer to advise on the possible plants we could use that are native to China but would withstand the Dubai climate,' she explained. 'Some of the plants include Chinese Fan Palm, Papyrus, Bamboo, Umbrella plants along with feature Flame trees and Pistache trees.'

Carolyn believes that water plays an integral role in the Chinese Garden theme. 'The vast majority of Chinese gardens are anchored around pools or lakes; these water features create a calming effect for visitors as they walk through the garden. Local sculptors will be employed to create complementary pieces that will be set within these pools.'

Three cafés located in the garden area will host their very own seating pavilions. The pavilions can be adapted for use in both the cooler winter months as well as in the sweltering months of summer. Glass panels and air-conditioning will permit visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the China Garden without having to endure the summer heat. The overhanging roof structure and shading from the trees will make them pleasant indoor areas with 360-degree views to the gardens around.

This unique concept has not been attempted before in the Middle East, and Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall has considered every minute detail in the design and construction of the China Garden. 'With the mall itself themed throughout, we wanted, as a contrast, to create a modern simplified version of a Chinese garden where lighting and the natural materials were the dominant feature,' says Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall and DesignInc have a shared vision of how the Chinese Garden will look and have made every attempt to create an area of serenity. The objective is to offer visitors the peace of mind they deserve. Moreover, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall would like to give visitors the opportunity to experience an authentic Chinese Garden, right here, in the middle of the desert.

Nakheel junction to offer visitors direct access to Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall


Keeping in mind the global fact that access is critical to customer satisfaction and a shopping mall's success, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, a Nakheel project, has ensured its valued customers will have easy access to the mall by building its very own interchange. The Nakheel Interchange is situated between Interchange 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road and will allow direct access to the mall.

http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/2/11902-nakheel.jpg
The Nakheel Interchange is situated between Interchange 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road and will allow direct access to the mall.

The Chairman of Nakheel, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem stated that, 'The Nakheel Interchange is a very welcome addition to this unique project and we are delighted that it is now completed. It will have a very positive effect on the traffic near and around the project as well as the main highway. The various entry points to the mall guarantee easy and hassle free access to all the six courts of the mall.'

The Nakheel Interchange has specially been commissioned to ease traffic pressure and make the drive to Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall a pleasant beginning to the overall experience. The Interchange will consist of two bridges acting as directional links to the mall.

With the architectural themes based on the life and travels of fourteenth-century Arabian adventurer, Ibn Battuta, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, opening on schedule promises to be a unique and unforgettable shopping experience which will be enhanced by easy access to the mall through the Nakheel Interchange.

Ibn Battuta mall interchange

A new interchange on the Sheikh Zayed highway out of Dubai allows direct access to the as yet unfinished Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall from Nakheel. The mall's construction has been much delayed and the road access is now completed ahead of the actual project.

at least for one time infrastructure is completed earlier than the actual development, in this case a mall
congrats dubai!

I knew they wouldnt be able to finish this on time when I last visited the site. Feb 2005 was too optimistic.

If the tenants are already taking care of their leased space inside, I see no reason why the mall can't be open by the end of March.

On late October 2004, I called them on behalf of some other people who wanted to rent a outlet there.

The response I got: "Fully leased ..."

look great

The work on the mall progreses rapidly. I wouldn't be suprised that the mall will open on late March.

Most of the exteriours are compleated, so is the roads, parking places and ambient lighting.

They have put two giant "Geant" signs (the French Hypermarket) and on the main entrance which is on the Spanish Court facing Jebel Ali Village, they have already put the marking: "Ibn Al Battuta Shopping Mall".

I like this mall :)

me too
can't wait to check it out in may!

This image From Las Vegas

copy of THE GARDENS mall


http://www.vegas-online.de/images1/desert_passage_1.jpg

This image From Las Vegas

copy of THE GARDENS mall


http://www.vegas-online.de/images1/desert_passage_1.jpg

caesars palace in vegas is awesome, been there
tough competition for dubai, gotta see ibn battuta first to make a judgement, but it will definitely be tough for ibn battuta!

Dubai-Lover

Is this sky true ? Or Msbough ceiling
Are these pictures inside a trade center or abroad ?

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=3429382#post3429382

Pictures taken on March 1 by Dubai Boy

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a66e9feef00000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a66c27ff400000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a661c7f2a00000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a66147f2200000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a6649fe4f00000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a6ca17f9200000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a68cf7ffe00000016108JcOHDZy1s

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a69253f8c00000016108JcOHDZy1s

They are replacing also all road sign that use to say "Gardens" with the new name "Ibn Batutta"

They are replacing also all road sign that use to say "Gardens" with the new name "Ibn Batutta"

Runs of the tongue better than Gardens does'nt it. Expats had a hard enough time getting round Mina Seyahi, they will have no chance with this one :bash:
I think Ibn should have got himself an agent like Christopher Columbus did. :eek2:

Mina Seyahi is easy to say, but Ibn Battuta...................not as smooth as butter

In my native language "batuta" means "the punch line" like in a comedy, so I'm already familiar with the word.

If this spaces are sold out & this mall is opening very soon, why isn't there a list of the stores already!?!

Because we arent canadian, we arent that fond of lists!
ok seriously now.
they dont usualy release lists, they will often adverise the big anchor stores to get people to come, but most malls just open and u have to find out that way, unless they have a concerted advertising campaign.

Isn't this supposed to be opened by now or is it late march?

i guess it was end of march but they will never do it
should be may or june when they will open the doors

It will definitely open by May.

i guess, this is the only store opened by then?


Geant, mall opens March 23

The Geant hypermarket, part of the new Ibn Buttuta mall between interchanges five and six on the Sheikh Zayed highway outside Dubai opens on March 23 at 11am. The hypermarket is the anchor tenant for Nakheel's first shopping mall.

just to be accurate should we change the title to Ibn Battuta shopping mall.

i see nothing wrong with an arabian for this mall much better than western names which we're fed of

^ Nobody was saying why they choose an Arabic name, they were complaining that it is difficult for non-Arabic speakers to pronounce it or even remember it.

BTW, the GEANT hypermarket is distributing their brouschure, advertising special prices and coupons for the first opening week: 23 March - 1 April. They have even introduced a Geant Credit Card in co-operation with HSBC, that offers discounts on some of the items.

^ Nobody was saying why they choose an Arabic name, they were complaining that it is difficult for non-Arabic speakers to pronounce it or even remember it.

BTW, the GEANT hypermarket is distributing their brouschure, advertising special prices and coupons for the first opening week: 23 March - 1 April. They have even introduced a Geant Credit Card in co-operation with HSBC, that offers discounts on some of the items.

True

Geant hypermarket opens in Dubai's Ibn Battuta Mall

http://tradearabia.com/source/2005-03/23/geant.jpg

Géant Hypermarket, the French retailing giant located at Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai, is now open to the public.

A ribbon cutting ceremony led by Nakheel chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem and other dignitaries was held at the main entrance of Géant today.

Géant hypermarket is a part of the French retailing giant Groupe Casino; the hypermarket covers a floor space of 200,000 sq ft including service areas where consumers will be able to find a variety of products and services.

Murray Scanlan, mall manager of Ibn Battuta Mall, noted: 'Géant is the newest hypermarket in the region and will be an entirely new shopping experience for people in the UAE. Géant stocks and sells over 65,000 products ranging from groceries, bakery and butchery products, textiles, fashion wear, shoes, jewellery, electronics, sporting goods, household items and accessories, cosmetics, perfumes and much more.'

In 2000, a partnership was forged between Retail Arabia, a member of the BMA group - one of the Gulf's largest and oldest retailing groups, and Groupe Casino, one of France's best-known and largest retailers. These two companies have worked together to bring Géant to the UAE for the first time.

Mazher Papar, director of Retail Arabia said: 'Geant's entry in the UAE is a very exciting time for us and we believe that by situating ourselves at Ibn Battuta Mall we give consumers the added convenience of a one stop shopping destination.'

'This hypermarket incorporates a very high standard of display and merchandising and is today a leader in the market in aesthetically designed hypermarkets. It has raised the bar and set new retailing standards in the industry. Another key element is the unique consumer launch promotion, whereby we will be giving some lucky customers free shopping for a year, this will be apart from the regular gift vouchers, plasma TV's and notebooks to be won,' added Papar.

Ibn Battuta Mall is based on the journey of famous Arab traveller and scholar, Ibn Battuta. The Mall is set to capture peoples' imaginations, allowing them to experience a world of shopping and entertainment unlike any other.

Yes, this morning there were many cars parked outside the main entrance. Yesterday I heard in the radio a spot for another shop opening in the Mall today. It was a fashion shop, but I never heard of it before. Maybe other shps opened today as well.

Pity the Chinese section construction isn't compleated yet.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd20b3127cce902a68cf7ffe00000016108JcOHDZy1s


They need to get rid of those electricity towers, very old fashioned and wouldn't be nice near a mall. We have it near a small mall and it ain't great.

Geant opens at Ibn Battuta

Dubai: French hypermarket chain Géant made its foray into the UAE yesterday with the opening of a 200,000 square foot hypermarket in the Ibn Battuta Mall.

Sultan Ahmad Bin Sulayem, chairman of Nakheel, formally opened the hypermarket.

The mall is Nakheel's first retail project following the opening of Chinamex.

The development is located next to the Gardens, close to the sixth interchange on Shaikh Zayed Road (opposite the Jebel Ali Power Stations).

Géant Hypermarket is part of Groupe Casino, a French retailing giant with a turnover exceding $30 billion (Dh110 billion) per annum.

Its local operator, Fu-Com, a 50/50 joint venture between Bahrain-based Retail Arabia and the Al Ghurair Group, has invested Dh110 million in the hypermarket.

Plans are in the works to open three to four more Géant locations in the UAE, company representatives said. This is the second French retail chain to enter the UAE in ten years, following Carrefour's launch at Deira City Centre in 1995. Géant's entry will increase shoppers' choices, company representatives said.

"We will offer a whole new retail shopping experience to our customers. In three to four years' time, we want to become a significant player in the UAE's retail scene," said Mazher Paper, director of Fu-Com.

"Each of the new hypermarkets would require a similar investment of $30 million [Dh110 million]. It takes between eight to ten years to recover the investment."

Géant sells over 65,000 products. Its representatives expect to achieve daily sales in excess of Dh1 million.

"This hypermarket incorporates very high standards [especially where its] displays and merchandising [are concerned]. It has raised the bar and sets new retailing standards in the industry," Papar said.

Grand opening of the mall is on the 13th of April 2005.

:eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

OMG! i wet down there this afternoon on the way back from the beach [sorry no camera].

this without a shaddow of a doubt is the best mall in the world.
its not yet fully open, but it is so frekin awesome!
the north african section is like being in a village, massive roof, painted w/sky and clouds. under it, the shops are in individual traditional buildings!

egypt is also really nice, a massive hallway 3 floors high with lanterns hanging down!

its so amazing, everyone should go down there...NOW!

great you can confirm it's a nice mall
can't wait for it
if somebody has the time a few photos would be awesome

someone should go for the opening on the 13th.

the north afriocan section is actualy being in a small town someplace, with streets, and alleys e.t.c..

i am hoping to have some there on the 13th to take photos
my old flat mate
As sent him my old digital camera and a card reader. He should have got it yesterday when my sister arrived in Dubia
With all that he owes me and I expect a few photos now and then in return
He is working at the mall this week over seeing the set up of some shops at this mall. So i just gotta keep asking for those photos

i Wish i went to it while i was in Dubai last week >(

http://www.gulfconstructionworldwide.com/source/xxvi/04/images/D2b-mallnight.jpg


What is claimed to be the world’s largest themed mall is now getting its finishing touches and is set to open later this month.

The Ibn Battuta Mall, as it is now known, has already seen its anchor store – the Geant hypermarket – open to the public late last month.
Previously known as the Gardens Shopping Mall, this highly distinctive mall in Dubai has aimed to capture the adventure and excitement of the life of Ibn Battuta, the famous 14th century Arabian traveller and scholar throughout its single-level expanse which stretches for over a kilometre.
Developed by Nakheel, the mall combines retail, entertainment, restaurants and family activities all within a uniquely themed environment. It is segmented into six distinct architectural zones, representing key destinations visited by Ibn Battuta. It also features a 21-screen cinema Megaplex, including the UAE’s first IMAX cinema, themed garden areas and a uniquely-designed food court.
The Ibn Battuta Mall has a total built-up area of 3.5 million sq ft with a gross leasable area of 1.2 million sq m. It will include more than 275 retail outlets and more than 5,000 parking spaces.
Located adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road between interchanges 5 and 6, the mall enjoys easy access by three roads from Sheikh Zayed Road. In addition, keeping in mind the fact that access is critical to customer satisfaction and a shopping mall’s success, the Ibn Battuta Mall has built its own interchange. The Nakheel Interchange – situated between Interchange 5 and 6 – will allow direct access to the mall. The interchange will consist of two bridges acting as directional links to the mall.
The architecture of the mall will not only appeal to regional customers but also generate interest among the tourists who will find the mall exotic, entertaining, educational and at the same time enable them to experience a themed, shopping experience, according to Andrew Chambers, general manager of Ibn Battuta Mall.
“People can shop anywhere but at Ibn Battuta Mall, they enjoy the historical perspective in the six themed courts, based on Ibn Battuta’s adventures as he journeyed through Andalusia, North Africa, Egypt, Persia, India and China,” he says.
The themed environment has been created with the help of MTE (Marketing Themed Environments) Studios – a specialist in themed environments and no expense has been spared in order to ensure that each court is able to maintain the look and feel of the represented regions through the attention to detail in the architecture.
For example, the major Egypt Court mirrors 14th century Cairo, while the minor court and exterior is themed with hieroglyphic friezes.The Persia Court will highlight the theme of Ibn Battuta’s discovery of a hidden cave of gold and other treasures. Likewise, in the China Court, a life-size Chinese junk boat similar to the one used by Ibn Battuta during his voyage through China is positioned in the centre of the court. As Ibn Battuta’s boat had crashed off the shores of China, visitors will be able to walk in through an opening in the front of the boat and experience a virtual 3-D aquarium.
“No aspect in the construction of the mall has been overlooked,” says Chambers. “The architecture is going to capture people’s imaginations, allowing them to experience a world that has long since disappeared. Our customers will benefit from the best of all worlds – 14th century-style architecture in a 21st century shopping mall.”
“The architecture of the mall is not only impressive, but awe inspiring as well; design and its sheer size will have a dramatic effect on its visitors. We had no intention of creating a mall with just size in mind. Being the largest themed mall in the world was a complete accident,” adds Chambers.
“Engaging MTE Studios to handle Ibn Battuta Mall’s themes was easy as their credentials worked perfectly with our requirements. The materials they use are of the best quality and their main asset is their international team of art directors, designers, engineers and architects, ensuring that the mall is in the hands of experts who have had extensive experience in their line of work,” Chambers stipulates.
MTE Studios has also adapted retail zoning into the planning of Ibn Battuta Mall to ensure that consumers enjoy a trouble-free shopping experience. The zones are divided into four sections, the first being family convenience, major department stores, upmarket brands and lifestyles and entertainment and leisure.
The mall is anchored by Géant – part of the French retailing giant Groupe Casino – covering a floor space of 200,000 sq ft. It will also host a number of major fashion groups such as Alshaya group, Sharaf Group, Paris Gallery, Ocean Star Trading and many established and new retail brands.
The food court will house 16 food outlets ranging from Western contemporary to old favourites like Indian and Chinese. The mix will include options such as Japanese food, and a sandwich and juice bar. The chief consultants for food court and the restaurants at the mall are FSR and DesignInc, which have aimed to bring to Dubai a completely new dimension and an entirely new concept in dining.
“This will be the first food court of this calibre in the region and we are delighted to be an integral part of such a landmark project. Instead of the food courts we are accustomed to seeing in the Gulf, we at DesignInc have taken internationally tried and tested design elements that are sophisticated yet comfortable, in order to move the food court into the future,” says Caroline Varney of DesignInc.
The Ibn Battuta Mall promises to offer a consumer environment that people will want to revisit having many memorable experiences, Chambers concludes.

nice to hear that dubai,
it already looked great from outside.
i like those malls which are not only stores, but themed...

Ibn Battuta Mall opens Wednesday


Nakheel's huge new Ibn Battuta Mall outside Dubai on the Sheikh Zayed highway will open on Wednesday. The ecclectic mixture of architectural styles representing the places that the celebrated Arab explorer visited centuries ago has been declared a hit by residents.

i have friend there today !!!
He has taken photos ! Will post them as soon as i get them

looking forward.
if it really looks that good as dubai promises..

still no power at most of the sites there as of 4pm
Every one out there in retail is working hard its going to be heaps off all nighters for the shop fitters and every one eles. Despite the Delays and push backs there is still so much to be done here. Friend is out there with camera and will be there till late in the night and it already so late here in sydney not sure i can stay up to post stuff. so will have to be tomorrow when i get to work

For those of you cant wait till the mall opens tomorrow i have the photos

Finally! have the images they are so impressive, the mall not the images
i dont really understand the layout of the mall but i think these all from one section
Persia or some thing and entrance to the Asia section

Uploading now

PERSIA SECTION

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/pffdecdf94dd243ed68bd7a3728b8516a/f47e27f6.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/p613d858ed06c07748e91d831649061a1/f47e27ea.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/pd0fef59e211ada8ca3afa2c6069cdd2c/f47e27fa.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/p2ff384272223dbdf88d0022ab610a5a8/f47e27f3.jpg

CHINA WING

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/p795504ee5e065d9274fd07380f364118/f47e27f7.jpg


ENTRY TO EGYPT COURT

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/pe11a680b2eeb1eab064950ab808e4957/f47e27ef.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/paa4785142d06fb8b0ae22dc19b90637f/f47e27ec.jpg


http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/p6318bbb208bc243fd4c75e535343158f/f47e24ce.jpg

still construction...but very promising! thanks

many of the shops still empty and some work to be done
going to be a late night for retailers and workers

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/pfb20e40a907b7ca7455052361b277c39/f47e24ca.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid164/p82b588bb0b889bbe2821c5a69dce6e1d/f47e24c6.jpg

well thats all for now i post more of the car park and entry tomorrow

well i hope these do
The place will look very different full of people
As it hard to see the scale of how huge it is when it this empty

great you got the photos mate :happy:

doesn't look like a mall, more like a mosque/palace :D

something very different, i love it

once the mall is crowded with people and it has come to life it'll be a nice atmosphere!

wow!!

looks awesome, north africa is still my fav, but im sure it ca be topped, plenty to explore!

yes i was thinking it looks more like the mosque you see in turkey and rest of middle east! its going to so mad, can't wait to blow pay checks there :)

I am sure city center will suffer as this while not as central is sure to gain some attention for some time

Nakheel's Ibn Battuta Mall opens
United Arab Emirates: 1 hour, 20 minutes ago
The new Ibn Buttuta Mall from developer Nakeel, which is 100% owned by Dubai Government, opens today. There is widespread praise for the pleasing external appearance of the mall which celebrates the places visited by the famous Arab explorer centuries ago.

http://www.ameinfo.com/57455.html

Jumbo Electronics store at Ibn Battuta Mall

http://tradearabia.com/source/2005-04/12/jumbo.jpg

Dubai

Jumbo Electronics, UAE's leading consumer electronics company and power retailer, has announced the opening of its 26th store at the Ibn Battuta Mall.

The store was inaugurated by Masaru Tamagawa, managing director, Sony Gulf FZE.

Jumbo's new store is designed to provide a "touch n feel" and "non-intrusive" shopping experience for the customers.

"Our new outlet at the Ibn Battuta Mall will feature top class brands such as Sony, Nokia, Sony-Ericsson, Siemens, HP Invent, Acer, Toshiba, Dell, amongst several others and will offer consumers the latest in technological innovations," said Jumbo Electronics chief operating officer Arvind Nair.

Speaking at the launch, Arvind Nair, said:

"With Dubai all set to become a Retail Hub of the Middle East, Jumbo has definite plans to follow the trend and maintain its position as the leading retail electronics store."

With an enviable list of brands and 26 showrooms spread across the UAE, Jumbo plans to capitalize on UAE's booming retail scenario. With the unique design of the Mall, we expect a lot of visitors, both residents and tourists to visit the Mall.

Sony Gulf FZE managing director Masaru Tamagawa said: "The year 2005 looks like a challenging and exciting year for Jumbo Electronics and Sony Gulf.

"We applaud Jumbo's initiatives in strengthening its presence even further in UAE's retail market.

"We will continue to support their retail expansion strategies, share innovative ideas and work towards maintaining our fruitful partnership in several years to come."

New Jumbo store at Ibn Battuta mall will be exclusive seller of Vaio laptops.

Jumbo also unveiled a special launch promotion for customers shopping at the new outlet at the Ibn Battuta Mall.

Every Shopper at Jumbo gets a surprise gift on spending Dh350 or more at the new Jumbo store.

The Jumbo Group, an international industrial and trading conglomerate, enjoys a presence in over 25 countries with 28 companies covering its multi-facted operations in diverse segments such as consumer electronics, tyres and tubes, breweries, chemicals, industrial machinery and logistics management.

Its flagship company, Jumbo Electronics, is one of the biggest names in the field of Consumer Electronics, Information Technology and Telecommunications in the UAE.

One of UAE's first transnational corporations, the Dubai headquarted Jumbo Electronics, has a well spread out network of 26 showrooms and 10 service centres that spans the entire UAE.

they have one in city center too? am i wrong?
touch and feel experience sounds good...

yer and one in Bur Dubai as well
just this one bigger

JUMBO Electronics is World's largest distributor of Sony brand goods. They deliver Sony even in USA. Most of other big electronic traders in Dubai use to be Jumbo employees before leaving and opening their own businesses.

Three - Four years ago they announced plans to build their HQ tower near Internet City where is now Media City, but then their founder and chairman died and nothing is heard about the project since then.

Gulf News today had 3/4 of the main page and the compleate last page reserved for the mall's grand opening ad. Also there were many shop's ads on the inner pages of the newspaper.

Ibn Battuta Mall opens doors

14 April 2005

DUBAI — Ibn Battuta Mall, the Middle East’s largest themed shopping experience developed by Nakheel at the cost of over Dh1 billion opened its doors yesterday. The mall’s over 1,200,000 square feet of gross leasable area is already sold out. Ibn Battuta Mall, which is segmented into six distinct zones, spreads across an area of 5.4 million square feet, including a parking lot that can accommodate more than 5,000 cars.

The retail area of the mall covers 67,500 square metres with 275 retail outlets, while the food court spans 3,800 square metres. With over 3,500,000 square feet of total built up area, Ibn Battuta Mall has been uniquely designed to accommodate the best of retail, entertainment and eateries and is set to emerge as Dubai’s leading shopping destination. The retail zones include family convenience, major department stores, up-market brands and lifestyles, and entertainment and leisure.

The mall also houses a 21 screen “Grand Megaplex,” the Middle East region’s largest cinema complex, which includes the first UAE IMAX experience - to open shortly – all built to international standards with cutting edge entertainment technology, including automated cinema, wall-to-wall screens, stadium seats, full digital surround sound and an ultra stylish lobby.

The architectural inspiration behind the unique design of the mall comes from the travels of the legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta through Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China. The mall traces the route that had the most impact on the life of the Arab traveler, with its elaborately themed sections, designed to take visitors back in time.

Inaugurating the new mall Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, Nakheel, said: “Dubai is known across the world as a shopping paradise. Nakheel has designed Ibn Battuta Mall to offer shoppers an exciting themed shopping experience that is unique in every way.

The mall presents a whole new concept for shoppers in the region, and we expect tourists coming to Dubai from all parts of the world to visit the themed mall and enjoy their time shopping, while involving themselves in a host of other value-added offerings.” “The strategic location of the mall in the New Dubai area will further contribute to the success of this venture. There is a stamp of quality in everything associated with Ibn Battuta Mall, starting from the architecture and general theme to the tenancy mix and the entertainment options,” said Murray Scanlan, mall manager, Ibn Battuta Mall.

Ibn Battuta Mall, Middle East's largest themed shopping & leisure facility opened
Ibn Battuta Mall, the Middle East region's largest themed shopping experience, was opened yesterday, forming the latest addition to Nakheel's portfolio of unique real estate developments.

http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/6/13626-ibn.jpg
Ibn Battuta Mall.
Ibn Battuta Mall has been uniquely designed to accommodate the best of retail, entertainment and eateries, and is set to emerge as Dubai's leading shopping destination. The architectural inspiration behind the unique design of the mall comes from the travels of the legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta, through Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China. The mall traces the route that had the most impact on the life of Ibn Battuta, with its elaborately themed sections, designed to take visitors back in time.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, Nakheel said, 'Dubai is known across the world as a shopping paradise. Nakheel has designed the Ibn Battuta Mall to offer shoppers an exciting themed shopping experience that is unique in every way. Like all Nakheel's projects, the mall bears the trademark features of our quality and exclusiveness. Ibn Battuta Mall is more than a shopping mall, it is a landmark in itself, depicting the richness of Arabian culture and history.'

'The mall symbolises Dubai with its distinctive design that embodies a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Ibn Battuta Mall is certain to be the new landmark in Dubai not only for shopping but also for entertainment. The mall presents a whole new concept for shoppers in the region, and we expect tourists coming into Dubai from all parts of the world, to visit the themed mall and enjoy their time shopping, while involving themselves in a host of other value added offerings,' added Bin Sulayem.

The mall houses a 21 screen Megaplex and the region's first IMAX experience- which will open shortly- all built to international standards with cutting edge entertainment technology, including automated cinema, wall-to-wall screens, stadium seats, full digital surround sound and an ultra stylish lobby.

'The strategic location of the mall in the new Dubai area will further contribute to the success of this venture. There is a stamp of quality in everything associated with Ibn Battuta Mall, starting from the architecture and general theme, to the tenancy mix and the entertainment options,' remarked Murray Scanlan, Mall Manager, Ibn Battuta Mall. 'Customers will be amazed at the variety they will find under one roof and we look forward to exceeding their expectations by high quality service.'

Ibn Battuta Mall, which is segmented into six distinct zones, spreads across an area of 5.4 million square feet, including a parking lot that can accommodate more than 5000 cars. The retail area at the mall covers 67,500 square meters with 275 retail outlets, while the well-planned Food Court spans 3,800 square meters.

Several leading brands like Géant, the French retailing chain have already set up operations at the mall. Géant covers a floor space of 200,000 square feet, including service areas where consumers will be able to find a variety of products and services.
Customers will have easy access to the mall as Nakheel has built its own interchange, situated between Interchange 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road, which will allow direct access to the mall.

Nakheel opens Ibn Battuta

THE Middle East's largest themed shopping experience, the Ibn Battuta Mall, was officially opened on Wednesday by Nakheel Executive Chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem on behalf of Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The design of Ibn Battuta Mall, the latest addition to Nakheel's portfolio of unique real estate developments is inspired by the travels of the legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta through Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China.

In his comments Sulayem said: "Dubai is known across the world as a shopping paradise. Nakheel has designed the Ibn Battuta Mall to offer shoppers an exciting themed shopping experience that is unique in every way. Like all Nakheel's projects the mall bears the trademark features of our quality and exclusiveness."

He said that the mall symbolised Dubai with its distinct design that embodied a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. "Ibn Battuta Mall is certain to be the new landmark in Dubai not only for shopping but also for entertainment. The mall presents a whole new concept for shoppers in the region."

The mall houses a 21 screen Megaplex and the region's first IMAX experience, all built to international standards with cutting edge entertainment technology, including automated cinema, wall-to-wall screens, stadium seats, full digital surround sound and ultra stylish lobby.

There is a stamp of quality in everything associated with the Mall, starting from the architecture and general theme to the tenancy mix and the entertainment options, Mall Manager Murray Scanlan said.

The Mall, which is segmented into six distinct zones, spreads across an

area of 5.4 million square feet, including a parking lot that can accommodate more than 5,000 cars. The retail area covers 67,500 square metres with 275 retail outlets, while the food court spans 3,800 square metres. Several leading brands like Geant, the French retailing chain have already set up operations at the mall. Geant covers a floor space of 18,580 square metres. To facilitate easy and direct access to the mall Nakheel has built its own interchange, situated between Interchange 5 and 6 on Sheikh Zayed Road.

HEY, I GOT TO GO TO THE MALL!!!!! LOL. It was by far the greatest mall i have ever seen. It's architecture was simply AMAZING. U guys need to go. I was just standing there when sheikh mohammed just passed by. I was surprised. He was there for the opening of the China part. They had a massive show there too. I loved it!

amazing...want to see it too.
i am really excited about that mall...

so nakheel fulfilled their promise of having a unique mall .... well then i think thier other projects will be asuccess too ....they really pay alot into their detail

Oh man! It looks a thousand times better than Disneyland. Maybe Nakheel transported some of the WDImagineers from Anaheim and Orlando and put them to work cuz that's one sweet mall. Can't wait!

Yesterday on Real Estate TV I saw some footagges from the Chinese Court: OMG, OMG, OMG. :nuts:

The decorations, the attention to details: simply AMAIZING!!!

Yesterday on Real Estate TV I saw some footagges from the Chinese Court: OMG, OMG, OMG. :nuts:

The decorations, the attention to details: simply AMAIZING!!!

well get in your car and GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

was just standing there when sheikh mohammed just passed by

did you tell him to visit SSC uae section?

did you tell him to visit SSC uae section?

Better delete my EMAAR comments then!

LOL! You would really want to

well get in your car and GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!


From what I saw this evening, I don't think so. The traffic on both intersections serving the Mall had gone :nuts:

Let's hope that the jam was becouse of the parking places aren't open yet and not becouse the connecting roads can't coup with it.

Not yet really open and a mess :bash:

i was actualy worried about the traffic system for the mall. seems everything relies on the gardens cross road which doesnt appear to be much IMO!

I dont wanna think what it would be like on a thursday
if its any thing like city center, shudder !
Nothing i hate more than going to city center and spending more time looking for a park than shopping. Why it ended up that i refused to go to CC.

It took me 45 minutes to travel a distance of 2.5 kilometers and find a parking space last thursday

only 30% of the shops are open , but still , people go there

star bucks has three places all around the mall !!!!

thats crazy, Guess all the parking is open ?
Dont want to think whats it going to be like when its fully open !

I think Starbucks' next location should be Mars.

I am surpised there is not a mall yet that is all starbucks shops and nothing eles

There is!

its in the simpsons!!!

i've read somewhere this mall has its own szr exit
is this one completed already?

^ Of course the exit is open. It was ready months before the mall was opened, but I think the problems seams to be that most of the parking lots aren't open yet. At least they seams not functioning from SZR.

Check those pictures.

http://www.uaemultqa.com/showthread.php?t=865

nice pictures
but it looks so lost without any people

reminds me a bit of mercato mall

LOL i wne to a Big store in Al Ain last year that complety empty
Was it a city center dont remeber

A concept design - high res
http://img208.echo.cx/img208/511/ibnbattuta0mt.jpg

any more shots from inside
apart form the crap ones i got ages ago ?

any more shots from inside
apart form the crap ones i got ages ago ?

http://www.uaepix.com

btw - has the maze and all the garden areas have opened yet?

I was there yesterday for a short time. Visited just the Chinese and part of the Indian sections though.

All I can say is :eek2:

The internal design and decorations are mind blowing. I took some pictures of the roof decorations on both sections. There is still alot of work to be done though.

I doubt everything will be compleated before let say September. However they have already started with the landscaping along SZR. It starts where that big board is, till to that Emarat petrol station some 2 km away. :eek:

I did my first purchase there: a mini (portable) tripod for the camera.

nice purchase, but i guess you should first connect the camera to the pc ;)
anyway i have to make sure i visit this mall it must be awesome...!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture062.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture056-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture054.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture055.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture052.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture053.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture060.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture061.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture059.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture057.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v705/altind/Picture058-1.jpg

lovely
i really like it
still not many people living in this area thus empty

I have atleast 60 photos of every section of this mall . guys , do u have a hosting website where i can upload all of them at once and not one by one

Yes, but also it was 2 PM and not to forget that the mall isn't compleately open.

I've been to the mall, I would say it is upper-middle class, not as exclusive as Lamcy but getting there

LAMCY IS EXCLUSIVE TO YOU !!! damn man , sometimes i wonder if your really some british dude living in a lakes villa :)

with a russian bodybuilder neighbour next door, dont be too jealous now ;)

with a russian bodybuilder neighbour next door, dont be too jealous now ;)

:sleepy:

wow !
and l love lamcy !

Lamcy? Exclusive?

What are you smoking?

Are we thinking about the same Lamcy?

I've been to the mall, I would say it is upper-middle class, not as exclusive as Lamcy but getting there

lol, u must hate this mall.

i would par lamcy with the al karama centre. sans fake ps2 games!

as we say in this neck of the woods...brass!

[pronounced to rhyme with ASS]

ive been three times to that mall now and i love it, just amazing, nut sure if MotE will top that.

New website is up
www.ibnbattutamall.com

china court
http://************/5fm0wj

india court
http://************/5fm103

WOW, china court looks awesome in that photo!

i still think that north africa is my favourite though...

so what is everyone elses favourite?

CHINA, CHINA, CHINA!!!

I liked the Spanish Section..

china is pretty amazing,... with the detailed painting on the ceiling,
and with tony romas :D

i still prefer the indian court, (eventhought still empty) but very very nice

any news about 3D cenima ??

just called Grand Cinema's at the Ibn Battuta Mall, 04 366 9898 , they said the IMAX cinema will open in 2 weeks, cool, cant wait (they dont any prices listed yet thought)

Just looking at these two pictures, the Mall is still empty ... :uh:

Are all stores open?? will it become more popular some time soon ???

It is pretty empty at the moment but it will eventually fill up as more and more people migrate from old Dubai into the New Town.

Just looking at these two pictures, the Mall is still empty ... :uh:

Are all stores open?? will it become more popular some time soon ???


this mall is brandnew and many stores have not yet opened.
lots of construction is still going on!

just called Grand Cinema's at the Ibn Battuta Mall, 04 366 9898 , they said the IMAX cinema will open in 2 weeks, cool, cant wait (they dont any prices listed yet thought)

in addition, i contacted IMAX office in Montreal, and they said :

" Thank you for your email to info@imax.com. The new IMAX Theatre in Dubai is equipped with IMAX 3D technology. "

so its confirmed, we are getting a 3D cinema in about 2 weeks times ,
i guess this is part of the Dubai Summer Suprises , cant wait

My favorite section is China by far.

It has the IMAX cinema, best restaurants and best shops.

Also, it has the widest spaces so no matter how crowded it is, you don't feel it.

3D Arabic IMAX subtitles might spoil the effect!

lol, i never thought of that! i wonder if they will float out infornt of everyone!

I visited the mall 2 days ago, and i must say that i was really impressed!! It's spacious and the architecture is just amazing!!

think so too.
though nothing special about the stores...

yes, I'd much rather go to Bur Juman or City Center and save myself from walking forever for a million kilometers. Agreed the architecture is impressive. However, it's not somewhere I'd go more than once for shopping unless there's an amazing sale.

I also visited the mall, initial views, EXCELLENT architecture, have to wait a while for the mall to get recurring population, I went to Geant, made some nice contacts over in the NBD at that mall, very nice people there, and that electronic store.

seems that it should pick up... whats the closest mall towards ibn battuta, i MUST say, had difficulty going to the bank inside the mall when the bank was closed (it opens at 10am, bank opens at 8am) had to walk in through the loading bay 6, lol... very confusing.

well it is still not totally finished.
are all the stores open ?

Yeah, all stores are opened except for like 3

can you use the escalator in china court?
what is up there?

last time i was there it wasn't usable yet, and what on earth could be up there?

maybe you can just have a look at the hall with the ship...

last time i was there it wasn't usable yet, and what on earth could be up there?

A Chinese Massagge Parlour, open ONLY to 21 and older :D

edit by Krazy: something terrible removed after said under the influence of alcohol

You noughty boy, and you pretend to be a rolemodel for others :D

you guys are bad... :D
i would never do such things.

You noughty boy, and you pretend to be a rolemodel for others :D


Yes, I am a rolemodel for such things! ;)



Flo you are way too innocent, wait till you visit Dubai in Dec 2005 ;)

are you serious about the massage parlour AltinD, I thought they were illegal or was that only because the masseurs weren't licensed?

lol what will happen when i am in dubai juiced?

You will do MUCH more than go to Chinese massage parlours in shopping malls ;)

http://************/6ptevk

^ Let's hope they haven't forgot about those

Chinese parlors in Ibn Batutta... is that part of the whole Ibn Batutta theme? One of his explorations? :D

pic ^^^ - Since when did Ibn Battuta Mall have a rollercoaster?

I don't see a rollercoaster

i think what he was trying to say is, when the part behind the mall will be finished
you know, the world's largest maze and so on

^ You mean: "The part in FRONT of the mall" ;)

he does ;)
but i wonder why that takes so long, is there anything going on altin?

I doubt there will be anything similar to what that render shows.

hang on, what maze is everyone on about?

They have promised a maze there, like the ones on the gardens of the 17 - 19th centuries European & English palaces/castles.

Not any maze , it mentiones that it will be the biggest in the world !

but nothing happens...

we should throw dubaiflo in there and lock the maze forever :)

how funny.

it is pretty hilarious

we could even throw you in it, and put some lions in it then. and then lock it.

I liked the Spanish Section..

Of course you did ... with the (childrens) FUN CITY and all that! :runaway:


:D