Emaar, $4.3bn Syria push

United Arab Emirates: Tuesday, October 11 - 2005 at 09:42
Dubai-based Emaar Properties will invest about $4.3bn in developments in Syria, according to a report in the London-based Arabic newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat. Emaar will reportedly put $4bn into a 50m sqft project near Damascus, called Damascus Hills, and have a 40% stake in a $700m development called the Eighth Gate.

Emaar has to have a project called hills somewhere hehe. Well, good for Syria.

Why Syria...and a 4 billion dollar investment above that??!! I can state several reasons with why that was probably not one of EMAAR's best moves...especially with America breathing down Syria's neck, and now before the UN investigation concludes?

intersting, i wanst expecting syria, did they mention the expected rate of return for either projects

more good news ,this time in details :)


Two Gulf real estate developers to announce Syria projects
Posted: 13-10-2005 , 09:33 GMT

Emaar and Kuwait's Aref Investment Group will soon announce the launching of huge investments in Syria through, reported Al-Sharq al-Awsat newspaper on October 10. DamascusThe first of these projects is called "Al-Bawaba al-Thamina" (The Eighth Gate). Emaar's share in this project will be 40%, while Bank of Syria and Overseas (BSO) will have the reminder 60% of this $700 million project's capital.


The project will include construction of a services, finance and tourism complex in Yafur area near Damascus. The complex will supply high technology infrastructure and will form an international tourism attraction.


The second project, which is called "Talal Damascuss" (Damascus Hills), will be accomplished on a 5 million square meters area near Damascus to serve as Damascus Digital City similar to Dubai Internet City. The project will include commercial and marketing services area and a luxury residential area. This investment is owned completely by Emaar. It will cost $4 billion and will be accomplished within 8 years. The land for the project has already been selected and the group is currently dealing with the procedures of purchasing it.


As for the project of the Kuwaiti Investment Group Aref, the group aims to establish a finance district in one of Damascus' suburbs, which will host the stock exchange, banks' branches, financing companies and financing-
related IT companies.


Another project will be constructed close to Aleppo on a two million square meters area. It will include technological area, medical area, educational area, industrial zone and residential area. The investment costs in this project are estimated at $3 billion.
Click To Check (http://www.menareport.com/en/business/190331)

Why Syria...and a 4 billion dollar investment above that??!! I can state several reasons with why that was probably not one of EMAAR's best moves...especially with America breathing down Syria's neck, and now before the UN investigation concludes?


Why not?

Also, EMAAR is above stupid politics.

And as long as there is a market, it's a great move by Emaar.

I would say its a good in the Middle east, as Syria is one of the countries left behind the development of the region. This will also have a major breakthrough in the Arab country relations.

Talking about USA, America politicians or consitution building people should change there view on their International relations. One way they are trying to help the world to end terrorism, but in other ways they are creating their own enemies and a Big threat to the people of America. whatever country they attack, but as per my believes the harmed are the innocent people of that country, and its the biggest crime against humanity.

Emaar's $500m Eighth Gate
Syria: Tuesday, October 18 - 2005 at 16:23

Emaar Properties has unveiled a $500m development in Damascus, called the Eighth Gate, which will consist of mixed use residential, commercial and retail units. The project is a joint venture between Emaar and IGO, the offshore investment and property development company. Divided into three zones, the development comprises apartments and villas, a classical style piazza, commercial tower, a plaza and a 450,000 sqft retail mall.

is this a different project from Damascus hills or just a part of it ?

I think this is different from Damascus Hills

if so ,then Damascus must be booming

What's up with all these projects for Syria? I mean...it's good news for them, i guess...but Is it really a safe place for investments right now...?

as far as i know they been having a toursim boom for the last year or so !!! obviously ppl arnt that afraid to go there !!

I wont invest in Syria if i was given the opportunity.

http://www.alwatan.com.kw/AFPPhotos/economie/SGE.BWB84.220306160024.photo00.quicklook.default-245x181.jpghttp://www.fourseasons-syria.com/progress/Mar2005/01.jpg

A new Four seasons Hotel was officially opened on Wednesday, 22 March 2006 in Damascus. The opening ceremony was attended by Syrian President Bashar Al Asad and the Saudi Billionaire Al Waleed Bin Talal.

65% of the hotel is owned by Al Waleed and the rest of the hotel is owned by the Syrian Ministry of Tourism and the Syrian Municipality.

According to SANA the hotel's construction costed around US $ 100 m. The hotel consists of 18 floors which were decorated in Ottomon, local and Persian styles. The hotel contains 297 guestrooms and suites including 12 presidential suites; a spa and three restaurants.

سورية تطلق أكبر مشروع سياحي على الساحل

دمشق: هيام علي
أعلن رئيس مجلس الوزراء السوري محمد ناجي عطري امس عن البدء بالاعمال التنفيذية لأكبر مشروع سياحي على الساحل السوري بكلفة تصل الى 200 مليون دولار.
وذكر رئيس مجلس الوزراء السوري عقب وضعه حجر الاساس لمشروع انترادوس، ان المشروع سيشكل البداية لاطلاق سلسلة من المشاريع السياحية في الساحل السوري الذي يتمتع بمقومات واسعة وكبيرة للجذب السياحي، وحيث جمال الطبيعة الساحر.

وأكد ان الحكومة ستقدم كل التسهيلات اللازمة للمستثمرين ومرحبا بالشركات البريطانية والاجنبية للقدوم الى سورية والاستثمار فيها.

ومشروع انترادوس هو استثمار سوري ـ بريطاني مشترك يساهم فيه مجلس محافظة طرطوس بـ30%، وشركة جونار انترناشيونال ليمتد البريطانية بـ25%، وشركة كيرود انفستمنت كومباني البريطانية بـ25%، وشركة وحود غروب البريطانية بـ10%، والمستثمر السوري محمد علي وحود بـ10%.

وفي تصريح لـ«الشرق الأوسط» قال حسان طاهر مدير المشروع ان اعمال التنفيذ تشمل اقامة فندق دولي من الدرجة الممتازة فئة خمسة نجوم بطاقة 300 غرفة، وفندق من الدرجة الممتازة اربع نجوم بطاقة 380 غرفة، وفندق ثالث من فئة اربع نجوم بطاقة 110 غرف.

بالاضافة الى ابراج سكن سياحي من الدرجة الممتازة بطاقة 420 غرفة، ومراكز تجارية ومكاتب ادارية ودار سينما واماكن ترفيه وتسوق ومركز يخوت وزوارق وحدائق عامة ومسرح مكشوف. واشار الى ان مساحة المشروع تبلغ 450 ألف متر مربع و70% مساحات مردومة في البحر. واوضح ان الشركة تتفاوض حاليا مع شركات عالمية لادارة المشروع مثل الانتركونتيننتال ورئيس كارلتون، ومن المخطط ان ينتهي المشروع بعد خمس سنوات.

وكان رئيس الحكومة السورية اطلق أمس مجموعة من المشاريع الاغاثية والخدمية في عدد من مناطق الساحل السوري، في اطار خطة لتنمية المنطقة وتطوير بنيتها التحتية.

That languange is so pretty.
Too bad I cant read :(

I was in Syria, Damascus in summer of 2004 and seen a hotel under construction at the time, it was a four seaons hotel does anyone have any pictures I am sure its made by now

as a side note we should have a syria forum with pictures it probably one of the most unqiue countrys with culture, history, people and religion

I think its completed, and its also the first 5 star hotel in the country in more than 20 years or something like that. I might be wrong in this case.

FS Hotel

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/133/423186409_d4e1fed068.jpg

wow man first time im seeing it, i remember it as a dark building with grey concrete they did a great jobs nice

by the way when it was under construction a huge stone fell off it and onto a nearby car, i was lucky we was far away no one was hurt i was shocked

I think its completed, and its also the first 5 star hotel in the country in more than 20 years or something like that. I might be wrong in this case.


You are right

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/5566/syriabannertcm32003uk8.jpg
Emaar Syria

The Eight Gate

Emaar Properties and IGO, the offshore investment and property development company, unveiled details of a joint venture that sets in motion plans to develop a mixed use furnished apartments, commercial and retail development in the Yafour area, approximately 15 minutes from the center of Damascus. The US$500 million project will recreate the luxury and style that are features of Emaar’s world-class Dubai developments.

The Eighth Gate project builds upon the ancient history of Damascus in its architectural style of ornately decorated buildings influenced by traditional Islamic design and pays homage to the city’s ancient roots. A signature tall gate marks the access to the main plaza.

Dating back to its ancient history, the city walls of Damascus have seven gates as access points. These gates have nurtured the rich culture of its people and were powerful emblems of the people of Damascus. Although only one of these monuments remains intact today, the city remembers how the striking structures have welcomed those who walked through the archways into the city century after century. The people of Damascus will soon be able to experience an Eighth Gate - one that retains the best of the past, but in a modern context.

The Eighth Gate is strategically segmented into three zones:
The Commercial Center of The Eighth Gate offers a classical style piazza for convergence that encapsulates a myriad of functions. Anchored by the signature 35 storey office tower, the main plaza also embraces low rise commercial buildings and a 450,000sq ft retail mall inspired by the souks of old Damascus.

The next zone, The Waterfront, is characterized by a blend of low-rise furnished apartments development, high street shopping and dining landscape. Against this vibrant backdrop are two luxurious furnished apartments towers overlooking the waterfront and the main plaza.

The more intimate and private Furnished Apartments Zone is nestled in an environment that celebrates the innermost sense of community. This furnished apartments zone is augmented with interconnected courtyards and low-rise buildings inspired by Syrian housing archetypes.

The Eighth Gate builds a picture of striking authenticity and an intimate lifestyle experience. A place of prestige and comfortable living, poised to become the center of New Damascus.

SYRIA REALLY NEEDS THESE KINDS OF PROJECTS! GO DAMAS!

RENDERS:

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/5566/syriabannertcm32003uk8.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/1753/syria2lv5.jpg
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/9901/syria3ti4.jpg
http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/6537/syria4ro3.jpg

this is huge and amazing :cheers:

Ya, very nice

damascus the omayyad capital deserves specially designed projects..............this isnt just any city u know.

I heard office sales started on the 23rd of Aug. Any news on prices? Floorplans?

magniv ! http://anchoredbygrace.com/smileys/clap.gif

Syrian Prime Minister.. bla bla aid to investors.. a tourism project of 200 million on the coast,
a number of hotels 4-5 class, business center, housing project, cinema and entertainment up to 450,000 sqm and will end in 5 years. something about a joint british-syrian investment by some companies and looking for international company to manage it. and its a part of a seiries of other plans to develop some coastal cities.

anyway,السلام يجلب السياح الحرب ستجلب الخراب

Syrian Prime Minister.. bla bla aid to investors.. a tourism project of 200 million on the coast,
a number of hotels 4-5 class, business center, housing project, cinema and entertainment up to 450,000 sqm and will end in 5 years. something about a joint british-syrian investment by some companies and looking for international company to manage it. and its a part of a seiries of other plans to develop some coastal cities.

anyway,السلام يجلب السياح الحرب ستجلب الخراب

why are u back?

Damascus is probably one of the most beautiful cities I have visted, the people, the food, culture and history. It deserves so much more but I think anything they do has to be taken into account with the rest of the traditional city very easily they can go off topic and start to ruin the old Damascus.

This project is very good and promising Syria needs more of these projects and investment. Goods new.

Why not?

Also, EMAAR is above stupid politics.

And as long as there is a market, it's a great move by Emaar.

EXACTLY :)

i have been to Damascus in syria and it is a beautiful country /city, the investemnt by EMAAR is a very good one, well done:)

Size is all for Syrian restaurant

Page last updated at 17:47 GMT, Wednesday, 4 June 2008 18:47 UK


http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/7436570.stm

Syria may already boast some of the world's best food, but now it can also claim the world's largest restaurant.

The 6,014-seat Damascus Gate has taken the accolade from a Bangkok eatery serving a mere 5,000 diners.

The crucial test for Guinness World Record officials is all the tables are properly catered for, and they likened the Syrian kitchen to a "mini-factory".

One item not on the menu is a pint of the famous black Irish brew, however. The restaurant does not serve alcohol.

Located in a Damascus suburb, the family-owned restaurant called Bawabet Dimashq in Arabic, was opened more than three years ago.

At the time, the owner's son and now general manager Muhannad Samman was studying in London. He thought of contacting the Guinness people about the $40m project and the process of verification began from there.

Production line

During the busy summer months up to 1,800 staff are employed in the 54,000 sq-m dining area and 2,500 sq-m kitchen.

The open air area complete with waterfalls, fountains and replicas of archaeological ruins for the summer, and there are separate themed sections for Chinese and Indian cuisine.

"The secret of feeding so many people is to divide up the restaurant into smaller sections and every person in the restaurant has their own task to fulfil," Mr Samman told the BBC.

The kitchen is a like a production line, he says, where one chef can prepare 25-30 helpings of popular dishes, such as hummus, in one minute - that's one bowl every two seconds.

And there is absolutely no compromise on the standard of food or service Mr Samman insists.

"In this part of the world, all people care about is their stomachs, so the food has to be the best."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/7435424.stm

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/231/1623/1600/IMG_0004.0.jpg
KFC opens in Syria


After soft drink giants Coca-Cola and Pepsi, US fried chicken fast food chain enters Syrian market.


DAMASCUS - KFC fried chicken has become the first US fast food outlet to open in Damascus whose ties with Washington have been chilly since the 2003 invasion of neighbouring Iraq.


The franchise is owned by a Kuwaiti entrepreneur, Nasser Khourafi, a big investor in Syria who is building a Sheraton hotel in the northern city of Aleppo.


A typical meal of fried chicken and French fries with a soft drink costs about five dollars at the KFC which opened earlier this month, a hefty sum in a country where the average monthly wage of a civil servant is some 150 dollars.


Ramia Haddad, 23, said she had no problem eating in an American restaurant, whatever the political climate, even if KFC has been targeted in other Arab countries during anti-US protests.


"It's the American people who created it," she said, cautioning however that she would be avoiding chicken for the time being because of the bird flu outbreak in neighbouring Turkey.


Other US global brands have entered the Syrian market over the past few months, such as Pepsi which operates a factory in Syria and Coca-Cola.


Syria only recently lifted a ban on clothing imports that had been in place to protect the local textile industry. But despite an opening of the private sector, the economy remains largely state-controlled.


Damascus has been under US economic sanctions since May 2004 because of a rift with Washington over regional politics. Ties worsened after last year's murder of ex-Lebanese premier Rafiq Hariri in which Syria has been implicated

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fa/Damascus_Ski_Land_Mall.JPG

Skiland Syria - Damascus

June 26, 2007 marked the opening of the newest addition to Syria’s entertainment and family fun. Welcome to “Ski Land”. Located on Airport Road, just off the 5th bridge near Happy Land Theme Park, the venue doubles as a shopping and entertainment center whose main attraction is undoubtedly the ice-skating rink located right in the middle.

The rink is the first and only one in Syria. It is the brainchild of Mr. Burhan M. Doghmosh, a Syrian entrepreneur as well as Ski Land’s general manager, who noticed that there was a need for something different in his country. “Ice-skating is a new idea in Syria, and it attracts customers while they’re shopping,” he says.

The popular response to date supports his initiative, as hundreds of patrons from all over the world arrive daily to satisfy their curiosity and have fun. Abdul Nasser Gharib, a father, brought his family from Lattakia because he sees the rink both a great step in the country’s development as well as a great opportunity for his children to learn a new sport. He states that the rink is “a very good step. I’m really proud to be here in this place in this country and to have such a great mall here.” Najat Shera, a mother from Iraq, agrees. “[The rink] is a new idea, a new thing in Syria. We only know it from films.” However, some parents are concerned about the price and a lack of training for the kids. Amana Wali, whose 10 year old son Suliman loves skating, believes that 300 S.P. for half an hour is high, especially if someone has three of four children. Suliman’s uncle, Edward Wali suggests that perhaps 200 S.P. per hour would be a more appropriate price.

For the children, skating represents the chance to practice an old hobby or develop a new skill. 12 year old Naya Jalut from Damascus says she “had a wonderful time [skating], I love it. I come everyday. It’s a wonderful feeling. You feel like you’re flying.” 9 year old Dean Zindaki came all the way from New Jersey, USA to give skating a try. 10 year old Suliman Rizk from Damascus recommends Ski Land to other kids because “it’s a pretty place and it’s fun.”

The rink is open from 12 PM to 1 AM every day. The busiest time is on Friday and most evenings after 7 PM. Both children and adults can skate but most skaters are children between ages 5 and 12. Skates and safety equipment are available and included in the price. The skating supervisors are well-trained and at least 2 are always in the rink. Mr. Doghmosh plans on offering skating classes in the near future.

http://damasquinomall.com/images/backroundpic2.jpg


IN SYRIA, SIGNS OF MODERN RETAIL LIFE APPEAR
By Curt Hazlett

Damasquino Mall - The new mall of Damascus http://damasquinomall.com/
Luxury malls are sprouting like desert wildflowers in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Retail developments are springing up like oases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. In fact, nearly every oil-rich Middle East country is virtually awash in Armani.

Yet this does not hold true absolutely everywhere in the region. Consider Syria, a North Dakota-size country in one of the most geopolitically contentious areas of the world, and which shares borders with Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. Syria’s 18 million residents have access to only two small malls, and thus far the hypermarket giants have given Syria a wide berth. “Syria is still quite undeveloped in Western retail terms when compared with the leading Gulf States or even Jordan and Lebanon, despite the current economic downturn in the latter following the fallout from the Israeli bombing last year,” said Simon Thomson, whose U.K.-based Retail International consults in the region.

But signs of modern retail life are beginning to appear. Damasquino Mall, a hypermarket-anchored, 240,000-square-foot enclosed mall is being built in an upper-middle-class neighborhood of Damascus, the Syrian capital. And Dubai, United Arab Emirates-based Emaar Properties has broken ground on a $500 million, mixed-use project it says will contain a 450,000-square-foot mall “inspired by the souks of old Damascus.” On the city’s outskirts yet another huge, mixed-use project is planned, a project of Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim Group.

Times clearly are changing in Damascus, considered to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. “There are some major projects in the pipeline for Syria, mostly with development expertise and finance from the Gulf and as joint ventures with Syrian government bodies,” said Thomson. How many? “Around 10 malls should be coming in the next two to three years,” said Muhannad Al Mallah, general manager of Damasquino Mall. A few kinks must be worked out, though. A resurgence in Syria’s economy, caused in part by higher oil prices and increased foreign investment, has caused a construction boom and thus a shortage of concrete. A former Syrian economics minister pointed out still another problem at a conference on Middle Eastern economies in March. “Horrible bureaucracy and rampant corruption,” he said, is holding Syria back.

Indeed, few would describe conditions in Syria as easy. President Bashar al-Assad, a British-trained ophthalmologist who took power after the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, in 2000, is head of Syria’s only legal political party, the Baath Party. He was at first considered a reformer — he allowed Syrians to access the Internet for the first time in 2000 — but has since toughened his stance on political matters.

Adding to the country’s problems is the Iraq war, which has flooded Syria with an estimated 1 million refugees. The state-controlled economy, a leftover from Syria’s close ties with the former Soviet Union, has been straining to accommodate them. The economy managed to grow 2.9 percent last year, largely on higher oil prices, since oil generates about 70 percent of the country’s export revenues. But oil production is falling fast, and Syria is expected to be an importer of energy within a decade. Then there is the American ban on exports to Syria, which the Bush administration imposed in 2004 because of Syria’s long occupation of Lebanon and alleged efforts to produce weapons of mass destruction. The sanctions have forced the withdrawal of U.S. oil companies, though Asian and Russian companies have replaced them.

Despite these problems, new investment is arriving. The government has cut interest rates, approved the imports of foreign goods (though with high tariffs) and allowed private banks to open. Among the results has been the mini-boom in retail development. At Damasquino Mall, which is scheduled to open next April, about 60 percent of the space will be devoted to neighborhood services and entertainment and the remainder to fashion and accessories, says Mallah. The developers are holding discussions with possible hypermarket anchors, including French giant Carrefour, which has no stores yet in Syria.

The year-ago change in Syrian trade law has improved the new Damasquino Mall’s prospects. “Before that, we could not import anything,” Mallah said. “Now we are allowed to import any brand from anywhere in the world.” But there’s a downside: The tariff is 50 percent on most items. “That’s why we are trying to choose middle-range brands, because the high-end would be too high with the tax,” he said.

The city’s first shopping center, the 90,000-square-foot City Mall, opened five years ago; the next, targeting lower- and middle-income consumers, opened in a neighborhood about nine miles (15 kilometers) outside the city. Both centers offer largely local brands.

Mallah says he senses excitement among consumers at the prospect of a new, larger, more upscale shopping center featuring more international brands. There’s a reason for their interest, and it involves the politics of the region.“Before, the closest market was in Lebanon,” he said. (Beirut is less than 50 miles from Damascus.) But since the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon two years ago, “not a lot of people are going there. Either they fly to a Gulf country or to Europe. They are excited to find the kinds of brands that they once found in Lebanon right here.”

The Emaar Properties shopping center is part of a huge project called The Eighth Gate, in the Yafour area, some 15 minutes from downtown, and is being designed along the same lines as the company’s Dubai projects. In December Majid Al Futtaim Group, one of Dubai’s biggest developers, announced that it would invest over $2 billion to build a mixed-use project in the Sabboura neighborhood, just outside Damascus. This would contain 200,000 square feet of retail. Part of the plan is to create an attraction alongside the Beirut-Damascus Highway. “Syria has great potential,” said Ahmed Bin Brek, the company’s group vice president of corporate development. “We intend to be part of the future success of Syria.”

http://www.whatsonsyria.com/magazine/images/stories/072007/ShopTalk/damascus%20shopping%20center.jpg

The Four Seasons Hotel and the Syria Saudi Company for Touristic Investment are joining forces to bring Damascus just what it needs, a new outdoor shopping mall or the next “boulevard shopping center” as most people call it featuring the top names in designer wear and haute couture.


The mall overlooks the park near the Four Seasons Hotel on Damascus Boulevard and incorporates a restored memorial Mosque which should entice the more pious minded; the mall's multi-level indoor and outdoor design combines the latest in light and sound technology with classic architectural highlights. Coupled with Rotana Café this mall sets itself to compete with the best of the best of shopping centers in the region.

Along with cafés and restaurants, shoppers will be able to indulge themselves with fashion, jewelry, music and more. The Damascus Boulevard Shopping Center aspires to cater to high end people who have a taste for the better things in life, and little else.

So take a stroll and have a cup of coffee, set down your bags of clothes and accessories and enjoy the view of the park, you're at the Damascus Boulevard Shopping Center, where everything happens.

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed an exclusive agreement with MAK Hotel Holdings, a member of the M.A. Kharafi Group of Kuwait, to develop an InterContinental Hotel in the Syrian capital.

Located in the city centre, the 370-room InterContinental Damascus, due for completion in 2010, will form part of an integrated development which will include a shopping mall, cinema complex and office space.

John Bamsey, Chief Operating Officer, IHG, Middle East & Africa, said, “The M.A. Kharafi Group is one of the largest groups in the Middle East and we are delighted to be partnering with them on the InterContinental Damascus. Over the last few years we have witnessed a substantial increase in tourism levels to Syria; our aim is for IHG to be at the forefront of this demand for accommodation. When open, InterContinental Damascus will offer guests a luxurious and first-class place to stay while discovering this historically rich location; testament to InterContinental’s commitment to provide authentic and enriching destination experiences for all guests.”

Incorporated in the design of the InterContinental Damascus are a number of world-class meeting rooms, specialty shops, health club and spa. The property will also feature one of the largest grand ballrooms in Damascus, with capacity for 2,500 people. With other highlights including an all-day dining restaurant, three speciality restaurants and bar, the hotel is set to become a key attraction for both local and international travellers.

With tourism to Syria increasing rapidly and the Ministry for Tourism visitor figures indicating a 23% growth in the first quarter of 2008, the Syrian government has significantly increased spending on tourism, recognising the pivotal role that it can play within the nation’s economy. As part of this spending, the government has implemented a substantial marketing campaign, coupled with planned infrastructure, to improve leisure facilities across the country.

Shahba Mall, Syria's largest commercial centre, is expected to open its doors in April 2008.

Shahba Mall is the first venture of the Syrian-Jordanian Company for Tourism and Real Estate Investment (SJC) and will open in Aleppo after a one year delay to become the country's largest commercial centre.

SJC, founded in 2004 with headquarters in Aleppo, is a joint venture between a major Aleppine company, the Sabbagh Group, active mainly in the textile sector and with a recent investment in a caustic soda plant, and Al Kurdi Group from Jordan, which already manages several shopping malls in Jordan.

Shahba Mall is being built at a cost of USD 50 million. It will be the largest mixed commercial and entertainment gathering in Syria to date, spreading over a total built-up area of 125 000 square meters and located north of Aleppo on the highway towards the Turkish city of Ghazi Intab (Gaziantep.

The project includes a 4-star, 250-room hotel; a 7-storey shopping centre that will spread over 5 000 square meters; 8 cinemas; a motordrome; entertainment areas; 36 restaurants and coffee shops.

In an interview with The Syria Report, Ammar Sabbagh, vice-chairman of SJC and chairman of Sabbagh group, said that over 65 percent of the construction works had been completed. "Leading European, regional and local brands have been booking to rent places in the Mall," he added.

According to Mr Sabbagh, the Mall will be under the management of the Jordanian partner, Al Kurdi Group, "who is currently training the Syrian staff and who has a long experience in the management of commercial centres".

Mr Sabbagh added that SJC plans to start investing in three new real estate development projects in Damascus, Homs and Lattakia. The Company has purchased a plot of land with of a total area of 225 000 square metres in the outskirts of Damascus to build a tourism complex, he also said. Construction works should start there within three months. Projects in Homs and Lattakia are expected to start in 2008.

Shahba Mall is the first venture of the Kurdi Group outside Jordan. Other malls managed by this company include Mecca Mall and Abdoun Mall, both of them in Amman.

Bonyan will invest $15 billion in Syria

Dubai based property company, Bonyan International Investment Group, has announced plans to invest $15 billion to build a tourist village within the area of Jebel Al Shiekh in Syria. Commenting on the project, Engineer Abdullah Attatreh, Chairman of Bonyan International Investment Group, said that the project will be called Syria Bonyan City and is a step towards achieving the company’s aim to build a city within every Arab city.

The new development will be the second after Jordan Bonyan City. The Syrian Higher Council for Investments has given initial approval for the establishment of this project, which will open new horizons for real estate investment in Syria. Final approval will be granted to the project as soon as feasibility studies and final designs are completed and submitted. “We are happy to have signed this important agreement with Bonyan International Investment Group. Syria Bonyan City is a mega project that will include tourist, commercial, residential and entertainment facilities including a Ski area, specialised hospitals and many other services” said .

Shaher Taqi, a Syrian investor and partner in Syria Bonyan City. “Real estate investment in Syria is growing at a rapid rate especially following recent reforms by the Syrian Government to attract foreign investment,” added Taqi. The Syrian Government recently made a number of economic and political reforms and will re-draft investment laws to reach a final version for approval and implementation. Syria is considered one of the most promising markets in the Middle East that is expected to attract foreign investments.

Source: Champress

Could you please let me know what is construction cost per squre meter in syria (Damascus) for a huge size modern style retail mall and high rised buildings.

I want to know average rates (Inc. Material+Labour+Equipments)

How about if it compare to UAE rates??


Thanks a lot for your valuable time.


Regards,

Could you please let me know what is construction cost per squre meter in syria (Damascus) for a huge size modern style retail mall and high rised buildings.

I want to know average rates (Inc. Material+Labour+Equipments)

How about if it compare to UAE rates??


Thanks a lot for your valuable time.


Regards,


hi, i cant really give you thease answers but you can check out in the web
and comunicate with them so that they give you info about all the questions you have...
pages of the projects:
http://www.emaarsyria.co.sy
http://www.damasquinomall.com/
(http://www.damasquinomall.com/)
http://projectsyria.com/market_news.html
http://www.towncenter-sy.com/
(http://www.towncenter-sy.com/)

i hope after the french president vist syria opens its door to the outside world they cant remain isolated forever, they have such alot of potential that could be utilized firstly tourism! cus syria is a stunning place :)

Damascus Metro - The green line


This project is vital for Damascus and will be one of the best solutions to your mobility problems. This line is the first step of a vast public transport improvement project, and a major priority of Damascus Governorate.
The Green Line will offer a very attractive alternative to cars, buses, microbuses and taxis, but will also be complementary to other means of transportation.


Many articles and pictures...click the link.



http://www.damascus-metro.com/the-project/

Majid Al Futtaim Group announces $1bn investment in 'New Damascus'
Majid Al Futtaim Group, the region's premier developer of shopping malls, has announced plans to invest an initial $1bn to build Syria's largest ever mixed-use development.

Strategically located in a residential part of Damascus, known as 'New Damascus', the company plans to build a landmark master-planned development, which will serve as a new 'town centre' for local residents.

The project's site, located in the Sabboura Yafour district, is strategically positioned on the Beirut to Damascus Highway and identified as a key growth corridor by the Syrian government.

Once complete, the development will cover a floor area of one and half million square metres including a two-level shopping centre (200,000 sqm), hotels, serviced apartments, Souk, offices, mosques, alongside a range of villas and apartments.

The mall, anchored by a Carrefour Hypermarket, will include a 14-screen cinema, Magic Planet, leading retailers, an international food court and a restaurant precinct.

The project's design, unique in Damascus and Syria, is centered around a new 'Town Centre' concept, providing a focal point for local families. Majid Al Futtaim Group has also announced that 30% of the site will be kept for landscaped parks, gardens and pedestrian and cycle paths.

The group has already entered into discussions with leading international retailers to be a part of the first stage, which is due to complete in 2012.

Commenting on the announcement Anders Moberg, Majid Al Futtaim Group's CEO said, 'Our commitment to Syria is significant and we plan to offer the people of Damascus the same fantastic choice in shopping and entertainment as everywhere else in the region.

'Our centres are places people do more than shop, it's where they go to share time with family and friends. We have always cared to provide the highest standards in all our developments and Syria is no exception.

Who's the moderator here? Why doesn't the MiddleEast Thread have "Syria" forums?
There are so many projects undergoing in syria... Malls, Dumar project, Eighth gate, damascus metro, land reclamation in Tartus for a resort with a 7-star hotel, largest restaurant in the world, etc???????????

yeaaaaaaaaaaah go syria!
lot of investment there bye iranians!
damaskus metrowill be amazing!

Who's the moderator here? Why doesn't the MiddleEast Thread have "Syria" forums?
There are so many projects undergoing in syria... Malls, Dumar project, Eighth gate, damascus metro, land reclamation in Tartus for a resort with a 7-star hotel, largest restaurant in the world, etc???????????

One reason is because there isnt enough Syrian fourmers.

Maybe if the administrators create one, people will get involved and start posting. "If you build it, they will come!"

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29037875@N05/2966716230/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29037875@N05/2966716230/

This is a poster at Dubai International Airport.



http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3208/2967955013_04c3c65b04_b.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3001/2968798894_529f5fe727_b.jpg

These posters were on a building in downtown Damascus. August 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3010/2967505309_ac82cc0b51_b.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3047/2967505237_3e9735b18b_b.jpg

4 Billion Syrian Pounds Project in Swieda province
~ $87 Million


4 مليارات لمشروع سياحي بالسويداء

صحيفة الثورة الأربعاء 2/4/2008


اكد المهندس جهاد ابو زكي مدير سياحة السويداء ان وزارة السياحة قد وافقت بموجب رخصة الاشادة السياحية رقم 1733 تاريخ 18/3/2008 على مشروع فندق خمس نجوم ومسبح من الدرجة الممتازة

وحمام مكشوف للمستثمر عمار معروف في منطقة كروم شهبا وتبلغ المساحة الطابقية للمشروع 23 الف متر مربع وبكلفة تقديرية اولية تصل الى 4 مليارات ليرة.‏

ويعتبر الاول من نوعه على صعيد الاستثمار السياحي في المحافظة ويتألف من خمسة طوابق ويحتوي على 122 غرفة و665 كرسيا موزعة على اقسامه المختلفة وكتلة المسرح تحتوي على مدرج يتسع ل4000 شخص وكتلة الحمامات ستبنى على الطراز الروماني القديم, وتشغل اعمال النحت البازلتي التي ستكون تجسيدا لبعض المكونات التاريخية لمدينة شهبا ابان فترة حكم الامبراطور فيليب العربي جزءا كبيرا في هذا المشروع النوعي بكلفته وبمحتواه.

Emaar Starts Construction at the 8th Gate Project


http://emaar.co.sy/edm/cons_edm_ar.jpg

wow i have to go to damaskus!
realy nice!
many iranians are visiting syria and syrians are very friendly to iranians!!!!!!!!!!!!
iranian-syrian
a band of brothers!
a strategic alliance!

Well, I've recently heard about a new subway line that is being built in Damascus and I was wondering if anyone had any info on the project.

http://www.damascus-metro.com
But it will be better if anyone post some photos from the sight.

I'll be in Damascus later this month so I'll check out the project and see what, if anything, is going on. Also, I guess I'll keep whoever is interested in this project informed once I'm there and if I can I'll take pictures of the sight to post.

Rotana, the leading hotel management company in the Middle East, has now opened the Afamia Rotana Resort in the historic city of Latakia, on Syria’s Mediterranean coast. Located on a sandy peninsula, two kilometres from Latakia city centre, the new five-star Afamia Rotana Resort brings a new level of comfort and a host of leisure activities to the city. The Afamia Rotana Resort is within easy distance of Syria’s historical sites including Ugarit Canaaite, the seaport, crusaders forts, castles and ancient Roman vestiges.

The hotel is situated on a private golden sand beach with beautiful marina views. There are two swimming pools, massage rooms, a tennis court and a children’s playground club.

Guests can relax on Latakia’s spectacular peninsula, in one of the hotel’s 14 stylish beach cabins. The resort also has a state-of-the-art Bodylines health & fitness centre with the latest in cardio and strength equipment as well as a temperature controlled indoor swimming pool, steam room and sauna.

Full article
http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/31562-Rotana-opens-its-first-Syrian-beach-resort-hotel
http://www.rotana.com/property-32.htm

http://www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/pictures/gallery/Hotels/Afamia-Rotana-opening-pictu.jpg
http://www.ew-t.com/en/images/hotels_pic/265.jpg
http://www.asiatravel.com/syria/afamiarotana/gifs/latakia_afamiarotana_facade.jpg

I was in Damascus over the summer and some of the taxi drivers were talking about the new subway system. Of course if only the taxi drivers are talking about it it means it probs isn't happening. Does anyone know the status of the new subway or about any other projects going on in Syria?

^^
http://www.damascus-metro.com/contact/contact-us/lang-pref/en/

The massive use of cars in Damascus, coupled with the lack of a reliable public transport system and the dense urban environment of Damascus, has led to traffic congestion on major roads and in downtown Damascus. As a result, the pollution, noise and visual impacts due to this traffic congestion seriously diminish the quality of life in Damascus. These elements are a major concern for the population of Damascus.



The Metro project is often called the miracle solution for Damascus, and yet until now it has also been considered a mere dream.

As cities grow in size, the number of vehicular trips on their road systems goes up. This necessitates a pragmatic policy shift to discourage private modes and encourage public transport.
Introduction of a rail based (MRTS) Mass Rapid Transit System is called for. Mass Rapid Transit Systems are capital intensive and have long gestation periods. It has been observed that in developed countries, planning for mass transit systems starts when city population size exceeds 1 million; the system is in position by the time the city population is 2 to 3 million and once the population exceeds 4 million or so, planned extensions to the Mass Rapid Transit Systems are vigorously taken up. Damascus population is today approaching 4 millions; this is why it is crucial to implement the first Metro line.

Why the metro?
Several systems of transport have been considered (tramway, light rail system, metro), but only the heavy metro will have the capacity to respond to the transport demand (690,000 to 860,000 passengers per day according to the patronage forecasts).

How has the Green Line been identified?
Preliminary analyses have highlighted the strengths of the Green Line corridor:

The Green Line will connect dense residential areas (Moadamiyeh, Mezzeh) with major centres of activity (universities, city centre).
It is the busiest corridor, and follows the major road axes.
It will link major transport hubs (Sumaria bus station, Qaboun Pullman station, the future Hijaz railway station).
Thus the Green Line has been identified as the logical first step of the future transport network. More than 80% of the people who participated in the first phase of consultation also consider that the Green Line path is the most relevant.

The Green Line: first step of the future public transport network
The Green Line will be the first step of development of the future public transport network. Feasibility studies carried out by international consultants in 2002 have designed what could be the future Metro network, whose first stage will be the Green Line, between Moadamiyeh and Qaboun.

The other means of public transportation (bus, microbus, train) will also be integrated to this future network, to optimise the synergy between these various modes.


http://www.damascus-metro.com/

http://flagcounter.com/count/Nsu/bg=F5F5FF/txt=F5F5FF/border=F5F5FF/columns=1/maxflags=1/viewers=3/labels=1/
metro in Damascus?? Too good to be true :hug:

any updates about damascus metro

Named after the Phoenician name for Tartus, Antaradus is a major waterfront development project.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/9d/Antaradus.jpg


The ancient legendary Phoenician city of Antaradus is about to reborn. A new tourism and leisure resort will be built on the Syrian coast following the signing of an agreement in that respect between the municipality of Tartous (the second largest costal town in Syria) and a number of Syrian and British private investors.
In 2004, a contract had been signed although the original scope of the project was much smaller with estimated investment put, then, at around USD 500 million, and in April 2006 the city celebrated the laying of the Anatardus foundation stone

Wahoud Group, the company that will carry out the project, Antaradus, is a joint stock company with a capital of SYP 10.3 billion (USD 200 million).
The partners are the Municipality of Tartous (30%) which is contributing by giving the land on which the resort will be built, the Wahoud Group Ltd (UK-10%), Junada (25%), Dr Wahoud (as an individual-10%) and Kerwood Investment. Besides his own personal contribution and that of his group (The Wahoud Group), Mr Mohammad Wahoud is also a shareholder in Junada. The Antaradus project was officially approved and licensed by the Higher Council of Tourism.

The leisure and tourism resort will be built on a total area of 450,000 sq meters and involves the development of 1.5 km of the sea front of Tartous (Cornish). The resort will consist of a 5-star 200-room hotel erected like a nautical lighthouse in a island (with initial agreement with Intercontinental Hotels as operator), a 4-star 200-room hotel (with initial agreement with the Holiday Inn as operator), 100 residential apartments, 200 chalets, a theme village including 10 different clubs, a green park, a marina, and a tourist village with cafes, shops and restaurants. The existing marina and ferry port will be rebuilt 300 meters along the coast. The total number of beds in the project is about 5,000.

Syria

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAfXUAeJvhA

I LOVE YOU BALADI!
MAY U PROSPER WITH PEACE, BEAUTY, AND COEXISTANCE!

I visted in 2004 and Syria really needs to open its borders to the outside world

I visted in 2004 and Syria really needs to open its borders to the outside world

There has been a lot of positive economic and tourism change in Syria in the last 6 years. And it is still ongoing, one day they will get there! :)

http://www.worldarab.net/sites/default/files/images/massar_childrens_discovery_centre1.preview.jpg

http://www.worldarab.net/sites/default/files/images/massar_childrens_discovery_centre2.preview.jpg

any information about this project

http://worldarab.net/image/tid/478

^ I have added the Massar Children's Discovery Center (http://www.urbika.com/projects/view/2599-massar-children-s-di) project to Urbika. I could not find the exact location though. Can anybody help?

since i will be moving to Syria in a few months for a few years i was wondering why their section is so small here. is there so little interest in urbanism in Syria or is it due to conectivity.

since i will be moving to Syria in a few months for a few years i was wondering why their section is so small here. is there so little interest in urbanism in Syria or is it due to conectivity.

Yeah there is like no Syrians here at all!!! You should make a thread with pics of Syrian cities though, it would be really interesting to see what it is like there.

Due to open in July, 2011.

http://www.iqtissadiya.com/iqcontent/0120_b.jpg

Due to open in early 2011

http://aliqtisadi.com/admin/IqtisadiFiles/ArticlesImages/8860/name.jpg

Opening: 2012

Promotional Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DxlqZCSUAg)

http://desmena.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/henning_larsen_massar_03.jpg

http://desmena.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/henning_larsen_massar_01.jpg

http://desmena.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/henning_larsen_massar_02.jpg

http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/10714_Damascus4.main.jpg

http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/10714_1_Damascus%201big.jpg

http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/10714_2_Damascus%202big.jpg

http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/10714_4_Damascus4big.jpg

Article:
Link to Article (http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=10714)

Dramatic discovery centre leads way for Syrian educational programme

As one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Damascus represents discovery all by itself. Evoking the necessity to embrace this spirit are the statistics - 40% of the Syrian population is under the age of 14. Embarking on a revolutionary project for the historical city are Henning Larsen Architects, Martha Schwartz Partners and engineers Buro Happold who will work together to create the dramatic Massar Children’s Discovery Centre and public park in the heart of Damascus.

The Massar project’s ambition is to create better educational opportunities for young people. The centre will comprise various scientific thematic exhibitions for children aged 5-15. The discovery centre – designed by Henning Larsen Architects - is located on a 170,000 sq m river bed site. It is located centrally in walking distance from Damascus’ historic city centre with the Umayyad Mosque and university, national opera and national museum in close proximity.

Louis Becker, Design Director of Henning Larsen Architects, said: “The discovery centre’s form is inspired by the unique Damascus rose. The shape provides shade and natural ventilation in the building. Its centre forms a large communal space. This is where the children will meet, share their knowledge and develop new ideas together. The idea of the project is to create a park which features a quilt of activities interwoven with the discovery centre. The visitors will be led through several intimate spatial experiences addressing all the senses. Water will be current theme – both as activity and as a visualisation of sustainable measures and educational media.”

Martha Schwartz Partners Ltd will provide the public realm and landscape design for the project. Based on the site of the old international fairground, the public realm acts as a ‘culture corridor’, connecting the public space of the Discovery Centre with nearby cultural venues. Lorraine Landels, Senior Principal at Martha Schwartz Partners, said: “This is a landmark project as the park and the discovery centre will be the focus for a new Syrian educational programme, and one that will help us develop our portfolio as we work in the unique cultural climate of Damascus”.

Tom Hay, Buro Happold’s project leader said “This project is unique in that it gives the children of Syria the means to view the world around them through Syria’s incomparable cultural heritage. This is a milestone that will empower the children of Syria, and the Buro Happold Massar team feels proud and privileged to take part in this process.”

Development by Bena Properties

Opening: 2014

http://www.ameinfo.com/images/news/large/4/100464-si.gif

http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/accor-is-set-to-operate-two-hotels-at-taj-halab-in-syria-s-historic-city-of-aleppo-1.654051!image/3813176063.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/3813176063.jpg

Completion: 2014

http://www.architecture-studio.fr/data/projet/projet_fiche/85/xlarge_5_dms3.jpg

http://www.architecture-studio.fr/data/projet/projet_fiche/85/xlarge_1_dms3.jpg

...

...

...

Majid Al Futtaim Properties commences work on its first mixed-use development in Syria

Majid Al Futtaim Properties, the developer and operator of shopping malls together with hotels and mixed-use ýcommunity projects in the MENA region, announced that it has commenced the works on the first phase of Khams Shamat, its 1.5 million square meters mixed-use project in Syria.

The project, which is being developed in the Yaafour district, 17 km west of the Damascus, will bedevelopedthrough multiple phaseswith an estimated cost exceeding $1bn.

Peter Walichnowski, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, said, "The first stage of laying down the infrastructure and foundations for phase one of the Khams Shamat project took place on 27th of July 2011 in preparation for the buildings' development and the completion of works related to roads, electricity, water, sanitation, and public services."

Waddah El Solh,the Company's Regional Head of Syria and Lebanon, stated that all necessary preparations required to proceed with the execution of the project have already been accomplished including the evaluation and review of the designs, and engineering plans for the architecture and implementation of the project. Specialized and experienced project management and construction teams have also been allocated.

Mr. El Solh also stressed the large amount of groundwork to be done on the site, due to the project's scale and the nature of the area's terrain.

Mr. El Solh assured, "Our commitment to seeing this project through is based on our belief in the development of this landmark project, and our ambition of becominglong-term partners in the economic and social development in Syria."

Upon completion, Khams Shamat will include international hotels, apartments, touristic venues consisting of restaurants and cafes, galleries and showrooms, a high-profile business area, the largest mall in the Levant region with family entertainment centerand multiplex theatres, and numerous other entertainment and hospitality outlets to host touristic, commercial and recreational activities. In addition, it will comprise educational and cultural facilities surrounded by large open spaces and vastgreenery and landscapes.

Khams Shamat is among four major projects currently being developed by Majid Al Futtaim Properties in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Lebanon.

http://www.ameinfo.com/272040.html

Emaar Properties is already a brand name. Hope it produces great architectural designs in Syria.

Why dont the moderator add the Syrian thread to the principal section of the middle east with the rest of the countries?? we should make a call to the moderator!!! theres a lot of interestment in the syrian thread as this country is seeing an investment BOOM!!

It seems that Emaar group have redesigned the principal tower of its project and modernized it to compete with other towers in the zone... check it out>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/6339/126624131788th20gatevie.jpg

POST MANY PROJECTS-THEN U WILL GET ONE.IT WOULD BE INTERESTING TO SEE THAT INVESTING BOOM.WHO IS INVESTING?iN IRAN WE SEE A CONSTRUCTION BOOM-COME AND VISIT OUR SECTION

Someone alive here?

It should be transform in the syrian revolution news, there are no project in syria but the liberation from the criminal regime

It should be transform in the syrian revolution news, there are no project in syria but the liberation from the criminal regime

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

Yeah no sign of life in this thread.

It should be tell what is the openion for the syrian revolution

i wish syria would be back to normalcy soon. feel really sad after seeing the suffering of syrian people in you tube. i wish syrian people will fight unitedly against evil forces.

with love from INDIA