Project: The Pearl Qatar

[amnesia]

it would be nice to provide to the middle income sector too at the pearl.

I'd like to go there and enjoy a nice meal and do a bit of shopping, without losing my wallet.

Then again, it would also be nice if they gave people the opportunity to rent!

[davy_boy]

Why? Because an economy needs to be diversified in all sectors to be truely successful, not just cater to the haves, the majority of people here are the have nots.

[Halawala]

Originally Posted by amnesia

it would be nice to provide to the middle income sector too at the pearl.

I'd like to go there and enjoy a nice meal and do a bit of shopping, without losing my wallet.

Then again, it would also be nice if they gave people the opportunity to rent!

There will be shops for middle income people! Its 2.5 km of shops, they better have shops. There will be a Marks and Spencer, which means that there will be at least a section for middle income brand names.

Originally Posted by davy_boy

There was little progress on the opening of other stuff there apart from Jimmy Choo. The high end retail sector is totally flooded here ... it only caters to around 2 - 3% of the population ... thats not good for an economy.

I guarantee you the retail outlets cater to MORE than 2-3%. The Qatar luxury market is booming, and has not seen a decline durling the recession. In fact, these shops opened duing the recession! Qataris and wealty expats like to spend money on brand items--as they do in Europe when they travel during the summer months.


Just spend inside any Louis Vuitton shop in London during summer, and winter and you are guaranteed to see at least 2 Qatari families at any given time! LOL! Well, from my personal experience.

The Italian restaurant BICE is way tooo pricy! The food costs at least twice or thrice what it would cost in a five star hotel!

[Massilia]

Originally Posted by davy_boy

There was little progress on the opening of other stuff there apart from Jimmy Choo. The high end retail sector is totally flooded here ... it only caters to around 2 - 3% of the population ... thats not good for an economy.

Luxury goods are meeting a demand in Qatar, which is good for the economy, end of the story.
Guess what, nobody forced these shops to open there, and customers enjoy their brands. Where's the bad in that?

Why? Because an economy needs to be diversified in all sectors to be truely successful, not just cater to the haves, the majority of people here are the have nots.

2% of Pearl might be open (it currently has 1 restaurant and 1 resident only ) and here are the grand conclusions. Cool off dude... hundreds of places are to open, and they will cater to every taste... well to almost every taste, since you might be a desperate case, as I understand you complain about anything & everything

[davy_boy]

I do complain about plenty, but not everything and anything.

I wasn't being completely specific to the Pearl, so as I went a little off topic I suppose I'll be banned.

It just seems to me that the largest percentage of the population is not catered for or considered, just the fortunate few which leads to very distinct class divides which is a shame.

Viva La Aviduser!

[amnesia]

it's simple economics davy.

Wait a year and if the shop shuts down you know they're losing money. If they stay open, there's enough demand.

If we looked at the majority of the population though, those are the labourers. That's why labour village is being built. :P

[dubsolos1]

What happened in one area of dubai (JBR), was that the develper built a big long straight walk, right next to the beach. A nice pedestrian area with a few trees, fountains, and a lot of retail (cafe's and restaurants maninly) with a road for cars as well. What happened is that finally there was a nice are where people could finally walk, children play, and people to hang around without being in a mall (a new thing in dubai). It got so busy so quickly that it became an attraction in itself, creating a buzz around it, which attracted even more people. I dont know what the pearl is like or will be like, but if done right it could have a lot of potential for retail no matter the crisis.

[Massilia]

United Development Company unveils its first residential tower at party on The Pearl-Qatar

The United Development Company (UDC), owner and master developer of The Pearl-Qatar, held an unveiling party for its Tower 4 at Porto Arabia, on June 15.


Synchronized swimmers performing for the guests.


The new building unveiled to the pounding drama of big drums.


Light show unveiling Tower 4.


(L-R): Omar Alfardan, Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Hussain Alfardan, Ibrahim Al Jaidah, and Abdulrahman Jawhari.

The gala evening took place by the pool, and included a special show of two synchronized swimmers followed by a spectacular light show. All the lights in Tower 4 were dimmed and then, to the pounding drama of big drums, the gleaming new building was unveiled when a large banner was unfurled from the 19th floor with welcoming words written in different languages.

The colorful theme of the evening was focused on the new residents of the tower, and every effort was made to ensure the smallest details were considered to make them feel truly at home.

Surrounding the pool were four main food stations, offering delicious cuisine which represented all the 28 nationalities of the new home owners. The four key food areas served culinary delights from four key regions: Asia, Middle East, Europe and Africa. A live band followed the light show, with a singer singing songs in the languages that again represent majority of Tower 4 for the rest of the night.

Beautifully dressed hostesses were also on standby to take the guests for a tour of the Tower, and UDC staff members were manning Information Desks to provide guests and new owners with all necessary information, including a whole area on the environmental policies, and achievements purposely put in place by UDC.

Mr. Sami Abu Kishk, Acting Property Manager at The Pearl-Qatar, told the assembled guests, VIPs, residents and home owners:

'I am genuinely delighted to welcome our first Pearl- Qatar community, some of whom have started moving into this wonderful tower from the first of May. It is a very exciting time for us and the handover of keys to these new dream homes continues daily.'

Abu Kishk added, 'What you are seeing tonight is just the beginning of what is to come here at The Pearl-Qatar. This is just the first beautiful tower of 31 at Porto Arabia which are rising to the skies. Your new neighborhood will be a virtual United Nations of residents, from some 28 different places in the world; from Lagos to Los Angeles, India to Italy and Saudi to Stockholm; all making their homes just in Tower 4. When completed The Pearl-Qatar will be home to an amazing 52 different nationalities.'

Eric Lebrun, Executive Vice President of Assets Management at The Pearl-Qatar, said, 'Now, you no longer need to climb onto an airliner and spend many hours to get someplace special, because your own home will be your favorite place to be.'

Lebrun added, 'One of the most delightful aspects of life at The Pearl-Qatar is that whichever way you look, you will see the sea, and just a few footfalls from your doorstep will be scores of authentic international restaurants and global brand name shops. And you are only minutes from a relaxing stroll along our wonderful boardwalk, or to our Marina.'

'I am personally very proud to have been involved in this project from the beginning, along with my esteemed colleagues when it was little more than a collection of sketches on paper. And now we see before us an entire living community rising up from the sea, said Managing Director and President of UDC, Mr. Khalil Sholy.

[building1]

When will Tower 5 be handed over ?

[davy_boy]

Oh no, that chicks shoulders are showing ... I must avert my gaze as it makes me feel dirty.

[Halawala]

Originally Posted by building1

When will Tower 5 be handed over ?

So, as of now, how many towers have been handed over? I assume 2 only.

[building1]

I think only Tower 4 has been handed over yet. Next one will be Tower 5. Does anybody has more details ?

[building1]

The modern tower offers a wide selection of homes for lease and is the first available waterfront residence at the beginning of Qatar's most exclusive marina location, The Pearl Island.

With one to three bedroom apartments, one to four bedroom townhouses and duplex units available, Alfardan Properties is already witnessing high demand on the outstanding brand new marina address.

With a range of lavish amenities and recreational features, the seaside address will aim to redefine stylish living in Doha.

Having recently rebranded from Alfardan Real Estate to Alfardan Properties, the hallmark developer is proud to be making its bespoke residences available to the public.

Mr Omar Alfardan, President of Alfardan Properties, says:

'In completing what we believe to be one of Alfardan's signature lifestyle properties on The Pearl, One Porto Arabia embodies the beauty, mode and convenience of our most elegant and tasteful designs. Having included what we think the modern residents or families most desires from a world class address, One Porto Arabia offers our tenants some of the most chic and exclusive seaside living available in the Gulf. We are confident that the exciting atmosphere of One Porto Arabia will be like being on holiday, but living at home.'



Having combined the rich styles of various architectures, the exclusive location at One Porto Arabia incorporates the heritage of modern Arabia with a 21st Century twist. With breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Gulf, the address is complemented by views of the bustling city of Doha.

One Porto Arabia also affords its tenants haute couture shopping, captivating entertainment and fine dining along its promenades and walks. As a retreat reminiscent of the Mediterranean, the modish homes overlook a glittering marina, with magnificent yachts sailing past. A captivating boardwalk atmosphere will give residents the feel of a holiday experience at home.

Having already welcomed its first tenant to the landmark tower in May, One Porto Arabia distinctly captures the charm of marina living and expects to garner wide interest from around the world.

'Having been in the real estate market for over 20 years, Alfardan Properties has achieved a well earned position as one of the most trusted developers in Qatar,' says Mr Omar Alfardan. 'With a range of homes on offer at our most refined address, One Porto Arabia, we are confident of receiving wide public interest from at home and abroad.'

In terms of comfort, the flagship address on The Pearl Island offers residents a range of lavish recreation features and high-end modern conveniences.

From sleek and modern furnishings to the smartest electronic utilities and appliances, One Porto Arabia will also include a sophisticated in-house café, housekeeping services and a comprehensive 24/7 maintenance service for all its tenants.

For unwinding and relaxation, the iconic tower houses state-of-the-art gymnasiums, saunas and steam rooms in addition to a temperature-controlled swimming pool, Jacuzzi and captivating children's swimming pool and play areas. With its ethos of 'five-star residential living', Alfardan Properties through One Porto Arabia will be the definitive landmark of elite real estate excellence in Qatar.

As the renowned developer behind some of Doha's most iconic and innovative structures, Alfardan Properties was committed to making One Porto Arabia a distinct cut above the rest. As literally the first address on the most exclusive seafront location in Qatar, the Pearl Island - One Porto Arabia caters to luxury lifestyle and modern living seekers.

[Adel]

Do you know that Al Fardan are originally from Karzakan village in Bahrain.
A long way from a small rural village in Bahrain to owning the best project in Qatar (The Pearl Qatar). Good for them.

Do you know also Halawala's family is originally from the village of Juffair in Bahrain and now he's a big shot moderator in Skyscrapercity

[ahmad.oustwani]

I thought the Fardan were originally Iranians.....

[Qatar Son 333]

Adel... do you have a point to make ??... look at Salam , the owner is from palestine originally, now he is a big business man in Qatar and in the gulf region aswell, salam industries, petroleum, properties etc etc....

[Halawala]

Originally Posted by Adel

Do you know that Al Fardan are originally from Karzakan village in Bahrain.
A long way from a small rural village in Bahrain to owning the best project in Qatar (The Pearl Qatar). Good for them.

Do you know also Halawala's family is originally from the village of Juffair in Bahrain and now he's a big shot moderator in Skyscrapercity

Adel! U cracked me up loool ! Of course my accomplishment is bigger looool

[Tony 90]

I took these pics 3 weeks ago coming in to land at Doha,
I think I've posted them in the right place.

[QatPhils]

Wow thanks, they're great!

[amnesia]

lol adel, juffair isn't a village anymore :P

I myself lived all over in Bahrain but my home is in Saar for the past 10 years.