Bahrain’s Bawabat Al-Shamal Real Estate Company has officially commenced construction activity for their super-regional retail and entertainment complex called the Doha Festival City.
The project, being built at the cost of 6 billion Quatari Riyals, is spread across an area of 433,847 sq.mt., out of which 260,000 sq.mt. is gross leasable area. It is located just north of downtown Doha on the six-lane Al Shamal highway that connects the city with Bahrain through the “Friendship Causeway.”
The first phase of the construction will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2012 and will consist of an IKEA store spread over 32,000 sq.mt. The remaining elements of Doha Festival City, which will also offer an entertainment and leisure complex, automotive showrooms, hotels, over 400 shopping and dining outlets and 8,500 car parking spaces, are due for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2014.
According to the company, the interior design of Doha Festival City is inspired by nature and the elements of wind, water, wood and earth. Within the retail loops, there will be four distinct interior zones: the Water Concourse, the Garden Promenade, the Rainforest Boardwalk and the Fashion Galleria.
The Al-Futtaim Group, Qatar Islamic Bank and other private investors have formed a joint venture for the project which has been designed by DP Architects. Said Greg Douglas, Development Director, Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate: “We are delighted that Doha Festival City has begun construction. The project is an innovative concept that will greatly appeal to visitors and the local residents of Doha. With its easily accessible location and the extensive offerings, we believe Doha Festival City will be one of the most advanced entertainment, retail and hospitality complexes in the region.”
-IndiaRetailing Bureau
