Fans of American upscale chain stores Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s will be rejoicing at the news that they will both be opening at Al Maryah Central in 2018. The 2.3 million square foot shopping centre being developed on Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island will boast over 200,000 sq ft of retail – marking the two largest department store offerings in the region.
A world first, up until now Macy’s has yet to leave American shores, which makes the signing of the 205,000 sq ft store a massive coup for Gulf Related – a regional development company and joint venture between Gulf Capital and Related Companies – and Al Tayer Group.
The 230,000 sq ft Bloomingdale’s, meanwhile, will be a first for Abu Dhabi and a second for the UAE. The sheer size and scale of both stores will completely transform the face of the capital’s regional landscape.
Credited with pioneering virtually every change within American retailing, Bloomingdale’s helped launch the careers of many now-famous designer and it won’t be long now until their famed iconic Big Brown Bags are spotted all over the city.
Starting out as a dried-goods store in 1858, Macy’s will be bringing its distinct New York culture to the UAE, with engaging service and access to its renowned apparel, accessories, home and beauty brands.
“Both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s have entrenched themselves as market leaders in department store retailing in the US, and we look forward to delivering the same unrivalled shopping experience to customers in Abu Dhabi,” said Khalid Al Tayer, CEO – Retail, Al Tayer Group.
Highlighting how these two appealing brands would be assets to the booming UAE market, Terry Lundgren, Macy’s, Inc. Chairman and CEO said, “As a spectacular new world-class shopping destination, Al Maryah Central provides an outstanding opportunity to introduce Macy’s to customers who live and work in the booming UAE market, as well as to visitors who come from around the world for events, business and holidays.”
