Date added: 12/15/2007 19:46:00

Emaar Malls Group LLC, the shopping mall subsidiary of Emaar Properties, has opened phase one of Souk Al Bahar, a new leisure and retail destination set within the context of a traditional Arabian souk, or market. Located at the Old Town Island, Souk Al Bahar lies at the heart of the Downtown Burj Dubai development. “Souk Al Bahar will be the ideal destination for Dubai’s tourists and residents to shop, dine, socialise and relax in a new and vibrant atmosphere in the Downtown Burj Dubai,” said Rashid Zakaria Doleh, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Malls Group. “With its confirmed unique mix of over 100 speciality stores spread over two levels, when complete, Souk Al Bahar will offer its visitors an incredible waterfront experience with arguably the best views in Dubai of the Burj Dubai.” Phase one of Souk Al Bahar will see over 50 stores offering a mix of handicrafts, souvenirs, fashion and accessories and homewares in addition to several popular cafés including Starbucks and Caribou Coffee. A 5,587 sq ft Spinneys has opened and is the largest of the three supermarkets serving the Downtown Burj Dubai community. By mid-2008 when Souk Al Bahar is fully operational, a key attraction will be its strong dining offer with a dynamic selection of over 22 restaurants and cafés overlooking the Souk’s extensive waterfront promenade. By the end of 2007, well over 50 per cent of retailers will be open with a continuous rollout of retail and food & beverage launches in the following six months. Phase one will be complemented by roaming entertainment every weekend during the month of December. Complementing the launch is the ‘coming alive’ of the Boulevard which will transform the area into an outdoor community festival with themed weekend events and live entertainment. “Souk Al Bahar will be the best all-round leisure and entertainment destination that will appeal to residents and tourists of all ages,” added Doleh. “As the greater Downtown Burj Dubai community comes alive, Souk Al Bahar will emerge into the public eye as Dubai’s next hotspot destination and a must-see on every visitor’s agenda.” Souk Al Bahar complements the existing retail offer in The Old Town quarter of smaller souk-style retail areas such as Dukkan Al Manzil and Dukkan Qamardeen, and is anchored by a luxury hotel, The Palace.