Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, a leading shopping destination in the UAE capital, has announced a Dh3-billion ($816 million) expansion plan which will see 120,000 sq m of space being added to the retail facility in two years.

With UPC approvals well under way, the mall, which is owned by the National Investment Company (NIC), is likely to break ground on its new extension in the first quarter of 2017.

The complete revamp masterplan is being designed by DP Architects, a renowned architectural firm based in Singapore and the name behind the design of Dubai Mall.

In addition to the Dh3 billion ($816 million) extension, Marina Mall Abu Dhabi will also see major enhancements worth Dh300 million ($81.6 million) throughout the mall as part of the project, said a statement from NIC.

From exclusive luxury and high-end brands to the development of a world-class food court, the shopping destination will continue to deliver unique shopping experiences to suit all tastes, it stated.

Unveiling the plan, Jihad Dirani, the head of leasing at Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, said: "As one of Abu Dhabi’s established and most iconic shopping destinations, we strive to provide our visitors with an exclusive combination of unique shopping, entertainment and F&B (food and beverages) experiences for the whole family to enjoy."

"We are entering an exciting phase of Marina Mall’s development, as we continue our journey to deliver an excellent visitor experience. We are currently in the process of selecting the right suppliers and contractors, whilst looking to evolve our leasing portfolio," he stated.

The new extension plan will be divided into two parts, the north and south side of the mall, which will include the latest retail and F&B brands and new market entry brands exclusive to the mall, said the Abu Dhabi firm.

Furthermore, Marina Mall Abu Dhabi will expand its car-parking facilities in coordination with the existing parking amenities for the new development, making it easily accessible to all visitors.

"Marina Mall Abu Dhabi has been a social and commercial success since its doors first opened over 14 years ago. In 2006, the mall went through major expansion plans, which included the addition of the iconic revolving restaurant tower, as well as an increase in mall facilities and retail outlets," remarked Dirani.

"As part of our growth strategy combined with the increase in visitor numbers, we are delighted to announce this major expansion," he added.

Within close proximity to Marina Mall Abu Dhabi and part of NIC’s upcoming development projects is Marina Sunset Bay, which will further add to the area’s offerings. The private residential estate, comprising 67 luxury villas, on the breakwater with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf will be environmentally friendly.

Due to open in September 2017 and renowned for its luxury resort hotels across the globe, the luxury beach resort Fairmont Hotel will also be joining the properties in the area.

The developments in the area will also feature the Marina Promenade Abu Dhabi, a beautiful seafront walkway that is set to include an amphitheatre, an eclectic mix of restaurants, activity and entertainment options, a helipad, mosque, and lots more.

Marina Mall is also home to ‘Marina Eye’, Abu Dhabi’s first and only Observatory Wheel, further adding to the mall’s impressive portfolio of attractions. The stand-out structure gives guests a bird’s-eye view of the impressive Abu Dhabi skyline.-TradeArabia News Service