Baniyas Investment and Development Company (BID) has awarded the interior design contract for its first regional mall in Baniyas, Abu Dhabi, to renowned Australian firm, Saunders Global.

“We have chosen Saunders Global expertise to produce a combination of dramatic contemporary and traditional design, with every section having a distinctive style and a unique atmosphere,” stated Wael Tawil, chief executive officer of BID.

“We are building a vibrant city, offering the perfect place to rent spacious homely apartments or villas that belong to a fully serviced community. Adding to the luxurious lifestyle, the mall will serve as an attractive and entertaining venue for families to shop and spend leisure time,” he added.

The eminent landmarks within Saunders Global portfolio contain well known local projects such as Al Owais, Nakheel, The World Sales Centre, Nuance, Palm Jumeirah Pointe and Sahara Centre. Other regional projects include Nusa Dua in Bali and Riyadh Galleria Mall.

Bawabat Al Sharq, the regional mall, with over 339 shops and more than 148,000 sqm, spread on two floors of prime retail and leisure space, will be the new downtown shopping hub. Twenty per cent of the mall has been constructed and it is due for completion by the end of 2010.

BID recently announced partnerships with two dynamic entertainment entities – Wanasa Family Entertainment Center and Grand Cinemas for its regional mall.-TradeArabia News Service