Abu-Dhabi based Baniyas Investment and Development Company (BID) has awarded a Dh88 million ($24 million) contract to Cloisall Company for the interior designing of its  upcoming Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in the emirate.

Cloisall is known for some of the most recognized projects in the country, including Dubai Airport Expansion – Terminal 3 and its surrounding buildings, Jebel Ali Airport and Duty Free, Emirates Airlines Headquarters, Dubai Mall, Emirates University in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi Financial Centre and Dalma Mall.

BID, the investment arm of Bani Yas Sports Club, said with the construction works well under way, the Bawabat Al Sharq Mall would become operational on December 2 after a soft opening, while the grand opening has been scheduled for the first quarter of 2011.

Work on the interior design fit-out and finishing of the mall has already commenced. The scope of the contract includes general requirements from metallic and electrical finishing to wood works, doors, windows, furnishing as well as mechanical-sanitary fixtures and extends to both the Food Court Area and Souk Al Megnas -- the traditional souk which spreads across 4,500 square meters within the mall, said a top official.

On the subject, Wael Tawil, BID chief executive officer, said, 'Awarding the interior design fit-out contract of Bawabat Al Sharq Mall to Cloisall is part of our commitment to working with the best companies in every specific field.'

'With Cloisall on board, we will guarantee a first class finishing of our Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, thereby creating an ideal and lavish shopping environment for residents of the projects as well as visitors from all of Abu Dhabi. We are happy to announce that construction of the Mall is progressing as per schedule, without any compromises on the quality and value we have set out to deliver,' he remarked.

Ghaleb Farha, chairman of Cloisall Company, said, “We have been associated with the most prestigious companies and worked on large scale projects in the region; we are confident that once complete, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall will be a landmark shopping destination in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.'

'We are proud to partner with BID on this project which will certainly be a major value-addition to our diversified portfolio,' he added.

 Encompassing over 339 shops and close to 70,000 sq m of gross leasable area, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall covers two floors of prime retail and leisure space.

In addition to the high profile retail outlets of fashion wear, electronics, neighborhood services, accessory and jewellery outlets, the mall will also host Carrefour hypermarket, Wanasa family entertainment and Grand Cinemas.

Offering 2,245 parking spaces as well as 22 food outlets inclusive of restaurants and cafes, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall is expected to be the new downtown shopping hub in Baniyas.-TradeArabia News Service