Mall of Qatar will attract more than 20 million visitors in 2016, which will continue to rise with a steady annual growth of 5 per cent, a report said.

The growth will accelerate to 10 per cent in 2022 with the hosting of Fifa World Cup in Qatar, according to research conducted by T&L Associates.

The mall is owned and developed by Mall of Qatar in collaboration with turnkey contractors UrbaCon Trading & Contracting (UCC).

Dubai-based McArthur + Company, an international shopping centre development and leasing firm, said that the Mall of Qatar, the company’s latest project scheduled for the first quarter of 2016, is setting new customer service standards.

Phil McArthur, managing director and founder of McArthur + Company said: “There’s a significant demand for quality integrated shopping, dining and entertainment facilities in the retail sector in Qatar. Spend and dwell time increases dramatically in malls that provide excellent guest services including spotless public restrooms, convenience, entertainment and a wide array of dining options, all of which is among Mall of Qatar’s many advantages.”

“It’s no longer simply about shopping; it’s about what a mall can offer aside to shopping. People like to see people, and you can only get that desired social experience at the mall, not online. This being said, a mall needs to be conducive for shoppers to return,” he added.

The mall will house some of the most sought-after international brands. It has already signed commitments for over 75 per cent of its retail space and has a large number of eager retailers on a waiting list, a statement said.

“Mall of Qatar are by far the most passionate; they are true believers in excellence, quality and setting new standards,” said McArthur.

“The customer comes first and this is reflected in their pace of construction, the entire flow and layout of the mall which is both functional yet beautiful, and ultimately the calibre of architects and consultants Mall of Qatar work alongside. It is a truly wonderful evolution that is representative of market aspirations,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service