Bawadi Mall, a leading shopping centre in Al Ain, has opened the region’s first artificial skating rink spread over an area of 2,000 sq m with a capacity of 200 skaters, services and spectator area, a statement said.

“We take pride in introducing this new technology to the Middle East,” said Khalid Shraim, marketing manager, Bawadi Mall.

“These types of rinks are found in France, Switzerland, Germany and Malaysia. The new technology is suitable for metal blade shoes and roller shoes, offering a great experience to both professionals and amateurs. The rink’s net area is 800 square metres,” he added.

This rink is part of Bawadi Mall’s strategy to deliver world class entertainment activity to visitors and higher return on investment to tenants. The mall has been recording a steady rise in footfall, including visitors from the 13-29 age group.

Shraim continued: “The new skating rink is part of the 10,000 sq m family entertainment centre which offers exciting ambience to the whole family, featuring a varied mix of entertainment activity, including a12-lane bowling alley, a distinctively rich food-court, and several casual dining options offering delicious varieties of cuisines.”

Bawadi Mall, developed by Nael & Bin Harmal Investment Company, houses a mix of international as well as regional retail brands of fashion, food, jewellery and much more, all in a bright, spacious, and inviting environment, distinguished by a wide curved vaulted skylight that soars above the main corridor and its main three spacious courts.

“The GCC shopping industry competes with the best in the world, in terms of infrastructure. The malls are not just venues to sell products, but a place where people relax, unwind and have fun,” Shraim said.

“Healthy competition amongst shopping centers in the UAE boosts innovation in attracting customers and tenants. The shopping industry is highly dependent on retail industry; the stronger the former gets, the more mature becomes the latter. Also, shopping centers are key drivers in boosting tourism.”

The 140,000 sq m Bawadi Mall, with a gross leasable area of 110,000 sq m, positions itself as Al Ain’s ultimate shopping, dining and leisure destination, located five minutes from the town centre on Mezyad Road. – TradeArabia News Service