Macy’s To Open Its First International Store In Abu Dhabi

US-based retailer Macy’s has announced that it will open its first international store and a second Bloomingdale’s outlet in Abu Dhabi.

The department stores will be situated in Al Maryah Central, a 2.3 million square foot shopping centre that is being developed in the capital’s Al Maryah Island. Gulf Related, a joint venture between Gulf Capital and Al Tayer Group, will launch both brands in the emirate, a statement said.

Macy’s Abu Dhabi store will span about 205,000 square foot while Bloomingdale’s, opening for the first time in the capital, will spread across 230,000 square foot. Both the stores will be divided across four levels and will open by 2018, the statement added.

“Having recorded almost five successful years with Bloomingdale’s – Dubai, we are confident that the offering from Macy’s will have an equally strong appeal in the Middle East region,” said Khalid Al Tayer, CEO – Retail, Al Tayer Group.

“Both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s have entrenched themselves as market leaders in department store retailing in the US, and we look forward to delivering the same unrivalled shopping experience to customers in Abu Dhabi.

“Al Maryah Central provides an ideal home for these landmark introductions, forming one of many significant developments underway in Abu Dhabi over the coming years, which serve to strengthen its position as a cultural, commercial and tourism leader.”

Along with the two department stores, Al Tayer will also operate over 20 inline retail stores comprising of fashion, cafes and restaurants, bringing the group’s total commitment to 520,000 square foot.

Abu Dhabi has been building mega malls in an effort to meet rising demand and to fill the gaping holes in its retail sector. Global brands have also been flocking to the capital in search of retail space, as the market in neighbouring Dubai nears saturation.

Yas Mall, the retail unit being built by Abu Dhabi developer Aldar, recently announced that it will house the first Hamley’s, Hollister, Brook’s Brothers and Geant Hypermarket in Abu Dhabi.

Meanwhile, the UAE’s first Lego Store, a standalone Under Armour store, Joe Fresh and the largest Debenhams store outside the UK will also feature in Yas Mall.