102 April 2016 www.bahrainthismonth.com With no dearth of shopping and dining precincts on the island, one might think the idea of a trip to the mall would bring no new anticipation. Busting this inertia, a novel concept has newly landed on Bahrain’s retail scene. Galleria, Bahrain’s latest upscale retail haven developed by the Dadabhai Group, has recently flung open its gates welcoming islanders to its open, cobble-stoned walkways which are dotted with soonto-be-opened high-street and traditional fashion brands, chic cafés and laid-back al fresco dining. Aziz Mithaiwala, managing director of Pegasus Real Estate, the exclusive leasing and mall operator of Galleria, says: “Galleria is a boutique strip mall concept. It’s not a closed mall, like other conventional malls. The open-plan layout comprises rows of 38 retail shops, a three-storey car park building and the anchor Lulu Hypermarket beside that. “The idea behind this destination was to give islanders something fresh and convenient; more than just a regular shopping or dining experience.” Never before has the up-market vicinity of Zinj seen a retail paradise of such massive scale. The mall spans a total plot area of 30,000sq/m, with a built-up area of over 40,000sq/m. The large glass facades infuse the interiors with natural light and the sophisticated landscaping, treelined walkways and soothing water features allow visitors to soak in the outdoors while they shop and dine at a leisurely pace. One of the unique leasing points of Galleria is its prime location. Overlooking the arterial Shaikh Isa Bin Salman highway, it is a stone’s throw away for the residents of Zinj and the neighbouring areas of Mahooz, Tubli and Adliya. Being well connected, it is also easy to access from Central Manama, Jasra, Janabiya and Hamala. The fact that the mall houses the ever-popular Lulu Hypermarket has long created a buzz in the neighbourhood and has added great value to the project. Aziz asserts that the Lulu outlet at Galleria is going to be something out of the ordinary. “This is probably going to be the best Lulu hypermarket on the island, in terms of their offerings, display style and the chic touch that the interiors lend to it. It occupies over 12,000sq/m over two floors and has a clean, minimalist layout, larger aisles and contemporary lighting and shelving,” he says. So whether it is for daily groceries or the latest gadgets, Lulu at Galleria brings the promise of a truly international shopping experience for customers. The new mall hosts a great mix of retail outlets, an excellent blend of high-street labels and local designers, along with popular kids’ wear brands and more. For ultimate convenience, the open layout of Galleria also accommodates utility services such as telecom outlets, ATMs, bank branches and essential services like pharmacies. Galleria is where family and friends can congregate for an inimitable al fresco dining experience. Its elegant design gives off a distinct vacation vibe that makes dining together a truly memorable time. The great selection of food and beverage outlets, including traditional favourites, popular casual eateries and brand new restaurants, is a great place to while away evenings and weekends. “Tim Hortons is a Canadian coffee shop chain which is very prominent in Dubai, and we are very proud to have the brand’s first ever outlet in Bahrain at Galleria,” says Ali Barhoom, head of retail property management at Pegasus. Paying keen attention to detail, the developer has made the entrance and exit to and from this destination extremely practical. Ali says: “There is ample parking space at the mall. All shops have parking spaces right in front of their entrances, affording easy access to them. Along with the car park building, we have a total of over 580 spaces.” Pegasus is also looking at adding a children’s entertainment centre, but, in keeping with the distinctive flavour of the mall, with a unique twist. “It will be an outdoor concept that is indoors. We want to have activities like high rope climbs and fun walls, that teens and toddlers can enjoy,” says Aziz. Ali adds: “95 per cent of the shops have already been leased out with only a few remaining. We do have a couple of shops ideal for food and beverage brands and for apparel wear still available. Now locals and expats can enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience close to home.” Call 77 353-535 for more information on the mall and leasing opportunities. BEHNAZ SANJANA The newest mall on the island, created by a leading property developer, is a miniature of shopping streets around the world and has quickly become the talk of the town. A Landmark Destination PEGASUS REAL ESTATE Aziz Mithaiwala Ali Barhoom propertyfeature
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