Beirut City Centre: To Open in March 2013?

Beirut City Centre is the first shopping mall development in Lebanon by Majid Al Futtaim Properties, a leading developer of shopping malls together with hotels and mixed-use community projects in the MENA region, such as Deira City Centre, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre and Bahrain City Centre. ‎

The mall is set to open by early 2013 with rumors end of March or April, 2013. Located in Hazmieh, the $350 million project will have more than 40 unique brands, 200 stores on 60,000 m2 of retail space spread over three levels, parking for 1,800 cars, a unique open-air rooftop concept and an integrated leisure concept. It will be one of the largest modern shopping, leisure and entertainment destinations in Lebanon. The Careffour store will be the largest in the Middle East with 13,000 sqm.

Beirut City Centre will include the following elements:

• The first Carrefour hypermarket in Lebanon, occupying 13,000 m2
• A state-of-the-art VOX Cinemas multiplex, featuring the latest cinematic innovations
• The first the first Magic Planet family entertainment centre in Lebanon
• Open-air rooftop dining experience with over 12 destination restaurants offering a global range of cuisine
• A collection of brand-leading fashion and accessories retailers
• 40 international food and beverage outlets including a 16-outlet food court

Not only will it be a Beirut landmark destination, but it will also strengthen the economy by creating more than 2,500 jobs during the construction phase and 1,200 permanent retail positions once it’s open.

The mall’s roof and external structure have already been completed, and it’s on the right track to opening on time as expected. The developers have also invested $2.5 million in the municipal road infrastructure directly outside the building.

“Beirut City Centre will foster growth within the local economy and specifically the retail sector, offering a compelling new shopping, leisure and social experience for residents in the surrounding community,” said Waddah El Solh, Country Head – Levant for Majid Al Futtaim Properties.

“For Majid Al Futtaim Properties’ first mall development in Lebanon, we have strategically chosen the mall’s location, design, retail mix and leisure and entertainment offering to reflect the lifestyle, culture and discerning tastes of our key audiences. Beirut City Centre, when open in early 2013, will deliver a world-class standard mall that will redefine the shopping and leisure experience in Lebanon,” he continued.