Dubai homes in on a new shopping 'village'

Dubai is a city of many firsts, and it isn't surprising that a shopping village would find its way into the retail space of this metropolis.

Dubai-based holding company, Meraas, has announced the opening of The Outlet Village, a picturesque retail enclave offering visitors a unique shopping experience.

Housing three department stores, family attractions, international dining and over 125 brands such as Galeries Lafayette, DKNY, Dunhill, Guiseppe Zanotti and many more, The Outlet Village aims to be a shopper's paradise housings some iconic brands.  

Located in Jebel Ali, and within easy reach of the centres of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, The Outlet Village adds another dimension to Dubai’s rich retail landscape and is expecting to welcome 30 million visitors annually.

Phase one spanning 1.5 million square feet with additional phases expected to create another 3 million square feet housing over 400 brands under one roof.

The Outlet Village’s layout takes inspiration from San Gimignano in Italy.

This spectacular Tuscan hilltop town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its authentic craftsmanship, timeless style and cultured approach.

Brands receiving shoppers at The Outlet Village cover luxury and contemporary fashion, sportswear, furniture and household items.

Opening just in time for the UAE’s peak travel season, fashion devotees will find Ted Baker, Tommy Hilfiger, Diesel and BCBGMAXAZRIA alongside multi-brand stores Priceless and Etoile hosting luxury brands including Fendi, Tom Ford, Jimmy Choo, Valentino, Tory Burch, Givenchy, Dolce & Gabbana and Kenzo.

Whilst décor aficionados can find premium designer furniture at Aati and Villeroy & Boch. Furthermore, The Outlet Village has given labels such as Galeries Lafayette, M Missoni, BEBE and Roberto Cavalli the opportunity to open their first outlet concepts in the region.

Abdulla Al Habbai, Group Chairman, Meraas said: “The Outlet Village is part of Meraas’ commitment to build on the Dubai Fashion 2020 strategy, helping to diversify the fabric of the city’s retail infrastructure and bolster Dubai’s position as an evolving fashion capital of the world.

"The retail mix of prestigious fashion and consumer brands within The Outlet Village is perfectly matched to the tastes of sophisticated UAE residents and visitors, and we are excited to welcome customers to this unique shopping experience.”

Paying homage to San Gimignano’s Gothic and Tuscan architecture through mismatched stonework and a myriad of sophisticated details including several fountains and a delightful stone wishing well, shoppers can enjoy the feeling of being transported straight to the heart of Italy, home to some of the world's most famous fashion labels, while availing some of the best value deals in the region.

For visitors looking to take a breath after perusing a selection of fabulous stores, the destination’s elegant piazzas boasts a variety of eateries, including PF Changs, Operation Falafel, Tashas, Godiva and The Brass.

The Outlet Village will offer over 2,000 parking spaces, available for the convenience of customers, along with a valet service.

Complimentary luxury coaches will be transporting visitors to and from popular hotels and tourist destinations in Dubai, including The Beach.

Its opening hours are from Sunday to Wednesday, 10am to 10pm and from Thursday to Saturday, its 10am to midnight.

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