Dubai-based master developer Nakheel’s Ibn Battuta Mall welcomed 21 million visitors in 2017. An influx of tourists, new residential developments in surrounding areas and an enhanced collection of tenants all contributed to the mall’s highest ever annual footfall.
Commenting on the record number of visitors, Omar Khoory, managing director of Nakheel Malls, says, “2017 was a tremendous year of growth for Nakheel Malls. At Ibn Battuta Mall, the surge in tourists and tenants, and expansion of new residential developments in surrounding areas all led to a record year, with more 21 million visitors. And with more expansions to Ibn Battuta Mall under way, this figure is set to grow further this year, and beyond.”
“With over 17 million sqft of leasable space in operation or in the pipeline, Nakheel Malls is set to become the UAE’s largest retail developer. We continue to focus on delivering world-class experiences, at a growing number of locations across Dubai, through a combination of unmatched entertainment, retail and dining destinations,” he adds.
Ibn Battuta Mall continues to enhance its offering as a family-friendly destination for shoppers, with a number of targeted activities, including beauty and lifestyle, children’s campaigns, festive offers and ongoing Dubai Shopping Festival promotions held during 2017. More strategic activations and marketing collaborations with leading brands are planned for 2018.
The destination attracts a mix of resident and visiting shoppers every year. Almost 73% of visitors are UAE residents, including Emiratis, Arabs, Asians and western expatriates. The remaining 17% are tourists.