Marimekko to open first store in Dubai

Finnish fashion and lifestyle retailer Marimekko is embarking on an important new partnership with Dubai-based BinHendi Enterprises with the aim of opening a total of eight stores in the Middle East over the next five years. The first Marimekko store will open in Dubai in September 2014 at the new Al Wasl shopping mall in Jumeirah, followed by two more in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, most likely in 2015, as part of its plans to expand operations in Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The store is also expected to have Marimekko café.

“I am delighted that we have succeeded in building Marimekko into a brand able to attract retail-sector players throughout the world. We have concentrated in our expansion into the international market primarily in regions, which have ample growth potential. The UAE is an attractive market for us, famous for its excellent shopping opportunities. The region has a great deal of local purchasing power and a strong tourist flow, especially Dubai,” says Mika Ihamuotila, Marimekko president and CEO.

“I was very impressed by the products, colours and collections of Marimekko when I first saw them in Los Angeles and New York. Marimekko will certainly add value to BinHendi Enterprises, and we are glad to offer the residents of Dubai the great opportunity to enjoy its vibrant collections. With our broad experience of dealing with top international brands in the Middle East, we are confident to say that Marimekko will be a unique addition to the retail sector in Dubai,” adds Mohi-ddin Binhendi, president of BinHendi Enterprises.