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Residents and visitors of Abu Dhabi have highlighted their overwhelming support for a traditional souk to form part of the Municipality of Abu Dhabi’s proposed mixed use retail and leisure destination that will be located at the historical gateway to Abu Dhabi.
The 150,000 sqm mixed use leisure and retail experience will be developed on the waterfront opposite the Maqtaa Tower, between Sheikh Zayed and Al Maqtaa Bridges. Approximately 80% of the scheme will comprise of retail, food and beverage, entertainment and leisure outlets, combined with an open air performance space and new hospitality offerings. At the heart of the scheme will be a traditional Emirati souk that will showcase and sell high quality traditional handicrafts.
Findings from a survey of over 1,300 residents and visitors, conducted in May this year, found that a significant 97% of respondents were in favour of the idea to create a traditional souk at the heart of the project*. Both residents and visitors strongly felt that the souk element of the project will highlight the heritage and cultural traditions of Abu Dhabi at this important historical location in the City.
The research also found that priority should be given to the design of the scheme in order to attract visitors. Attractive architecture was top of the list for both residents and visitors with 95% stating that this would be an incentive to visit.
Around 89% of tourists revealed that they would be drawn to the destination to see local dress and traditions, where-as only 79% of residents thought this was important. The majority of residents (80%) were most in favour for the project to include more family events and activities compared to only 66% of tourists. Both groups felt that the waterfront development would reinforce Abu Dhabi’s close connection with the sea and over 92% of those surveyed also stressed that the souk should feature galleries and exhibitions that show how Abu Dhabi has evolved over the years.
As part of the survey a number of experts in heritage field were interviewed and felt that the souk and its design should reflect the three areas that make up the Emirate – Abu Dhabi Island, the Western Region and the mainland.
Rashed Bin Ali Al Omaira, Advisor Investments and Assets for the General Manager’s Office at Abu Dhabi Municipality said: “At the outset of every project we undertake research among relevant stakeholder groups such as residents, tourists, businesses groups and industry experts to get their valuable feedback on what amenities and facilities are most desired, and will benefit them the most. This helps to ensure our projects are a success and cater to the needs of users. We will be sharing these valuable insights with the private sector developers and investors bidding for this scheme so they can decipher the most critical components that will make this an exciting destination for all those who visit.”
The project will be developed in partnership with the private sector through a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model, to deliver and manage the development in line with the highest international standards. Potential investors and operators have already praised the proposed project by giving positive and supportive feedback during a meeting organised by the Municipality to discuss its feasibility and the bid process.
Commenting on the consumer research, one investor said: “The Municipality’s research provides us with vital information to help us shape the project so that it caters for the community and offers us the best possibility to make this a commercial success.”
The visionary masterplan for the mixed use scheme capitalises on reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s cultural heritage and values to support the Abu Dhabi community. It will also link to Khalifa Park and Sheikh Zayed Mosque, two of Abu Dhabi’s biggest attractions.
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