Arada Secures Dh2.18 Billion Contract for Madar Mall in Sharjah: A New Era for Retail and Entertainment
Dubai, UAE – In a pivotal development for the UAE’s commercial landscape, Arada has awarded a substantial construction contract worth Dh2.18 billion to the Dubai-based United Engineering Construction Company (UNEC) for the Madar Mall, a centerpiece of the Aljada megaproject in Sharjah. The contract encompasses the entire construction of the mall, with work commencing immediately and projected completion set for December 2028.
Madar Mall is poised to be a transformative addition to the region, characterized by its extensive built-up area of 3.9 million square feet. This retail and entertainment hub serves as the capstone of Madar, an innovative family-oriented entertainment district designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Zaha Hadid Architects. The design philosophy reflects the enchanting origin of water on our planet, articulated through an array of elliptical structures embraced by lush green landscaping, creating an atmosphere that melds nature with contemporary design.
Upon completion, Madar Mall will feature a gross leasable area (GLA) of 1.1 million square feet, spread across three expansive floors. It will house an impressive array of attractions, including an 11-screen cinema, a state-of-the-art ice rink, a vibrant public square adorned with dancing fountains, a flagship fitness center, and a central observation tower that boasts a restaurant with panoramic views. The mall will also accommodate 80 dining outlets and over 400 retail shops, making it a veritable paradise for both shopping and leisure.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, articulated the company’s vision for the mall, stating, “Madar Mall is a transformational new destination for Sharjah and the wider UAE. With its exceptional design, attractions, and family experience, this project will set a new benchmark for integrated leisure and lifestyle.” Alkhoshaibi emphasized that the mall promises to be more than merely a shopping venue; it aims to serve as a vibrant hub of culture, recreation, and social interaction—a gathering place where residents and visitors can explore and celebrate the best of what Aljada has to offer.
This venture marks a significant milestone for Arada, as Alkhoshaibi notes, “This is the largest single contract we have ever awarded, and we are pleased to partner with UNEC, a contractor with a strong record of delivering high-quality projects at scale, to bring this vision to life.” UNEC, established in 1976, has cultivated a reputation as one of the UAE’s most reliable contractors, recognized for its capability to deliver large-scale and complex projects throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Eng. Abdulhalim Muwahid, Chairman of UNEC, expressed pride in being selected for such a monumental project, stating, “We are proud to have been chosen to deliver this landmark project in partnership with Arada. Madar Mall is set to redefine the shopping and leisure landscape in the UAE, and we look forward to contributing our expertise to ensure this becomes a world-class destination.”
With projections estimating that Madar Mall will attract approximately 20 million visitors annually, the establishment is poised to further entrench Aljada’s status as the UAE’s fastest-growing mixed-use community. This development will also bolster Sharjah’s reputation as a significant hub for culture, commerce, and family-oriented activities. The mall will complement a variety of existing attractions within the Madar district, which already includes the region’s largest skate park, a dynamic food district, a lively trampoline park, adventure playgrounds, and comprehensive fitness facilities.
Aljada itself is a sprawling megaproject already accommodating about 20,000 residents, with plans for over 25,000 residential units and a diverse mix of retail, entertainment, sports, education, wellness, hospitality, and commercial spaces. Its strategic location ensures seamless access to key transport arteries such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah International Airport, and the forthcoming Etihad Rail station, heralding a new urban paradigm for Sharjah.
As the project progresses, the Madar Mall is not merely a construction feat but a symbol of a future where connectivity, community, and commerce converge in the United Arab Emirates, establishing a new standard for integrated lifestyle developments.
Tags: #BusinessNews #RealEstateNews #UAE #Sharjah