Arada has awarded the construction contract for Madar Mall, a major retail and entertainment project in Sharjah, to United Engineering Construction Company (UNEC). The contract is valued at Dhs2.18 billion.
Madar Mall Sharjah
The Dubai-based contractor will begin construction immediately, with completion expected in December 2028. UNEC, established in 1976, is known for handling large-scale developments across the region.
The new mall will be located within Aljada, Sharjah’s largest mixed-use community, and represents the final phase of the Madar district. The design, developed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is inspired by the ripple effect of a water droplet hitting the ground, reflected in elliptical buildings and landscaped surroundings.
Over 400 retail outlets
Madar Mall will have a built-up area of 3.9 million square feet, including 1.1 million square feet of gross leasable space across three floors. Features include more than 400 shops, 80 dining outlets, an 11-screen cinema, an ice rink, and a central observation tower with a restaurant at the top.
Other highlights include a flagship fitness centre, a large public square with dancing fountains, and family-friendly attractions.
Sharjah’s growing hub
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “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. It is not only a place to shop and dine, but also a hub for culture, recreation and social connection — a destination where residents and visitors alike can gather, explore, and enjoy the very best of what Aljada has to offer.”
He added: “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.”
Eng Abdulhalim Muwahid, Chairman of UNEC, said: “We are proud to have been chosen to deliver such a 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.”
Expected 20 million visitors
Once open, Madar Mall is projected to attract around 20 million visitors each year. It will add to the current offerings at Madar, which include a skate park, trampoline park, food district, playgrounds, and a Wellfit gym.
Aljada is already home to 20,000 residents and includes over 25,000 homes. The development offers retail, hospitality, education, and wellness facilities, with quick access to major highways, Sharjah International Airport, and the future Etihad Rail station.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
