The United Engineering Construction Company (UNEC), located in Dubai, has been given a Dh2.18 billion contract by Arada to construct Madar Mall, the main shopping and entertainment complex at the center of the Aljada megaproject in Sharjah.
Over 400 stores and 80 dining options will be dispersed among three floors of the 1.1 million square foot mall, which was created by Zaha Hadid Architects. A central observation tower with a café on the roof, an ice rink, a flagship gym, trademark fountains, and an 11-screen movie theater are among the attractions.
Construction is scheduled to begin immediately and is expected to be completed by December 2028. Since its founding in 1976, UNEC has a proven track record of completing intricate, large-scale projects throughout the GCC.
Transformative for Sharjah
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, described the project as transformative for Sharjah. “Madar Mall 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,” he said. Alkhoshaibi added that this is the largest single contract the company has awarded.
Eng Abdulhalim Muwahid, Chairman of UNEC, said the company is “proud to deliver such a landmark project in partnership with Arada,” noting that the mall is expected to redefine the UAE’s shopping and leisure landscape.
With a total built-up area of 3.9 million square feet, Madar Mall will serve as the focal point of Aljada’s Madar family entertainment complex. Elliptical structures and planted areas are features of the district’s design, which was influenced by the instant a water droplet hits the ground.
After it opens, the mall is expected to draw 20 million tourists a year, enhancing Aljada’s current attractions, which include the biggest skate park in the area, the Zad culinary district, trampoline and adventure playgrounds, and the Wellfit Madar gym.
Aljada, which currently has 20,000 residents, will eventually have over 25,000 residences in addition to commercial, retail, entertainment, sports, wellness, and educational amenities. Aljada is positioned as one of the fastest-growing mixed-use communities in the United Arab Emirates, with convenient access to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah International Airport, and the soon-to-be Etihad Rail station.