A NEW upscale shopping centre, which will be open to families only throughout the year, is coming up in Muaither. Wathnan Mall, slated to open in February, promises to bring an international shopping experience to people living in and around Muaither. Located near the Racing and Equestrian Club, the shopping centre will focus on offering the best facilities for children among other attractions. It will have a purpose-built play area and the mall is planning to import 12 ponies from Australia to be used as children’s mounts inside the mall, project manager Ibrahim Kreidie said. Kreidie touted an “exclusive family experience” as the mall’s unique attraction. “We want to make it absolutely clear that no bachelors will be admitted all seven days of the week and through the year. We are very particular about that. What we are building is a luxury, family-oriented shopping complex,” he said. The 41,000sq m mall, with 22,000sqm of office space, will house some 100 shops including “one of the best” hypermarkets in Doha. The list includes high-end international brands and fashion labels, exclusive boutiques, coffee shops, a food court comprising 16 shops and department stores. There is parking for 700 cars. About 20% of the space has already been rented out. Those who have already signed agreements include Masraf Al Rayan, Al Jabor Watches, Al Jazeera Perfumes and My Fair Lady, Kreidie said. The project draws heavily on Qatar’s heritage for inspiration, Kreidie said. Wathnan was the name of the best horse owned by the third ruler of Qatar, Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani. The mall’s owner Sheikh Fahad bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani chose the name, Kreidie said. Kreidie said the mall’s promoters are also looking to enhance the profile of Muaither with a top-of-the range shopping complex. GT

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