Sharjah is preparing to welcome its most ambitious retail and leisure destination as Arada awards a AED2.18 billion contract to Dubai-based contractor United Engineering Construction (UNEC) for the construction of Madar Mall at Aljada.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the landmark project will serve as the anchor attraction of Aljada, the AED35 billion mega project reshaping Sharjah’s urban future, with completion scheduled for December 2028.
With a built-up area of 3.9 million square feet, including 1.1 million square feet of leasable space, Madar Mall is set to house more than 400 retail outlets and 80 dining concepts across three levels. Visitors can look forward to an 11-screen cinema, an ice rink, a flagship fitness centre, showpiece fountains, and a central observation tower with a restaurant at its peak. Once operational, the mall is expected to welcome around 20 million visitors annually, cementing its role as both a retail hub and a cultural destination.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said the project will redefine Sharjah’s retail and lifestyle offering. “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.”
Founded in 1976, UNEC has a track record of delivering complex projects across the GCC. Chairman of UNEC, Eng. Abdulhalim Muwahid said, “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.”
Set within Aljada’s Madar district, which was designed by Zaha Hadid Architects to resemble the first moment a water droplet strikes the earth’s surface, the mall will build on attractions already completed in the community, including the region’s largest skate park, the Zad food district, a trampoline park, playgrounds and the Wellfit Madar gym.
Aljada is already home to 20,000 residents and will eventually include more than 25,000 homes, schools, retail and commercial spaces, wellness centres, and hotels. Its location offers seamless access to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Sharjah International Airport and the upcoming Etihad Rail station, placing it at the heart of Sharjah’s long-term growth strategy.
