Mall operator Majid Al Futtaim today announced that it plans to open 20 additional outlets at its Mall of the Emirates centre before the end of the year. New stores at the Dubai-based mall - which is home to the world's largest indoor ski slope - include high-end designer brands Prada, Longchamps and Kate Spade, which are all set to open in summer. Eateries including International House of Pancakes, The Cheesecake Factory and the UAE-based fast food outlet Just Falafel will also open at the centre. “Retail stores and restaurants seeking to expand throughout the world are often choosing the UAE to open their first Middle East location, based on the growing demands for high-fashion and choice across shopping and dining sectors, said Fuad Sharaf, senior asset director, asset management, shopping malls, at MAF. “Mall of the Emirates is boosting the UAE's retail landscape by offering international brands with a platform for growth," he added. Last month, the company revealed plans to increase rents for retailers this year, as revenues at the shopping hub continue to rise. Executives at Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) Properties told Arabian Business that rates would go up in 2012 after the mall, home of Ski Dubai, reported a 16 percent rise in sales in Q1.
