The Dubai Mall is the flagship development of Emaar Malls Group, the shopping malls business subsidiary of Emaar Properties PJSC. With a gross leasable area of 3.77 million sq ft featuring more than 1,200 stores, The Dubai Mall is an integral component of Downtown Burj Dubai, a 500-acre mixed-use development anchored by the iconic Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building and free-standing structure.

Fashion Avenue ushers in a new ‘avant-garde’ era in retail culture to Dubai with over 70 signature stores highlighting the latest trends in their global repertoire. Amongst the leading names that have confirmed opening at Fashion Avenue include: Versace, Burberry, Roberto Cavalli, Hugo Boss, Loewe, Galliano, Hermes, Givenchy, Cerruti, Missoni, Tom Ford, Escada, Ermenegildo Zegna and Badgley Mischka.

Mr Jim Badour, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Malls Group, said: “Fashion Avenue confirms Dubai as the preeminent fashion capital for the region with its haute couture offer. The signing of these luxury brands is a preview of what will be the most exclusive fashion retailing experience never seen before in Dubai.”

He added: “Fashion Avenue will offer an unprecedented collection of global fashion houses opening their signature stores in The Dubai Mall – it will be a one-stop destination for industry trendsetters and fashion enthusiasts around the world.”

Fashion Avenue is served by a dedicated VIP entrance, leading into the most prestigious area - a dedicated circular atrium where the world’s top designer labels can be found. The atrium will be accentuated by premium finishes including onyx cladding, white marble flooring and high-grade carpet. The ceiling is lifted by a glass circular skylight allowing for a natural ambient feel.

Fashion events at The Dubai Mall will be possible through the use of the dedicated Fashion Catwalk – a 20-metre long hydraulic walkway and stage area occupying a main area of the Fashion Avenue precinct. Supported by electronic display and lighting systems and a catwalk clad with LED screens, the Fashion Catwalk is a multi-functional venue capable of hosting fashion shows and events.

“Fashion Avenue has been specifically designed to bring together high-fashion designs and the designers. With its dedicated catwalk and multimedia capabilities, it serves as a perfect platform for hosting international fashion shows inviting designers to unveil their latest collections,” said Mr Badour.

The Dubai Mall has a total site area of 12.1 million sq ft, with an internal floor area of 5.9 million sq ft and a gross leasable space of 3.77 million sq ft. One of the largest lifestyle and shopping destinations in the world, The Dubai Mall will feature more than 1,200 stores and over 120 food & beverage outlets.

Amongst its world-class attractions are an Aquarium with a 180 degree walkthrough tunnel; the region’s first SEGA indoor theme park; an Olympic-size Ice Rink; the world’s largest indoor Gold Souk; KidZania®, a unique children’s ‘edu-tainment’ concept and a 22-screen Cineplex. In addition, there are over 14,000 undercover car park spaces and an adjoining luxury 5-star hotel with 250 rooms and 450 serviced apartments.

Set to open August 28, 2008, The Dubai Mall expects an estimated 30 million visitors within the first year of trade.