MUSCAT -- The much awaited inauguration of the Royal Opera House Muscat in mid October and the amazing launch season of events is likely to wow thousands of people to this new iconic development. To compliment the visiting guests' enjoyment of Oman's proud new development, the adjoining retail development formerly known as The Opera Mall will be opening in February 2012.
Following much deliberation, it has been announced that this will now be called The Opera Galleria -- a name reflecting the luxury and prestige that befits its presence. When opened, The Opera Galleria will house just over 60 retail stores and an array of fine and family dining options. An emphasis has been placed on ensuring that The Opera Galleria is not just a place to shop, but a venue to relax, socialise and generally catch breath from the bustle of the outside world.
Savills Oman, the leasing agents for the development have witnessed high levels of interest in the space and have already commenced finalising of bookings. Following a carefully controlled tenant mix programme and an understanding of the need to cater to the high anticipated visitor footfall, emphasis has been placed on ensuring the stores and food and beverage locations offer a broad selection of choices to cater for all tastes.
Chris Steel Managing Partner of Savills comments: "The importance of making the Opera Galleria an all day and evening "gathering hub" has always been forefront of our leasing philosophy.
This cannot be created by shops alone. We want The Opera Galleria's visitors and guests as part of their experience to be able to enjoy a quality coffee, savour luxury macaroons from Paris, relish traditional London café fare -- it will all be there.
Famous café names will soon be announced. Fine dining options from the Italian acclaimed Bice Group and Frontier, a much awaited Northern Indian restaurant will be present and some new and exciting delicatessen concepts will be opening".
The development, spread over 6,500 square metres has extensive car parking and will be linked ultimately by footbridge to the Inter-Continental Hotel development site allowing unrivalled access to all the new tourism aspects that site will offer.
Anchoring the development will be an array of a carefully balanced fashion, gems, watches, perfumes and quality homeware outlets.
Antiques, art and handicrafts will be present as The Opera Galleria is likely to become a much visited tourist destination and therefore a traditional "Arabian style" colonnade will be home to such demanded retailers
The interior design of The Opera Galleria will reflect "understated elegance". Liberal use of quality marble, etched glass and bronze work will provide the back drop for all the shops, bistros and cafes to shine against.
With three voluminous atrium areas, the Galleria will be flooded with natural light providing a unique ambience and welcome addition to the shopping experience Oman has to offer its residents and visitors alike.
© Oman Daily Observer 2011