attractions SHOPPING
Retail powerhouse
With a reputation as one of the fastest-growing retail destinations in the Middle East, visitors can purchase everything from designer clothing in modern malls to traditional crafts in souks
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Saudi Arabia is growing at an extremely rapid rate with shopping facilities as much a part of its devel- opment as skyscrapers, hotels and office complexes. Shopping in the kingdom falls into
two distinct categories. The first is done within the traditional market- places, known as souks, which offer combined cultural and retail experi- ences. In these atmospheric markets, surprises linger around every corner and as much fun can be had from haggling with vendors as stumbling across the perfect souvenir. Adding a luxurious contrast are
the modern malls and opulent shopping centres that house inter- national brands, including the world’s top designers. Visitors can enjoy great value thanks to the absence of purchase tax on goods.
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RIYADH The kingdom’s capital city is home to almost every interna- tional brand and offers some beautiful places to shop. Women’s fashion in particular is big busi- ness, with large sections of the major malls devoted to high-end products, including brands such as Prada and Gucci. The majority of the city’s
medium-sized shopping centres are located in the Olaya district, which offers a variety of venues selling everything from fashion and jewel- lery to electronics and more. Top spots within Riyadh
1 Al Faisaliah Mall 2 Traditional souk in Jeddah 3 Asir Mall
include Riyadh Gallery, Sahara Plaza and Khurais Plaza, all of which offer in excess of 10,000 square metres of retail space. Additionally, in 2012 the
75,000-square-metre Al Qasr Mall was launched in the Dar Al Akhan development, south west of the Saudi capital and has since become a popular stop off. Another favourite destination is
Centria Mall, located along Riyadh’s famous commercial and shopping district, Al Tahlya Street. Catering to Saudi consumers’ distinct retail needs, the mall houses some of the world’s top designer brands. For female visitors, a trip to the
Al Mamlaka Mall in the east wing of Kingdom Tower is a must. This modern shopping centre boasts big names such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Saks Fifth Avenue, while in the basement there is a large food hall. What makes it unique, however, is the fact that two floors of the mall are reserved
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