Qatar-based Ali Bin Ali Group has announced plans for the Katara Plaza project, the first open-air air-conditioned commercial mall to be developed on an area of over 38,000 sq m at the Katara Cultural Village in Doha.

The unique commercial project, which will be home to the Middle East region’s first evian spa, is set to open its door in September next year.

The facility, which has Galeries Lafayette as the anchor tenant, will also boast a dedicated children’s mall, said the developers.

The project is aimed at providing a unique and distinct experience as it blends a classical architectural experience with traditional heritage, thus reflecting the vision and objectives of the Cultural Village Foundation.

It will also offer landscapes and sandstone buildings, interlocking passages, arches and breezy walkways, they stated.

The project will have a pioneering, air-conditioned and open space that provides year-round comfort utilising a state-of-the-art system that uses the latest ground cooling technology, thereby presenting a perfect blend of artistic architecture, innovation and maximum comfort.

On the new venture, Nabeel Ali bin Ali, the vice chairman and executive vice president, said: “Katara Plaza would unlock a unique world-class shopping experience offering the Qatari market many first-of-its-kind experiences that can be valued and enjoyed as never before.”

 “Among the deals inked already is the arrival of Galeries Lafayette to Qatar.”

Work on Galeries Lafayette has already commenced with the world-famous architect Bruno Moinard taking on the creation of the stores. Moinard has crafted a name for himself as an architect who intrinsically blends luxury and art, said Bin Ali.

Another innovative concept is the dedicated children’s mall, which will be a unique experience in the region and will be an example of innovation and architectural design, he stated.