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Dubai: The city's financial industry hub is about to undergo an image change.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) said yesterday it has opened its doors to the public and wants to encourage people from outside to use its retail and dining facilities.
There are more than 50 retail outlets and restaurants among the hundreds of companies based the DIFC, launched by the Dubai Government two years ago to turn the city into a global financial services centre.
Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum officially inaugurated DIFC Lifestyle, which promotes the leisure aspect of the zone, where thousands of bankers and other financial professionals work. "DIFC Lifestyle signals the beginning of a new era at the DIFC, which promises an avant-garde experience for Dubai's residents and visitors alike," said Omar Bin Sulaiman, governor of the centre.
"Originally created as a financial district, through DIFC Lifestyle, the DIFC will ensure the centre is accessible for all to enjoy and will act as an exciting retail and cultural magnet for the city."
Some of the brands represented include diamond firm De Beers, jewellery group Damas, US coffee chain Starbucks, Dome restaurant and book retailer Borders.
As part of the initiative, the DIFC will also start organising art and entertainment activities such as music performances, performances by mime artists, magic shows and theatre.
"There is more to the DIFC than just business. DIFC Lifestyle offers 360 degree living, with high-end fashion, fine dining, rich culture and entertainment. There is something for everyone at the centre," said Abdullah Hamad Bin Sugat, executive director of retail for the DIFC.
Professionals working at the DIFC welcomed the move to encourage the public to visit the zone.
"It will be refreshing to see children and families at the DIFC. It is important for people in the financial industry to interact more with people from other walks of life," said Benoit Demeulemeester, managing partner of consultancy Strategic Partners.
Parking issues
However, car parking, which is already short, could be a problem if many people are attracted by the DIFC's open-door policy.
"The parking issue needs to be addressed. I hope it will get better when Dubai metro rail is ready," Demeulemeester said.
DIFC is open on weekdays from 10am to 10pm and on weekends from 10am to midnight.
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