Safeer Mall will undergo a transformation under new ownership, as the retail landscape in Sharjah shifts.
The future of Safeer Mall in Sharjah is poised for significant transformation following its closure, confirmed by the new management taking over the property.
As of December 31, 2024, the building that housed Safeer Mall has been officially returned to its landlord, ending a 19-year leasing agreement by Safeer Group of Companies.
Om Prakash, the Marketing Manager at Safeer Group, indicated that most tenants had vacated the premises by that date, while some businesses remain in negotiations with the new owners.
The new management has been identified as Western International Group, known for its retail brands including Nesto and Mark and Save.
Nawas Basheer KP, Director of Western International Group, confirmed the acquisition of the mall as a property purchase rather than a lease.
He emphasized that discussions are underway with existing tenants to navigate the transition and assess their operational status during the upcoming renovation period.
Plans for the mall include the introduction of a Mark and Save hypermarket, part of the strategy to revitalize the retail space.
Basheer noted that the new name for the mall will be announced in due course, aiming to re-establish it as a key shopping destination in Sharjah.
Originally launched as a discount supermarket, Safeer Mall expanded into a shopping center but has faced challenges in recent years.
Factors such as the
COVID-19 pandemic, heavy traffic congestion, and the implementation of toll systems contributed to a drastic decline in foot traffic, leading to significant vacancies, with over 60 percent of the mall unoccupied.
Historical tenants of the mall included major retail names like Landmark Group and Babyshop, which have since exited the venue.
Despite the mall's closure, Safeer Group continues its operations in the UAE with the recent launch of a new Safeer Market in Dubai and the management of other retail outlets throughout the country.