Bahrain project creates new retail opportunity

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The planned construction of a new car park at Bahrain International airport could herald retail opportunities for incumbent retailer Bahrain Duty Free

Bahrain International airport has announced it is to build a 4,000-capacity multi-storey car park on a 40,000sq m (430,400sq ft) site between the airport's passenger terminal and the headquarters of Gulf Air. The development will include a shopping centre and food court, prompting interest from airport retailer Bahrain Duty Free.

John Sutcliffe, managing director of Bahrain Duty Free partner Aer Rianta International-Middle East (ARI-ME), told RavenFox.com: "Bahrain airport is situated on the island of Muharraq, where there is a substantial population but no major shopping facilities. So the idea of setting up a mall at the airport is very interesting. There is definitely a need for more car park space, but also for more contemporary shopping." Sutcliffe confirmed that ARI-ME would study any opportunities to open stores as the project proceeds.

The car park is part of a $115m project to develop Bahrain airport, whose terminal building will also be expanded, resulting in an additional 500sq m (5,380sq ft) of retail space. Bahrain Duty Free plans to reorganise its existing shop to move music and books to a location within a new food court, and the retailer is also considering specialist stores for eyewear, footwear and electronics.