Largest IKEA store in GCC to open in Bahrain

Manama : The largest IKEA Furniture showroom in the region is set to open in Bahrain by the second quarter of 2018. The BD47 million project will provide around 600 job opportunities for citizens and residents.

It will be located in Salmabad at the junction between the Kingdom’s two main highways, Khalifa bin Salman Highway and Isa bin Salman Highway.

Built on a 55,000 square metre and with a total retail area of 37,000 square metre, the project is considered the largest in the GCC and will include the biggest restaurant in Bahrain with an 800-seat capacity.

This was stated yesterday during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Swedish furniture retailer. The event was patronised by Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and was attended by the company’s senior officials and ministers.

Shaikh Khalid noted that the next phase will witness more such projects, as part of the government’s plan to attract investments.

“The next two years will include the launch of several big projects, which will provide job opportunities to citizens in different fields and will generate rewarding revenues,” the Deputy Premier stated.

He added that the issuance of investment permits in the Kingdom rose by 43 per cent this year (until September). 

IKEA Saudi Arabia CEO and Board Member Shaikh Saud Ghassan Al Sulaiman highlighted in his speech that “Bahrain has always been an attractive destination for investors and retailers due to its vibrant economy and favourable business environment.”

Shaikh Saud said IKEA was founded in 1943, has been operating in Saudi Arabia since 1983 and has 385 in 48 countries, including three in Saudi Arabia.

“The company has seen great success in Saudi Arabia, and I have no doubt that the outlet in Bahrain will be an exception. This previously untapped market will see more people having access to innovatively designed furniture at competitive prices. It will also create job opportunities for Bahrainis,” Shaikh Saud added.

On his part, IKEA Saudi Arabia and Bahrain Property and Expansion Manager Fruto Hernandez said, “Being the world’s biggest furniture retailer, we have certain tasks set for the smooth functioning of our outlets. Each co-worker works towards meeting the four tasks of the store that include acting as a highly efficient and staffed sales mechanism,  serving as a well-qualified home furnishing specialist and finally, providing a day out for the whole family.”

Hernandez also mentioned that IKEA Bahrain will have over 1,100 parking spaces spread on two levels and a 220 square metre play facility. He added that 1.2 million visitors are expected in a year at the new project.