Robinsons at Dubai Festival City Mall closes down

Department store Robinsons in Dubai Festival City has closed down, Khaleej Times can reveal.

The retailer's corporate communications team said in a statement to Khaleej Times that the decision to close the outlet has been taken “to adapt to an evolving consumer landscape” amid challenging times caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We want to thank our customers for their patronage and support over the past years. As part of the Al Futtaim Group, we take pride in knowing that our customers will continue to be served,” said the statement.

Robinsons store was located on the ground floor, level 1 and 2 of the Dubai Festival City Mall.

“Since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis, we have focused on protecting our customers and employees. Like many retailers, we have had to adapt to an evolving consumer landscape. Despite recent challenges in the industry, the Robinsons team continued to pursue the success of the brand,” the company statement said.

Retail, along with hospitality, aviation and tourism, has been one of the worst hit sectors in the emirate.

However, the outlook is bright as the UAE economy recovers from the pandemic.

A study by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry forecast that the UAE retail sales will maintain 6.6 per cent annual growth in the medium term to reach $70.5 billion by 2025.

waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com