Page 12 - #201 September 2025

HEYDUDE STEPS INTO THE GULF BY LAUNCHING
ITS FIRST STORE AT REEM MALL IN ABU DHABI

Apparel Group is proud to announce the regional debut of
global casual footwear brand HEYDUDE with the opening of
its first store in the Gulf at Reem Mall, Abu Dhabi. Spanning
135sq m, this inaugural opening marks the start of an exciting
expansion journey, with more stores set to open across the
GCC in the coming years.
Initially founded in Italy in 2008 and acquired by Crocs,
Inc. in 2022, HEYDUDE is redefining casual footwear with
its ultra-light, exceptionally comfortable shoes. Known for its
best-selling icon styles, the Wally and the Wendy, the brand
offers a distinctive blend of comfort, versatility and effortless
style that resonates across generations.
“Our vision with HEYDUDE is to bring disruptive, com-
fort-driven footwear to the region’s growing community
of consumers. We are excited to introduce a brand that not
only prioritises comfort but also celebrates individuality and
relaxed living – values that strongly connect with today’s
Gulf consumers,” commented Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO at
Apparel Group.

Al Ghurair Centre has officially opened the
MIDDLE EAST NEWS
-
doors to 1004 Gourmet, one of the most pop
ular Asian shopping destinations, promising
shoppers a taste of Korea in Dubai.
Located on the Ground Floor, the new store
offers an authentic Asian experience for vis-
itors to explore a variety of delicious Korean
snacks, groceries and K-beauty products, all
under one roof.
For customers craving a dash of gochu-
jang, scouting the next viral skincare product
to try, or simply curious about the flavours
of Seoul, 1004 Gourmet is the ultimate place
to go.
It also features a wide selection of pre-
mium Asian groceries and lifestyle items,
from Korean snacks, ramen and Tteokbokki,
to items such as fresh produce, meats, sauces
and ready-to-cook meals.

MARTHA STEWART ELLINGTON PROPERTIES

OPENS FIRST-EVER STORES UNVEILS NEW DEVELOPMENT

You can now add freestanding brick-and-mortar retail to the Dubai-based real estate developer, Ellington Properties, has
resume of the legendary Martha Stewart. announced the launch of Eaton Square, its first-ever commercial
The world’s first Martha Stewart store has opened at City development. Located in Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City),
Centre Mirdif in Dubai, followed by a second location at the Dubai this project marks a new chapter for the developer, marking its
Hills Mall. The stores are operated through Marquee Brands, entry into the commercial real estate sector.
which acquired the Martha Stewart brand of home furnishings Scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2028, the
and other branded products and media in 2019. As part of the project will feature a contemporary commercial tower with 11
deal, Marquee said Stewart would continue to guide the brand bespoke office floors and premium retail spaces. Each floor has
she founded. been designed for single-tenant occupancy, ensuring exclusivity
“This global debut represents a new chapter for one of our most and privacy for businesses, while offering panoramic views of
iconic brands, bringing Martha’s timeless taste, trusted quality Dubai’s skyline.
and style expertise to the Middle East for the first time in a stan “With Eaton Square, we are expanding the boundaries of what
-
dalone retail format,” stated Marquee Brands. commercial real estate can offer in Dubai,” comments Joseph
The Martha Stewart stores are operated in partnership with Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties. “This launch reflects
Apparel Group, a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomer- our continued commitment to design excellence, now reimagined
ate based in Dubai, which operates more than 2,300 stores in 14 for the workplace. As the city evolves into a global hub for busi-
countries for more than 85 brands. nesses, there is a clear need for workspaces that foster wellbeing,
“We’re proud to partner with leaders like Apparel Group to creativity and connection. Eaton Square delivers on that promise,
expand globally and deliver innovative retail experiences to new offering an environment that inspires performance and cultivates
audiences,” stated Marquee Brands. balance,” he continued.

12 RETAIL & LEISURE INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2025