IKEA, operated by Al-Futtaim, is introducing a refreshed retail experience with its transformed New Market Hall at IKEA Dubai Festival City. Developed by Al-Futtaim as the first concept of its kind across the global IKEA network, the New Market Hall has been designed to create a more personalised and inspiring customer journey.
The New Market Hall reflects IKEA’s continued focus on evolving the customer experience in line with changing shopping behaviours and expectations. Expanded by 1,000sqm, the redesigned space now spans 6,100sqm and has been thoughtfully designed to help customers navigate the store more easily, discover relevant products and find inspiration for every room of the home.
Among other new additions are “Microworlds,” immersive spaces designed to bring home furnishing ideas to life through curated displays, textures, colours and interactive experiences. Complementing these are the Vitality Gates, walk-through structures positioned at the entrance of each department that create a distinct sense of arrival and immersion. Designed to reflect the character, style and possibilities of each category, they help customers connect more deeply with the space while making navigation through the New Market Hall more intuitive.
Vinod Jayan, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim IKEA UAE, Qatar, Oman and Egypt, said:“The way people shop for their homes has changed significantly in recent years. Customers are exploring ideas across multiple channels before they visit a store, and they expect that experience to continue seamlessly once they are here. The New Market Hall has been designed around that reality. We have created a more intuitive and engaging journey that helps customers discover products, explore solutions and make confident choices for their homes. It reflects our commitment to continually improving the customer experience and delivering a seamless omnichannel journey.”
Further enhancing the New Market Hall experience are interactive digital solutions designed to bridge physical and digital shopping journeys. “Ask IKEA”, an AI-powered tool available in-store, provides customers with instant product recommendations, comparisons and guidance.These digital solutions are designed to help customers move more seamlessly between inspiration, exploration and decision-making throughout the store.
The launch of the New Market Hall reflects IKEA UAE’s broader ambition to continuously enhance customer experiences through innovation, accessibility and solutions that make everyday life at home better and more relevant for customers across the region.
