Curtain up, Mall of the Emirates now draws inspiration from London’s theatre district.
London and Dubai have a special relationship. Everything from expats to restaurants – and the expansion of our brand with FACT London – have long been making their way between the two cities. Now, the Mall of the Emirates will be opening New Covent Garden, which draws inspiration from the district in the heart of London. Now open, here’s what to expect.
Steps singer Lisa Scott-Lee, and Creative Director and Choreographer Johnny Shentall-Lee are behind New Covent Garden. London’s Covent Garden is home to world-class entertainment and historic theatres, including the Royal Ballet and Opera. Dubai’s development aims to be a cultural and entertainment destination, which will put the city on the global arts map.
New Covent Garden includes a 575-seat theatre, 10 dance and rehearsal studios, a pilates and yoga space, and Black Box Theatre. Expect Arabic plays, ballet, comedy, opera and West End musicals as well as shows. The first musical is set to premiere on 4 July 2025.
The site will welcome local as well as international artists and offer a a diverse range of experiences for locals, expats and tourists. Plus, it is home to the world-renowned Pineapple Dance Studios, marking the brand’s first location outside of London.
Lisa, Founder and Principal of Dubai Performing Arts Academy, explained: “New Covent Garden has been a passionate dream for Johnny and I for years. Being professional performers ourselves and having made Dubai our home over 10 years ago, we wanted to create a unique space and a home for performers, dancers, musicians, artists and the theatre and performing arts community — a creative hub where people from all walks of life can come together and share their passion and their love of the arts.”
Hussain Moosa, Mall Director of Mall of the Emirates, added: “With New Covent Garden, we are bringing to the Middle East an iconic cultural force – one that cements this already iconic mall as a centre for creativity, performance, and community engagement. We are thrilled to be able to offer a platform where audiences can explore their love for culture and arts on a whole new level.”
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GO: Visit www.malloftheemirates.com for more information.