Arabian Centres, a leading developer, owner and operator of shopping malls in the Middle East, on Monday unveiled a latest technology innovation with the launch of an augmented reality mobile app that offers virtual preview of the upcoming Al Hamra Mall in Riyadh, making it the first ever virtual reality app launched by a shopping center in Saudi Arabia. The augmented reality app works by allowing the users to experience 3D navigation on iOS or Android mobile device that allows them preview interiors and exteriors of mall premises. Once the app is installed on a mobile device, it provides rich visual experience by pointing the mobile device camera on to the related app icon. The industry-first app also offers an extensive image gallery of the mall. The application is available on Apple and Android mobile platforms and can be easily downloaded from Apple Store or Google play by searching for ‘Al Hamra Mall'. Simon Wilcock, Chief Executive Officer of Arabian Centres, said "at Arabian Centres, we have a long history of innovation and we use technology in multiple ways to serve various customer-centric objectives. The investments we are making into our digital platforms are to enhance customer experience whilst positioning our shopping malls as the center of retailing in Saudi Arabia." "This Augmented Reality App allows customers to preview Al Hamra Mall ahead of its scheduled opening, and is another example of our leadership in transforming the retail landscape in the Kingdom. We strive to be early adopters of new technology, and going forward you will see significant changes on our technology platforms in order to offer high-quality retail and leisure experience," Wilcock added. Al Hamra Mall, located in King Faisal district in Riyadh, is scheduled to open in spring 2016. The site of the mall covers nearly 78,000 square meters and will house 202 stores with 51,787 square meters of Gross Leasable Area (GLA).
