As Dubai rose to prominence on the international arena, the Al Ghurair family recognised the need for innovative entertainment and shopping experiences that would answer the needs of the burgeoning population, as well as the increasing numbers of tourists. Built on an empty plot of land, it was the first modern shopping mall project of its kind in the Middle East. Within a few years, the Al Ghurair Centre was not only setting new standards for retail in the region, it was breaking all records.