Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has unveiled its vision to develop Hulhumale' into an economic hub in the country. The Centro Shopping Mall, which is being developed in the center of Hulhumale' is a venture, with the aim of contributing to the realization of this vision. The three storey structure would be the first shopping mall to be constructed in Maldives.
Centro is a one stop shopping mall development in Hulhumale', strategically located in the heart of the commercial zone. It is a vibrant mall targeting to bring our residents and visitors an exciting mix of local and International branded shopping facilities, F&B outlets, medical facilities, banking services as well as other value added services all at one place. Two units from the ground floor of the shopping mall have been rented out for Maldives Islamic Bank and Mauritius Bank. Some units, also from the ground floor have been rented out to operate a pastry shop, bookshop and a supermarket. These units are to be rented out for durations between three to ten years.
The Managing Director of HDC Mohamed Saiman said that while Hulhumale' is being developed as an economic hub, it is important to ensure that Hulhumale' is a place that would provide opportunity to various economic activities. Saiman said that the Centro Shopping Mall has proved to be a great success even at the pilot stage. He attributed the delay in officially inaugurating the mall to difficulties some leaseholders are facing in developing certain units. However, he said that HDC is working with such leaseholders to speed up the process and that preparations are underway to officially inaugurate Centro Mall.
The first floor of Centro Mall has been specialized for the sale of cosmetics and fabric, in addition to a supermarket space. 12 units in the second floor has been specialized for services in small kiosks, in addition to a salon and clinic. The third floor would have units that sell household items and electronic items. 'The Manhattan Fish Market' is already operating on the terrace of Centro Mall.