Yalla Bowling Center, Riyadh

Majid Al Futtaim appointed Unick Consulting to develop the existing Yalla! Bowling brand, which is already well established in multiple locations across the MENA region. The multi-disciplinary consultant was tasked to enhance and create a vibrant entertainment environment, combined with a variety of gaming and dining experiences, either as an integral element or standalone location.

The latest Yalla! Bowling branch is located in the northeast of Riyadh at Atyaf Mall and is the third Yalla! Bowling destination in the Saudi capital, following Al Qasr Mall and Riyadh Park Mall. Havelock One, an interior solutions provider, which has worked on numerous VOX Cinemas and Magic Planet project developments, was nominated the fit-out contractor on the job.

Situated opposite the newly opened VOX Cinemas, this Yalla! Bowling is a standalone leisure facility and diner, combining eight lanes of bowling alongside pool tables, foosball and air hockey, with a mix of lane-side booth seating and high tables. Visible from the mall side through shopfront glazing, customers have full visibility of the 10,500 sq. ft. venue beyond. Materials are chosen to be robust and neutral, acting as a backdrop to the main attractions within, and the combination of digital screens and themed artwork creates an environment suited to all age groups.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions during the height of the pandemic, the Havelock One’s KSA-based fit-out team managed to implement the project within a tight timeline of five months. Products and materials specified and sourced internationally that caused logistical challenges were addressed with temporary solutions from local providers; Havelock One’s factory in Askar, Bahrain manufactured all joinery, seating, tables and feature ceiling items as well as the F&B counter and bulkhead made of laminated patterned glass.