Shops in Al Mulla Plaza temporarily closed

Dubai's Al Mulla Plaza shopping centre remains closed to the public following a partial building collapse on Saturday which injured two people.

The collapse was caused by the overloading of an equipment storage bay.

One of the oldest shopping centres in Dubai, the building features retail outlets and an apartment block above them. Apartments were not affected in the incident and tenants were allowed to go to their homes. The Dubai Police have cordoned off the retail shops.

As we visited the plaza on Sunday, we found many shoppers who had come to the mall as usual, unaware of the mishap. No one was allowed inside and officials were seen inspecting the structure that’s located on Al Ittihad road.

A security guard deputed outside the popular landmark asked the visitors to come back a few days later as authorities ensured safety.

Dubai Media Office said in a statement on Sunday that authorities had taken “swift action to manage the situation arising from the collapse of a small part of Al Mulla Plaza”.

“The incident, caused by the improper storage of heavy materials, led to minor injuries to two people.

“Government departments responded rapidly to ensure the safety of everyone, including workers and visitors.”