Find out where Mahiki could expand next... and it's not Abu Dhabi
Bad news for Abu Dhabi’s club-hoppers and celeb-spotters – the team behind Mahiki Dubai are not planning to expand into the capital.
Brompton Brands has said Mahiki won’t be bringing its tiki vibe to Abu Dhabi… but Africa could be in line for it’s own outpost of Dubai’s fahionistas’ favourite hangout.
Brand Ambassedor Matt Jolly told What’s On that Dubai is “where the action is”, adding that he didn’t want to “expand just for the sake of expansion”.
The news that Mahiki will focus on continuing to develop their excellent reputation in Dubai comes at a time when competition in their sector is at its highest. Not only are the likes of Supperclub and Cavalli adding fresh dimensions to the nightlife scene, but other established names like Chinawhite and Pacha are set to open their doors in the coming months.
That’s not to say Mahiki Dubai – modelled on the original club in London – will be the last of the Polynesian-themed celeb haunts to crop up around the globe. Piers hinted that Africa could be the next location on his hit-list, along with famed party cities in the US.
Asked where he would like to see future Mahikis, he said: “Africa definitely, it has huge growth. Miami or Vegas in America, then maybe Singapore.”
Adams, who was best man at Madonna’s wedding to film director Guy Richie, was in the UAE in recent weeks to discuss future plans for the Dubai venue – named best nightclub in the 2013 What’s On Awards – with local management.
Adams, who said the award meant a “huge amount” to the team, told us about another Dubai venue that had caught his eye – The Act.
“The Act are very good at what they do,” he said. “…They pay attention to detail in everything they do… I really respect the venue.”
Brompton Brands is also behind Whisky Mist in London’s Mayfair, another nightspot beloved by celebrities and young royals.
Which celeb would Piers like to see throwing some shapes at Mahiki Dubai? It turns out singer Rita Ora is top of his dream Dubai guestlist, along with an iconic American fashion designer and a certain flame-haired prince.
“I love Rita Ora at the moment, I like her style and her look,” he said of the Hot Right Now singer. “She is a fun girl. Ralph Lauren is also an interesting one. I would also have to have Katy Perry and Prince Harry.”