Dubai International Financial Centre — Attraction in Zabeel

The worst shopping experience for a Everest Band (Rolex only)...

After searching for a stockist of high quality replacement Rolex Submariner straps (Everest Bands) in Dubai I found Momentum - called the number a few weeks back and spoke to Tarik (who I’m guessing is the owner). He was great on the phone, friendly and courteous - he asked me to come to the store as he said they have a wide selection of Everest Bands and just received stock.

Finally got a chance between meetings and drove to the DIFC store today, 7 Jan 2019 (11:30am). Although empty, the store looks great, loved the watch books and enjoyed the selection of older Rolex’s and other timepieces. I was served by a friendly Sales Assoiciate who showed me all the Everest Bands. The Everest Band’s quality looked far superior than the Momentum branded straps.

I recognised Tarik from Instagram and said hello and explained I called a few weeks back. Unfortunately, the strap I wanted was not stocked and they were unable to place an order for it unless they were placing a bigger order, so I agreed to leave my details. Perhaps my timepiece was not expensive enough to get Tarik’s attention.

Anyways, I decided to support the store and buy a different Everest Band, mainly because the Sales Associate was very attentive and was being genuine (although it is cheaper to buy online directly with Everest and have it shipped here!). Tarik left the store.

So the Sales Associate began attempting to fit the band and was struggling to fit one side on - he tried different tools and was struggling for 60 minutes now. It was clear that he lacked the skill to perform the band change (using my existing clasp on a rubber Everest Band). At the end, after he had scratched my casing and clasp in 3 places I said I would come back when their watch technician was around (apparently only on Mondays and Thursdays but at no set time??).

As I was walking out, the watch technician walked in. He managed to fit the clasp and band in under 3 minutes! His English was not great but I gathered he was a freelancer, nevertheless he seemed more skilled than the Sales Associate .

At this point I was in the store for 110 minutes and severely late for another meeting, so paid the AED 870 and on my way. In the car I noticed that the clasp was positioned slightly uneven so put it back in my watch case and went back into meetings until 5pm. I called Tarik at exactly 5:11pm and explained the situation and asked if I could exchange the strap for the more expensive version that would not need to use my original clasp and be cantered.

Tarik’s response was ‘NO, it’s not our policy to exchange straps, so we cannot’. I was quite taken aback and thought surely he may not have heard me so explained that I had just tried it on and not worn the watch for more than 5 minutes after leaving the store. He was adamant that there was nothing that could be done and I would have to live with the strap I bought from his store 4 hours ago.

If he really cared about his customers he could at the very least have said ‘come in and we could have a look at the strap and try to help’.

So, be careful and make sure you are 100% satisfied with your purchase before you leave this store as they have no value on after-sales service or in my opinion no idea what ‘true customer value’ is.

This has been the worst experience from any luxury store I have ever shopped in and if you value service then I would stay clear. Perhaps, I should have worn a suit and may have got a...

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The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a special economic zone in Dubai covering 110 ha, established in 2004 and a financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) markets. DIFC has its own independent, internationally regulated regulator and judicial system, common law framework, global financial exchange, tax-friendly regime, and a large business community. The district houses hundreds of financial institutions, including wealth funds and private investors, but it also hosts multinationals, retail outlets, cafés, restaurants, residential space, public green spaces, hotels and art galleries.

DIFC is one of Dubai's independent free-zones; it offers companies 100% ownership without the need for a local partner. The district is governed by a common-law framework distinct from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) legal system, with laws and regulations issued in English. DIFC offers clients a 50-year guarantee of zero taxes on corporate income and profits, complemented by the UAE's network of double taxation...

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a world-class financial hub that stands as a symbol of Dubai's global prominence. Boasting modern skyscrapers, cutting-edge architecture, and a dynamic business environment, DIFC is a magnet for international businesses and financial institutions.

The DIFC's strategic location in the heart of Dubai offers easy access to major attractions, hotels, and entertainment options. It serves as a thriving commercial and cultural center, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing professionals and visitors with diverse dining and shopping experiences.

The vibrant atmosphere and a diverse community of professionals from around the world create an exciting and cosmopolitan environment. The DIFC's commitment to innovation and growth is evident in its continuous efforts to foster entrepreneurship and support startups.

Whether you are a business professional, an entrepreneur, or a visitor exploring the city, DIFC is a dynamic district that showcases Dubai's ambition and progress. Its blend of business, leisure, and cultural offerings make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the energy and...