Nexus Select Citywalk is a premier shopping and entertainment mall located in the Saket district of South Delhi, India, spanning approximately 1.3 million square feet and housing over 230 retail outlets, including leading Indian retailers and numerous international brands making their India debut.[1][2]Opened on October 12, 2007, by Select Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd.—a joint venture between the Select Group and the Aarone Group—the mall was developed over a 30-month period following the foundation stone laying in February 2005, quickly establishing itself as a high-traffic destination with ~16 million annual shopper footfalls as of September 2025.[3][4][2][5] It features a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and luxury stores, alongside diverse dining options, a multiplex cinema, and event spaces like The Plaza for cultural performances.[6][2]The property boasts a leasable area of 0.5 million square feet with a 99% occupancy rate as of September 2025, and it is recognized as one of India's top-performing malls based on tenant sales per square foot.[2] Since 2022, it has been part of the Nexus Select Trust portfolio, India's largest retail REIT, which has driven expansions including over 20 new store openings in recent years.[5][2]Nexus Select Citywalk has earned multiple accolades for excellence in retail and sustainability, including the IMAGES Most Admired Shopping Centre of the Year (North India) at the 2024 Images Shopping Centre Awards and, as part of the Nexus Select Trust portfolio, recognition as a Champion of Sustainability in 2025 by industry bodies.[7][8] In October 2025, the mall celebrated its 18th anniversary, continuing to support Nexus Select Trust's sustainability efforts, including the revival of water bodies through the "Lakes of Happyness" program. Its facilities cater to diverse visitors with amenities such as valet parking, EV charging stations, concierge services, and accessible features for seniors and families.[9][2][10][11]
History and Development
Origins and Construction
The development of Select Citywalk originated from a joint venture formed in the early 2000s between the Select Group, a Delhi-based real estate developer, and the Aarone Group, a prominent player in premium real estate projects. This partnership established Select Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. as the entity responsible for the project, aiming to create a landmark mixed-use destination in South Delhi.[5][12]The project was conceptualized in 2003 by key figures including Yog Raj Arora, Neeraj Ghei, and Arjun Sharma, who successfully bid for a 6-acre site in the Saket District Centre through a Delhi Development Authority (DDA) auction. This acquisition positioned the development in a rapidly growing middle-class neighborhood, ideal for an upscale retail and leisure hub. Construction commenced with the groundbreaking ceremony on February 22, 2005, marking the start of a 30-month build phase that transformed the site into a 1.3 million square foot complex integrating retail spaces, entertainment facilities, offices, serviced apartments, and a public plaza.[5][13][14]Select Citywalk's initial vision emphasized a premium shopping and leisure experience tailored to affluent South Delhi residents, blending international and domestic brands with cultural and entertainment elements to foster a vibrant urbanlifestyle. Pre-opening leasing efforts were notably aggressive, achieving full occupancy through innovative revenue-sharing models that attracted anchor tenants and luxury retailers well before completion. The mall officially opened to the public on October 12, 2007, inaugurated by then-Lt. Governor of Delhi, Tejinder Khanna, establishing it as a pioneering retail project in the region.[15][1][16]
Ownership Changes
Nexus Select Citywalk was originally developed through a joint venture between the Select Group and the Aarone Group, under Select Infrastructure Private Limited, which managed its operations from inception.[5]The mall's ownership transitioned significantly in 2022 when Blackstone-backed Nexus Malls acquired Select Infrastructure Private Limited as part of its expansion strategy, integrating Citywalk into a broader portfolio of high-quality retail assets. This acquisition, with talks commencing in August 2022 and terms finalized by November 2022, was approved by the Competition Commission of India in February 2023, marking Citywalk's incorporation into the Nexus platform that had been building since 2016 through acquisitions of other malls.[17][18][19]In August 2022, Nexus Select Trust was established as India's first retail Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), sponsored by Blackstone, to hold and manage a portfolio including Citywalk among 17 operational malls across 14 cities, spanning approximately 9.8 million square feet of retail space valued at around ₹23,000 crore. The Trust's initial public offering (IPO) occurred in May 2023, raising up to ₹3,200 crore through listing on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange, which diluted Blackstone's stake from 60% to 43% while retaining promoter involvement from Select Citywalk's original owners.[20][21][22]Under Nexus Select Trust's ownership, operational strategies have emphasized inorganic growth, with plans to double the portfolio to 20 million square feet within 4-5 years through targeted acquisitions of premium retail properties, enhancing Citywalk's position within a scaled, professionally managed network focused on high-traffic urban centers.[23]
Location and Accessibility
Site Description
Nexus Select Citywalk is situated in the Saket District Centre, Sector-6, Pushp Vihar, in South Delhi, India, occupying a site spanning approximately 6 acres.[1] The mall's geographic coordinates are 28°31′44″N 77°13′9″E, placing it in close proximity to key landmarks such as the Malviya Nagar Metro Station on the Delhi Metro's Yellow Line and surrounding residential neighborhoods including Saket and Pushp Vihar.[24]The site is embedded within South Delhi's dynamic urban fabric, integrating seamlessly with adjacent commercial offices, serviced apartments, and landscaped public green spaces that enhance the area's aesthetic and recreational appeal.[1] This mixed-use environment reflects the neighborhood's blend of residential, professional, and leisure zones, contributing to a vibrant community hub amid the region's established infrastructure. The overall built-up area of the complex measures about 1.3 million square feet, underscoring its scale within this constrained urban setting.[1]
Transportation and Parking
Nexus Select Citywalk in Saket, New Delhi, benefits from strong public transportation links, with the nearest Delhi Metro station being Malviya Nagar on the Yellow Line, located about 1.2 km away for convenient access across the city.[24] Local bus services connect via nearby stops at Saket District Centre and Pushp Vihar, while auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Ola provide flexible last-mile options.[25]The mall is reachable by major arterial roads like Mehrauli–Badarpur Road and is approximately 16 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport, typically a 30- to 45-minute drive under normal conditions.[26]Parking facilities accommodate around 1,200 vehicles in a multi-level basement structure, including 934 spaces for four-wheelers and 224 for two-wheelers.[4][3]Valet service is available, along with privileged spots reserved for seniors, pregnant women, handicapped visitors, and women drivers (80 designated spaces), and EV charging stations to support modern needs.[9][4]To manage vehicle flow efficiently, the parking area features 18 dedicated entry points and 19 exit points.[4]
Nexus Select Citywalk exemplifies modern upscale architecture by integrating open-air promenades with enclosed retail environments across three floors, encompassing a total built-up area of 1,300,000 square feet.[27] The design, crafted by Delhi-based firm Design Forum International, draws inspiration from European high-street layouts while adapting them to the dynamic needs of Indian urban retail, fostering a seamless blend of accessibility and luxury.[28] This hybrid approach positions the mall as a vibrant city-center hub, emphasizing functional elegance through expansive glass facades and thoughtful spatial flow.[29]Central to the structure is a prominent oval-shaped atrium at the main entrance, sheathed in translucent polycarbonate panels that facilitate abundant natural lighting throughout the interior.[30] This feature not only enhances visual connectivity between levels but also promotes energy conservation by reducing reliance on artificial illumination during daylight hours.[31] Complementing the interiors, the exterior boasts a 240-meter-long facade overlooking a 100,000-square-foot landscaped plaza, which includes fountains, shaded seating, and pedestrian pathways weaving through four acres of green spaces.[29] These elements create an inviting transition from urban streets to the mall's refined ambiance, incorporating public art installations that add cultural depth to the retail experience.[32]Sustainability is woven into the architectural framework through energy-efficient systems and advanced water management, achieving 100% recycling of wastewater via on-site effluent treatment plants (ETP) and sewage treatment plants (STP) as of 2014, with continued STP operations for reuse as of 2024.[33][34] Materials such as natural wood and fire-resistant leathers further support eco-conscious design principles, aligning the mall with broader environmental goals in commercial development.[33] Overall, these features underscore a commitment to creating a durable, user-centric space that harmonizes aesthetic appeal with practical innovation.
Layout and Amenities
Nexus Select Citywalk features a three-floor retail layout spanning a gross leasable area of 500,000 square feet, designed to optimize visitor flow and shopping convenience.[2] The ground floor serves as the primary entry level, accommodating anchor tenants and essential access points with multiple entrances to facilitate seamless arrivals.[27] Upper floors, including the first and second levels, host specialized zones for fashion, lifestyle, and food-related retail, connected via escalators and elevators for efficient vertical movement.[29] This floor-wise organization supports a logical progression from entry to exploration, with open atriums enhancing natural light and spatial connectivity.[35]The mall offers comprehensive amenities to support visitor needs throughout their stay. Restrooms are strategically located on each floor for easy access.[36] ATMs are available on-site to provide convenient banking services.[9] Dedicated baby care rooms, including feeding facilities, cater to families with infants.[9] Additional conveniences include tailoring services for quick alterations and shoe repair stations for on-the-spot fixes.[9] A rewards desk operates within the premises, allowing shoppers to enroll in loyalty programs and redeem benefits.[9]Accessibility is prioritized through inclusive design elements, ensuring the mall is navigable for all visitors. Ramps and elevators provide barrier-free access across levels, complementing escalators for general use.[29]Wheelchair support is available via a dedicated handicap assistance program, including assistance from staff and reserved facilities.[9]The retail zones integrate seamlessly with adjacent office blocks and serviced apartments, forming a mixed-use development that includes approximately 100,000 square feet of serviced apartments.[5] This configuration allows for residential and professional spaces to coexist alongside commercial areas, contributing to the complex's urban functionality.[27]
Retail Offerings
Stores and Brands
Nexus Select Citywalk features over 230 stores across a leasable area of approximately 0.5 million square feet, achieving a 99% occupancy rate as of September 2025.[2] This high occupancy reflects the mall's appeal to a diverse range of retailers, positioning it as one of India's top-performing assets based on tenant sales per square foot.[2]The retail offerings span key categories including fashion, electronics, and lifestyle, blending established Indian retailers with global chains to cater to affluent urban consumers.[2] Homegrown fashion brands contribute to the mix, alongside international names that enhance the mall's upscale positioning.[37] Notable examples include the 2021 addition of over 20 stores, such as the Indian ethnic wear label Sassy Begum, which broadened the domestic fashion segment.[38]Since its opening in 2007, the brand mix at Nexus Select Citywalk has evolved through a strategic leasing approach focused on curating high-quality tenants and introducing 'India First' international brands to drive footfall and sales.[2] This strategy has prioritized diversification and premium positioning, resulting in sustained growth in tenant diversity and performance metrics.[39] A recent highlight is the October 2025 debut of COS, H&M Group's premium fashion brand, marking its first store in India and underscoring the mall's role in attracting global entrants.[40] Such additions complement the anchor tenants by filling mid-tier and specialty niches with innovative retail experiences.[2]
Anchor Tenants
Nexus Select Citywalk boasts anchor tenants that occupy significant portions of its approximately 500,000 square feet of retail space, serving as key drivers of visitor traffic and enabling the attraction of over 230 complementary smaller stores across various categories.[2] These anchors, strategically placed in prime ground-floor and lower-ground-floor locations, contribute to the mall's operational efficiency by generating substantial footfall—estimated at over 30% of total visitors—and fostering a vibrant ecosystem where smaller retailers benefit from the spillover effect.[41]Prominent among the anchors are department stores like Shoppers Stop, which offers a multi-brand retail experience spanning apparel, accessories, and home goods, alongside international fashion outlets such as H&M and Zara, each occupying around 25,000 square feet.[42][4] Sports retailer Decathlon, with its 15,000-square-foot space dedicated to equipment and activewear, further diversifies the mix, appealing to a broad demographic and reinforcing the mall's position as a one-stop lifestyle hub.[4] Additional anchors include electronics specialist Croma, which has been integral since the mall's inception.[43]Since its opening in October 2007, the anchor lineup has evolved to enhance the mall's luxury appeal, with initial tenants such as Pantaloons—a traditional department store—relocated from a 20,000-square-foot ground-floor spot to a smaller upper-level area in 2015 to accommodate emerging global brands.[4] This strategic reshuffling, including the addition of H&M, Zara, and later Decathlon in 2020, reflects a broader industry trend toward international diversification, replacing or downsizing legacy Indian retailers to boost prestige and draw affluent shoppers seeking high-end, experiential retail.[44][45] These changes have solidified Nexus Select Citywalk's reputation as Delhi's premier luxury destination, where anchors not only anchor the physical layout but also elevate the overall brand positioning through curated, upscale offerings.[41]
Entertainment and Dining
Cinema and Leisure
The cinema facilities at Nexus Select Citywalk are anchored by the PVR Cinemas multiplex, which features six screens with a total seating capacity of 1,235, including two premium Gold Class auditoriums offering enhanced comfort with recliners and dedicated service. Opened in 2007 as part of the mall's initial development, the multiplex provides a range of viewing options from standard to luxury formats, catering to diverse audiences seeking cinematic experiences in a modern setting.A highlight is the IMAX theater, which debuted in December 2017 as Delhi's first such venue, delivering immersive large-format screenings with advanced projection and sound systems.[46] In 2019, PVR upgraded this auditorium to IMAX with Laser technology, introducing 4K resolution, higher brightness, deeper contrast, and expanded color gamut for superior visual fidelity and premium viewing.[47] Spanning approximately 64,000 square feet, the multiplex integrates seamlessly as a family- and youth-oriented entertainment hub within the mall, drawing visitors for blockbuster releases and special events.[4]Beyond cinema, leisure options include dedicated gaming zones such as Hang Out, a family entertainment center on the fourth floor equipped with arcade games, bowling alleys, virtual reality rides, and 3D/4D motion theaters for interactive fun suitable for all ages.[48] The mall's central plaza serves as an open event space hosting live performances, concerts, and cultural activities, enhancing the leisure appeal with dynamic, on-site entertainment that complements the multiplex experience.[49] These facilities are conveniently positioned adjacent to the food court, allowing easy transitions between leisure pursuits and casual dining.[1]
Food and Beverage
The food and beverage offerings at Nexus Select Citywalk emphasize a diverse range of culinary experiences, catering to the mall's high visitor volume through a combination of quick-service outlets, standalone restaurants, and specialized zones. The My Square food court, a multi-cuisine hub spanning approximately 5,500 square feet, features over a dozen outlets serving global flavors including Indian, Chinese, Italian, and fast-casual options like burgers and wraps, designed to accommodate casual dining for large crowds.[50]Standalone restaurants span casual to upscale dining, with a mix of Indian specialties such as those at Punjab Grill and international cuisines like Chinese at China Bistro or Italian at Toscano, alongside quick-service spots including cafes and dessert parlors. In 2021, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe was added as a vibrant quick-service outlet offering Japanese-inspired street food, enhancing the variety for on-the-go visitors.[51][52]To support the mall's substantial annual footfalls—estimated in the millions across Nexus properties—the dining areas incorporate kiosks strategically placed for convenience and seasonal pop-ups featuring limited-time menus, such as festive Diwali bazaars with street eats. Health-conscious and dietary options are integrated, including vegan-friendly choices at outlets like Haagen-Dazs, which offers non-dairy ice creams and sorbets, alongside plant-based items in multi-cuisine spots.[53][54][55][56]Proximity to the PVR Cinemas allows for seamless combo visits, where diners can pair meals with movie outings in the same complex.[57]
Events, Awards, and Impact
Notable Events
Nexus Select Citywalk marked its 10th anniversary in November 2017, highlighting a decade of growth as one of Delhi's leading upscale shopping and leisure destinations.[58]The mall has consistently hosted community-focused charity drives, particularly animal adoption events in partnership with welfare organizations. In November 2019, it organized a major adoption drive with People for Animals to rehome abandoned dogs, drawing significant public participation.[59] A year earlier, in November 2018, the sixth edition of the Cause 4 the Paws event took place at the venue, uniting pet enthusiasts from Delhi-NCR for adoptions and awareness activities.[60]Festive seasons bring vibrant pop-up experiences and markets to the mall, especially during Diwali, where shoppers engage with themed decorations, special promotions, and curated stalls featuring seasonal must-haves like apparel and decor.[61]In October 2025, the plaza served as the venue for the Rang De Korea festival on October 11, India's largest Korean cultural extravaganza, which included K-drama-inspired installations, live performances, and interactive exhibits celebrating Korean traditions.[62]That same month, on October 5, the mall hosted the launch of COS's inaugural Indian store, a milestone for the London-based premium fashion brand under H&M Group, complete with displays of its Autumn/Winter 2025 collections and attracting crowds for the debut.[63]In November 2025, the mall hosted the Armaan Malik live concert at The Plaza on November 15, drawing music enthusiasts for a high-energy performance. The same weekend, on November 15-16, it served as a venue for the Pokémon GO Fest 2025 global celebrations, offering interactive gaming experiences and community events. Additionally, The Gloss Box 2025, a curated beauty and wellness festival, took place in November, featuring luxury brands, trends, and wellness offerings for patrons.[64][65][66]
Awards and Recognitions
Nexus Select Citywalk has received multiple accolades from the Images Shopping Centre Awards, recognizing its excellence in retail performance and operations. In 2016, it was honored as the IMAGES Most Admired Shopping Centre of the Year (North) for Best ROI, Best Sales Per Sq. Ft., and Socially Responsible initiatives.[67] In 2021, the mall earned the title of Most Admired Shopping Centre City Centre.[68] More recently, in 2024, it was awarded the IMAGES Most Admired Shopping Centre of the Year (North India).[7]The mall is recognized as one of India's highest performing retail assets, based on tenant sales per square foot, reflecting its strong operational efficiency and tenant appeal.[2] This performance is underscored by its annual sales exceeding 10 billion rupees as of 2015, establishing it as a benchmark for retailproductivity in the country.[15]In the realm of sustainability, Nexus Select Citywalk contributes to the broader Nexus Select Malls portfolio, which received the Sustainable Organisations 2025 – Champions of Green Business Practices award for its eco-friendly practices, including water conservation, waste management, and green building certifications across properties like Citywalk.[8]
Economic and Cultural Impact
Nexus Select Citywalk has significantly contributed to the local economy in South Delhi by attracting substantial shopper traffic and supporting the retail sector's growth. As of June 30, 2025, the mall recorded 16 million last twelve months (LTM) footfalls, underscoring its role as a major draw for consumers and a catalyst for economic activity in the region.[2] This high volume of visitors, combined with a 99% leasing occupancyrate, has bolstered the South Delhiretail ecosystem by housing a diversified mix of leading retailers and driving tenant sales per square foot that rank among the highest in India.[2] Furthermore, the mall's operations, along with its tenants, generate numerous employment opportunities in retail, hospitality, and related services, contributing to local job creation as part of Nexus Select Trust's broader portfolio that supports over 4,000 direct employees across its properties.[53]Culturally, Nexus Select Citywalk serves as a vibrant social hub in South Delhi, fostering community interactions through events, gatherings, and lifestyle experiences. It has become a popular destination for wedding-related shopping, with dedicated sections for bridal wear, gifting, and accessories that cater to festive and matrimonial occasions, drawing crowds for pre-wedding preparations and celebrations.[69] The mall also facilitates youth gatherings via entertainment zones like gaming arcades and hosts seasonal events such as Diwali markets, Christmas fairs, and cultural festivals, enhancing its status as a communal space for social and leisure activities.[70] Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in introducing international brands to the Indian market, serving as a preferred launchpad for global labels, including first-time entries like Gucci Beauty's exclusive boutique, which promotes cultural exchange through fashion and luxury retail.[71]The mall has influenced broader trends in Indian retail by exemplifying high-occupancy models and adaptive strategies post-pandemic. Its sustained 99% occupancy reflects resilience and a shift toward experience-driven shopping, with reconfigured spaces emphasizing entertainment, dining, and interactive features to meet evolving consumer preferences for hybrid leisure-retail environments.[2] Following the pandemic, Nexus Select Citywalk adapted by enhancing hygiene protocols, integrating technology like smart navigation apps, and prioritizing experiential elements, resulting in tenant sales and footfalls that surpassed pre-COVID levels, setting benchmarks for urban malls nationwide.[72]Looking ahead, under Nexus Select Trust, Nexus Select Citywalk benefits from strategic portfolio expansion plans aimed at doubling the overall asset base to 30-35 malls by 2030 through targeted acquisitions, ensuring sustained economic vitality and cultural relevance in India's retail landscape.[73]