Why Marina Central Tower appeals to top tenants

The 55-story Marina Central Tower is a component of the Grand Marina, Saigon complex. Designed to meet the needs of multinational corporations and major brands, the tower capitalizes on the revitalization of the retail market and the increasing demand for sustainable office spaces, offering significant advantages to prospective tenants.

Positive market signals

In the first nine months of 2024, Vietnam received over 12.7 million international visitors, marking a 43% year-over-year increase. This growth has boosted demand for luxury retail spaces, especially in high-demand locations. The expanding middle class has further driven the shift towards modern shopping centers that offer engaging retail and entertainment experiences.

Marina Central Tower is expected to become a modern shopping center that offers engaging retail and entertainment experiences. Photo courtesy of Masterise Homes

According to Savills, HCMC has approximately 1.49 million sq.m of retail space, with an occupancy rate of 92%. However, high-end retail spaces, particularly in prime areas like District 1, remain in short supply, intensifying competition among retailers. To manage costs and leverage quality infrastructure, many brands are relocating from street-front shops to shopping centers, which offer consistent foot traffic and integrated retail and entertainment environments.

On the office front, demand for green-certified buildings, including LEED and BCA Greenmark, has become essential as companies prioritize sustainability and ESG commitments. Selecting Grade A green-certified offices has become a key strategy for businesses seeking efficient workspaces that align with a positive brand image.

"Land scarcity in central areas makes high-end projects with green certifications and public Transit Oriented Development (TOD) increasingly attractive to tenants," said Nhung Vu, Director of Office Services at Avison Young Vietnam.

Prime location advantage

Marina Central Tower capitalizes on market demand with its exceptional offerings. With 46 floors of Grade A office space, 5 levels of luxury retail, and 4 rooftop floors, the tower is poised to become HCMC's new commercial icon. Its prime location at the intersection of Ton Duc Thang and Nguyen Huu Canh streets, adjacent to Ba Son Bridge, places it at the heart of District 1, where premium office and retail spaces are highly sought after.

Marina Central Tower, located at the intersection of Ton Duc Thang and Nguyen Huu Canh streets, adjacent to Ba Son Bridge, places it at the heart of District 1, HCMC. Photo courtesy of Masterise Homes

A defining feature of Marina Central Tower is its basement level 2, which directly connects to Ba Son Metro Station and includes two on-site entrances to the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line, scheduled to begin commercial operations by late 2024. This strategic TOD positioning gives Marina Central Tower a competitive edge, facilitating easy access for thousands of daily visitors, from office workers to local residents and tourists.

Marina Central Tower's basement level 2 directly connects to Ba Son Metro Station and includes two on-site entrances to the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line.Photo courtesy of Masterise Homes

Situated within a new waterfront square and just 250 meters from the Saigon River, Marina Central Tower provides exclusive retail spaces and dining experiences with panoramic views of the river, Ba Son Bridge, and the downtown skyline. This prime setting is ideal for brands aiming to enhance their presence and deliver elevated experiences to customers.

Grade A office and premium retail spaces

Marina Central Tower is a cornerstone of the Grand Marina, Saigon complex—the world's largest branded real estate complex under the Marriott & JW Marriott brand. This strategic location grants brands direct access to an elite resident community within the branded apartments, offering a high-income clientele seeking premium experiences and services.

Marina Central Tower is expected to be an attraction to top tenants. Photo courtesy of Masterise Homes

The tower's 5 retail floors are designed with 5 distinct concepts, creating an attractive setting for luxury brands, upscale dining venues, and F&B establishments. These spaces cater to the modern consumer's preference for immersive, experiential shopping.

With 87,000 sq.m of Grade A office space, advanced infrastructure, and smart amenities, Marina Central Tower is ideal for technology corporations, international finance firms, and creative agencies. Key features include "networking floors" from levels 36 to 44, designed with outdoor balconies and green spaces, providing collaborative workspaces where colleagues can connect, relax, and recharge.

Masterise Homes, the developer, is committed to sustainability, targeting LEED Gold certification for Marina Central Tower. The tower is equipped with water-saving systems, HVAC wastewater recycling for irrigation, and efficient waste management solutions. These features not only lower operating costs but also support a green, sustainable brand image for tenants.

"Many companies are willing to invest more in green office spaces that enhance operational efficiency and meet corporate social responsibilities," says a Masterise Homes representative.

According to Savills, Marina Central Tower's combination of a prime location, transit connectivity, modern amenities, and sustainability commitments provides long-term competitive advantages for brands and businesses. The tower is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-end retail and office spaces in the city.

Marina Central Tower is slated for its grand opening in 2025. The tower has already completed its exterior glass facade, and leasing for office and retail spaces began in July 2024.