Top 5 Malls in Dubai
Dubai, renowned for its opulence and luxury, is a top global shopping destination with an array of impressive malls, each possessing its unique charm and offerings. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous shopping destinations in this vibrant city.
Cultural Centres: Dubai’s shopping centres are not merely retail spaces; they act as social and cultural centres. They offer meeting points for friends and families to enjoy quality time together. Numerous centres hold cultural gatherings, art exhibitions and entertainment events, enhancing the city’s cultural richness.
Relief from Harsh Weather: Dubai endures extremely hot summers, so the malls provide a climate-controlled haven that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking respite from the sweltering temperatures. The malls have become crucial for the welfare of the community.
Shopping options cater for Dubai’s multicultural population with diversity in the offerings. Visitors can discover products from around the world that cater to the diverse taste and preferences of both residents and tourists.
Malls significantly contribute to Dubai’s economy by generating revenue not just from retail sales, but also from the entertainment and hospitality sectors within them. These establishments create employment opportunities, ranging from sales staff to management, which boosts employment within the city.
Tourism: Dubai’s shopping centres are popular tourist destinations, with visitors often planning their trips around the experience of exploring their grandeur. This generates substantial contributions to Dubai’s economy via their tourism sector, a key pillar of the economy.
Innovation and Modernity: Dubai is famous for its innovation and modernity, continuously breaking boundaries. The city’s malls are remarkable feats of architecture, with distinctive characteristics that make them stand out worldwide. They represent the city’s dedication to advancement and originality.
Table of Contents
1- The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping centre; it’s a spectacular retail experience. Located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa, it is the world’s largest mall by total area. The mall offers much more than shopping; it is an adventure. Visitors can admire the wonders of the Dubai Aquarium, skate on the ice rink or even take in the Burj Khalifa fountain show. The mall boasts a range of high-end boutiques, making it a paradise for shopaholics.
Shops: The Dubai Mall is a haven for avid shoppers with a diverse array of stores spanning different categories. The Dubai Mall is a haven for avid shoppers with a diverse array of stores spanning different categories. An unmatched mall experience. It provides a distinctly unique shopping extravaganza, ranging from upscale designer boutiques to globally recognised brands.
Notable highlights are the Dubai Mall, located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, which is the world’s busiest retail and lifestyle hub, attracting over 100 million visitors each year.
The Dubai Mall is a haven for avid shoppers with a diverse array of stores spanning different categories.
The Dubai Mall boasts more than 1,200 retail outlets, including anchor department stores Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s. With over 200 international dining options and a variety of entertainment and leisure attractions suitable for families, it is an unparalleled shopping destination.
Fashion Avenue, the Luxury Haven, entices with its
selection of 150 luxury shopping and dining experiences. With its captivating architecture, stunning art and elegant interiors, this is the ideal model of luxury in the Middle East.
You can peruse flagship stores and
exclusive products, receiving bespoke 5-star service from the minute you arrive and taking advantage of a range of offerings, such as VIP valet, shopping with delivery, chauffeur service within the mall and much more.
Indulge in top-quality cuisine at Fashion Avenue.
Complete your shopping trip with a premium dining experience at Fashion Avenue. Enjoy a diverse range of culinary concepts offering the finest flavours.
Souk Al Bahar – The Ideal Mix Conveniently positioned next to Dubai Mall in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Souk Al Bahar expertly combines the classic with the contemporary. It provides an exciting variety of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. With more than 100 shops and 22 eateries and lounges, the Souk offers a stunning spot to admire the awe-inspiring scenery of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
Additionally, Souk Al Bahar brings you Time
Out Market Dubai – a gastronomic heaven showcasing 17 exceptional local chefs.
1- Mall Of Emirates
Mall of the Emirates, the epitome of luxury shopping, warmly welcomes over 40 million visitors annually who seek the finest retail, dining, and entertainment experiences in the region.
A Hub of Luxury
Home to flagship stores of the world’s most prominent fashion brands, Mall of the Emirates provides direct access to two prestigious 5-star hotels – Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates and Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates. Additionally, it conveniently connects to the Dubai Metro, boasts the iconic Ski Dubai, and features the Middle East’s largest VOX Cinemas theatre.
panning over 233,467 square meters, Mall of the Emirates boasts an impressive array of 630+ brands, covering department stores, fashion, lifestyle, sports, electronics, home furnishings, and even the city’s largest Carrefour.
This mall is the perfect family destination, featuring a wealth of fun attractions and activities. Guests can enjoy Magic Planet, the latest blockbusters at VOX Cinemas, and the excitement of Ski Dubai. With over 100 dining and café options, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Mall of the Emirates is synonymous with luxury, proudly showcasing more than 80 of the world’s most prestigious designer brands
For the utmost convenience and comfort of guests, the mall offers two adjoining 5-star hotels: Kempinski Mall of the Emirates and Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel.
Getting To Mall Of Emirates
Getting to Mall of the Emirates is a breeze, thanks to several convenient transportation options. Whether you prefer driving, using public transit, or taking a taxi, you’ll find it easy to access this popular shopping destination:
1. By Car:
The simplest way to reach Mall of the Emirates is by car. Just drive down Sheikh Zayed Road and take the exit at the 4th interchange. Follow the signs, and you’ll find yourself at the mall in no time.
2. Using the Dubai Metro:
For an eco-friendly and efficient option, hop on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro. Get off at the Mall of the Emirates station, and you’ll be steps away from the mall’s entrance.
3. RTA Taxi:
Another hassle-free choice is to book an RTA taxi. They can drop you off right at the mall’s entrance, making your journey stress-free.
4. Tourist-Friendly Option:
Tourists can also opt for the hop-on, hop-off Big Bus Tour, which stops at convenient locations across the city, including Mall of the Emirates. It’s a great way to explore the city and its attractions while making a seamless visit to the mall.
3- Ibn Battuta Mall
Ibn Battuta Mall, the world’s largest themed shopping center, draws inspiration from the renowned Moroccan explorer of the same name. Adorned with stunning decorations, a plethora of entertainment options, and an impressive lineup of nearly 300 retailers, this mall is a standout shopping destination in Dubai. Not to forget the delightful dining choices, three splendid hotels, and convenient transportation links that further enhance the Ibn Battuta Mall experience.
Opening Hours: Ibn Battuta Mall welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Sundays through Thursdays and extends its hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s important to note that the mall may have varying opening hours during Ramadan and public holidays. Additionally, individual shops and restaurants within the mall might also have adjusted operating hours.
What To Do in Ibn Battuta Mall
Visiting Ibn Battuta Mall is not just an enjoyable activity; it’s also free and full of colorful architecture and interactive displays to delight in. The mall’s six themed courts – China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia, and Andalusia – pay homage to Ibn Battuta’s remarkable journeys. Each court offers unique attractions:
- India Court showcases a full-size elephant clock, a medieval water clock featuring moving wooden dragons and phoenixes.
- China Court boasts a full-sized ship, an awe-inspiring sight.
- Andalusia Court features a captivating stone fountain adorned with lions.
Other Exciting Activities:
- Sky Zone: Dive into one of Dubai’s premier trampoline parks for high-flying fun.
- Kidz Palooza: A family-friendly space offering a soft play area for the little ones, as well as engaging paint and pottery studios for creative family bonding.
- Novo Cinemas: Enjoy the latest blockbusters on their 21 screens, including the IMAX experience.
- Switch Bowling: Test your skills on the lanes, pool tables, and karaoke rooms, perfect for some friendly competition.
Dining Delights:
Ibn Battuta Mall boasts an array of dining options, from international chains like Nando’s and Pizza Express in China Court to casual food courts in Persia Court and Tunisia Court. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor culinary delights at independent and local restaurants, including Coterie Kitchen, Off The Hook, and Gazebo.
For something sweet, try Cold Stone Creamery, or enjoy a cup of coffee at Dubai-favorite Shakespeare & Co. Throughout the mall, you’ll find branches of Costa, Tim Horton’s, and Starbucks. The Starbucks beneath Persia Court’s stunning dome is an unforgettable spot in the city.
Hotels at Your Doorstep:
Ibn Battuta Mall offers convenient accommodation options:
- Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate: This five-star hotel features a distinctive arch, a rooftop pool, four gourmet restaurants, and complimentary access to Riva Beach Club.
- Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel: A four-star choice, it provides a range of dining options, a striking pool, and a lounge terrace with sunset views.
- Premier Inn Dubai Ibn Battuta Hotel: This three-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, an in-house spa, and a gym. Both Premier Inn and Avani hotels are located right next to the metro station.
Getting to Ibn Battuta Mall:
Reaching Ibn Battuta Mall is easy via Dubai’s public transport network:
- Dubai Metro: The mall has its own metro station on the Red Line, with a convenient change at Jabal Ali Metro Station if you’re traveling from central Dubai. Just switch to the metro towards UAE Exchange station, and one more stop will take you to Ibn Battuta Mall.
- Bus: Ibn Battuta Mall has a bus station with multiple routes connecting you to Dubai and beyond, including the Gold Souk, Jumeirah, Satwa bus station, Al Maktoum International Airport, and more. Check out routes like 8, F55A, F43, F44, and F46, as well as the inter-emirates service E101 for comprehensive bus options.
For detailed public transportation schedules, visit rta.ae.
4- City Centre Deira
In November 1995, City Centre Deira, Dubai, UAE, marked a significant milestone as it opened its doors. It introduced a revolutionary concept of “malls” to the region. As the inaugural large-scale, mixed-use shopping destination, it offered a unique combination of retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment facilities, and even a hotel, propelling the concept of one-stop shopping and entertainment in the Middle East to an entirely new level.
Spanning across 123,028 square meters, City Centre Deira hosts more than 371 retail stores and services. The entertainment offerings are equally impressive, with attractions such as Magic Planet, a beloved indoor family entertainment center, and VOX Cinemas, a 20-screen cinema multiplex with 3,000 seats. The Centre also provides direct access to the luxurious 5-star City Centre Hotel & Residence, managed by Pullman. Additionally, it houses the MAF Tower, an 11-story office building.
City Centre Deira stands as one of the flagship malls in the Majid Al Futtaim Properties portfolio and ranks among the world’s most successful shopping destinations. With an average annual footfall of over 22 million visitors, it continues to be a preferred destination for both residents and tourists, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for shopping and entertainment.
City Centre Deira is an accessible, family-friendly mall that offers a delightful shopping experience with a range of high-street stores such as H&M, Zara, Forever 21, and Aldo. It’s the perfect spot for an all-day adventure of retail therapy and recreational fun. What makes it even more convenient is its connection to two excellent hotels, Aloft Dubai Creek and Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, making your stay a one-stop-shop holiday experience.
A well-established and beloved destination, this mall is a shopping staple for residents, both from the neighborhood and throughout the city. It’s particularly renowned for its kidswear outlets, featuring brands like Carter’s, Babyshop, The Children’s Place, Okaïdi, and Mothercare. Parents, too, have plenty of options with stores like Balmain, Beverly Hills Polo Club, and Bershka, offering the latest in high-end fashion.
What to Expect at City Centre Deira:
With over 370 outlets, this mall has it all – from opticians and pharmacies to a jewelry and textile court showcasing Middle Eastern handicrafts. You can stop by the extensive Carrefour supermarket or head to the food court for quick and delicious bites. Beyond shopping, there’s an entertainment center and a bowling alley to keep you engaged.
VOX Cinemas is a major attraction, boasting one of the country’s largest movie theaters. City Centre Deira’s multiplex venue screens blockbusters daily across its 20 screens, ensuring there’s something for every movie buff. The recent launch of Food Central has transformed this area into a culinary hub with over 15 eateries, including Chalco’s Mexican Grill and BKK Bistro.
How to Reach Deira City Centre:
You can easily access Deira City Centre through various transportation options:
- Dubai Metro: Take the Red Line and head towards Creek. Disembark at the City Centre Metro Station 1, and follow the signs to the mall, which is a short walk from the station.
- Bus: One of the closest bus stops to Deira City Centre is the Gold Souq Bus Station, served by bus line 27. After arriving at the bus stop, it’s only a 10-minute walk to Deira City Centre.
For detailed public transportation schedules, please visit rta.ae.
Nearby Landmarks:
Deira City Centre is conveniently located near Dubai Creek, the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, and the historic Deira Clocktower.
5- Dubai Hills Mall
Dubai Hills Mall, the latest addition to Dubai’s vibrant shopping scene, is nestled in a stylish residential neighborhood, surrounded by lush green lawns and a popular park. This lifestyle hub is a breath of fresh air for both city residents and visitors, offering an extensive selection of the latest trends at 600 outlets spread across two million square feet of space. With a blend of retail, dining, and leisure options, the mall features a hypermarket, a state-of-the-art cineplex, anchor stores, and four major family entertainment venues.
Shop Directory For Dubai Hills mall
A World of Possibilities at Dubai Hills Mall:
One of the most anticipated attractions is “The Storm,” a record-breaking indoor rollercoaster designed to provide thrill-seekers with the ultimate rush. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Roxy Cinemas offers spacious seats and the latest blockbusters on the big screen.
Whether you’re planning a meal with friends or a shopping spree for apparel, fragrances, and furniture, the mall has you covered. While you shop, your kids can enjoy 11 fantastic experiences at Adventure Park. The mall also hosts regular in-store events, pop-ups, and activities, ensuring there’s always something to keep you engaged.
How to Reach Dubai Hills Mall:
You can conveniently reach the mall using the following transportation option:
- Bus: The simplest way is to take bus line F36 from Mall of the Emirates to the Al Barsha South 1 bus stop. Afterward, a short taxi ride of five to ten minutes (depending on traffic) will take you to Dubai Hills Mall. For detailed public transportation schedules, please visit rta.ae.
If you prefer to drive, you can follow Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11 to Umm Suqeim St/D63, take exit 39, and continue on Umm Suqeim St/D63 to reach your destination. For a preview of your entire trip, you can use Google Maps.
Nearby Landmarks:
Dubai Hills Mall is conveniently located near Splash Park – Dubai Hills Estate and Al Barsha South Park, making it a hub for shopping and leisure in the heart of the city.
