Dubai, one of the luxurious cities, is famous for its state of the art architecture, tourist attractions as well as a hub of shopping. The malls in Dubai are more than shopping destinations, they are entertainment hubs with numerous attractions including underwater zoos, ski slopes, theme parks, and much more.
If you are visiting Dubai and want to know where to shop and have fun, this detailed blog of the top 10 best shopping malls in Dubai is for you.
The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall was opened in 2008 as one of the largest shopping malls in the world by total area. It is an integral part of the Burj Khalifa complex and has become an iconic shopping destination all over the globe. The creation of this shopping mall marked Dubai as a global shopping hub and today it hosts millions of visitors annually.
Key features
- Dubai Mall has over 1200 retail stores, featuring high-end brands as well as affordable ones.
- Dubai Mall includes 200 dining outlets from casual to fine dining experience.
- The mall is home to a Dubai aquarium and an underwater zoo featuring one of the most indoor aquariums in the world. Visitors view a variety of marine life including rays and sharks.
- Dubai Mall is also home to an indoor ice skating rink, KidZania as well as Dubai Fountain performing a choreographed water show daily.
- The mall offers VIP concierge service, valet parking, and much more.
Location: Financial Center Road, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Mall of the Emirates
The Mall of Emirates is one of the most luxurious shopping malls in the City. It was developed by Majid Al Futtaim Group and opened in 2005. It was the first Mall in UAE to introduce indoor skiing making it one of the attractions.
Key features
- The Mall of Emirates features over 600 local and international brands.
- The mall is famous for Ski Dubai, the first indoor Sky Resort completed with Penguin encounters, snowboarding, and skiing. It also has Magic Planet and Vox Cinemas with 24 screens.
- Along with these attractions, the Mall of Emirate also features a Gallery of Light and a luxurious fashion dome.
- The mall has a wide range of restaurants from casual eating to fine dining options.
- VIP shopping experiences, valet parking, and personal shopping assistants are also available in the Mall of Emirates.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall was opened in 2007 as part of Dubai Festival City. It is a mixed-use development by the Al-Futtaim Group. Dubai Festival City Mall is a waterfront Mall with astonishing views of Dubai Creek.
Key features
- Dubai Festival City Mall has more than 400 shops ranging from affordable to luxury retailers.
- In terms of entertainment, the mall features an IMAGINE show. It’s a water light and laser spectacle. Along with these, Novo Cinemas and Fabyland zones are also available for children.
- Waterfront dining is a highlight of Dubai Festival City Mall. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor promenade along the creek while enjoying their delicious meal.
- Imagine is the largest water screen project that takes place daily at the waterfront. Visitors also take a ride on the Dubai Festival City Ferry.
- The mall also offers VIP valet parking and convenient access to the nearby Crowne Plaza Hotel.
Location: Crescent Drive, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, UAE
Ibn Battuta Mall
The Ibn Battuta Mall was named after the famous Moroccan Explorer. It was opened in 2005 and themed around different regions he traveled. Each section of the shopping mall is significantly designed on an art and culture basis for different 6 reasons. These regions are India, China, Persia, Andalusia, Tunisia, and Egypt.
Key features
- Ibn Battuta Mall features more than 270 shops including fashion, home stores, and electronics.
- The mall has a 21 screen Novo cinema Complex with a massive children play area.
- The shopping mall has a lot of dining options including food courts and restaurants.
- The design and architecture of shopping malls reflect the culture of each region. Visitors can see large-scale replicas such as the Persian dome and Indian Elephant clock.
- Free shuttle bus service and a wide range of other services for visitors are available.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali Village, Dubai, UAE
Mercato Shopping Mall
Mercato Shopping Mall was opened in 2002. It was significantly designed to resemble a Renaissance-era Italian town. Mercato means market in Italy and the architecture reflects classic style with a unique shopping experience in Dubai.
Key features
- The shopping mall features around 150 stores including local and international brands
- There is a 7-screen VOX cinema with Fun City children
- Several Italian-theme cafes and restaurants are available at Mercato Shopping Mall
- The design of the mall resembles Tuscan-style architecture making it one of the unique places to visit and shop in Dubai.
- The shopping mall also offers home delivery service and valet parking to the customers.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, UAE
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
The Galleria was opened in 2013 as one of the premium dining and shopping destinations in the UAE. The shopping mall features local and international brands and fine dining with a beautiful waterfront location.
Key features
- The shopping mall features over 130 stores including high-end brands. If you want an affordable option, mid-range brands are also available.
- The mall offers plenty of family-friendly activities including a trampoline park, cinema, and rooftop Skating rink.
- The mall features a wide range of restaurants from casual to fine dining establishments.
- Visitors love to enjoy the stunning views of the waterfront with outdoor sitting for those who want to enjoy the scenery.
- Complimentary valet parking and concierge service is available.
Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
City Centre Deira
City Centre Deira was opened in 1995 as one of the largest malls in Dubai. The shopping mall was developed by the Majid Al Futtaim Group. It set the standards of modern retail spaces and became a famous shopping destination for both residents as well as visitors all around the globe.
Key features
- The shopping mall features 370 retail stores including major fashion brands, electronics and home furnishing outlets.
- City Centre Deira is the home of Magic Planet for kids, a large vox cinema, and a bowling alley.
- The mall offers a variety of fast food options in the food court.
- The shopping mall is directly connected to luxury Hotels offering convenient access to visitors staying nearby.
- The mall provides a Metro connection and direct access to Dubai Metro’s Red Line.
Location: 8th Street, Deira, Dubai, UAE
BurJuman Centre
The Burjuman Centre is located in Bur Dubai. It was one of the first shopping malls in Dubai opened in 1991. The mall underwent a massive renovation in early 2000 and transformed itself into a modern retail space. Now the BurJuman Centre is one of the popular destinations among residents.
Key features
- BurJuman Centre features a wide range of stores from luxury brands to affordable retailers.
- The mall is also home to a family-friendly area and cinema.
- There are multiple dining options ranging from casual to upscale restaurants to fulfill the diverse culinary needs of individuals.
- The shopping mall is connected to the BurJuman Rotana Hotel offering convenient access to accommodation options
- The shopping mall is connected to the Burjuman metro station.
Location: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE
The Dragon Mart was opened in 2004 as the largest trading hub for Chinese products outside mainland China in Dubai. The mall is spinning over 1.2 km offering a variety of products at wholesale pricing. Dragon Mart Dubai offers a unique shopping experience in the City.
Key features
- Dragon Mart Dubai specializes in fashion electronic home goods and more with more than 5000 shops.
- Dragon Mart 2 features a Food Court cinema and other entertainment options for families.
- A lot of Chinese, Eastern, and International restaurants are available for quick dining.
- The sheer scale of Dragon Mart makes it one of the must-visit places for those who want to buy unique items or bulk purchases.
- Free parking and adjacent hotels make shopping convenient at Dragon Mart Dubai.
Location: Al Awir Road, International City, Dubai, UAE
Wafi Mall
The Wafi Mall in Dubai was opened in 2001. The mall is famous for Egyptian-themed architecture. It is the part of larger Wafi City Complex that includes residences, hotels, and health and leisure clubs.
Key features
- The Wafi Mall features over 300 stores including high and fashion brands, jewelry, and boutique shops.
- A large cinema and indoor theme park for children is also available.
- There are numerous cafes and restaurants with rooftop restaurants in Wafi Mall.
- The Egyptian-themed design of the mall features large statues of Pharaohs and hieroglyphics 4 unique aesthetics. The pyramids complex is located nearby, featuring a luxury spa.
- Personal shopping service and valet parking service are available.
Location: Oud Metha Road, Dubai, UAE
Conclusion
The shopping malls of Dubai offer a kind experience combining retail luxury and entertainment. No matter if you want to shop for high-end brands or affordable shopping, these shopping malls have something for everyone. Each mall offers something for everyone. So, whenever you’re visiting Dubai, these shopping malls should be on your must-see list not just for shopping but a day full of excitement and activities.
