Best Shopping Malls in Dubai

Think of Dubai – and what all comes to your mind? Beautiful deserts, heavenly beaches, azure waters of the gulf, massive skyscrapers, nearly endless amusement parks – and of course, shopping.  Yes, shopping. Something with which the megalopolis is almost synonymous. A place where the annual “Dubai Shopping Festival” attracts millions from all across the globe. An activity – shopping – that is on the “must-do” list of almost each one of the multitude of tourists who flock to Dubai every year.

Each of the many shopping malls in Dubai is not a place just to buy & sell. They are one-stop entertainment destinations. Under the same roof, there is a wide range of fun activities that the entire family can indulge in, before or after shopping. The malls in Dubai contain every outlet, from high-end stores to more budget establishments. Hence, whether you are a premium shopper or a more budget tourist – you will be floored by the shopping options in Dubai.

Best Shopping Malls in Dubai

Feeling a bit confused regarding where to shop while in Dubai? Yes, it’s a tough choice indeed. But we will make it easy for you. Read on to know more about the 11 best shopping malls in Dubai.

1. Dubai Mall

Undoubtedly, this is the first name that would come to the minds of many when they would think of Dubai’s shopping malls. This is the largest shopping complex in the world & is home to over 1300 retail outlets, spread across its massive 500,000 square meters. From uber luxury premium brands to more mid-level ones, Dubai Mall provides shopping options for every type of retail therapy enthusiast.

Over 100 restaurants & 20+ movie screens ensure that you will be involved in many activities besides shopping. This mall also has the largest indoor aquarium (Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo), a zone for ice skating (Dubai Ice Rink), a dedicated kids’ play zone (Kidzania), and a lot more.

2. Mall of the Emirates

Another best shopping malls in Dubai is the “World’s First Shopping Resort.” The Mall of the Emirates is not just about shopping – it’s a wholesome experience that promises hours of enjoyment of every hue. It’s in this mall that you would find the Ski Dubai – the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East – and Snow Park. This is real snow that we’re talking about, and you would get to meet penguins here! And apart from the super-premium retail outlets here, VOX Cinemas promises a most rewarding movie viewing experience. The multiple food options here would take good care of your taste buds.

3. Mirdiff City Center

A newer kid on the block, Mirdiff City Center appeals to shoppers because of its budget & premium, both shopping options. It conducts various sales activities from time that attracts shoppers from far & wide. This eco-friendly mall has a range of entertainment options, like iFly Dubai which is an indoor simulated skydiving spot, VOX Cinemas, AquaPlay, and Little Explorers, among others. The last one keeps the kids busy while the parents shop.

4. Dubai Marina Mall

Located in the super-chic Dubai Marina locality, this mall is just next to the spectacular Dubai Marina waterfront. You can enjoy magnificent views of the gulf, anchored yachts, and the breathtaking Dubai Marina skyline from here. And this mall is an end-to-end entertainment zone. Besides a host of top-end boutique and retail outlets, you can enjoy yourself at Reel Cinemas or dine at any of the multiple eateries here while enjoying the views of the Marina.

5. Ibn Battuta Mall

Among the most visually appealing malls in Dubai, the Ibn Battuta Mall is named after – and inspired by – the great medieval explorer Ibn Battuta. The mall has six courts, each themed on a different country that had been explored by the great Ibn Battuta. A huge – and marvelous – hand painted dome envelopes the Persian Court – among the most popular of the six. Once done with the shopping, you can catch a movie at the 21-screen multiplex or go for a gastronomic journey in any one of the 50+ restaurants here.

6. Deira City Center

Among the earliest malls in Dubai, the Deira City Center Mall is located in one of the older districts of Dubai, Deira. It’s a kind of heritage mall in the city and sees heavy footfall throughout the week, especially on weekends. The electronics major Sharaf DG is among the most prominent occupants here, besides a range of other retail outlets, numbering almost 400. The mall also boasts of VOX Cinemas, the Magic Planet entertainment area, and numerous eating joints.

7. Dubai Festival City Mall

Even though this mall is quieter than its counterparts, it boasts of some of the biggest names in the world. The world’s largest Aido store is located here. the mall’s Ikea outlet is among the largest in the region. It also houses the renowned US restaurant Serendipity, UAE’s only Hard Rock Café, and the only Mint Velvet outlet outside the UK. It also hosts mini-fairs by the creek during the winter months that attract hordes of eateries, entertainment options, and budget retailers.

8. BurJuman Mall

Spread over 4 floors, BurJuman Mall has been catering to the needs of Dubai’s shoppers for more than 3 decades. It has been thoroughly renovated and now boasts of an array of high-end stores – including the only Saks Fifth Avenue store in the country. The huge food court here offers among the widest range of food options in the malls in Dubai. The VOX Cinemas here is favorite haunt of cinephiles.

9. Mercato Mall

This Italian Renaissance-inspired stunning mall exudes a Mediterranean ambiance that might make you forget that you are in Dubai! The mall looks like a typical Italian market square and is also inspired by the European interior decors prevalent in countries like France & Spain. The tastefully done interiors are what would glue you to your spot for quite some time, even before you start exploring the mall. But then, the large range of retail outlets would sure keep you busy – not to speak of the multiple eating joints here!

10. Wafi Mall

Located in Oud Metha, the WAFI Mall boasts of spectacular Egyptian-themed interiors. It is situated in the Wafi City Complex. The distinctive interiors are complemented by the array of retail outlets here, including boutique shops that are designed to provide you with a unique shopping experience. Don’t miss out on visiting the traditionally-themed Arabian Souq here. And if all the walking around exhausts you, then get recharged at the Cleopatra’s Spa which is one of the major attractions here.

11. Gold & Diamond Park

This one is strictly for the jewelry enthusiasts among you! But while in Dubai, we are sure there are a large number of visitors like you who would be interested to lay their hands on precious gold & diamond jewelry. So, do pay a visit here – and get awestruck by the sheer range of jewelry options available, with their magnificent craftsmanship and exceptional quality. The stores here lay a lot of importance on customization – so you can walk away with a most uniquely designed item of jewelry.

Final Word

Dubai has numerous shopping mall where one can go with family and friends. If you know any other good shopping mall which is not listed here, then do let us know.