Dubai is a city where modern life, ambition, and luxury all meet in one dazzling skyline. Among its many marvels, the shopping experience stands out as a world of its own. This city has mastered the art of merging entertainment, architecture, and retail into something spectacular. With its endless rows of high-end malls and iconic stores, shopping in Dubai isn’t just a pastime—it’s a cultural phenomenon and a key part of the city’s identity.
Dubai’s shopping centers aren’t just places to buy things; they are worlds to explore. From fashion and electronics to gourmet food and cinematic experiences, each mall offers a unique adventure. Tourists often say visiting Dubai’s malls feels like stepping into the future—where every detail, from the lighting to the entertainment options, has been designed to impress and indulge.
A Shopper’s Paradise Beyond Compare
Well known for its luxurious shopping experiences, Dubai is the perfect destination to pick up that designer outfit, timepiece, or handbag you’ve always wanted. As the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), shopping could easily be considered the national sport here. With over 90 malls scattered across the city, you’ll never run out of places to explore—or excuses to shop.
But Dubai’s malls are about far more than retail therapy. They feature indoor amusement parks, world-class restaurants, and awe-inspiring attractions. Curious? Let’s dive into the 12 best shopping malls in Dubai that redefine what it means to shop, dine, and play.
1. The Dubai Mall
It’s impossible to talk about shopping in Dubai without mentioning The Dubai Mall—the largest shopping mall in the world. Imagine walking into a place where luxury brands, global designers, and countless stores stretch as far as you can see. With more than a thousand retailers under one roof, you’ll find everything from high-street fashion to elite couture.
This mall isn’t just about shopping; it’s a destination of experiences. One of its main highlights is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an enormous attraction filled with marine wonders that fascinate both kids and adults alike. You can spend an entire day here and still not see everything—it’s that vast. From department stores to chic boutiques, cafes, and stunning views of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall truly represents the city’s ambition for grandeur.
Address: Financial Center Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 am - 12 am
2. Mall of the Emirates
The Mall of the Emirates is an experience of elegance and leisure combined. As visually luxurious as it is, the mall is home to some of the world’s most celebrated brands alongside large department stores like Harvey Nichols, Marks & Spencer, and Debenhams.
Beyond shopping, you can enjoy a meal at the famous Common Grounds café or treat yourself to world-renowned dumplings at Din Tai Fung. But what truly makes this mall stand out is Ski Dubai—an indoor snow park offering ski slopes and winter fun in the middle of the desert. For families, the Magic Planet entertainment center provides endless fun for kids, while the VOX Cinema delivers the perfect movie experience.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Interchange 4, Al Barsha
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday & Friday, 10 am - 12 am
3. Ibn Battuta Mall
Among Dubai’s countless malls, Ibn Battuta Mall stands out as the world’s largest themed shopping destination. Its design is inspired by the travels of the famous explorer Ibn Battuta, with each section representing a country he visited—Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India, and China.
Each area immerses visitors in that region’s culture, with incredible architecture, vivid murals, and soaring ceilings. Beyond its breathtaking design, the mall offers a range of fashion, lifestyle, and sports outlets. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a living storybook that takes you through history and culture while offering you the best modern brands.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday to Saturday, 10 am - 12 am
4. BurJuman Mall
BurJuman Mall is perfect for shoppers looking for style and affordability without compromising on variety. While it may be more budget-friendly than some of Dubai’s ultra-luxury malls, it offers a broad selection of well-known retailers like H&M and Forever 21.
The atmosphere is vibrant yet comfortable, making it ideal for relaxed shopping or casual meet-ups. Its food court and restaurants cater to all tastes, from international fast food to regional cuisine. Don’t miss the high-tech cinema within the mall—an excellent spot to unwind after a long day of shopping.
Address: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday & Friday, 10 am - 11 pm
5. Dubai Outlet Mall
If you love scoring a great deal, Dubai Outlet Mall is where you should head. Home to premium labels such as Burberry and Marc Jacobs, it’s a treasure trove for shoppers who know how to hunt for bargains. The best part? Sales run all year long.
You can often find high-end items at half their usual prices, especially on Mondays when selected stores offer discounts up to 50%. In addition to shopping, the mall regularly hosts events and performances, making it lively and entertaining for visitors.
Address: Dubai Al-Ain Road (Route 66), Dubai Land - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday & Friday, 10 am - 12 am
6. WAFI Mall
Walking into WAFI Mall feels like stepping back in time to ancient Egypt. The architecture, adorned with hieroglyphics and statues, is nothing short of majestic. Towering columns and detailed wall carvings give the entire place a cinematic atmosphere reminiscent of The Mummy films.
The mall focuses heavily on Middle Eastern fashion, offering authentic clothing such as kandoras, burqas, and abayas. It also frequently hosts art exhibitions, cultural shows, and family events in its grand atrium. WAFI Mall blends history and luxury into one unforgettable experience.
Address: Oud Metha Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday & Friday, 10 am - 12 am
7. Deira City Centre
Deira City Centre combines sophistication with simplicity. Known for its balanced mix of high-end and everyday brands, it caters perfectly to families. From global names like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21 to children’s shops like Mothercare, this mall has everything under one roof.
The mall also features a large Carrefour supermarket, making it a practical stop for grocery shopping. Alongside its many restaurants and cafés, there’s also a cinema and a gaming area, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Address: 8th St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday & Friday, 10 am - 12 am
8. Al Ghurair Centre
Al Ghurair Centre holds a special place in Dubai’s retail history as the first modern shopping mall in the Middle East. Over the decades, it has evolved into a vibrant hub that blends shopping, dining, and entertainment seamlessly.
In 2013, it underwent a major expansion, adding more than 100 new stores and a host of family-friendly attractions. Today, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and tourists, offering everything from fashion and electronics to delicious international dining and even an on-site hotel for travelers.
Address: Al Rigga Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday to Saturday, 10 am - 12 am
9. Dubai Marina Mall
With its stunning waterfront location, Dubai Marina Mall offers one of the most scenic shopping experiences in the city. The mall’s modern design and open spaces create a light and airy atmosphere, making shopping genuinely enjoyable.
Here, you’ll find top fashion labels, beauty brands, and restaurants with outdoor seating that overlook the marina’s calm waters. Whether you’re browsing stores or relaxing at one of its cafés, the combination of sea views and elegant architecture makes every visit special.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 10 pm; Thursday to Saturday, 10 am - 12 am
10. Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall is one of the grandest and most vibrant malls in the UAE. Hosting over 400 stores, including an IKEA and ACE Hardware, this destination blends shopping, leisure, and culture.
It’s especially magical during events, when the mall’s outdoor areas light up with color and music. The Canal Walk outside the mall adds to the charm, offering a perfect setting for photos or a romantic stroll by the water.
Address: Crescent Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 1 am; Thursday to Saturday, 10 am - 1 am
11. Mercato Shopping Mall
Situated along Jumeirah Beach Road, Mercato Shopping Mall feels like stepping into an Italian Renaissance town. Sunlight streams through glass ceilings, highlighting cobblestone-style walkways and pastel facades.
With more than 140 shops, including fashion retailers, restaurants, antique stores, and entertainment options, there’s something here for everyone. Popular stops include Spinneys supermarket, Virgin Megastore, Vox Cinemas, and Fun City for children. The atmosphere is relaxed and full of charm, making it a favorite weekend retreat for both residents and travelers.
Address: Jumeirah Beach Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 10 am - 11 pm; Thursday to Saturday, 10 am - 12 am
12. City Walk Jumeirah
City Walk Jumeirah perfectly blends shopping, entertainment, and art in one beautifully designed urban space. With its glass-ceilinged walkways and illuminated streets, it’s one of the city’s most atmospheric spots for an evening stroll.
Here, you’ll find boutique stores, cafés, cinemas, and family-friendly attractions. Street art, cultural events at the Coca-Cola Arena, and Roxy Cinema screenings make this destination more than a mall—it’s a lifestyle experience. City Walk Jumeirah caters to those who appreciate creativity, leisure, and sophistication all in one place.
Address: 39 Al Safa Street, 3km from Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
Contact: +971 800 637227
Shop Till You Drop
Every day feels like a shopping festival in Dubai. From snow slopes and aquariums to global cuisines and breathtaking architecture, these malls redefine what a shopping trip can be. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a food lover, or just someone looking for a new adventure, Dubai’s malls offer it all. So pack light—because you’ll definitely be leaving with more than you came for.
