Dubai Mall
Dowtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Dubai Mall is no ordinary shopping center. Sitting under the megatall Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, this is the world’s biggest mall by land area, and a shopping, dining, and sightseeing colossus. Containing more than 1,200 shops, two department stores, and 200-plus food outlets, it also boasts big leisure attractions, including the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, and the entrance to the Burj Khalifa itself.
The basics
The Dubai Mall’s outlets and family entertainments draw all types of visitor. The array of fashion houses, sportswear, children’s shops, and more make it an exciting shopping experience, while entertainment-seekers will love Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium, and the Burj Khalifa ‘At The Top’ observatories. Other musts include Dubai Dino, the Jurassic-era dinosaur skeleton displayed at the Souk Dome. It's no surprise that the mall features on many Dubai tours—usually as an exterior photo op. Some tours include a guided walk and free time to shop, while others add on entry to the Burj Khalifa, Ski Dubai, or Dubai Aquarium.
Things to know before you go
The Dubai Mall is a must-visit for shopaholics and fun-loving families with kids.
Expect to spend half a day or more here, perhaps on top of a visit to the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Aquarium.
Wear comfy shoes: the mall is the size of 200 football pitches, so there’s lots of walking.
Some shops are grouped into themed areas, such as boutiques at Fashion Avenue, footwear at Level Shoes, and jewelers at the Gold Souk.
Free WiFi, mobile charging stations, and ATMs are available in the mall.
How to get there
The easiest way to reach The Dubai Mall is by cab or metro. If the latter, take the Red Line to the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa stop, and catch a shuttle or ride the travelators on the Metro Link glass bridge—it’s a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) trip. Frequent buses to the mall also run from Deira Gold Souk and Al Ghubaiba bus station.
When to get there
The Dubai Mall is great any time, but perhaps best in summer, when it offers cool respite from Dubai’s heat. The quietest times to explore are early after the 10am opening, and Sundays-Wednesdays before the weekends hit. Perhaps synchronize your visit with the Dubai Fountain shows outside: at 1pm and 1:30pm (1.30pm and 2pm Fridays) and half-hourly between 6pm and 11pm.
Other attractions at Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is ringed by the attractions of Downtown Dubai, so it’s easy to combine a visit with other activities. Perhaps catch The Dubai Fountain show at the adjoining Burj Lake or relax at a waterfront restaurant outside the mall with Burj Khalifa views.
Ways to explore
The Dubai Mall features on nearly all Dubai sightseeing tours. Book a hop-on hop-off bus that stops outside, or a guided tour that covers it alongside other must-sees; most incorporate free time at the mall to sample its shops and restaurants. Many also offer optional Burj Khalifa tickets as an unforgettable finale.
There are other ways to experience the mall. Prebook online tickets for the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Ice Rink, or Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and tag on time to explore the mall. Alternatively, take a Dubai night tour that combines your visit with a Dubai Fountain show.
Accessibility
The mall is generally well-suited to people who use wheelchairs and families with strollers. Free wheelchairs and buggies are available from the concierge desks, and the mall has accessible restrooms.
Age limits
All ages are welcome at the mall, although individual attractions may have their own age and/or height restrictions.
What to pack
Camera, credit card, portable charger, cash for small purchases
What to wear
Comfortable shoes (the mall is huge), clothing that covers your knees and shoulders
Not allowed
Pets, skateboards, public displays of affection, smoking and vaping outside the designated areas
Amenities
Restrooms, Wi-Fi, electric vehicle chargers, parking
Address
The Dubai Mall sits in the heart of Downtown Dubai and is well-served by road and public transportation networks. Many guided tours of Dubai also include transit to the mall, with some dropping you off here after your sightseeing.
Driving
From eastern, western, or central Dubai, take the Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) to Downtown Dubai and exit at Financial Centre Street. From here, signs lead to the various mall parking zones.
Public transportation
Take Dubai Metro’s Red Line to the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa station, and cross the pedestrian footbridge to the mall. Frequent buses also serve the mall, including the 27 bus from Deira Gold Souk.
Best times to visit
Arrive when the shops open to experience the mall at its quietest, or in the evening to pair the shops with a Dubai Fountain show and nighttime Burj Khalifa views.
Best days to visit
The mall can be packed on weekends, so aim for a weekday visit to avoid the main crowds. Mondays and Tuesdays are typically the quietest.
Best months to visit
During summer, the mall’s air-conditioned attractions are ideal for escaping the intense heat. However, for a lively atmosphere, the peak November–March season sees the mall at its most vibrant.
Special events
Sync your visit with the annual Dubai Shopping Festival in December and January for special sales and events.
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