5 Tips to explore Dubai on a budget
Many visitors seek to explore Dubai on a budget. Dubai is home to many prominent landmarks that have made it...
Hisham
Dubai- the city of gold is the modern cosmopolitan of the Middle-east. The city is filled with towering skyscrapers and hundreds of entertainment establishments. You’ll experience luxury at its finest at various malls- making it a one-stop destination for fine dining as well as high-end shopping.
The city of Dubai reflects a distinctive combination of both modernity and traditional Islamic ethos. It is famous for beaches, architectural marvels, and desert safaris, holding great significance on the Dubai tourism map as the place is perfect to relax and rejoice. However, it is the malls that more than anything intrigues tourists. For shopaholics, Dubai malls are no less than a paradise. From souks to ultramodern mega malls, this city is going to offer you endless shopping options.
Although the list of malls in Dubai is so long, in this blog we’ll glance through some of the best and most popular malls in Dubai. So, you know where you exactly need to go in order to get the ultimate shopping experience. It is fascinating to know that every shopping mall in Dubai offers a unique and memorable experience. If you are visiting Dubai in summer, there is no better activity than visiting the malls of Dubai. Let’s explore the world of some of the most popular shopping malls of Dubai.
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall– one of the biggest shopping malls in the world as well as the largest mall in Dubai, is one the crowning glories in the remarkable portfolio of Emaar Properties. The mall is also considered as the best mall in Dubai. It is fascinating to know that; this shopping center features a lot of flagship stores as well as a dedicated fashion avenue boasting high-fashion brands. Dubai mall is located adjacent to the iconic Burj Khalifa, this mall has a lot in store for its visitors. No wonder why people come here again and again. Expanded over 5, 40, 000 sq. ft of area, this gigantic Dubai Mall has quite a long list of shops dedicated to luxurious and renowned brands.
Apart from a slew of entertainment and shopping outlets, there are also some interesting facts about the Dubai mall. These facts are enough to make you want to go here. For example, the mall has an Olympic size ice rink, as well as than 1200 retail outlets and a parking lot that is capable to accommodate up to 14,000 cars at a time.
However, it’s not just the 1200+ stores that makes the biggest mall in Dubai a great place to visit in the city. You’ll be surprised to know that, there are a lot of things to enjoy besides shopping. Some of the popular attractions are Kidzania, old-fashioned souk, Dubai aquarium and underwater zoo, and Reel cinema.
You will need a whole day to explore its maze of shops, stalls, boutiques, and retail outlets of malls. At its heart is an incredible four-storey waterfall gives the Mall a cool feel so. Moreover, you’ll not get too hot chasing down those bargains. In between exploring over a thousand of stores, take a spin on the full-size skating rink or grab something to eat from any of the food outlets. The shops themselves cater for every type of taste, from traditional Arabic to international cuisines.
Related Article: Top online Shopping websites in UAE
The mall is close to almost all the best places to visit in Downtown Dubai making it one of the most visited tourist attractions. There are also a lot of fine dining restaurants as well as popular international dining outlets such as Laduree and Five Guys, Magnolia Bakery, and the Cheesecake Factory.
Dubai Mall lights up when the sun sets. Make sure you stick around for Dubai’s fountain display takes place each night. Taken in the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa as well as it’s regular light show displays.
Location: Downtown Dubai
Timing: 9Subday-Wednesday)- 10:000AM-11:00PM; (Thursday to Saturday)- 10:00AM-12:00AM
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall is famous for its spectacular light shows. As the name implies, the mall is located in Dubai Festival City, making it as one of the notable malls in Dubai. The name of this Dubai mall is famous among visitors for its fantastic ambience as well as fantastic options for fine dining, shopping, accommodation, and entertainment. In terms of accommodation options, the mall has renowned hotels such as InterContinental Residence Suites, InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Holiday Inn Dubai Festival City, and Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City.
One of the highlights of the best highlights of Dubai Festivals City Malls is the Robinsons department store offering a wide range of luxury brands. The popular outlets are Mango, Beverly Hills Polo Club, DKNY, GAP, Zara and anchor stores such as Brands for IKEA Less, and Toys R Us.
There are also cozy restaurants in Dubai Festival City including Cheesecake Factory offering mesmerizing views of the waterfront. For fine dining, the mall includes cafés, bakeries, restaurants, as well as food courts serving delicacies. For entertainment and shopping, it would be best to check out online about shopping options at Dubai mall before heading to Dubai Festival City Mall.
Along with this, Dubai Festival City is also home to the Sugar Factory featuring some of the best desserts of the city. In terms of entertainment at mall in Dubai, there is Novo Cinemas as well as Festival City’s dancing fountain named ‘IMAGINE’, both are popular with visitors to the mall.
Location: Dubai Festival City
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM- 12:00AM
Mall of Emirates
The Mall of the Emirates is a natural pick for one of the popular shopping malls in Dubai. It is surprising to know that the mall of Emirates is occupying more than 2 million sq.ft., making it a hot shopping destination since 2005.
Mall of Emirates Dubai is one destination in Dubai hooking the attention of every visitor with its grand structure. It is fascinating to know that the shopping mall has plethora of options to delve into for fine dining, shopping, entertainment, and much more.
Apart from its over 600 retail outlets, this mall also has 100+ cafes and restaurants. Additionally, the mall is also home to Ski Dubai- the UAE’s first indoor ski resort and park. Some of the other attractions are VOX Cinemas, Dreamscape VR experience, as well as the Magic Planet family entertainment center. MOE’s popular attraction is the iconic Ski Dubai where Dubai residents enjoy winter fun all year round.
Along with this, The Mall of Emirates is also home to several high-fashion outlets such as Jimmy Choo, Marks & Spencer, Burberry, and many more. There is a direct metro line to Mall of the Emirates as well as the Sheraton hotel, located within the same premises. The popular restaurants in this mall are Dean & Deluca, Tribes, Texas De Brazil. Being one of the biggest malls in Dubai, it has so much to explore that a single day is not enough to see it all.
Location: Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road Interchange Four
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM- 12:00AM
Ibn Battuta Mall
Ibn Battuta Mall is known as one of the world’s largest themed malls. This mall is one of the must to visit places in Dubai located close to Jebel Ali Village and Discovery Gardens as well as managed by master developer Nakheel Properties. This single-story mall pays homage to the travels of the explorer Ibn Battuta.
This Dubai shopping mall is easily accessible by the Ibn Battuta metro stop and known for its unique architecture. The mall is divided into six courts significantly based on the travels of the eponymous explorer that are China, Egypt, Andulasia, Persia, Tunisia, and India. These themed courts are some of the best activities and attractions in Ibn e Battuta Mall.
Related Article: Guide About Nakheel Mall Dubai
This famous mall houses a 21-screen cinema, more than 275 shops, and 50 restaurants to provide its visitors with an all-round experience. In addition to the variety of dining options and entertainment, the mall praised for its unique architecture offering a great opportunity for visitors in order to catch the glimpses of their rich culture and glory. Apart from various entertainment options, Ibn e Battuta Mall offers number of F&B outlets and retail stores. The restaurants in mall are India Palace, Pizza Express, Yo! Sushi and many more.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road- Jebel Ali Village- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM
City Centre Mirdif
Part of the City Centre brand by Majid Al Futtaim, it is a mammoth retail destination in the family-friendly neighborhood of Mirdif. Some of the popular stores in this shopping mall are Hamleys, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrell, Decathlon, Zara and Mango. The city centre Mirdif is a complete lifestyle destination, there are a lot of restaurants making any visitor worthwile. Some of the famous eateries at this mall include Gazebo, Zafran, and Gourmet Burger Kitchen, many more. City Center Mirdif also offers a lot of other activities apart from shopping such as Little Explorers, Magic Planet, and iFly Dubai- a unique indoor skydiving experience for all.
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road – Mirdif- Duabi
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM- 12:00AM
Burjuman Centre
Burjuman center is an old Dubai favorite to make it on the list of best malls in Dubai. The mall is ideally located for the residents in Bur Dubai making it one of the best leisure spaces in the city. Burjuman mall is spreading over 2.8 million sq. providing you with an amazing opportunity to shop through a wide range of products, from electronics and computers to fashion and lifestyle and homeware. The mall has all to satiate your quick shopping sprees. Burjuman Centre also offers great entertainment options in order to elevate the spirit. Moreover, the mall also has fantastic options for beauty and wellness.
There are number of activities for kids to enjoy in Burjaman mall Dubai. The best entertainment options are Magic Planet, high street brands including Next, Nautica and luxury shopping outlets such as Louis Vuitton and Mont Blanc makes this an ideal shopping mall in Dubai. Along with this, there is also a VOX cinema in the mall if you want to catch a movie. The place is also known for offering one of the best fine dining experiences. With highly rated restaurants, and food courts, the place promises a memorable culinary and dining experience. Some of the popular restaurants in Burjuman are Nando’s Yo! Sushi, Jollibee, and Dome Cafe.
Location: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road – Al Mankhool- Dubai
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM- 11:00PM
Wafi Mall Dubai
Next on the list of best shopping malls in Dubai is this Egyptian themed shopping Centre operating for over two decades. Wafi mall Dubai is extremely famous for its Pharaonic design. It is one of the spectacular malls in Dubai to visit since 1991. The mall is popular for its unique architecture that travelers include visiting the mall as one of the best things to do with family in Dubai.
When you visit the mall in Wafi City, you’ll be greeted by the popular Sphinx, at the entrance. The place also offers a reminiscent of ancient Egypt even from the inside. Although the mall is small in size as compared to other but it’s the mixed-used development of Wafi City and have something for everyone. Explore various options for retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure.
Wafi Mall Dubai is featuring many local brands. It is known for its mammoth Christmas tree decorations as well as light and sound show in the evenings. Top of FormBottom of FormPopular retail outlets in Wafi mall include Matalan, Marks & Spencer, and many more. Additionally, visitors have also a wide option to relish dining at Biella, Paul Café, Bosporus Gourmet Restaurant, as well as Wafi Gourmet.
Location: Oud Metha Road- Dubai
Timing: (Saturday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday, Friday)- 10:00AM- 12:00AM
Dubai Marina Mall
With a constant stream of all kind of events and interesting things to do in Marina mall, impressive lineup of brands as well as gorgeous waterfront dining options, it’s easy to see why Dubai Marina Mall makes it on the list of best shopping malls in Dubai. Some of the well-known brands that you can find in this mall are Pinko, Billabong, Monsoon, Cos, H&M, and River Island. Visitors will love the fact that they enjoy the waterfront views while having a delicious meal at Zafran, Carluccio’s, Five Guys, or any of the other eatery at Marina mall. Moreover, this shopping mall in Dubai also offers a more gourmet dining experience, special thanks restaurants located in Pier 7.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road- Dubai Marina- Dubai
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM- 11:00PM
Mercato Shopping Mall Dubai
Mercato mall is known as one of the most stunning shopping malls in Dubai. The word Mercato translates to ‘market’ in Italian. With a beautiful renaissance-style architecture, the mall is great for mall trawls featuring a good selection of stores such as Laura Ashley Hallmark, and Mango.
Aside from the shops, the visitors can also enjoy a peaceful and relaxed time at the restaurants/ cafes here. Get a bite to eat at the Hardees, More Cafe, The Living Room as well as much more. If you are bringing kids, they can also enjoy the games at Fun City. Furthermore, the pet lovers in Dubai must note that there is also pet shop on the basement level of the mall.
Location: Jumeirah Beach road- Jumeirah- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM
City Centre Deira Mall
Next on our list is another Majid Al Futtaim retail center. There is a great need to know that city center Deira is one of the oldest malls in Dubai. Still, the mall has a loyal fanbase. Like other City Centre malls, City center mall in Deira also has a Magic Planet for entertaining younger visitors. Along with this, the Deira City Centre metro station makes it easily accessible to both residents and tourists.
Some of the popular retail outlets in City Center Deira are Debenhams, Zara, H&M, and Marks & Spencer. If you are feeling a little puckish, get a bite to eat at the food court and pop into Gazebo, Carluccio’s, Paul or any of the other restaurants of the mall. It is fascinating to know that, the City Center Deira Mall has also got a lot of discount shops such as Miniso, Mumuso, Daiso, and many other discount shops making the best places for cheap shopping in Dubai.
Location: 8th Street – Port Saeed- Dubai
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM-12:00AM
Other amazing malls in Dubai
While these are some of the most famous shopping malls in Dubai. Now let’s have a look at some of the other shopping destinations in the Dubai you shouldn’t miss out on.
Dubai Outlet Mall
Dubai Outlet Mall is a favorite mall for bargain hunters. You’ll find over 1200 local and international brands from Adidas to Hush Puppies. Although there isn’t a cinema, but you’ll find a selection of F&B outlets in order to satisfy your cravings.
Location: Al Ain Road- Dubai
Timing: (Thursday, Friday)- 10:00AM-12:00AM; (Saturday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM
Dragon Mart 1 & 2
Dragon mart Dubai is known for being the largest trading center for Chinese products outside mainland China. It is fascinating to know that; this mall has become a favorite place with Dubai residents for its variety of products. It’s not like typical Dubai malls, stretching for about 1.2 km with hundreds of outlets with Chinese products. With beautiful sections for furniture, toys, garden items, household appliances, apparel paintings and much more, it is one of the best malls in Dubai for shopaholics.
The Dragon mall’s popularity has also an extension, known as Dragon Mart 2. It’s a multi-storey shopping mall featuring a cinema, supermarket, food courts, hotel, and of course, retail outlets that are ideal for budget-friendly shopping. The Dragon mart is located along Al Awir Road, close to the affordable residential area of Dubai.
Location: International City- A Awir Road- Dubai
Timing: 9:00AM-7:00PM
Times Square Center
View this post on Instagram
Although Times Square Center is not one of the most popular shopping malls in Dubai, but tha mall has gained a loyal following for its homely and warm vibe. You can explore wide range of unique stores, entertainment activities as well as regular artisan markets. Find Sharaf DG’s massive flagship store at Times Square Centre, and unique finds like Antika selling beautiful vintage Indian furniture. Moreover, Creativa Middle East specializes in arts and crafts supplies.
For some excitement and fun, you can head to the Adventure Zone where airparks and climbing walls will get your adrenaline pumping. For an ultimate dining experience, head to Chill Out Lounge- the first of its kind in the UAE in order to have a delicious meal in zero temperatures around by ice sculptures.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road- Al Quoz- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM
Al Ghurair Center
View this post on Instagram
The oldest shopping mall in Dubai, Al Ghurair Centre was opened in 1981. It still continues to be the mall of choice for a lot of Dubai residents. The mall underwent a massive refurbishment effort in 2013 as well as reopened with 150 more stores, F&B outlets, entertainment centers as well as many other attractions.
There are plenty of interesting activities to enjoy in Dubai. The popular stores in Al Ghurair Centre are all-time favorites Marks & Spencer, Aldo, and Swarovski. The presence of Spinneys and Carrefour ensure that visitors can easily stock up on essentials and groceries. There is also a Reel Cinemas to delight movie buffs.
Location: Al Rigga Street- Deira- Dubai
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM-12:00AM
Arabian Centre
View this post on Instagram
Arabian centre is a mid-sized mall, it not be the glamorous, but it’s got everything that visitors need under a single roof. From furniture, jewelry sportswear, to apparel Arabian Centre is home to some of the stores such as Homes R Us and Daiso. Arabian Centre is one of the shopping centers in Dubai that are with a cinema, kids play area as well as a massive hypermarket. The mall also offers plenty of services with branches of the Emirates Driving Institutes, Amer Centre, and Galadari.
Location: Al Khawaneej Road- Al Mizhar- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM
Al Barsha Mall
If you are living in Al Barsha, there are numerous other options than the famous Mall of the Emirates. Give the quaint and quiet, give Al Barsha mall a try. The mall is one of the cheap malls in Dubai for shopping. There is a handy Union Cooperative Hypermarket offering great deals and discounts. Along with this, there’s a Daiso, Gold’s Gym, numerous abaya stores with Cheeky Monkey’s and Kiddieville in order to keep the kids busy.
Location: Al Barsha- Al Asayel Street- Dubai
Timing: (Saturday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM to 10:00PM; (Thursday, Friday)- 10:00AM-12:00PM
The Springs Souk
THE Spring Souk- located next to Springs 7, is a chic community mall in Dubai that is popular with the residents of neighboring communities. Besides Carrefour Market, you can shop from wide range of brands here. pick up affordable knick-knacks from Miniso, Parfois is for stylish handbags or the latest read from Borders. After shopping, dine at one of the many eateries in the mall as well as catch the latest blockbuster at Reel Cinemas.
Location: Springs 7, Al Afnan Street- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM- 10:00PM
City Centre Me’aisem
View this post on Instagram
Easy to navigate as well as featuring amazing brands- City Centre Me’aisem is one of the amazing malls in Dubai that you must be check out. This single-story shopping destination is in Dubai production city and is frequented by residents from the sports city, Motor City as well as Jumeirah Gold Estates. From The Body Shop, Shoexpress, M.A.C, and Centrepoint, visitors can find a variety of luxury and affordable brands. Other essentials such as Carrefour and Mediclinic also add to its charm. Magic Planet has the latest video games as thrilling rides for family fun. It would be best if you keep an eye out for events happening at this Dubai shopping mall in order to make your shopping experience more rewarding.
Location: Dubai Production City- Dubai
Timing: (Sunday- Wednesday)- 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Saturday)- 10:00AM-12:00AM
Century Mall
Next on our list of best shopping malls in Dubai includes Century Mall. This Dubai shopping mall is located in the Al Mamzar area. The mall is managed by the Al Safeer Group of Companies. Century Mall Dubai is home to 75 specialty stores across a whopping over 150,000 sq. ft of space. Offering the latest in fashion, lifestyle, home furnishings, mobile accessories, electronics, perfumes, jewelry, watches and much more, the Mall has it all. If you are planning to visit soon, you must checkout some of the popular outlets of the mall such as Carrefour, Giordano, Kapda, and more.
Location: Al Wuhaida Street- Hor Al Anz East- Dubai
Timing: 09:00AM-12:00AM
The Outlet Village
View this post on Instagram
If you are looking for one of the best malls in Dubai, The Outlet Village Dubai is not only the best shopping destinations, it’s also a treat to look at. The shopping mall is featuring medieval Tuscan-style architecture, as well as designed like an old European marketplace. However, don’t be fooled- you can easily find high-end brands from Armani, DKNY, Coach, Roberto Cavalli, Lacoste, and more, all at special prices!
The outlet village is a sprawling outlet including fashion, accessories, perfumes, and sportswear stores too. Along with this, there are also some restaurants such as Urban Seafood and PF Chang’s for refuel.
Location: Jabel Ali- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Friday)-10:00AM-12:00AM
Oasis Mall Dubai
The Oasis Mall Dubai by Landmark Group is one of the notable malls in Dubai. The shopping mall is located along Sheikh Zayed Road. It is a convenient shopping destination for the residents of Al Safa and Al Quoz. If you are on the hunt for stylish with affordable homeware, pop into furniture stores including Home Centre and Home Box. Along with this, if you are looking to revamp your wardrobes, head to Centrepoint or Max. Nishat Linen is best for trendy Pakistani ethnic wear. For the kids, Fun City will keep them entertained and the food court is perfect when you can’t decide on what to eat.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road- Al Quoz 1- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM; (Thursday- Friday)-10:00AM-12:00AM
Palm Strip Mall
View this post on Instagram
With its alfresco cafes, an exotic array of art galleries and stores, the Palm Strip Mall Dubai fits greatly within the Jumeirah lifestyle. Palm Strip Mall is located near the Jumeirah Mosque under the shade of palm trees. The aptly named Palm Strip Mall is actually a California-inspired retail space. It’s the best shopping hub for Jumeirah and nearby residents. The Palm strip mall features two floors of retail spaces. There is a promenade searing with select outdoor units, basement parking, and roadside.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road- Jumeirah 1- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM; Friday- 02:00PM-10:00PM
However, if you want more options, take a look below at some of the other best malls in Dubai:
- The Ranches Souk
- City Centre Al Barsha
- Sunset Mall
- Galleria Mall
Cityland Mall Dubai
View this post on Instagram
Located next to Global Village Dubai, Cityland mall allow visitors to shop at Carrefour and other stores. The shopping mallis yet to fully open. Once complete, the nature-inspired Cityland Mall is going to feature a central park with multiple themed open-air gardens with bridges and streams. Moreover, the visitors can also expect a fun water park for the little ones, amphitheaters as well as seasonal entertainment.
Location: Wadi Al Safa 4 (beside Global Village)- E311- Dubai
Timing: 08:00AM-10:00PM
Dubai Hills Mall
View this post on Instagram
Dubai Hills Mall is situated off Al Khail Road. It is one of the highly anticipated and newly built malls in Dubai. This retail destination is home to more than 650 stores and F&B outlets. Dubai Hills Mall is a perfect destination for shopaholics especially for the residents of Dubai Hills Estate and neighboring communities/. Along with shopping, dining options are also limitless. There’s also a hypermarket, cineplex as well as family entertainment options, making sure there’s never a boring moment at Dubai Hills Mall.
Location: Dubai Hills Estate- Dubai
Timing: 10:00AM-10:00PM
Related Blog: Al Khail Mall
Dubai Shopping Festival
View this post on Instagram
Dubai Shopping Festival lasts for about A month. It usually takes place in January. Every shopping mall participates in the shopping festival. In addition to the promotions, the malls also host special events like dance shows. Even if you don’t want shopping, you can have a great time wandering around.
One of the most popular events in Dubai is known as Global Village. It’s a seasonal affair and not take place in a mall, it consists of a series of outdoor pavilions. Each pavilion is significantly designed to represent a certain country. Within these pavilions, you can find a selection of small shops selling local to each country. In Dubai, it’s a unique experience for all who loves chopping and culture.
Dubai Summer Surprises
Sales in Dubai are a frequent occurrence. Retailers encourage people to wander around. If you want to try a major sale, there are several weekends to have discounts across the board. Dubai Summer Surprises takes place for six weeks in the start of July. Retailers offer huge discounts during this period. It is fascinating to know that other attractions in Dubai also offer their discounts making Dubai a best place to visit in summers. Dubai Summer Surprises is also great for children as there are multiple shows and games are available at massive discounts. Other major sales take place around the time of Eid. Eid Al Adha, tends to attract massive discounts. It’s also an ideal time to pick up a backpack for your little one, or an outfit for yourself.
Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. There are plenty multiples options if you want to go for shopping in Dubai. Even if you can’t make the festivals, you’ll find plenty of sales designed to tempt you. Shopping is an integral and entertaining part of everyday life in Dubai. So, when you visit, ensure to take a stroll in one of the malls. Shopping in Dubai is one of the best ways to experience a huge aspect of social scene.
Related Blogs:
