When you think of Dubai, the word “bling” often comes to mind. Over the past two decades, Dubai has transformed into a world-famous tourist hotspot. One of its biggest attractions is The Dubai Mall, a place unlike any shopping mall you’ve seen before. Covering 1.1 million square meters, it feels more like a mini city. With over 1,200 shops, 200 dining spots, and an incredible underwater aquarium, this mall is truly a paradise for visitors.
If you believe malls are just for shopping or grabbing a quick snack, The Dubai Mall will change your mind. You can sip on a fancy coffee, explore countless stores, or marvel at the breathtaking dancing fountains. Food lovers will be delighted by the variety—from fine dining to tasty street food.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. The mall also features an ice rink, a cinema, and even virtual reality experiences. So, wear your most comfortable shoes and charge your phone—you’ll want to take plenty of pictures. With so much to do and see, The Dubai Mall offers an unforgettable experience for everyone, whether you’re a shopper, foodie, or just looking for fun.
Overview of Dubai Mall:
The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest mall, sits right under the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Spanning one million square meters, it is a top destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting over a million visitors each year.
The mall has seven floors and over 1,200 shops offering everything from technology and books to sportswear and high-end fashion. It also features 200 dining outlets, an ice rink, a cinema, soft play areas, and a massive 10-million-litre aquarium.
In true Dubai fashion, the mall keeps expanding. The Dubai Mall Zabeel, a lifestyle space, adds another 15,000 square meters and is connected to the main mall via an air-conditioned footbridge. The mall also includes Chinatown, an area filled with Chinese restaurants and shops, connecting it to The Address Fountain Views Hotel, making it even more welcoming for visitors from around the world.
Architecture of Dubai Mall:
The Dubai Mall is an architectural marvel that redefines the concept of a shopping centre. Designed by DP Architects, it spans over one million square meters and sits beneath the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. The mall is not just about shopping; it is like a miniature city, offering a mix of retail, entertainment, and public spaces.
The architecture focuses on functionality and urban planning principles. The design ensures easy navigation with clear pathways, recognizable nodes, and open spaces for rest. Visitors can enjoy over 23 kilometers of walkways without feeling lost, thanks to its quadrant circulation pattern and themed landmarks that help with wayfinding. Visual connectivity allows shoppers to see stores on different levels, creating a sense of openness and familiarity.
The mall includes diverse attractions such as one of the world’s largest aquariums, an indoor waterfall, an ice rink, and adventure parks. These features, combined with multiple atriums and boulevards, create vibrant public spaces for socializing and relaxation. The Dubai Aquarium’s forecourt acts as a central gathering space, offering a stunning view of marine life through one of the largest acrylic panels in the world.
Accessibility is another key aspect. The mall has 14,000 parking spaces, four grand entrances, and 53 named parking decks for easy orientation. A Grand Drive enhances the sense of arrival, blending car-scale and human-scale design.
Retailers benefit from efficient service areas and a network of corridors for seamless operations. The Fashion Avenue expansion in 2015 introduced personalized flagship stores and more public spaces, enhancing the mall’s luxury appeal.
The Dubai Mall’s thoughtful planning, diverse attractions, and functional design make it more than a mall—it’s a thriving micro-urban environment that welcomes millions of visitors every year.
Finding your Vibe and Things to Do in Dubai Mall:
Exploring Dubai Mall can take a lot of time—it’s like a small city! To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve divided the mall into four main categories:
- Top Attractions
- Shopping
- Dining
- Entertainment & Leisure
With these categories, you can plan your visit better and avoid wasting time. Let’s get started!
1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo:
Location: Level 2, Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai.
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a world-class destination that offers a blend of adventure, education, and entertainment. Located in the Dubai Mall, it’s a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Dive into the Aquarium:
- The Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, housing a 10-million-litre tank filled with over 33,000 marine animals.
- Visitors can marvel at sand tiger sharks, rays, and colourful fish as they explore the 270-degree underwater tunnel, which provides a breathtaking view of life beneath the waves.
- For thrill-seekers, activities like the Shark Dive allow you to get up close and personal with sand tiger sharks, while the Tunnel Walk offers a mesmerizing journey through the aquarium’s aquatic wonders.
Explore the Underwater Zoo:
- Above the aquarium lies the Underwater Zoo, which is home to a fascinating collection of aquatic and nocturnal animals. The zoo features interactive displays where visitors can learn about various species, including otters, turtles, and vibrant fish.
- One of the main highlights is the King Croc, a 750-kg giant crocodile that measures over 5 meters in length.
- Other residents include penguins, snakes, chameleons, bats, and even insects like scorpions and ants.
Special Experiences:
For a more immersive experience, visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides. Feeding sessions and close encounters with animals like penguins and otters provide unforgettable moments. Additionally, interactive educational videos and exhibits help you learn about the unique species found here.
Opening Hours & Tickets:
- Timings:
- Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:15 PM).
- Weekends: 10:00 AM – Midnight (last entry at 11:15 PM).
- Tickets:
- Entry starts at AED 199.
- for the tunnel start at AED 135 and shark diving is priced at AED 620.
Time Taken:
Visiting the Aquarium Tunnel typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, while exploring the Underwater Zoo on Level 2 can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest in presentations or shows. The Glass Bottom Boat ride lasts about 15–20 minutes.
2. KidZania Dubai:
Location: Second Level, Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai.
Looking to pamper your little ones and offer them an unforgettable experience in Dubai? KidZania Dubai is a must-visit destination for families! This massive 7,000-square-meter city is an edutainment paradise where children can explore over 40 real-life professions while learning valuable life skills.
From firefighting to fashion designing, KidZania offers a range of interactive, hands-on activities that spark creativity, teamwork, and financial literacy.
Exclusive KidZania Dubai Ticket Deals
Booking online can save you time and money, with discounted ticket prices available. Currently, you can save up to USD 4 when you purchase tickets for just USD 28 (regular price USD 33). Skip the lines, avoid the crowds, and get instant confirmation for a visit.
Top Activities and Highlights at KidZania Dubai:
- Role-Playing Fun: Kids step into their dream professions, from making pizzas at Pizza Express to performing surgeries at the Appolonia Dental Clinic and fighting fires at the Fire Station.
- Hands-On Learning: Earn KidZos while managing a supermarket or crafting chocolates, teaching money management and responsibility.
- Health & Wellness: Aspiring doctors can diagnose patients at the American Hospital or learn sanitation at the Microsafe Infection Control Centre.
- Entertainment & Creativity: Work as a news reporter or perform in the Talent Show, with an Acting Academy for young actors.
- Retail Therapy: Spend KidZos at the Department Store or enjoy face painting and souvenirs at the KidZania Shop.
- Pilot Experience: Let your little ones take the controls of an Emirates aircraft in a flight simulator—who knows, a future pilot in the making?
- Firefighter Role: Kids can don firefighter gear, hop into a mini fire truck, and step up to save the day in an exciting simulated emergency.
Opening Hours & Tickets:
- Timings:
- Weekdays (Saturday – Wednesday): 10 AM – 10 PM (Last entry at 7 PM)
- Weekends (Thursday – Friday): 10 AM – 10 PM (Last entry at 8 PM)
- Tickets:
- Standard Ticket (AED 195): For children aged 4 to 16
- 50 KidZos
- All-day access to city activities
- Premium Ticket (AED 260): For children aged 4 to 16
- All-day access to city activities
- Access to KidZania Titans
- Access to seasonal activities
- 1 x AED 20 food & beverage voucher*
- 1 x AED 20 KidZania retail shop voucher*
- *Food & Beverage: Valid at McDonald’s / Pizza Express / Reel Cinemas Café / Milk Bar
*Retail: Valid at KidZania shops / Face Painting
- Toddler Ticket (AED 110): For children aged 2 to 3
- 50 KidZos
- All-day access to selected city activities
- Baby Ticket (Free): For children under 2 years old
- Free entry (no activities offered)
- Adult Ticket (AED 80): For adults aged 17 and above
- Gold Annual Pass (AED 1999):
- Access to KidZania Dubai 7 days a week
- Free KidZania PaZZport
- 150 KidZos + 12 Fast Track tickets (on the first visit)
- 15% retail discount, 20% birthday party discount
- 15% discount on Dubai Ice Rink tickets (day session)
- No blackout dates
Time Taken:
You can enjoy the entire day at KidZania, though typically, 2-3 hours are enough for a fulfilling experience.
3. Dubai Ice Rink:
Location: Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall, near The Souk and Waterfall Atrium.
Experience ice skating in the heart of Dubai at the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s the perfect way to cool off and have fun.
Must-Try Experiences:
- Public Skating Session: AED 75 for 90 minutes, including skate rentals.
- Disco Night: Skating with neon lights and music, priced at AED 100. Available on Thursdays and Fridays at 6:15 PM.
- Freestyle Sessions: Practice advanced skills like jumps and spins.
Why Visit Dubai Ice Rink?
- Learn to Skate: Join figure skating academy courses.
- Fun Events: Enjoy DJ nights and a vibrant dancefloor vibe.
- Safe Environment: Expert coaches and marshals ensure safety, and the ice is maintained to top standards with a Zamboni machine.
Opening Hours & Tickets:
- Timing:
- Sunday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tickets:
- Day Admission: AED 120 for sessions from 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM or 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Evening Admission: AED 145 for sessions from 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM or 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
Time Taken:
Sessions typically last 1-2 hours, but you can enjoy the rink all day!
Shopping in Dubai Mall:
Here is a guide for best shopping experiences in Dubai Mall according to your taste:
1. High-End Fashion Brands:
- Chanel: Explore timeless pieces like the Classic Flap Bag, starting at AED 25,000
- Louis Vuitton: Don’t miss the versatile Neverfull Tote, priced at AED 5,500
- Dior: Treat yourself to the luxurious Dior Lip Glow for AED 170
- Cartier: Indulge in the iconic Love Bracelet, starting at AED 8,000
Unique Boutiques:
- The Watch Gallery: Offers timepieces ranging from AED 2,000 to over AED 50,000
- Maison Des Fleurs: Discover exquisite floral arrangements that double as art pieces.
Level Shoes:
For shoe lovers, Level Shoes is a dream come true. Spanning 96,000 square feet, this luxurious space offers designer brands like Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Valentino, alongside premium amenities like a VIP lounge, foot spa, and even a shoe hospital for repairs.
Highlights:
- Location: Ground Floor, near the Financial Center Road entrance.
- Top Picks:
- Christian Louboutin So Kate Pumps: AED 2,500
- Valentino Rockstud Sandals: AED 1,800
- Sneaker Lab Cleaning Kit: AED 150
- Off-White Limited Edition Sneakers: AED 1,500–3,000
- Yeezy Boost 350 V2: AED 1,300
2. Affordable and Popular Brands:
Dubai Mall offers great options for budget-friendly shopping without compromising quality. Here are some top picks:
- Zara: Located on the ground floor (Parking: P1, Fashion Parking), Zara is a popular choice for trendy and affordable fashion. They offer clothing, bags, and shoes for both men and women.
- COS: Situated on the first floor (Parking: P1, Grand Parking), COS specializes in stylish, high-quality clothes at reasonable prices.
- Mango: Found on the ground floor (Parking: P3, Fashion Parking), Mango offers a mix of classic and trendy styles, with prices ranging from $10 to $200.
- H&M: Near Zara on the ground floor (Parking: P2, Grand Parking), H&M provides a variety of stylish clothes at affordable prices.
- Bershka: On the first floor (Parking: P5, Cinema Parking), Bershka is perfect for street-style clothing. Their shoes are a standout.
- G-SHOCK: Located on the second floor (Parking: P7, Fashion Parking), this shop offers affordable, high-quality watches.
Enjoy budget shopping at its best!
3. Souk and Traditional Markets Section:
The Souk at The Dubai Mall brings the charm of Arabia into a modern shopping experience. This section of the mall is filled with unique finds like handcrafted jewellery, exotic oud perfumes, and vibrant handmade goods. You’ll even spot a dinosaur skeleton in the middle of it all!
Location: Ground Floor, near the Grand Atrium.
Must-Visit Stores:
- Kanz Jewelry: Known for stunning gold jewelry with custom design options.
- Amouage Perfumes: Luxury Arabian fragrances.
- House of Amber: Offers elegant amber jewelry and artifacts.
- Oudh Al Anfar: Specializes in rich and exotic oud scents.
Unique Items to Buy:
- Oudh Perfume: AED 300 at Oudh Al Anfar.
- Handcrafted Gold Jewelry: From AED 500 at Kanz Jewelry.
- Amber Jewelry: AED 200 at House of Amber.
- Silk Scarves: AED 150 in various styles.
- Traditional Spices: AED 50 for saffron, za’atar, and more.
Explore a true taste of Arabia!
4. Special End Stores:
The Zoo Concept
The Zoo Concept is a quirky store filled with fun, one-of-a-kind items. From funky jewellery to unique home decor, it’s perfect for finding cool souvenirs or gifts. Prices range from AED 100 – AED 400
Location: Level Shoe District, Ground Floor.
Top Picks:
- Funky T-Shirts: Quirky graphic designs, AED 150
- Novelty Mugs: Humorous prints, AED 100
- Unique Jewelry: Handcrafted, AED 200–400
- Home Decor: Eclectic pieces, AED 150–300
- Custom Hats: Personalized designs, AED 100
Bearbrick Store:
Bearbrick Store is heaven for collectors, offering limited-edition figures inspired by art, pop culture, and fashion.
Location: Ground Floor, near Financial Center Road.
Top Picks:
- Limited-Edition Bearbricks: AED 1,000–5,000
- Exclusive Collaborations: Rare designs featuring popular themes.
Dining and Dubai Mall Restaurants:
Dubai Mall is more than a shopping destination—it’s a culinary hub with options ranging from fine dining to casual cafes and manys places to eat in Dubai Mall. Whether you’re craving global flavors or authentic local dishes, here’s a guide to the best places to eat.
Fine Dining
- La Maison Ani: Located on Fashion Avenue’s first floor, this restaurant serves French-Mediterranean dishes in a charming, luxurious setting. Perfect for a special meal with elegant pink arches and five-star service.
- Armani Caffe: Situated on Fashion Avenue’s ground floor, this chic restaurant offers upscale Italian cuisine. It’s the ideal spot for a refined lunch or dinner after a shopping spree.
- TROVE: Found on the ground floor, TROVE offers artistic global dishes, including Middle Eastern-inspired brunch and Italian main courses. The outdoor terrace boasts incredible views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
Lively Places
- Al Hallab: Enjoy authentic Lebanese food on the second floor with terrace seating overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Must-try dishes include the Mixed Grill Platter (AED 100–120) and Hummus with Meat (AED 35–45).
- Tribes: Located near the waterfall feature, Tribes serves bold African-inspired flavors. Try the Mixed Grill Platter (AED 150–180) or Bobotie Spring Rolls (AED 45–55) for a unique dining experience.
- Social House: Combining Asian, Western, and Middle Eastern cuisines, this lively spot offers unbeatable views of the Burj Khalifa and fountain. Favorites include Sushi Rolls (AED 50–70) and Rib-Eye Steak (AED 120–150).
Cafes and Eateries
- Logma: Found on the third floor near Fashion Avenue, this cozy spot serves traditional Khaleeji dishes like Lamb Madbous and Kunafa. A must-visit for local flavors.
- Markette: Located near the Dubai Aquarium, Markette offers a warm, homey vibe with an ever-changing specials menu and international comfort food.
- Novikov Café: Perfect for quick bites, Novikov Café serves light meals and snacks made with fresh, quality ingredients.
Prices and Timing:
- Price Range: Meals range from AED 50 ($14) for light snacks to AED 200 ($54) for a full fine dining experience.
- Timings: Most restaurants open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with fine dining spots extending until 2:00 AM. Breakfast options are available from 10:00 AM onwards.
Dress Attire:
- Fine Dining: Smart casual or formal attire is recommended for upscale spots like La Maison Ani and Armani Caffe.
- Casual Eateries: Comfortable casual wear is acceptable at cafes and lively places like Tribes and Social House.
Entertainment and Leisure spaces:
VR Park
About:
Experience the future at VR Park, a virtual reality theme park offering adrenaline-pumping attractions like skydiving simulations, intense roller coasters, and epic space battles—all without leaving the ground. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, it’s an immersive adventure in the heart of Dubai.
Specialty:
- Dubai Drone: Fly high above the city in a futuristic VR adventure.
- Burj Drop: Feel the rush of a simulated descent from the Burj Khalifa.
Timings:
Open daily: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Tickets:
- Dubai Drone: AED 45 ($12 USD)
- Burj Drop: AED 35 ($10 USD)
- Discounted packages are available with a VR Park card.
Tip:
Pre-load a VR Park card to save on multiple attractions and prepare for a wild, sensory experience.
Hysteria
About:
Dive into the chilling world of Hysteria, Dubai’s first extreme haunted attraction. Set in a haunted mansion with vengeful spirits, this spine-tingling experience promises screams and thrills like no other.
Specialty:
- Navigate 15 gore-filled rooms with uneven footing and spinning wheels.
- Seasonal themes: Glowstick-only Halloween nights and Christmas with Krampus.
Timings:
Saturday–Wednesday: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Thursday–Friday: 10:00 AM–1:00 AM
Tickets:
Single admission: AED 105 ($28 USD)
Tip:
Best suited for adults; younger visitors should enter with caution. Visit during Halloween or Christmas for added scares.
Reel Cinemas
About:
Enjoy movies like never before at Reel Cinemas, featuring luxurious Platinum Suites, dine-in options, and ultra-comfortable seating. It’s a VIP cinematic experience in the heart of Dubai Mall.
Specialty:
- Platinum Suites: Reclining seats, personal butler service, and gourmet dining.
- Dine-In Cinema: Watch movies while savoring delicious meals and snacks.
Timings:
Open daily: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Tickets:
- Platinum Suites: AED 160 ($44 USD)
- Dine-In Cinema: Gourmet snacks start at AED 40 ($11 USD).
Tip:
Book your tickets in advance, especially for new releases and weekend shows, to secure the best seats.
Leisure
The Waterfall:
- About:
The Dubai Mall Waterfall is an iconic artistic landmark located inside the mall. Stretching across four levels, this stunning waterfall features life-like sculptures of pearl divers, celebrating the UAE’s pearl diving heritage. - Speciality:
The waterfall creates a visual illusion of divers in motion. Its fiberglass sculptures honor the tradition of pearl diving, once vital to the UAE’s economy. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the mall. - Timings:
The waterfall operates during Dubai Mall hours:
Sunday–Wednesday: 10 AM–12 AM
Thursday–Saturday: 10 AM–1 AM - Tickets:
Free entry. - Tip:
For the best photos, start at the ground level and explore higher floors for unique angles.
Fountains:
- About:
The Dubai Fountain Show is a mesmerising display of water, lights, and music. Located outside the Dubai Mall near the Burj Khalifa, it’s the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. - Speciality:
The show features water jets soaring up to 150 meters, dancing in perfect harmony with various songs. Each performance offers unique choreography. - Timings:
Daily: Every 30 minutes from 6 PM–11 PM. - Tickets:
Free viewing from the Waterfront Promenade or Souk Al Bahar Bridge. - Tip:
Arrive early for the evening shows to secure the best viewing spot.
Spa:
- About:
The Dubai Mall offers luxurious spa and salon services for a rejuvenating experience. Popular spots include NStyle Beauty Lounge, The Nail Spa, and B/Attitude Spa. - Speciality:
B/Attitude Spa provides Ayurvedic treatments like aromatherapy massages (AED 350) and body scrubs (AED 400). Aveda Salon features eco-friendly options like botanical hair therapy (AED 250). - Timings:
Most spas operate from 10 AM–12 AM daily. - Tickets:
Prices vary based on the service. - Tip:
Book appointments early, especially on weekends, to avoid waiting times.
Visitor Information
Dubai Mall Timings and Best Time to Visit
Dubai Mall is open Sunday to Wednesday from 10 AM to 12 AM and Thursday to Saturday from 10 AM to 1 AM. The best time to visit is in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays when it’s less crowded. Evenings are great for enjoying the Dubai Fountain Show.
Dubai Mall Entry and Parking Details
Entry to Dubai Mall is free. For those driving, the mall offers free parking with over 14,000 spaces. Use the Fashion Avenue parking for quick access to luxury stores or Cinema Parking for entertainment options.
Accessibility for People with Disabilities
Dubai Mall is fully accessible, offering elevators, ramps, and wheelchair services. Special parking spots are also available near entrances.
How to Reach Dubai Mall
Located in Downtown Dubai, the mall is easily reachable via Dubai Metro (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station), taxi, or by car. Shuttle services from various hotels are also available.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Dubai Mall
Wear comfortable shoes, as the mall is huge. Carry a water bottle, and use a map or the Dubai Mall app for easy navigation.
Nearby Attractions to Visit After Dubai Mall
Explore Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, or Souk Al Bahar for a complete experience.