dubai mall must visit

13 Fun Things to do at Dubai Mall (Other Than Shop!)

Ultimate guide to exploring dubai mall’s top attractions.

Dubai Mall is one of the biggest shopping malls in the world.

It can be an overwhelming place to explore with over 1,200 outlets, not to mention it is attached to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa as well as the Dubai Aquarium , Kidzania, a Virtual Reality Park, an Olympic Ice Skating Rink – on the scale of worldwide shopping mall experiences, it’s a pretty epic destination!

So let’s take a deep dive into exploring the Dubai Mall. What are the highlights you don’t want to miss? How do you get there? Should you stay nearby? What do all the extra attractions cost? Dubai visitors, read on!!

Top Things to Do in Dubai Mall

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You could easily pack several complete days in if you were to attempt everything that’s on offer at Dubai Mall. We know most visitors simply don’t have the time to see it all, so we’ll help you narrow it down based on your interests and time, let’s go!

Burj Khalifa – At The Top

Let’s start with a biggie (although technically its own building), the Burj Khalifa is entered through the Lower Ground Floor of the Dubai Mall. The main attraction for visitors is At The Top observation deck.

• We have a complete guide here to help you plan your trip to Burj Khalifa

This is one part of your trip to Dubai you really do want to plan in advance. The ticket prices are exponentially more at the door vs paying online and guarantee you the slot you want, particularly if you are keen on the popular sunrise or sunset times (though bear in mind they cost more)

Time Needed: 2 hours

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is famous for having the largest suspended aquarium tank in the world – holding 10 million litres (2.64 million gallons) of water. It has the largest acrylic viewing panel in the world measuring 8.3m high by 32.88m wide and is 75cm thick.

Inside the aquarium – which sits in the very centre of Dubai Mall – you can expect to experience hundreds of sharks and stingrays among the 140+ species on display. Within the zoo, there are plenty of add-on experiences to be enjoyed, from caged shark walks to Kind Croc encounters, shark dives, ray encounter experiences and feeding presentations.

• Check pricing and packages for Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo here

If you don’t want to splash the cash, it’s still possible to see the giant suspended tank of the aquarium without actually going inside.

Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on what activities you undertake

The Human Waterfall (free!)

This stunning sculpture is beautifully iconic and utterly instagrammable. Spread over two large cylindrical walls 30 metres in diameter and 24 meters high – spanning the three floors of the Dubai Mall – it is one of the Mall’s most eye-catching features.

• You can learn more about the Dubai Waterfall here.

Time needed : 15 minutes

Glide Your Way Around the Ice Skating Rink

It’s hard to believe an entire Olympic-sized rink sits within the heart of the Dubai Mall. Open to all ages and abilities, you can learn to skate through to advanced skaters showing off their moves to the crowd. All your ice skating gear is there to rent.

Prices are variable depending on the time of day you visit. Adds and safety add-ons cost extra. We’ve found that it’s cheaper to pre-book your time slot using Platinumlist .

• You can learn more about the Dubai Mall Ice Rink here

Time needed: 1 hour

Get the Kids Working at KidZania Dubai

One of the best Dubai Mall activities for kids, this real-to-life city is a 7,000 m2 edutainment centre, incorporating over 60 real-life activities for kids to enjoy, from role-playing to critical thinking to crafts and sports and fun ways to spend the KidZoos (money!) that they earn for working.

Ideal for your kids aged 4 to 12 years old (they need to be independent of a parent/carer to join in).

• There’s a good detailed review here of exactly what to expect at Kidzania Dubai or purchase your tickets here .

Time needed: 3 to 4 hours

Land an Aircraft with the Emirates A380 Simulator

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to sit at the helm of the world’s largest commercial aircraft?

This cutting-edge simulator can be found on the 2nd floor of the Dubai Mall (opposite the Aquarium entrance). You can enjoy a 15, 30 or 60-minute lesson on landing this megalithic aeroplane at 12 of the world’s busiest airports.

Platinum and Gold Emirates Skywards members and Emirates Group staff are entitled to a 20% discount (proof of membership/employment is required) .

• Learn more about the Emirates A380 Experience here .

Step into the Future at Play DXB

In the space that was formerly known as VR Park (and before that, Sega Republic!), you will find the world’s largest virtual reality and augmented reality park – Play DXB .  Rides vary from the popular Dubai Drone, which sees you on a simulated roller coaster experience through Dubai’s landmarks, to popular video game classics.

There’s something here for everyone, from an inflatable playpark for tots to grown-up-themed simulators and shooting games for teens and adults. Entry is free; you only pay for the games and activities inside, so grab a Pay & Play pass and take your pick.

• Pre-purchase your Pay & Play Pass to enjoy the Park’s most popular attractions.

Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours

Dubai Dino (Free!)

Situated quite centrally in the Souk Dome on the ground floor of the mall, the 24-metre long and 7-metre high Dubai Dino is a firm favourite of kids as one of the mall’s permanent displays. Marvel at the 155-million-year-old creature from the late Jurassic period, in stark contrast to its modern surroundings in this desert mall.

Time needed: 15 minutes

Be Scared Senseless at Hysteria

Hysteria is a haunted house experience like no other – explore through a 15-room mansion simulator. Certainly not for the faint-hearted, this extreme fear experience is only for your thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies; you’ll find it at the Cinema end of the Mall, Level 2/P7 – recommended for 16 years+.

• Learn more about Hysteria and ticket pricing here .

Time need: 20 minutes

Catch the Latest Flicks Reel Cinemas

Speaking of the infamous cinema end to Dubai Mall – one of the largest cinemas in the Middle East can be found at Dubai Mall, the perfect way to spend a few hours tucked away from the heat. Almost every type of modern movie-going experience you can imagine can be found here, from Dine-in to 4D, ScreenX and Platinum Suites.

• See the current schedule for movies at Reel Cinema Dubai Mall

Time needed: approximately 2 hours

Get Behind The Wheel at Ekart Zabeel

On your marks, get set, go! On the rooftop of Dubai Mall Zabeel (extension to Dubai Mall), the latest new sensation to join the entertainment lineup is go-karting! Standard track sessions are available through race events that can be organized in groups of up to 8.

• Learn more and pre-book tickets for Ekart Zabeel here

Time needed: approximately 90 minutes

Dubai Fountains (Free)

One of the best free activities at Dubai sits outside, at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, you will see the breathtaking Dubai Fountain show. Beautifully choreographed performances happen daily at 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm, and again in the evenings from 6:30 pm and every half hour until midnight.

We highly recommend grabbing yourself a spot at a restaurant that has a view of the Dubai Fountains in order to maximise your experience and avoid the often crushing crowds on weekends.

For a truly special way to enjoy the fountain shows, take a traditional abra boat out onto Burj Lake to see the action up close (paid), or step out onto the Burj Lake boardwalk (paid) for the closest views.

You can check out some stunning footage of what to expect at the Dubai Fountains here:

Time need: The show itself is only about 5 minutes, but allow yourself 30 minutes getting outside, find your position, and keep a lookout for the following light show on Burj Khalifa

• A complete guide on the best spots and timing for the Dubai fountains and Burj Khalifa light show here

Wander & Dine at Souk al Bahar

The experience doesn’t end within the Dubai Mall. Keep heading outside the Mall (on the Lower Ground Floor, underneath the flagship Apple store). You will find a bridge over Burj Lake, which takes you to Dubai Souk al Bahar.

All of these fabulous experiences are before we get to the actual shopping part and the time it takes to walk around the mega-complex!

Our top tip – don’t attempt to see and do it all. If you have kids, head over to our family-friendly guide to Dubai Mall. With adults only in your group, there’s more you can squeeze in, but do try and balance it with other activities on your trip to Dubai too.

You can expect everything from quick bites and food court food through to fine dining, all within Dubai Mall. The largest food court is in the centre of the top floor of the Mall, but don’t miss a further extensive range of fast food and dine-in choices on the lower ground floor as you head to the Burj Khalifa “At The Top” entrance.

Restaurants are dotted all over the Mall, primarily on the side toward Burj Lake.

Do note, restaurants within Dubai Mall are dry, ie they don’t serve alcohol. If you fancy a drink with lunch or dinner, head over to Souk Al Bahar , accessible by a footbridge from Dubai Mall, or any of the surrounding hotels which are licensed.

Top dining picks for families in Dubai Mall

The choices are truly vast when it comes to family dining – you really can’t go wrong suiting even the fussiest of eaters. Most likely you will simply stop when the hangry strikes, but here are a few family-friendly ideas to keep in mind;

• The Cheesecake Factory – of international fame, you know what you’re getting, and great menu choices to suit everyone.
• TGI Fridays – likewise, an international menu with a range of familiar family-friendly choices.
• Social House – Situated on the Lower Ground Floor as you exit to the Fountains or Souk Al Bahar, they have a huge and varied menu selection and a great atmosphere that lends itself to family groups. Its prime location means it can be very busy.

Top Dubai Mall dining picks for a great view

Restaurants that sit on the outside of Dubai Mall get the best views of the Dubai Fountain shows which occur daily at 1:00 pm, 1:30 pm and again in the evening from 6.30 pm and every half hour until 11:30 pm. Some of our favourites include:

• Open Flame Kitchen – an upscale eatery on the 1st floor overlooking the action with international dishes on offer.
• Carluccios – an Italian favourite on the lower ground floor in the heart of the action.
• Tribes – a fabulous fun choice on the 3rd floor of Dubai Mall, tastes from all over Africa can be enjoyed inside and out.

You can find our complete guide to Dubai Fountain dining spots within Dubai Mall here.

The Dubai Mall is one of the city’s most unmissable attractions in the heart of Downtown Dubai, so navigating there is straightforward – though, depending on the time of day, it can be super busy!

• By Metro – The Dubai Mall is connected to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station, which is on the Red Line. From the station to the Mall, you walk through an air-conditioned air bridge with a travellator – about a 10-minute walk.
• By Bus – Route 27 from Deira Gold Souk station and Route 29 from Ghubaiba bus station service the Dubai Mall approx every 15 minutes. they arrive and depart from the tourist drop-off area, Grand Drive Entrance, Lower Ground Floor.
• By Taxi, Careem or Uber – there are several dedicated taxi ranks around Dubai Mall, including at the Cinema entrance and Fashion Avenue.
• By private car – there are multiple car park entrances and free covered parking. Despite the mammoth car parks, it can be a challenge to find a park late afternoon and evening, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Car park entrance fees are likely to be introduced via Salik later in 2024 to ease congestion.
• By Dubai Mall Coach – a complimentary coach service is run from several locations around the city, including Dubai Marina , Palm Jumeirah , JBR , Ras al Khaimah and Port Rashid for cruise passengers.

We have a detailed guide here on how to access Dubai Mall & Downtown Dubai from Dubai Airport.

There’s a lot to be said for staying close to Dubai Mall on your trip to Dubai. Especially if you’re only here for a short stopover, staying near Dubai Mall puts many of the major attractions and shopping conveniences at your fingertips.

The top hotels you will find near to Dubai Mall are:

• Armani Hotel Dubai
• Address Downtown
• Kempinski Central Avenue
• Kempinski The Boulevard
• Palace Downtown
• Vida Downtown
• Rove Downtown

There’s no denying most of these hotels are at the luxury end of the scale and out of many travellers’ budgets. We recommend you pop over to our complete guide of places to stay in Downtown Dubai to see if this location will be suitable for your stay.

Anywhere that easily connects to the Red Line Metro would also be a great choice for staying close to Dubai Mall. You can see our complete guide on where to stay in Dubai here or check the map below:

The best way to save on Dubai attractions is to book your tickets in advance and look for multi-ticket deals, both within Dubai Mall and encompassing other top Dubai and UAE attractions. We recommend you try:

• Ultimate Family Multi-Attraction Dubai Mall Pass to the Aquarium, KidZania and PlayDXB (+ you get a Du 4G SIM)
• The Dubai Pass – a multi-attraction pass with several different booking options

The Dubai Mall is open for shopping:

• Daily 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Note that on Eid holidays, Ramadan and special events, these regular Mall hours can change.

Keep up to date with what is happening at the Mall with the Dubai Mall App ( Android here )- we talk about all the great apps you can download ahead of your Dubai trip here.

There are some slight variations for different attractions within the mall:

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

• Weekdays (Monday to Friday): 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (last entry at 10:15 pm)
• Weekends (Saturday & Sunday): 10:00 am to 12:00 am (last entry at 11.15 pm) 

Restaurants

• Food courts and restaurants within the mall – 10:00 am to 1:00 am daily
• On the external Promenade 10:00 am to 2:00 am daily
• Select cafes open from 9:00 am on weekends

Supermarket

• Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Friday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 12:00 am

Reel Cinemas

• See their programmed shop times here

Dubai Ice Rink

• Daily 10:00 am to 12:00 am

To make your Dubai Mall as comfortable as possible, there are several great add-on services;

• Wifi (free)
• Porter Service (paid)
• Delivery service (get those shopping bags sent straight back to the hotel so you can get on with enjoying the attractions without baggage – paid!)

We hope this helps you plan your trip to one of Dubai’s top attractions . Undoubtedly, it is still the heart of city entertainment and retail experiences far beyond any ordinary shopping mall!

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to Top Dubai Attractions

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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Dubai Mall: How to visit + Tips

Visiting the dubai mall: best things to do + activities + where to stay.

You’re traveling to Dubai and you’re looking for more information about the iconic Dubai Mall?

You’re at the right place!

As t he world’s largest shopping mall , the Dubai Mall is a must-visit destination for travelers of all age.

In order to help you plan your visit, I will tell you everything about the best things to do and activities you can enjoy at the Dubai Mall. And at the end of this guide, you will find my selection of the best hotels in Dubai, depending on your budget.

Let’s plan your visit!

Shopping and eating in Dubai Mall

Dubai aquarium and underwater zoo, dubai fountain show, burj khalifa, visiting dubai mall with kids, my best tips to visit the dubai mall, where to stay in dubai to visit the dubai mall, address of the dubai mall, you’re traveling to dubai these articles will help you .

Of course, the Dubai Mall is the perfect place for a bit of shopping!

You can start your day at the Dubai Mall by checking out its impressive selection of stores and restaurants. With over 1,200 retail outlets , you’ll find everything from luxury fashion to electronics, jewelry to home decor, and much more.

There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants , so you can take a break, have a drink or a meal while you shop. It ranges from the fast food of the food court to luxury restaurants , so you will be spoilt for choice!

You wanna take a break from shopping?

You should thus check out the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , located inside the Dubai Mall (at level 1).

This aquarium is home to over 33,000 aquatic animals and features a 48-meter walk-through tunnel where you can get up close and personal with some of the sea’s most fascinating creatures, including sharks!

As one of Dubai’s top attraction, Dubai aquarium is always pretty busy, so make sure to purchase your tickets in advance online.

There are 2 types of tickets for the aquarium (click on the links to book):

• The classic: Aquarium + Underwater Zoo ticket
• A combined ticket: Aquarium + Underwater Zoo + Burj Khalifa – Certainly the most interesting for you , as you will probably visit the Burj Khalifa during your stay in Dubai!

The aquarium and underwater zoo is included in the Dubai Explorer Pass .

You can read more about the Dubai Aquarium in my dedicated article: How to visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?

The best way to discover Dubai’s must see attraction is to purchase the Dubai Explorer Pass .

With this city pass, you have access to 3, 4, 5 or 7 tourist attractions (depending on your choice). The following activities are offered:

• Excursion in the desert
• Dubai Aquarium and underwater Zoo
• Dinner cruise in the marina
• Access to the world famous Aquaventure Waterpark of Atlantis Hotel
• Ticket for the Hop on Hop off bus.

Since all these attractions are among the best things to do in Dubai, this City Pass is really the best way to save time and money!

For more information about the Dubai Pass and the activities included, simply click on the button below:

When you’re done exploring inside of the mall, you can take a stroll outside to discover the Dubai Fountain.

This mesmerizing display of lights and music is one of Dubai’s must-see attractions and is sure to leave you in awe.

The fountain show takes place several times a day on the artificial lake located at the exit of Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

You must attend it during your trip to Dubai!

The best is to go there at nightfall, when the tower is illuminated. It’s simply magical to watch the ballet of water jets dancing to music.

The show takes place every 30 minutes between 18.00 and 23.00 (there are also a few during the day).

The access is free of charge.

Quick tip:  As it’s super touristy, plan to get there a bit early to secure a good spot to  enjoy the show!

If you want to admire the sound and light show up close , then you should take an abra (traditional boat) on the artificial lake. You need to click here to book your tickets.

One of the best places to view the fountain show is from the terrace of the Apple store located in Dubai Mall.

Near the lake, you can also visit Souk Al Bahar , another gallery with a few shops , cafés and restaurants with terraces and fountain view . It’s worth to go have a look, even if only for its beautiful interior.

As the entrance to the Burj Khalifa , the tallest skyscraper in the world, is located in the Dubai Mall, you will very probably visit the tower on the same day as the Dubai Mall.

To visit the Burj Khalifa , you should really book your skip the line ticket online in advance .

This will allow you to choose your visit time slot and avoid the long waiting lines to buy your tickets.

Another important advantage is that tickets are cheaper online than directly at the counter. And that’s the same for all the activities you can do in Dubai!

There are different types of tickets available (click on the orange link for information and to book):

• Ticket At The Top Burj Khalifa – Access to 124th and 125th floors.
• Ticket VIP At The Top Sky – Access to the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa + 124 and 125 floors + quick access to the security checkpoints and elevator.
• Ticket The Lounge – Access to floor 152 + 153 + 154, the lounge bar of the Burj Khalifa
• Ascent to the 124th floor + lunch or dinner at the Burj Club restaurant.

And if  you want to visit both the Aquarium and Burj Khalifa , you should buy the following ticket to save money:

Access to Burj Khalifa is included in the Dubai Explorer Pass .

You’re traveling with kids?

The Dubai Mall will for sure keep them entertained!

From Kidzania theme park to the Reel Cinemas , there’s something for every age group. The SEGA Republic gaming zone is also sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Of course, no family trip to the Dubai Mall is complete without a visit to the Dubai Ice Rink . You can spend hours here perfecting your ice skating skills or just having fun with friends.

If you’re looking to maximize your experience at the Dubai Mall, here are my 3 best tips that you should keep in mind:

• Make sure to check out the mall’s website before you go. Here, you can find out which stores are offering special discounts and promotions, so you can save big on your shopping.
• It’s best to visit the mall early in the morning, when it’s not as crowded. This will give you the chance to explore the mall at your own pace and avoid the long queues at the checkouts.
• Make sure to take advantage of the mall’s concierge services. From arranging transportation to booking restaurant reservations, the concierge staff can help make your visit to the Dubai Mall as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

With its impressive selection of stores, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment, you can easily spend a day here and still not see it all. So, make sure to save some time for the Dubai Mall during your trip to Dubai!

There are hundreds of hotels in Dubai, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you the best hotels in Dubai for each district, depending on your budget. I have also made a special list of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai.

As always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible!

The best hotels in Downtown Dubai (near the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa)

• DoubleTree of Hilton Dubai – Business Bay: Located 1.5 km from Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Very spacious and comfortable room, well decorated and equipped from 110€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: free shuttle to the Dubai Mall, good breakfast, comfort, tranquility. This my favorite hotel in Dubai for its exceptional value for money!
• Rove Downtown: Only 600 meters from the Dubai Mall. Bright and clean double room with view on Burj Khalifa, from 150€, breakfast for 15€. Strong points: Access to the Dubai Mall on foot, helpful staff, free shuttle service to the beach, Dubai Museum or Madinat Souk.
• Taj Dubai: Located 800 meters from Burj Khalifa. Modern and luxurious room with bay window overlooking the city and marble bathroom starting at 220€ per night, breakfast at 32€. Strong points: The magnificent view from the roof, the Indian decoration, the large swimming pool. An excellent hotel in Dubai city center, perfect for a romantic stay!
• Palace Downtown: Located on the lake at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, this 5-star hotel offers magnificent rooms with balcony, with an exceptional view of the Burj Khalifa. From 380€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: the exceptional location, the beautiful surroundings, the very attentive and helpful staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Downtown Dubai!

The best hotels in old Dubai (Deira and Bur Dubai)

• Golden Sands Hotel Apartments : Located in Bur Dubai, 1.5 km from the Dubai Museum. Apartment equipped with kitchenette and washing machine, from 80€ per night, breakfast from 11€. Strong points: Cleanliness, the heated swimming pool, the comfortable apartments
• Swissôtel Al Ghurair Dubai: Located in Deira district. Warm and spacious room from 115€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: the pleasant staff, the view, the good breakfast. It’s my favourite in Old Dubai for its excellent value for money!
• Hyatt Regency Creek Heights Residences: Located next to Creekside Park. Very spacious, super comfortable and very well equipped rooms starting at 130€ per night, breakfast at 33€. Strong points: 5 minutes walk from the metro, the warm welcome, the quiet location, the spa.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek : 5* hotel located in Deira bay. Double room with balcony overlooking the bay from 150€, breakfast at 29€. Strong points: The proximity of the metro and the shops, the beautiful swimming pool, the comfortable bed and the amazing view. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Old Dubai!

Dubai’s best beach hotels

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, Dubai: Located 300 meters from the beach. Rooms and apartments with sea view from 125€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: The view, the comfortable beds, the location near the beach and the harbor.
• Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach – Dubai: Located along “The Walk”. Rooms with balcony overlooking the Gulf and Palm Jumeirah from 175€, breakfast at 24€. Strong points: the exceptional view, the proximity of the tram and metro, restaurants and shops at the foot of the hotel.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach: Located 150 meters from the beach. Contemporary room with balcony and sea view from 230€, breakfast at 22€. Strong points: the infinity pool, the very good breakfast, the spa, the ideal location to enjoy the sea.
• Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments: Located on the port promenade. Elegant and bright double room from 290€, breakfast at 42€. Strong points: Comfort, access to the private beach, the quality of the food.

The most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai

• Atlantis The Palm, Dubai : One of the emblematic hotels of the city, located in Palm Jumeirah. Room from 300€, breakfast from 42€. Strong points: Includes access to Aquaventure Park and The Lost Chambers aquarium, private beach, swimming pools.
• Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites – Ultra All Inclusive: Also located in Palm Jumeirah, this luxury hotel offers all inclusive rooms (all meals included) from 452€. Strong points: the quality of the meals, the setting, the amazing rooms.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai: Located directly on the beach of JBR Walk. Elegantly furnished rooms with balcony and sea view from 500€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: 6 swimming pools, a private beach, the spa, the very helpful staff.
• Armani Hotel Dubai: Located in the Burj Khalifa Tower! Rooms decorated by the fashion designer Giorgio Armani, starting at 550€ per night, breakfast at 41€. Strong points: the privilege of sleeping in the Burj Khalifa, the refinement of the place, the view.
• Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah: Located in Palm Jumeirah. Luxury suite with living room and dining room starting at 750€, breakfast included. Strong points: The private beach, the huge swimming pool and the beautiful gardens.
• Burj Al Arab Jumeirah: THE luxury hotel, one of the rare 7* hotels in the world! The “smallest” suite is 170m² and prices start at 1290€, breakfast at 74€. I can assure you that your stay in Dubai will be truly exceptional and unforgettable!

You didn’t find your dream hotel in this selection?

You should thus have a look at my article about the best hotels in Dubai by clicking on the following link: Where to stay in Dubai?

Here is the exact address of the Dubai Mall:

The Dubai Mall Doha Street Off 1st Interchange – Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, U.A.E.

In order to help you plan your stay in Dubai, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on the duration of your trip .

They are 100% free and you can find them here: simply click on the orange links to read the guides!

• 2 days in Dubai – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Dubai – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Dubai – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in Dubai – How to spend 5 days in Dubai
• 1 Week in Dubai – The best itinerary to visit Dubai in 7 days!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the corresponding article. I will be glad to help you plan your stay in Dubai.

Discover all my articles about Dubai : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Dubai are listed there.

• Dubai: The 30 best places to visit – All best things to do and activities!
• Burj Khalifa: The definitive guide to all tickets + Tips
• Dubai Aquarium: discover one of Dubai’s must see attraction
• Dubai Mall: How to plan your visit of this huge shopping center!
• Dubai Old Town: 10 best things to do
• Dubai Fountain Show: all my tips to enjoy it to the fullest!
• Palm Jumeirah: the 15 best things to do!
• TOP Activities in Dubai – The 30 best activities and excursions to do in Dubai!
• Dubai Zipline – Price, info and reservations for the best experience in town!
• The best desert safaris in Dubai – my 7 favorites! (4WD, quad, buggy and more)
• Where to stay in Dubai? The guide to the best hotels by district, for all budgets
• Dubai Pass: The best way to save time and money in Dubai!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Dubai mall guide: where to go for what

By Natascha Hawke

Dubai's shopping scene is world famous, with cavernous malls that are much more than mere retail spaces. Luxury cinemas, futuristic play areas, art exhibits, innovative pop-ups and experiential shopping experiences complement rows and rows of shiny designer boutiques and shops selling interesting homegrown labels. All to say, Dubai's malls can be overwhelming, so here are some tips on where to stop for what.  

Dubai Mall is home to 1,200 shops

In true Dubai style, the world’s largest mall sits directly beneath the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Covering one million square metres, Dubai Mall houses a vast number of retail, dining and entertainment outlets, and is visited by more than one million people each year. Everything about it is impressive. 

Home to 1,200 shops across seven storeys, covering tech, literature, interiors, sportswear, childrenswear and fashion, it also has 200 dining outlets, an ice rink, soft play areas, a cinema and a 10 million-litre aquarium. It was recently expanded by a further 15,000 sqm with the addition of Dubai Mall Zabeel, a lifestyle space situated across the road and connected via an air-conditioned footbridge. And, to make the large number of Chinese tourists that visit Dubai every year feel at home, Chinatown, an area dedicated to Chinese restaurants and shops, has also been launched, linking the mall to The Address Fountain Views hotel.

Luxury aficionados should head to the glass-domed Fashion Avenue

For families, Dubai Mall is a one-stop-shop, offering plenty of entertainment options away from the hot Dubai sun. The aquarium is not only intriguing from the outside, an underwater zoo back-of-house makes for an educational day out for the whole family. Other fun things for families include watching the famous fountain show, which takes place every 30 minutes from 6pm, while younger kids will be delighted by a trip to the UK’s most famous toy store, Hamley’s.

For shopping, The Dubai Mall’s fashion folio encompasses everything from high-street giants like Zara, Mango, H&M and Anthropologie, to mid-range lines like Sandro, Maje and DKNY. For luxury afficionados, the glass-domed Fashion Avenue is lined by the likes of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, YSL and McQueen – to name but a few – along with complementary cafés and restaurants by Armani and Gia, where visitors can take a pause from purchasing.

Get there easily by Dubai metro, taxi or self-park. There is also a valet service at the Fashion Avenue entrance. This is not a mall you can easily pop in and out of – there are vast distances and huge crowds involved, so make a day of it.

Dubai Hills Mall is easier to navigate than many of the city's other shopping centres

Dubai Hills Mall

One of the newer malls in the city, Dubai Hills Mall is a pleasure to shop. Though still large in size, its rectangular layout means it’s far easier to navigate than Dubai Mall and is still largely devoid of crowds. Focusing more on lifestyle than luxury – the most high-end fashion brand you’ll find is Michael Kors – Dubai Hills Mall houses the usual suspects in terms of high-street, including Zara, Mango and Massimo Dutti, with a few more obscure ones thrown in, like Muji, Urban Outfitters and Bauhaus. Sportswear is also popular here, with standalone stores from Adidas, Toms and Dropkick. But overall it’s the interior stores that stand out: Pottery Barn, Haute Boheme Home, Sophia Home, Natuzzi, Home Centre, Zara Home and The One are all in situ. There are also some homegrown cafes and pop-up shops tucked amid the stores. And it wouldn't be Dubai without a little something extra – Dubai Hills Mall is also home to the world's fastest indoor roller coaster, The Storm Coaster, if you fancy a quick adrenaline hit mid-shop. 

 The famed ski slope at Mall of the Emirates

Mall of the Emirates

A favourite with Dubai’s residents, Mall of the Emirates is one of the founding shopping destinations in the city and one of the busiest for day-to-day living. Here you’ll find people food shopping in Carrefour, upgrading their iPhone at the Apple Store, and leaving Hermès laden with bags, all under the same roof. It has high-end luxury brands like Burberry, Gucci, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi in its fashion dome and is home to London’s original multi-brand fashion emporium, Harvey Nichols. All the popular high-street brands are here, too, as with all of Dubai's malls, but the city’s first homegrown multi-brand department store THAT Concept Store brings a more curated fashion-forward edit of brands: MM6 Maison Margiela, Vetements and Simone Rocha are among those displayed in the colourful multi-storey space.

Restaurants abound at MOE, as it is known, with popular homegrown cafes like Common Grounds, More and The Lighthouse dotted around for easy refuelling, and international brands like Shake Shack, PF Changs and The Cheesecake Factory. For entertainment, Mall of the Emirates is best known around the world for Ski Dubai, an inside ski dome complete with penguins and real snow where you can enrol the kids in ski school or give it a go yourself.

Dubai's Outlet Mall is a 30-minute drive from the centre of the city

The Outlet Mall

For discounted luxury, head to Dubai’s Outlet Mall on the E66, approximately 30 minutes out of the city. If you aren’t driving, it’s easy to taxi, or a complimentary shuttle bus is available to and from most hotels . This is a bargain hunter’s heaven: Lululemon, Nike, Lacoste, Puma, Reebok and Ralph Lauren all have outlets here, plus it's where big luxury department stores like Bloomingdale’s Dubai and Harvey Nichols Dubai send old stock to find new life. You can hunt for Chloè handbags at a snip of the original price, Alexander McQueen shoes, men’s suits by Sacoor or Hugo Boss, as well as timepieces from the Rivoli group and furniture from outlets like The One. Well worth the trip.

Abaya Mall in Mirdif is a popular spot for local ladies searching for elegant modest designs. Around 50 boutiques line the mall, showcasing abayas in every eventuality, from traditional black with texture and trims, embellishments and embroideries to more fashion-forward designs in tie-dye prints or unusual appliqués. This is not a glamorous Emaar-developed mall, so don’t expect there to be a Starbucks. You can, however, have a manicure in one of the salons. 

Nakheel Mall is popular with Palm residents 

The Nakheel Mall

The main mall on Palm Jumeirah’s central trunk is designed to serve the local community. Nakheel Mall is more compact than many in the city, with about 140 shops to mooch about in on an afternoon spent exploring the Palm. A number of cafes and homegrown eateries sit at the heart of this shopping centre, making it a favoured destination for meet-ups and generating an energetic, buzzy atmosphere. During the week, the mall is quiet, aside from mums or nannies with strollers passing the time with a bit of browsing, and gaggles of freelancers on their laptops perched in coffee shops. On weekends, Nakheel Mall is filled with families on breakfast outings at 1762 Bakery & More and The Lime Tree, while friends line the central coffee bar at The Climbing Goat Roastery in Depachika, a gourmet food court championing the best of Dubai-born concepts, from Kilikio, a Greek bakery that bakes divine strifti and spinach pies, to BB Social Dining, whose bao buns and ramen noodles are loved the city over.

The clothes shopping is a mix of lesser-known labels and high street, and the odd gem can be uncovered in one of the local standalone boutiques: pretty linen dresses from Indian designer Ayesha Depala, co-ords from Beach City and the printed silk kaftan and trouser sets by Atelier are particularly good investments.

Galleria Mall

With locations in both Al Barsha and on Al Wasl road near City Walk, the Galleria malls are boutique in size, designed to serve the community with essential elements like a tailor, beauty salon, Organic Food shop and a few gifting boutiques, with an emphasis on providing an interesting environment in which to spend some time with friends. Restaurants are at the heart of Galleria – in Al Barsha, mornings see the Home Bakery and La Gente Roastery full of coffee meetings, and by the evening, the mall is buzzing with groups of people catching up over dinner. In Jumeirah, the set up is less mall and more of a promenade, with a steady flow of women browsing the boutiques before stopping for a light lunch on the terrace at Tashas.

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A Complete Guide to the Dubai Mall

Sylvain Sonnet/Getty Images

Have your credit cards ready: you’re about to enter the world’s largest shopping mall. Known for its space-age skyline, gold-plated sports cars, and lavish lifestyle, Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is all about living large — and nowhere is that more apparent than The Dubai Mall .

The world’s largest shopping mall by total area, the Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai spans 13 million square feet (enough to fill five Empire State Building s), with more than 1200 stores, 200 eateries, and scores of leisure and entertainment options.

Since opening in November 2008, the Dubai Mall has become one of the most-visited destinations on the planet. Today, it attracts over 80 million shoppers each year — more than the total number of people who visited New York in 2018.

To help you navigate this super-sized center, we’ve created the ultimate guide to the Dubai Mall’s shopping, dining and leisure attractions.

What’s in Store

For clothing and jewelry from the globe’s most coveted labels, hightail it to the freshly minted Fashion Avenue. Lined with gleaming white marble, glass and chandeliers, this ultra-glam expansion promises a five-star experience, complete with personal shoppers, chauffeur-driven buggies, and washrooms fit for royalty. It houses 80 high-end boutiques from the likes of Cartier, Dior, and Gucci, plus flagship stores for Rolex and Saint Laurent.

To browse homewares, fashion and accessories in one handy location, zero in on Dubai Mall’s upscale department stores: the three-story Bloomingdale’s outpost or French export Galeries Lafayette on level two. For a Cinderella moment, visit Level Shoes on the ground floor of the mall. This 96,000-square-foot store is a temple to designer footwear, featuring the latest pairs from Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Sarah Jessica Parker, Manolo Blahnik and more. 

After something a little easier on the wallet? Shop for high-street labels from Europe, the UK, and the US, such as COS, Mango, Ralph Lauren, and Zara, on the ground floor and level one, or head to The Village precinct for denim, sports and leisure wear. If you’re on the hunt for the latest high-tech gadget, swing past the electronics hub on the second floor.

Score souvenirs, gold jewelry, perfumes and carpets in the Souk, a marketplace of 200-odd tiny stores on the ground floor. While you’re there, spy the Dubai Dino, a 155-million-year-old diplodocus skeleton in the Souk’s atrium.

Next, follow the scent of sugar and butter to La Cure Gourmande on the lower ground floor, a vintage-style sweet shop selling cookies, macarons, caramels, and chocolate-coated dates.

Where to Eat

By now, you’ll have walked some serious miles and worked up a sizeable appetite. Head for the lower ground floor near the Dubai Fountain, where you can recharge with cake and coffee at Hummingbird or Magnolia Bakery; treat yourself to a three-tiered afternoon tea platter at Café Bateel; or enjoy vibrant Levantine salads and grills at Wafi Gourmet (nab a prime table on the promenade, overlooking the fountain).

On the ground floor, get your French fix at the ultra-luxe café Angelina or Parisian-style bistro Aubaine; or indulge your sense of nostalgia with a choice of 120 breakfast cereals at Cereal Killer Café, close to the indoor waterfall. Sweet tooths, pay a visit to one of the world’s largest candy store, Candylicious, where you’ll find a dizzying array of chocolates, gummies, and candies from across the globe.

It’s not all fashion and food, however. The Dubai Mall brings its bigger-is-better ethos to its entertainment and leisure options, too. Visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to ogle thousands of aquatic creatures in the 2.6 million-gallon tank, including sharks, fish, and rays. You can even sign up to feed an otter or a baby crocodile.

Take a spin around the Olympic-sized ice skating rink; test your skills in the Emirates A380 flight simulator, or make like John Wick during a virtual reality session at VR Park. Children can blow off steam at KidZania, while the whole family can take in a film at the 22-screen Reel Cinemas.

Feeling spent after all that spending? Seek out the new Sleep Pod Lounge, near the Grand Parking entrance on level two, where you can book a private pod for an hour-long power nap.

What’s Nearby

Located in the center of Downtown, the Dubai Mall is surrounded by some of the city’s most impressive sights. Next door sits Burj Khalifa , the tallest building on Earth at a cloud-piercing 160 stories. Take in views of Dubai’s sand dunes, skyscrapers and Arabian sea from the lofty observation deck, At The Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor, or enjoy a meal with a view at At.Mosphere on the 122nd floor.

Between the mall and Burj Khalifa lies the Dubai Fountain , another record-buster as the world’s largest choreographed fountain show. The five-minute music, light and water spectacle runs every half-hour from 6 p.m., and twice over lunchtime. For a front-row seat for the nightly performance, book a seat on a traditional abra boat or a spot on the Boardwalk, a floating platform that takes you within 30 feet of the fountains.

Finish your day with dinner at Souk Al Bahar , an Arabic-style marketplace of restaurants and shops overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake. Or, enjoy cocktails on the terrace of the Address Boulevard , a luxury hotel adjoining the mall with jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to the Dubai Mall is via the state-of-the-art Dubai Metro . Alight at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station, then follow the Metro Link Bridge to the mall’s entrance. There’s also valet parking available if you’d rather drive, as well as taxis, Uber and Careem services. The Careem app is indispensable if you’re traveling with a tot: Careem Kids cars come fitted with a child seat.

Insider Tips

• Bag a bargain: Time your visit to coincide with the Dubai Shopping Festival, a month-long sale that runs through January.
• Dress the part: The Dubai Mall is the place to flash your cash, not your flesh. Follow the Mall’s dress code by keeping your shoulders and knees covered at all times — gents, that goes for you too.
• Respect during Ramadan: During the Holy Month of Ramadan, there’s no eating or drinking in public during daylight hours, so most of the mall’s eateries don’t swing into gear until sunset. If you do need to grab a bite during the day, head to the curtained-off food court on level two.
• Get appy: Even the most committed fashionista needs help navigating this shopping metropolis. Download the Dubai Mall mobile app, then follow the prompts to your favorite stores.

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Dubai Mall: The Ultimate Guide – ALL You Need to Know

The Dubai Mall , more than just a mere shopping center, embodies a captivating metropolis within its walls. Expansive, grand, and teeming with boundless activities, this remarkable retail complex has cemented its status as Dubai’s pulsating “central square” throughout the years.

The mall’s sheer magnitude is awe-inspiring, housing an abundance of retail outlets , dining establishments , exhilarating amusement parks , and an extraordinary aquarium that stands among the most awe-inspiring in the world. A visit to the Dubai Mall promises an immersive experience, transcending the boundaries of traditional shopping excursions. With over a thousand stores , ranging from luxury brands to eclectic boutiques, the Dubai Mall caters to every taste and preference. Be it haute couture, electronics, or artisanal crafts, the mall boasts an extensive selection that captivates even the most discerning shoppers.

Beyond its shopping allure, the Dubai Mall beckons adventurers with its enchanting array of entertainment. From adrenaline-pumping rides at the theme park to mesmerizing light shows at the iconic Dubai Fountain , there is no shortage of exhilarating experiences to partake in. Not to be missed is the captivating Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , where visitors can marvel at a breathtaking display of marine life, including majestic sharks and vibrant coral reefs. The immersive tunnel walk offers a truly unforgettable encounter with the wonders of the deep sea.

Things to know about the Dubai Mall

Small guide to dubai mall shops, things to do and see at the dubai mall, best places to eat in the dubai mall, insider tips for visiting and shopping at the dubai mall, things to see and do around the dubai mall.

• The Dubai Mall is located in Downtown Dubai , in the heart of the most modern, futuristic and exclusive part of Dubai. Above the Dubai Mall stands the Burj Khalifa , the tallest skyscraper in the world.
• The Dubai Mall overlooks a complex of artificial lakes where in the evening you can watch the amazing show of the Dubai Fountain , a choreography of water, light and sounds.
• The Dubai Mall is huge : its size is equivalent to more than 50 football fields. This makes it one of the largest shopping malls in the world.
• There are over 1300 shops and over 200 restaurants and cafes in the Dubai Mall. In addition there is a 250-room luxury hotel, a 26-screen cinema and a plethora of theme parks to delight visitors of all ages. There is even an olympic ice rink .
• Inside there is an aquarium with over 30,000 marine animals and a tank of over 10 million liters, making it one of the largest aquariums in the world.
• If you like sweets you will love the Dubai Mall : here you can find Candylicious, the largest candy and sweet shop in the world.
• The Dubai Mall welcomes around 80 million visitors annually , more than New York or Los Angeles!

The Dubai Mall is a real shopping paradise: here you can find thousands of shops, and the products of the best international brands. Furthermore, some goods may have particularly advantageous prices due to low taxation .

If you love shopping, be prepared, the Dubai Mall is really huge! Probably more than you are used to. This means a lot of offer, a lot of people and a lot of chaos (especially in the sales periods and during the Dubai Shopping Festival ). Consider that to see all the shops you will have to spend the whole day here, or even more.

Fashion, Luxury, Beauty and Perfumery

Fashion avenue.

In the Dubai Mall you will find the best of luxury and international fashion . On the ground floor you will find Fashion Avenue which is home to over 150 high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Burberry, Cartier, Prada, Max Mara, Dior, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Hermes, Rolex and Dolce & Gabbana.

Each shop is set up with refinement and elegance, first-class staff (and obviously capable of speaking several languages), high technology and white marble and crystal surfaces. Everything is designed for a five-star experience , complete with personal shoppers, chauffeur-driven buggies, and washrooms fit for royalty.

Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette

If you are looking for a more easy-going experience, it is better to go to the Second Floor. Here are the two Dubai Mall’s upscale department stores: the three storeys of Bloomingdale’s and the French shopping icon Galeries Lafayette, where you will find homewares, fashion and accessories.

If you are looking for a nice pair of shoes, the right place is on the ground floor where you can find Level Shoes, a huge shop that sells the best brands of footwear.

Other Clothing and Accessories Stores

On the ground floor and first floor you will find many other clothing brands, including the stores of the famous European brands Zara, H&M, Mango and Ralph Lauren.

Jewelry, Watches and Diamonds

If you want to buy a nice jewel for someone special on the Ground Floor there is an entire area dedicated to jewelers where you can find the best European and Italian jewelry brands , as well as local diamond and gold shops.

Beauty and Perfumery

To take a look at cosmetics and fragrances, you can take a stroll through the boutiques of the various brands, scattered between the ground floor and the first two floors of the Dubai Mall. There are shops of all the most famous international cosmetic and perfumery brands. If you are looking for something particularly luxury you will surely find it on Fashion Avenue.

Also take a look at the Souk Al Bahar which is a reproduction of an old traditional souk, with craft shops, souvenirs, jewelry and perfumery. It is located on Burj Khalifa Lake and is connected to the Dubai Mall with a spectacular bridge that crosses the lake.

Electronics

The range of high-end electronics products is so vast that it satisfies the desires of all technology enthusiasts: smartphones, computers, digital cameras, drones and all the best technological innovations.

For fans of sound there are shops such as Bose (second floor) and Bang & Olufsen (first floor). On the first floor you can find the Apple Store, while on the second floor there are the stores of Huawei, Samsung and Sony. Photography enthusiasts will find the Canon (second floor) and Leica (ground floor) stores.

On the second floor there are several megastores dedicated to electronics: Virgin Megastore, Grand Stores Digital and Sharaf DG.

Something Sweet

On the Lower Ground Floor you will find many shops of sweets, chocolates, biscuits and delicious cakes, including La Cure Gourmande or the large candy and confectionery shop Candylicious.

Those who visit the Dubai Mall sometimes do it for shopping, but most visitors go there because it is full of attractions: from the aquarium to ice skating as well as many theme parks for children.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium is located inside the Dubai Mall and is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Its tank of over 10 million liters houses over 30,000 marine animals and is crossed by a crystal tunnel that allows people to walk inside it.

The path continues with the Underwater Zoo where visitors can meet many aquatic animals, including crocodiles, penguins and reptiles!

Burj Khalifa At the Top

Climb the world’s tallest skyscraper and enjoy the breathtaking view of the city!

From the Dubai Mall you can access the elevators that lead directly to the top of Burj Khalifa . The 124th, 125th and 148th floors can be visited and it is possible to access the external terrace of the observation deck, from which you have an incredible view of the city.

The best view is at sunset: with the golden hour light, and the sparkling lights of Dubai skyscrapers, it will be a truly unforgettable experience!

Queues for tickets are always very long, so make sure you get your tickets online .

The Dubai Fountain

Do not miss the magnificent choreography of the Dubai Fountain : an immense show of light, sounds and dancing fountains that stretch for almost 300 meters in length .

The water shot reaches 150 meters in height , and is illuminated by 6600 lights and 50 colored projectors. The dances are synchronized with the music that ranges from classical to contemporary.

Dubai Fountain performances take place at 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM and then every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM).

The show can be seen from the terraces of the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, or from the terrace of one of the restaurants in the Dubai Mall. The most spectacular way to admire the show is directly from the lake, aboard an abra .

Dubai Mall Ice Rink

An ice skating rink open all year round, right inside the Dubai Mall, this attraction is ideal for escaping the desert heat for a while.

Even beginners can try this experience and it doesn’t matter if you don’t have ice skates with you, you can borrow them there.

This theme park is located inside the Dubai Mall and is entirely dedicated to virtual reality.

It was created on the basis of the old SEGA Republic (closed since 2017) and offers twenty games that through virtual reality allow participants to play epic battles, drive race cars or pilot fighters.

When you are in the Dubai Mall go say hi to Dubai Dino!

The Dubai Dino is the authentic fossil of a Diplodocus , a large long-necked dinosaur . The fossil originates from the USA and is over 7 meters high and 24 meters long.

You can see it on the Ground Floor, in front of Level Shoes.

KidZania is every child’s dream park!

This theme park is a child-sized replica of a real city : there are buildings, shops, airports, factories, restaurants and theaters. There is even a police station and a courthouse, while vehicles and pedestrians moving along its streets.

Here children aged 4 to 14 can do their dream job, be policemen, lawyers, doctors, firefighters, journalists, cooks or plane pilots! The activities that can be done are many and really serve the functioning of the city of KidZania.

Each child can earn KidZos (KidZania’s currency) while performing the tasks of his job and then he can spend the KidZos to play in other activities, or to buy something within the game.

Children are supervised during the game, so that parents can freely enjoy a walk in the Dubai Mall during the game.

Hysteria Dubai Mall

Ok, you have left your children to play in KidZania, well maybe now it’s the turn to play for the older ones!

A haunted house in the middle of the Dubai Mall: evil spirits and horrifying creatures inhabit its rooms and are ready to kidnap guests and make them live an adventure worthy of the worst horror story.

It is scary enough to make you scream like a baby already in the third room, and you have 15 rooms to explore.

Reel Cinemas Dubai Mall

Not a simple cinema: 26 rooms, the best technology: 3D movies, MX4D, 270° screens and the best sound. Furthermore there is the possibility to live the “dine-in” experience by eating burgers and fries while watching a movie.

How to save on Dubai Mall attractions tickets

To save up to 60% on Dubai Mall attractions tickets you can buy the iVenture Dubai Unlimited Pass , which allows you free entry to all major attractions in Dubai, including those of the Dubai Mall, such as KidZania, Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Fountain, Reel Dine-In Cinema, Ice Rink, Burj Khalifa and so on.

Dubai Mall is a place that foodies will surely appreciate. Its gastronomic offer is significant, with over 200 places to eat , have a coffee or a piece of cake with a cup of tea.

The best restaurants have a terrace overlooking the Dubai Fountain , offer the best of international cuisine, instagramable dishes and refined specialties. The prices are quite high.

All restaurants also have a good offer of healthy and vegetarian dishes and some have children’s menus, perfect for families.

For those who prefer a quick, tasty and cheap meal, the best alternative is to eat in one of the many fast-food restaurants in the Dubai Mall Food Court : you can choose from cuisines from all over the world, the portions are generous and have a good value for money.

Dubai Mall Opening Hours

In general the Dubai Mall opening hours are: from 10.00 AM until 10.00 PM, open 7 days a week.

Some restaurants and cafes open for breakfast at 9.00 AM.

How to get to the Dubai Mall

You can get to the Dubai Mall by taxi: every taxi driver knows the location of the Dubai Mall, so just ask. The taxi rank is on the ground floor, near the Waitrose supermarket.

This is undoubtedly the best solution for those arriving in Dubai on a cruise, taxis easily connect Downtown Dubai with the Port Rashid Cruise Terminal.

The Dubai Metro Red Line connects the Dubai Mall with the rest of the city (including Dubai International Airport). The closest metro station is Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall .

The metro station is about 1 km from the Dubai Mall, which means at least 10 minutes walk. However, the metro station is connected directly to the Dubai Mall via the Metro Link Bridge, a closed pedestrian bridge with air conditioning and airport-style travolators.

You can reach the Dubai Mall with Bus 27 which leaves from the Gold Souk Bus Station in Deira or with Bus 29 which leaves from Ghubaiba Bus Station in the Al Fahidi district.

The Hop On Hop Off double-decker bus stop is located right in front of the Dubai Mall main entrance. From here depart the routes that connect all the main attractions of the city, so it is very easy to include the Dubai Mall in your Dubai sightseeing itinerary.

To reach Dubai Mall by car you should leave Sheikh Zayed Road at Interchange 1 and take Financial Center Road to Dubai Mall. The road is well signposted. The Dubai Mall has three free multi-storey car parks with 14,000 parking spaces.

Sales at the Dubai Mall

The sales season usually coincides with the Dubai Shopping Festival, which normally takes place in January.

Dubai Shopping Festival

For a month Dubai becomes the international capital of fashion and shopping. Events, fashion shows, fireworks shows, concerts and even a film festival are held throughout the city.

During this time millions of people come to Dubai from all over the world to shop, the city is particularly crowded (be sure to book all experiences and tours in advance) and the Dubai Mall is full of shopping enthusiasts looking for sales.

Dress appropriately

It is good to be respectful of local customs. Keep your shoulders and knees always covered. This applies to both men and women.

Respect during Ramadan

During the Holy Month of Ramadan according to local customs it is not possible to eat or drink in public during daylight hours. However, some places to eat remain open: you can find them in the covered food court on the second floor.

The Dubai Mall is located right in the heart of Downtown Dubai . Right next to the Dubai Mall are the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain .

A few steps from the Dubai Mall you can visit the Dubai Opera and enjoy a leisurely cruise on Dubai Creek . The most popular meeting point in the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Mall Waterfall , one of Dubai’s most eclectic works of art.

Planning your trip to Dubai? Then you should check out the GUIDE TO THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN DUBAI .

The Best 15 Things to do at Dubai Mall

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai and at the foot of the tallest building in the world; Dubai Mall is a place not just for retail therapy but for entertainment, epic shows and views and also, believe it or not, relaxation! One of the best places to visit when on vacation in Dubai! There are just so many things to do at Dubai Mall!

Adults or children it does not matter at Dubai Mall, you will lose your day at this epic centre or architectural brilliance, so make sure to start early and allow yourself to finish late. To list all that can be done here would require us to publish a book, so we touch on a piece of everything it has to offer. 

If you’d rather watch than read, check our video on the top 15 things to do at Dubai Mall below.

1. Shopping

The first and most obvious thing to do at The Dubai Mall; hit the shops! Featuring over 1,200 stores, two anchor department stores and hundreds of food and drink outlets, The Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million square meters, which is the equivalent of 200 football pitches!

So now your already getting to grips with our advice on starting early right… For those with a love of top brands, Fashion Avenue is dedicated to the likes of Burberry, Versace, Armani, Boss and more.  

This fabulous fashion precinct features a number of VIP extras including porter services, an exclusive lounge to relax in and even its own 20-metre catwalk where you can channel your inner top model. There are over 70 signature fashion shops and a whole area dedicated purely to children’s fashion. 

2. Dubai Mall’s Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

33,000 Aquatic animals reside here in a 10-million litre tank. The largest amount of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world also live in this very tank. This 33,000 litre tank rises to the third tier of the mall and has a 48-meter tunnel that you can stroll through whilst in awe of the creatures around and above your head.

You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour, have a go in a snorkelling cage or plunge into an oxygen tank to swim with sharks. Apart from the extra’s aforementioned, admission is free. 

To book any of the activities above visit their website.

3. Eat & Drink

Aside from actual Things to do at The Dubai Mall; one of the best things to do in life is eat and drink!

With literally hundreds of restaurants and cafes to choose from, there is something for everyone. Wagamama, Eataly, Operation Falafel, Carluccio’s are to name but a few. There’s even Cereal Killer Café for those fancying breakfast at any time during your visit. Fast food outlets such as McDonalds and Five Guys are also available.

Must-try:   The traditional baklava at famed Turkish steakhouse Günaydin in all its sweet and sticky glory. 

The best thing about dining at Dubai Mall has to be the restaurants outside though. Overlooking the water, Dubai Fountain and The Burj Khalifa.

4. Go Ice Skating

For the active ones, unless your like some, and can’t skate, this Olympic sized ice rink is located inside the mall and is available for use by the public as well as for shows. Ice Hockey games are held, Ice Go-Kart Racing and the rink even transforms into an astro-turfed soccer pitch at certain times of the year.

The shows here are fantastic and a must if your in the area at the time. For those wanting to spice it up a bit you can even rent ice bikes! I know, sounds crazy but give it a go, loads of fun!

5. Watch the Fountain Show

Showing multiple times throughout the day and night and with endless themes depending on the time of year and what is going on, the fountains are a must. Situated at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the water show can be seen from ground level or by looking down from the top of the Burj. Either way you choose, both options give you a different feel and the show is no better through a specific viewing point.

Although images and video do not always do the real thing justice; you can check out a glimpse above.

6. At The Top – Burj Khalifa

You can’t visit The Dubai Mall without climbing the worlds tallest tower!

Our recommendation is to visit at dusk so that you get 360 degree views of the city in the day-time  and  at sunset. Watching the sun set over the beaches of the Arabian gulf is mind blowing. You can take it one step further and for an extra cost gain access to the sky premium experience. At 555 meters high, the outdoor terrace is officially the highest observation deck in the world. 

Book your tickets at BurjKhalifa.ae

11 Best Places In Dubai To Watch Sunrise And Sunset

7. Play at the VR Park

Virtual reality is fast becoming popular and more VR centres are popping up everywhere. Dubai never tends to fail when it comes to showcasing new technology and when it also comes to doing it better than most.

Lose yourself in a fully immersive virtual reality experience. Fun is had here for all ages with leisure, sport, adventure and more. Take a sneak peak at what type of games there are in the video below.

Visit their website to book.

8. Kidzania

Whilst on the topic of fun and things to do for children; Kidzania is an adventure park turned children’s sized city that encourages education through play.

Maybe you’ve had enough of your littles ones pulling at your arm whilst your dragging them around the shops, so you can let them burn off some energy here. If your really lucky, they’ll then fall asleep in the pram afterwards whilst you continue shopping. Job done!

9. Visit the Cinema

Be entertained by the latest movies at Reel Cinema . The cinema has several different themed rooms which cover luxury seating, 4D, 270 degree picture and even a dine-in and watch by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. 

10. Hysteria

Hysteria is an extreme fear experience. The first haunted attraction of its kind in the region takes guests on a journey through their darkest nightmares and deepest fears. This is not for the faint hearted! If you are a thrill-seeker, an adrenaline junkie, a horror movie fan or you simply like to try new experiences; this is for you if you think you’re brave enough. 

11. Dubai Dino

One major tourist attraction at the Dubai Mall is Dubai Dino, which is a real fossil of Diplodocus longus – Dinosaur. This remain is 24 meters in length and 4 meters in height. Not to forget, its long neck and elongated tail.

There is a great deal of fascination among visitors to witness this massive creature. This is primarily because these remains are about 155 million years old.

You need not just spend time observing the fossils of this Dinosaur, but also click as many photos as you would like around it.

Located in the souk area of the mall, access to this full-sized creature is free of cost . If you wish to gather more information about this creature, be it its diet, posture, or habitat, have no worries. There is an information board displayed right next to the relic which you can read through.

It’s hard to find a creation like this anywhere around the world, so next time around when you visit Dubai, head to the Dubai mall to witness this spectacular sight.

12. Become a Pilot with Emirates A380

This is your opportunity to fly the A380 as a captain with this Emirates Flight Simulator at Dubai Mall. This one of its kind flight simulator experience is sure to sweep you off your feet.

You will be joined by a trainer in the cockpit, who will take you through this unique experience. You can ascend, descend, turn, and even land as a pilot once you decide to take this flight journey.

If you are interested to fly Emirates A380, then you can book your tickets online. You get to choose from various flying packages. These range from sessions that last for 15 minutes to the ones that go up to 45 minutes.

From aviation enthusiasts to people, who simply wish to test their flying skills can sign up for these sessions. Once you get into the cockpit, you can choose to land at thousands of international airports. Most importantly, this simulator covers almost every airport that falls under the Emirates Global Network.

What is more, is that you get to choose the weather and environment conditions under which you would like to fly the plane.

Your family and friends can cheer you through this experience all thanks to the open cockpit and high-definition screens that air all the activities that are taking place on the deck.

13. Witness the Human Waterfall

When at the Dubai mall, you need to keep your eyes wide open to witness all the beauty that sits inside of this huge space.  Begin with the awe-striking human waterfall.

This art display is undoubtedly one of the major crowd-pullers at the Dubai Mall. This human waterfall sits at the heart of the mall and the photo above just doesn’t do it the justice of seeing it in the flesh.

The waterfall is designed in such a manner that the cascading water effect spreads across the entire height of the mall. The height of this waterfall is around 24 meters, while the diameter is 30 meters, which makes it a huge attraction.

You will be smitten to witness the inimitable charm that this piece carries with it. This man-made waterfall displays humans that are free-floating in the air, upside down with their hands spread out sideward. What further adds to the viewing experience is not just the inbuilt skylight, but also the natural sunlight that makes its way to this mesmerizing waterfall. The waterfall has a rhythmic touch to it, which further adds to its beauty.

14. Candylicious

One of the most favourite spots especially for children at the Dubai mall is undoubtedly the world-famous candy store, Candylicious.

At this store, children get an opportunity to design their candy. What boosts their excitement levels is the fact that the candy is made before them.

Candylicious at Dubai Mall is one of the biggest candy stores in the world.  You will have a time of your life as you witness the 3D candy experience up and close. Whats more, the 3D gummy printer remains the highlight of this store. The store is located opposite the Dubai Aquarium.

Candylicious sure isn’t the only sweet shop to explore in Dubai Mall, but if you have a sweet tooth, you surely cannot give this one a miss.

15. Visit The Ferrari Store

If you’re a die-hard fan of the Ferrari Formula 1 racing team, then heading to The Ferrari store at the Dubai mall would be just the right thing to do.

You will feel great as soon as you step into this store, as its design resembles the Ferrari Formula 1 pit stop or garage. Do not miss the staff that works at this store. They come dressed in uniforms similar to that of Ferrari engineers and pit crew. At this store, you can shop for sportswear and accessories by Scuderia Ferrari.

The Ferrari lover in you will find it difficult to leave this store.

Thanks for reading! Dubai Mall really is one of the best places to visit whilst on vacation in Dubai. However, it does have a rival in Mall of the Emirates. We’d advise visiting both, as both have many different shops and things to do. More notably Mall of the Emirates has an indoor ski slope! However, if you’ve not got time for both and want to know which is better, we have you covered in Dubai Mall vs Mall of the Emirates.

Make sure you keep coming back for more on Dubai & Abu Dhabi ! You can also follow us on Pinterest and Subscribe on YouTube too.

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The Best Things To Do In The Dubai Mall

If you have only one day to explore Dubai, there is no better place to do it than The Dubai Mall.

Spanning a whopping 12 million sq ft space (equal to 200 soccer pitches), this spectacular mall is the biggest in the world and houses over 1,200 retail stores and 200+ dining destinations.

But The Dubai Mall is far from ‘just a mall.’ Under its vast space, this iconic landmark houses some of the most popular attractions in the city, including the Dubai Fountains, At The Top of Burj Khalifa Observatory, the Dubai Aquarium, and so much more. Safe to say, a trip to Dubai is incomplete without a visit to The Dubai Mall.

Because the mall is like a mini city on its own, it’s a good idea to create a plan and rough ‘itinerary’ of what you want to do during your visit to get the chance to take part in all the top things to do in the mall. It’s hard to cover everything the mall offers in a day, but if you can only visit once, planning ahead will help you tick the most important things off your bucket list.

This article will take you through everything you need to know about The Dubai Mall, including the most popular landmarks, retail stores, and dining destinations, along with important information like dress code, location, and how to get there and help you decide what to do in The Dubai Mall. 

Planning a visit to Dubai soon? Get the best deals on the most popular attractions in Dubai at Platinumlist. 

Things To Know Before Visiting The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall Opening Hours

The Dubai Mall is open from 10 a.m. to midnight from Monday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday to Sunday.

The Dubai Mall Dress Code

The Dubai Mall does not have any particular dress code. You can wear anything you like, as long as you follow the modesty rules of the mall, which include no beach wear and no clothing shorter than knee length. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes as you will walk a lot!

The Dubai Mall Accessibility Facilities

The Dubai Mall offers a fully accessible experience to people of determination with various facilities, including accessible parking, on-site wheelchairs, which are available for rent free of cost, ramps, and accessible washrooms.

Best Time To Visit The Dubai Mall

If you want to avoid big crowds, the best time to visit the mall would be during the early hours of the day as there aren’t as many people as there would be at night. If you can, choose to visit on a weekday instead of the weekend, as the crowd increases significantly during the weekend.

The Dubai Mall Parking Facilities

The mall has a large parking space spanning multiple floors that is free of cost for all visitors. As the mall is very large, we recommend checking beforehand which parking will be the closest to your intended destination and parking accordingly. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your parking spot; it’s very easy to forget where you’ve parked.

Other Facilities at The Dubai Mall

• Free, high-speed Wi-Fi is available at the mall for all visitors.
• You can easily navigate the mall with the help of digital maps available all across.
• Separate washrooms and prayer rooms are available for male and female visitors.
• Power banks are available for loans in exchange for a refundable security deposit.
• Guests can book a buggy service that takes that around the mall without having to walk themselves.

How To Get To The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is centrally located in Downtown Dubai and can be easily accessed by car, public transportation, or taxi.

By car: The Dubai Mall is located in Downtown Dubai, which is easily accessible by car. You can park the car in The Dubai Mall parking free of cost.

By public transportation: The mall is easily accessible by public transportation. If you are taking the metro, you can get off at the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa station and walk to the mall via an air-conditioned overpass. 

By taxi: You can also take a taxi to the mall from anywhere in Dubai. It’s a popular destination, and most taxi drivers will be familiar with the location.

The Different Zones At The Dubai Mall

Fashion Avenue

Being one of the world’s top high fashion shopping destinations, one of The Dubai Mall’s most famous areas is Fashion Avenue, which houses 70 signature high fashion stores, including France’s leading luxury lifestyle store, Galleries Lafayette and Bloomingdales along with various other popular names.

Level Shoe District

One of the most unique shopping concepts in the world, Level Shoe District is a 96,000 square feet store in The Dubai Mall dedicated solely to luxury footwear with 40+ designer boutiques housing over 200 top footwear brands, including Saint Laurent and Christian Louboutin.

Souk Al Bahar

Translated to “the sailor’s market,” Souk Al Bahar is a unique part of The Dubai Mall that offers an uplifting marketplace vibe with the allure of traditional Arabia through its unique, historical architecture. Connected with the main mall through a bridge over Burj Lake, the market is filled to the brim with top restaurants and retail shops with traditional souvenirs, jewelry, cultural clothing, and more.

Different from the Souk Al Bahar, The Souk is another part of the mall inspired by old Arabian architecture and houses many jewelry shops and more. The Souk is also home to The Dubai Mall’s famous Dubai Dino exhibit featuring a Diplodocus longus dinosaur skeleton from the Late Jurassic Period, dating almost 155 million years ago.

The Dubai Mall Zabeel

The newest addition to the mall, The Dubai Mall Zabeel, is an exciting new extension that includes multiple dining and retail destinations. The Zabeel extension is connected to the main mall through a passageway that is lined with interactive art pieces, making it a must-see location for every visitor.

The Village

Exclusively open during the winter, The Village is a quaint little informal shopping precinct located in The Dubai mall featuring a retractable roof that houses many popular shopping destinations. The Village is also home to the famous colorful umbrella passageway that you must have come across on social media.

Here are the top attractions in The Dubai Mall that you can take part in during your visit.

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

The Dubai Mall is right next to Burj Khalifa and houses the entrance to the world’s highest observatory on Levels 124 & 125 of the tallest tower in the world. If you want to see the city like never before, head to the At The Top Observatory in Burj Khalifa for an unforgettable experience. The experience begins with the history and backstory of the tower, after which you will ride the fastest elevator in the world all the way up to the observatory.

The At The Top experience gets booked out very quickly, which is why it is recommended to book your tickets online and reserve your spot in advance.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Mall features one of the biggest aquariums in the world, with 140+ marine species, including Tiger Sharks and Stingrays. The aquarium is a spectacle to behold and can be viewed for free from the mall. However, if you want to witness the animals up close, you can head to the aquarium tunnel that takes you under the tank and gives you a unique opportunity to view the fish closely.

You can also add the underwater zoo to your experience, which includes three zones, the Rainforest, Rock Pool Coastline, and UAE Night Creatures, and helps you explore and learn more about the habits and lifestyle of the underwater animals. The zoo houses many unique creatures, including the giant King Croc.

Dubai Ice Rink

The Dubai Mall also houses an Olympic-size ice rink, the largest in the city, that is perfect for a fun day out on the skates with friends and family. The rink can be visited for a casual skating session or for attending one of its many ‘learn to skate’ programs.

Reel Cinemas

Fancy catching your favorite movie on the big screen? Head to Reel Cinemas, The Dubai Mall’s local theatre that features every new movie from different languages on its 26 screens with multiple shows throughout the day.

The Dubai Mall also features the world’s largest indoor virtual reality park, PlayDXB, which includes 30+ exciting gaming zones perfect for kids, teenagers, and adults. This thrilling park has something for everyone, from fun arcades and top VR games to carousel rides and ball pits, making it one of the most fun things to do in The Dubai Mall.

Infinity des Lumières

The biggest immersive museum in the world, Infinity des Lumieres, uses light, sound, and reflection to display the spectacles of art giants, including Gaudi, Klee, and Kandinsky, to create an unforgettable experience.

If you’re in the mood to face your fears, head to Hysteria, The Dubai Mall’s thrilling haunted house that will have you running from your nightmares. This one-of-a-kind experience takes you through a spooky journey across the “haunted” mansion, where you will encounter ghosts and goblins of all kinds and have to find your way out to the light to escape.

Trampo Extreme

Jump into extreme fun at one of Dubai’s biggest trampoline parks located inside The Dubai Mall. Both kids and adults can enjoy an exciting time jumping in the main bouncing area, wall climbing across the park safely, and other thrilling activities that will keep you on your toes all day.

Ekart Zabeel

Launched in the new Zabeel extension of The Dubai Mall, Ekart Zabeel is a unique indoor electric go-karting attraction that uses modern, state-of-the-art tech to create a fun and thrilling go-karting experience for everyone.

Zabeel Sports District

Bring out your sporting spirit and head to the rooftop of The Dubai Mall Zabeel to the exciting Zabeel Sports District, a multi-sports, dynamic complex spread across a space of 20,000 sq ft. The sports club houses multiple courts, including padel, tennis, volleyball, badminton, cricket, and basketball courts, giving you an opportunity to enjoy an exciting session with spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa.

Emirates A380 experience

Get an opportunity to experience the excitement of flying the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the A380, in this world-class flight simulator. Take control of the aircraft, pick your destination, and challenge your friends and family on a flight-off in this unique attraction located at The Dubai Mall.

A little world on its own, Kidzania offers little ones from the age of 4 to16 an opportunity to experience life as grown-ups on their own as they play different professions and roles and earn ‘Kidzos’ for their hard work that they can then spend in the make-shift city’s ‘shopping complex,’ all while being managed and looked after by highly-trained supervisors. Kidzania is one of the most exciting things kids and toddlers can do in The Dubai Mall. 

Free Things To Do In The Dubai Mall

The dubai dancing fountain.

One of the most popular fountain shows in the world, the Dubai Dancing Fountain show, is an experience that should not be missed. With 6,000 lights and 22,000 gallons of water, the fountain dances to popular music and songs from different genres. The fountain show takes place every half an hour starting from 6 p.m.

You can experience the fountains from the Burj Lake bridge for free, or choose to witness it up close from an Abra with the Dubai Fountain Boat Ride that gives you an opportunity to view them from the Burj Lake or head to the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, which allows you to watch the fountains from the closest boardwalk.

At The Dubai Mall, you can travel back in time and discover the mall’s resident dinosaur located in The Souk. The dinosaur skeleton on display belongs to a Diplodocus longus dinosaur from the Late Jurassic period and is free to view throughout the day

The Dubai Waterfall

A unique sculpture and art installation, The Dubai Waterfall is one of the most iconic photo stops in the mall. The ‘waterfall’ consists of two 24-meter-high cylindrical walls that stretch across three floors and feature fiberglass figures of men diving into the fall in unison, creating a truly spectacular sight.

Shopping At The Dubai Mall

With over 1,200 retail stores, The Dubai Mall is one of the top shopping destinations in the world. You can find a wide range of stores ranging from high-end luxury brands and jewelry shops to local stores and kiosks under one roof. Whether you are looking for designer shoes or bags, local souvenirs and clothing, makeup and skincare, or your everyday brands like H&M and Zara, you will find it all in The Dubai Mall.

Here are some of the top retail outlets you can find in The Dubai Mall

• Bloomingdales
• Galeries Lafayette
• Levels Shoe District

Check out the full list of retail outlets in The Dubai Mall here.  

Popular Dining Destinations In The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall houses 200+ dining destinations, from fine-dining restaurants to fast-food locations, cafes, and dessert parlors. No matter what your preference is, there is something for everyone. 

You can choose to have a casual meal in one of the many food courts in the mall that house the likes of Mcdonald’s, KFC, Al Baik, and Burger King. If you feel fanciful, you can head to one of the many fine-dining destinations, including New Shanghai, Social House, CZN Burak Gurme, Peppermill, and more, many of which offer spectacular fountains and Burj Khalifa views. 

Here are some of the top dining destinations you can find in The Dubai Mall

• Social House
• Jones The Grocer
• New Shanghai,
• The Cheesecake Factory

Check out the full list of dining destinations in The Dubai Mall here . 

Things To Do Around Dubai Mall

If you have already completed your Dubai Mall bucket list and still have time to spare, there is plenty of things to do around the area. Here are a few exciting places to visit near The Dubai Mall

Dubai Opera

The Dubai Opera is the city’s exclusive performing arts center located within The Opera District in Downtown Dubai, right next to The Dubai Mall. With 2,000-person seating, it is one of the region’s largest spaces of its kind. The opera always has exciting performances taking place around the year that you can experience during your visit. If you aren’t interested in watching a show, you can also tour the Dubai Opera house and concert hall when available.

Check out all the events happening at The Dubai Opera . 

Sky Views Observatory

If you are looking for one of the best views in the city, look no further than Sky Views Observatory. The 220 meters high observatory located in The Address Sky Views Hotel offers a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the iconic Dubai skyline and Burj Khalifa from its floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

The observatory also offers other exciting experiences, like the glass slide that transports you between the two levels of the observatory through a glass tube, providing a unique view of the city from below.

You can also choose to take part in the thrilling edge walk experience, where you can walk on the building’s open ledge hands-free while hanging on the edge of the building without any barriers. This exhilarating experience is perfect for adrenaline-seekers and provides an unmatched view of the city.

The Burj Park is a free leisure park located right next to The Dubai Mall, perfect for a little sunlight and relaxation. You can relax all day at the park and enjoy beautiful views of the city with friends and family. The Burj Park is also home to many iconic photo spots in the city, including the famous Wings Of Mexico that perfectly frame the Burj Khalifa.

The Burj Club is an exclusive and high-end fitness and leisure retreat located in Burj Khalifa that offers multiple wellness facilities. Spread across five levels, with one dedicated exclusively to women; the Burj Club offers various activities, including a gym, a spa, an iconic rooftop swimming pool with gorgeous views of the Burj Khalifa, and a lot more. If you are looking for a relaxing day out, the Burj Club is the perfect place to be.

The mall is open from 10 a.m. to midnight from Monday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday to Sunday.

The Dubai Mall spans a large space of 12 million sq. ft and features multiple activities. Ideally, we recommend saving at least 2 days to cover the most popular attractions in the mall.

While each attraction has its own charm, the most popular ones include At The Top, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain Show, and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Yes, the mall has multiple kid-friendly activities, including Kidzania, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, PlayDXB, and Dubai Ice Rink.

Bloomingdales, Galeries Lafayette, and Levels Shoe District are some of the most popular shopping destinations in The Dubai Mall.

Dubai Things To Do

15 Best Things to do in the Dubai Mall

Last Updated: September 3, 2020

It’s known to all that the Dubai Mall is one of the world’s biggest malls. But, did you know that you can easily spend your entire Dubai holidays without ever stepping out of this mall? It’s so vast that you’ll never have a dull or boring moment here. Yes, this masterfully crafted colossal structure is more than just a mega mall or a place to shop; there is a limitless array of things to do in Dubai Mall and here we’ve compiled some of the must-experiences among them.

The Dubai Mall – Fast Facts, Location, Timing & Covid-19 Guidelines

• Opening Year: November 4, 2008
• Overall Area: More than 13 million square feet (equates to the space of over 50 football fields combined)
• Total Internal Floor Space: About 6 million square feet
• Total Number of Levels: Four
• Owned & Managed by: Emaar
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time to Visit: This is an indoor attraction which can be enjoyed during any part of the year
• Iconic Landmarks nearby: Burj Khalifa, Souk Al Bahar, the palatial style Palace Downtown Hotel, and Dubai Opera

Location & Accessibility

You’ll find this in Downtown Dubai, located along Sheik Zayed Road at Financial Center Street and right adjacent to Burj Khalifa. Due to its prime spot in the heart of modern Dubai, you can easily arrive here via one of Dubai’s public transport means or alternatively hire a cab or arrange a convenient private transfer. The Burj Khalifa / The Dubai Mall Station is the closest metro station. You can further take bus number 27 or 29 to reach here from Al Ghubaiba or Deira bus stations.

• Sunday to Wednesday: 12:00 hrs to 22:00 hrs
• Friday & Saturday: 10:00 hrs to 24:00 hrs

Covid-19 Safety Guidelines At The Dubai Mall

Majority of retail stores, leisure attractions, and dining venues across the mall are now open with certain restrictions. Moreover, it has imposed the following preventive measures to ensure the safety of both visitors and its staff.

• Mall timings are now reduced to maximize the safety of visitors.
• All visitors should undergo thermal screening before entering the facility.
• Visitors including kids should mandatorily wear the masks.
• Social distancing boxes are strategically marked throughout the mall.
• Seating across the public area is appropriately spaced out in order to adhere to the social distancing norm.
• Contactless hand sanitization stations are attached all over the mall.

Top Things To Do In Dubai Mall

1. Enjoy Shopping at its best

Whether you want to give an overhaul to your wardrobe or get a beauty makeover or want to add some unique statement pieces to your jewelry collection, more than 1200 outlets scattered across its diverse levels and themed sections ensure that you’ll find the choicest version of almost everything here. Rightly so, it features flagship stores of some of the renowned names in the apparel, fashion accessories and cosmetic industry, such as Sephora, Moncler, Bloomingdale’s, Galeries Lafayette, Level Shoes, Harry Winston, and Aspinal of London. While shopping is one of obvious reasons that draw majority of people here, you’ll realize that there are more things to do here. Just continue reading to enlighten more about this.

2. Discover Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Mall wows you by hosting the largest suspended aquarium in the world . Its gigantic 10-million-liter tank holds more than 33,000 marine creatures that represent over 140 species. Interestingly, you can view a part of this aquarium for free; however charges or a nominal fee applies to participate in some of its distinct experiences such as Shark Counter, Cage Snorkeling, Glass Bottom Ride and Dive with Shark. Spread over two levels (ground and first floor), it also comprises an Underwater Zoo where you can see king croc that weighs over 750 kilograms, among others. There is also a captivating 48-meter-long underwater tunnel which delights you with the 270-degree of the aquarium and its magical inhabitants.

3. Catch up with Dubai Dino

Things may not come cheap in the Dubai Mall. That said, not all experiences lay your money here as you can explore and enjoy some of them absolutely free of any charge. One of the most popular among them is Dubai Dino. Majestically displayed in the mall’s Grand Atrium, Dubai Dino is an authentic remnant from the pre-historic era. Yes, this is not any replica dinosaur skeleton; this approximately 25-meter-long and seven-meter-high skeleton is a bonafide fossil of a real dinosaur which once wandered the surface of the planet more than 155 million years ago.

4. Ride the Advanced Go-Karts

For this, head to Ekart Zabeel at Zabeel Extension! This is one of the Dubai Mall attractions exclusively made for those who are crazy about racing and speed. It’s the region’s first of its kind karting facility, set completely indoors, and filled with the most advanced electric go-karts. But to ride it, you should be 14 years or older and also fulfill the height (not exceed 140 centimeters) and weight (not exceed 120 kilograms) requirements. So come race with your family or friends. With your kart racing timing being tracked, you’ll be able to know who has achieved the fastest lap time and even share it online as well.

5. Take your little ones to KidZania

Joined by your kids from 2 to 16 years? Take them to KidZania for an edutainment adventure like no other. It’s a replica model of a real-life world where your child can role-play their favorite job to his or her heart’s content. Beyond practicing their favorite profession, they even get rewarded for all their genuine efforts in the form of KidZos (KidZania’s own currency). So let them bake pizza, pilot plane, or walk the ramp when you shop or roam around the mall with absolute peace of mind.

6. Have the most chilling moment at Dubai Ice Rink

Dubai Ice Rink at the Dubai Mall is one of the closest to the snow and winter that you could ever get in Dubai. Lace up a pair of ice skates and spin around the glazing ice rink as you forget all about the blistering temperature outside. It’s not just for pro; there are colorful skating aids available for beginners and first-timers of all age groups. You can further sign up for skating lessons which are even open to kids above four years.

7. Watch Movies in style

Take your movie watching experience from ordinary to extraordinary at the Dubai Mall’s Reel Cinema! It’s not only the country’s biggest, but also one of the world’s most cutting-edge and luxurious cinemas. The Cineplex has 26 screens and offers the coziest ever seating plus other facilities, all enhanced by the finest in audio and visual techniques. So get ready to excite your senses in an unbelievable ambience.

8. Admire Iconic Sights from the Apple Store Terrace

Have plans to shop the latest smart phone or other cool electronic gadgets? Be sure to visit Apple Dubai Mall. But what if you don’t have any plan for shopping? We would still insist you to check out this Apple store. After all, it has a terrace adjoining the store from where you can get the best views over the mighty Burj Khalifa and the captivating Dubai Fountain show, besides catching up with all fervor and spirit of this urban haven.

That’s not all; it stands as one of the greatest illustrations of kinetic art and engineering with its 18 cool Solar Wings. Made using polymer rods armored with carbon fiber, they are a true engineering marvel (inspired by the traditional Arabic Mashrabiya) which adjusts itself or responds effectively to the region’s climatic conditions.

9. Find your way out of Hysteria Haunted attraction

Want to add a dash of mystery and terror to your Dubai holidays? The Dubai Mall has a special attraction for you in the form of Hysteria Haunted Attraction . This recreates a haunted mansion which invites all above 16 years to discover its creepily dark sections and mostly encounter several ghostly figures. This experience lasts for only 15 minutes, but attempt to walk into this place only if you and everyone in your group are adventurous, brave, and fit and healthy.

10. Buy a candy or chocolate imprinted with your photo

Yes, this is possible at Candylicious, which is a favorite of kids and kids-at-heart alike. Overlooking Dubai Aquarium, it’s the Middle East’s largest candy store means you can imagine finding here almost all classic and latest brands of chocolates imaginable and beyond. So what better way to satiate your sweet tooth once in Dubai? Be welcomed by a huge chocolate tree here whose trunks, leaves and other parts are adorned using hundreds of chocolates. You’ll also get to see the special Candylicious airplane and even be part of exclusive Candylicious experiences such as Pick and Mix and Bake-a-licious.

11. Enjoy the best in Virtual and Augmented Reality

Enter VR Park at the Dubai Mall and transport yourself to an immersive world filled with the finest and most thrilling in Virtual and Augmented Reality. From Burj Drop, Plummet and Dune Bash to Dubai Drone, Dune Bash and the Raft, more than 30 exciting rides and games await you to promise you adventure and amusement at an epic scale.

12. Strike a pose against the Human Waterfalls

Dubai is a true charmer when it comes to merging modernity with its rich culture and heritage. And this waterfall which spans through the overall height of the mall is a wonderful depiction of this fact. The highlight of the cylindrical falls is the stunning sculptures of pearl divers (taking eternal flight) which make a marvelous epitome of the region’s once-flourished yet dangerous pearl farming occupation. Finished using fiberglass, these distinct art installations well synchronize with the soothing pulse and flow of the waterfalls.

13. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure like no other

Crammed with several over-the-top dessert and cookie shops plus an entire food court dedicated to your preferred cuisines, the Dubai Mall literally lets you sample foods from all over the world. Enjoy the yummiest desserts at the Cheesecake Factory, Cinnabon, Ben’s Cookies etc, and wash it down with your favorite appetizing drinks at Starbucks, Shake Shack etc. With 200 plus dining outlets, it’s up to you whether you opt to dine on the go or drop into a classy venue (like Al Hallab, Dish Dash and Café Bateel) for a full, sit-down meal.

14. Enjoy Dubai’s only A380 Flight Simulator

With this advanced flight simulator that resembles the cockpit of a real plane, get ready for a unique and uplifting air travel experience. Just pick from the list of busiest airports and there you’re all set to feel the fun and thrill of piloting an airplane on your own. There will be an instructor by your side to help you with your navigation skills.

15. Watch Dubai Fountain Show

Finally, the Dubai Mall is not all about its lavish interiors and jaw-dropping leisure zones. Just step out of the mall to feast yourself with an extravaganza of choreographed water and light show. Artistically synchronized in tune to foot-tapping western or Arabic music, this exquisite fountain show is set on the Burj Lake and is the highest of its kind, with water jetting out up to a height of over 500 feet during the show. Played at an interval of every 30 minute after 18:00 hrs, this attraction is absolutely free to watch. That said, you can choose to take in this experience from an up-close standpoint on an abra ride along Burj Lake.

Top Tips For Visiting The Dubai Mall

• The Dubai Mall is incredibly vast, so make sure that you grab a map (from one of the mall’s guest services desk) or download the Dubai Mall app on your device for its better navigation.
• Before you visit the mall, make a good research and create an organized list of thing you wish to see and do here.
• If you’re planning to shop, be sure to arrive here early. With so much to explore, it’s sure that you won’t settle for something very soon.
• There is not any particularly dress code but make sure that your dress covers shoulders and knees.
• Come here prepared to walk a lot; so a staple is to put on a comfortable pair of shoes.
• Free Wi-Fi is available all over the mall. All you have to do is to connect to Dubai Mall by Emaar.
• After all shopping, you can enjoy the mall’s exclusive delivery services. But a minimum spend of AED 500 is required to avail of this.
• If all high-end outlets and boutiques make you overwhelmed, you can make the most of its chauffeur services. To make it even smoother and convenient, get the help of a personal shopper who will take you around the mall in a buggy and further enlighten you about its top brands and recent collections.
• Don’t panic if you’ve lost an item while inside the mall. It’s very likely that you’ll get back it from the mall’s ‘Lost & Found’ section on the ground level (close to Abu Dhabi National Bank.)
• If elderly or little ones in your group don’t want to walk, head to one of the Guest Services Desks and get a wheelchair / baby stroller for free.
• There are professional babysitters to take care your kids if they don’t want to join you in your shopping spree.

The Dubai Mall, precisely, has so much on offer that you would never want to leave this spot. With amazing shopping and leisure attractions plus oodles of dining choices, this mall is a pure bliss and of course a giant playground for adults and kids alike. So pre-plan and do everything to just make sure that your Dubai trip is not just confined to the Dubai Mall.

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Foodie Traveler..

Interesting information about the landmark famous worldwide as Dubai Mall. Shopping here is always a pleasure and a matter of pride.

The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination. It’s a whole new world for indoor entertainment where visitors of all ages can engage.

We loved Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Kidzania, and Dubai Ice Rink the most. The rest of the attractions we haven’t explored.

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23 Cool Things To Do at Dubai Mall in 2024

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Categories Middle East , United Arab Emirates

Looking for fun things to do at Dubai Mall? Oh, you’ll be spoiled for choice! Shopping, ice skating, and visiting theme parks are only a few of them. Check out the rest!  

Dubai Mall is the largest of its kind in the city, and one of the biggest malls in the entire world. While its over 1,200 retail stores are enough to keep you shopping all day, there’s so (so!) much more to enjoy at this mall.

Boasting the world’s largest suspended aquarium, all sorts of conventional and unconventional entertainment, and eateries to satisfy every craving, the Dubai Mall should absolutely be on your Dubai itinerary.  Plus, you get easy access to some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks.

Living in Dubai, I visited the Dubai Mall plenty of times , and yet I don’t think I’ve ever managed to see it. It’s so big that my partner and I used to come here to walk and get our steps in during the summer as it was too hot to be outside.

Even if we didn’t want to buy anything, it was great to just walk around and eat at one of the many eateries, or check out one of the attractions on this list. Even if you’re not a big mall enthusiast , visiting teh Dubai Mall is one of the best things to do in Dubai in my opinion.

Now, let’s check out all the fabulous things to do at Dubai Mall , so even if you get lost inside it, you still know where you’re headed!

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do at Dubai Mall

Visit the dubai aquarium and underwater zoo .

The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is home to over 33 thousand animals , which include hundreds of sharks of different species, rays, crocodiles (King Croc, one of the world’s largest crocodiles lives here), and penguins. 

The aquarium at Dubai Mall boasts a 10 million-liter tank to host that many animals, and a spectacular 48-meter tunnel that will make you feel like you’re actually inside the aquarium, without getting wet. It’s really a cool activity, and if you come early in the morning, you can manage to get the shot I got here above.

If you do want to get in the water, actually, you can! Certified divers can join the sharks in the depths, or else meet them by snorkeling in the safety of a cage, or gliding on a glass-bottom boat.

Parrots, spider crabs, jellyfish, and piranha are only a few of the other animals you’ll get to see during your visit. 

➤ The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Day Ticket includes a behind-the-scenes tour around the attraction, and access to the underwater observatory, the tunnel, and the zoo for a whole day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Aquarium and Burj Khalifa Combo Ticket allows you to visit both the world’s tallest tower, with access to levels 124 and 125, and the Dubai Aquarium on the same day. It’s perfect for those with little time in the city! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Opening Hours : Sunday to Wednesday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Thursday to Saturday open until 12 AM  Entrance Fee : AED 199 (54 USD)

Enjoy the Dubai Fountain Show

The world’s largest choreographed fountain system offers a stunning water performance every day since 6 PM, and you can’t miss it. The jets, which shoot 150 meters into the air, are synchronized with the lights and music, offering a fountain show like no other.

While many Arabic classics set the rhythm of the dancing , which starts every 30 minutes until midnight , you’ll also get to hear some contemporary tracks from Ed Sheeran, Michael Jackson, and even Lady Gaga. 

Th i s dancing fountain in Dubai Mall is free to enjoy , so be sure to step outside the mall sometime after 6 PM to see it!

➤ You can go on a Lake Ride by Traditional Boat around Burj Lake, and enjoy the stunning Fountain Show from the water. This will allow you to see it from different perspectives, besides being a great experience on its own! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Get to the top of Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world , and it features three observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148, from where visitors can see incredible views of the city below and spot some landmarks. 

The city stretches over the Persian Gulf, where you’ll be able to see the World Islands and Palm Jumeirah. You’ll also get to learn about Dubai and some fun facts about the Burj Khalifa , as well as see augmented real-life images with the electronic telescope on level 124. 

Burj Khalifa is beside the Dubai Mall, and you can access it from the exit that leads to the fountain. It’s a great idea to combine the two!   

➤ This Burj Khalifa Entry Ticket includes access to levels 124 and 125, from where you’ll enjoy the 360-degree views of the city and spot Dubai’s landmarks with the telescopes. You’ll also get to ride the world’s fastest elevator to get there. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Get the Burj Khalifa Tickets and Tour to enjoy a guided tour around the building, enjoying the views from the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors, access to the observation deck, and skip-the-line entrance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ To enjoy the views to the fullest, book a Burj Khalifa Lunch or Dinner on Rooftop. You’ll first visit the 124th floor to marvel at the views, and then indulge in a 3-course meal on the building’s 3rd floor. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 11 PM Entrance Fee : From AED 159 (43 USD)

Explore Souk Al Bahar 

Souk Al Bahar offers yet more shopping opportunities, featuring around 100 boutiques and shops selling products that range from clothing to jewelry, books, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

You can also find a dining venue with multiple eateries and cafés , and the popular Time Out Market , where 17 different restaurants serve unique meals from all over the world, from traditional Emirati food to Indian, Asian, European, and American dishes. There’s also a vegan restaurant and a couple of bars.   

🍸 If you’re fancying a drink, this is the place to get it, as the restaurants located inside the mall don’t sell alcohol. 

Souk Al Bahar can be accessed through a footbridge that you’ll find on Dubai Mall’s Lower Ground Floor, underneath the Apple store. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM

Grab a Cup at These Cool Cafés

There are many cafes in Dubai Mall where you can stop for some caffeine to refuel. You’ll sure gonna need it in this enormous building! These are some of the coolest ones. 

▶️ % Arabica Dubai Mall is my favorite one of them all. The décor is simple and aesthetic, and the coffee is de-li-cious. Located on the ground floor (very close to the aquarium!) it makes for a great pit stop amidst all the shopping to relax and sip your favorite coffee drink. Get a slice of banana bread or a choc-chip cookie to go with it!

▶️ Secret Garden by L’Eto is an incredibly gorgeous café, where you’ll probably be more eager to take a thousand pictures than to drink your coffee. The garden-style décor and stylish furniture are very inviting, and you’ll get to enjoy a rainbow latte with beautifully decorated desserts. 

▶️ Two At Symphony is an elegant boutique café that serves delicate bakery items , comfort food , and a wide variety of specialty coffees and teas. If you want to have breakfast at Dubai Mall, this is the place. As a bonus, the food (and space) are very instagrammable! 

▶️ Walnut Grove is right in front of the Dubai Waterfall, offering great views and featuring a space with incredibly cool decoration and equal attention to detail in every dish. The coffee is hand-roasted and artisan, so you won’t find it anywhere else. 

▶️ Seattle’s Best Coffee has its own shop at the Dubai Mall, where you can get your favorite flavored drink or their distinctive blends, hot or cold, and a double choc muffin to go with it. 

If you’re in for the classics, you can find Starbucks , Dunkin’ , and Costa Coffee in the mall.

Check Out the View from the Nike Store

If you’re a sports fanatic, you’ll already be visiting the huge Nike shop to see what they have in store. But if you’re not, head there anyway to be impressed by its size but, more importantly, to check out the outside view of Dubai Mall from its floor-to-ceiling windows.  

You’ll get incredible views of Burj Lake , as well as the Souk Al Bahar building in the front and the bridge that connects it to the mall. The unmistakable Dubai buildings stand in the background, and the sights are so astounding that the store has a seating area where you can sit to take a moment and enjoy them. 

Marvel at the Dubai Waterfall

The Dubai Waterfall is an artistic intervention of 24 meters long, and it’s frequently called the Human Waterfall because of the sculptures of men diving into the water that are placed all over the waterfall.

These represent the UAE’s past , as pearl diving was the primary source of livelihood back in the day, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

The attraction in Dubai Mall is free to enjoy, and you can do so from any floor as it runs through all of them, although you may want to check out various angles to take the perfect picture!  

Escape Reality at VR Park Dubai 

VR Park is an incredibly large park where you’ll experience the best of virtual reality , from roller coasters that take you through the city’s landmarks in Dubai’s very heavy traffic to falling from the top of Burj Khalifa, dune bashing in the desert, and, of course, the old-times classic video games. 

The cutting-edge technology and high-quality equipment will make you forget you’re actually inside the mall, and completely transport you to the most thrilling and dangerous adventures …without the real danger part. 

Opening Hours : Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Friday & Saturday 10 AM to 12 AM Tickets Prices : From AED 200 (around 54 USD) 

Go Ice Skating at the Ice Rink

One of the best Dubai Mall activities to escape the heat is going ice skating . Regardless if you’re an experienced skater or have never tried it, Dubai Mall’s Olympic-size ice rink will live up to your expectations. 

You can rent the full skating gear on-site , from the skates to some warm layers, and show off your skills on the ice, take a lesson to sharpen them, and even dance to the sound of the DJ’s playlist on certain days!  

Opening Hours : Monday to Wednesday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Thursday to Sunday open until 12 AM DJ Nights : Friday and Saturday from 6.15 PM  Entrance Fee : AED 110 (30 USD) for General Admission

Catch a Movie at Reel Cinemas

No mall is a proper one without a cinema, and Dubai Mall knows it. That’s why here you’ll find Reel Cinemas , one of the biggest cinemas in the Middle East which offers the most over-the-top movie experiences, besides all the latest movie releases on its 26 screens.  

In some of the rooms, the comfy seats feature tables in front or at the side, so you can order your multiple-course dinner from the menu and be served while your eyes are already glued to the screen. Did you expect less from cinemas at Dubai Mall?!

As for the screen, ScreenX at Dubai Mall is the first in the country, and it covers three of the cinema walls and immerses you in the action; no more watching on the sidelines, now you’ll feel as though you’re actually part of the movie.

Not every feature is adapted to this screen, though, as it’s much more enjoyable with action or adventure movies. 

Play Grown-Ups in Kidzania Dubai (Kids only)

Among the preferred Dubai Mall children’s activities is Kidzania , an indoor city designed specifically for them , where kids will learn and play all day long, pretending to be doctors, bakers, and TV presenters, and try over 70 other professions. 

Kids will practice their teamwork skills with other children and learn about economy, calligraphy, and how to sanitize their hands as they have fun and play to be grown-ups, going grocery shopping, and exploring the different careers available to them.    

➤ The Kidzania Admission Ticket allows unlimited access to the attraction and all activities. Children will skip the ticket booth lines and enter Kidzania as soon as they arrive. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. Last entry at 9 PM  Entrance Fee : From AED 195 (53 USD) 

Meet a Dinosaur at the Dubai Dino Display

One of the most awe-striking Dubai Mall attractions is Dubai Dino, a 7-meter tall, 24-meter long dinosaur skeleton that dates back from the Jurassic period , around 150 million years old!  

The permanent display certainly contrasts the modern shops and facilities of the building, but it aligns with Dubai’s old-meets-new ideology, and it’s an impressive thing to see. 

You’ll get to see images of what the dinosaur allegedly looked like all those years (more like millennia) ago, and learn about it from the screens around the display. If you have kids, this is a must-visit!

The dinosaur is located on the ground level of the Mall , and it’s free to see. 

Go Shopping 

Well, duuuh! If you’re in the biggest mall ever, you are going to spend some time shopping , even if it’s window-shopping at some of the world’s most expensive and luxurious brand stores. 

But they are not the only shops in Dubai Mall. In fact, you’ll also find local retail stores selling clothes , home decor, or books at reasonable prices . If you fancy some gold jewelry or a new handbag by Gucci, though…well, the credit card better be ready! 

Some of the most gorgeous stores in Dubai Mall are Galeries Lafayette , The Cobbler , Bloomingdale’s , which also features a huge home decor floor, Kinokuniya Book Store (every bookworm’s paradise), and Nike Store . 

As for local stores to check out handicrafts and Emirati traditional items, head to Baruni for shoewear, Al Khazana for home furnishings and design, Bougessa for women’s clothes, and L’Afshar for sophisticated clutches and accessories. 

Get Scared out of your mind at Hysteria

Horror movie, scary-things fan? Perfect! If you’re not, move along, ‘cause things are about to get terrifying. 

Hysteria is a horror, haunted-house attraction that promises (and delivers) a hair-raising experience , and it has its own legend to go with it. 

As you embark on the journey through dark corridors and rooms, you’ll explore a manor in which two children mysteriously disappeared. Their broken-hearted parents believe you know something, and they will haunt you, follow you around the house and make you jump at every turn .

The different scenarios, scenes, and creatures that inhabit the 15 rooms will also surprise you (in a very scary way)!

Lights, special effects, and fog add to the atmosphere, and remember: this is not for the faint of heart. 

⚠️ This attraction is for people 16+ years old. 

Opening Hours : Saturday to Wednesday from 10 AM to 12 AM, Thursday & Friday open until 1 AM  Entrance Fee : AED 100 (27 USD) 

 Become a Pilot at Emirates A380 Simulator 

Ever wondered what it’s like to fly a plane? Now you can know for sure, as the Emirates A380 simulator lets you take the pilot’s seat and play around with the controls as you take off Dubai Airport and make the journey to a city of your choice. 

You’ll also get to choose the time of day you want to fly and the weather conditions (fancy a little turbulence or storm?), and land your passengers safely after a 15, 30, or 60-minute flight. It’s one of the most thrilling activities in Dubai Mall for people of all ages. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 12 PM to 10 PM Entrance Fee : AED 160 (44 USD) for 15 minutes, AED 300 (82 USD) for 30 minutes, and AED 575 (157 USD) for an hour at the time of writing. 

Step Into Art at Infinity Des Lumieres

Infinity Des Lumieres is an immersive experience of digital art that will blow your mind. The attraction places you right at the center of the exhibition, so that you’re fully immersed in the artwork that has been brought to life.

The exhibits showcase the work of great artists, including world-renowned Gaudi, Cezanne , Monet, aand Van Gogh . The experience combines music, lights, and the artist’s paintings moving around you, giving you a chance to examine them from up close like never before.

Exhibits about space, cultures and a futuristic, exclusive collection called Dubai Data are also featured at Infinity Des Lumieres.

➤ The Infinity Des Lumieres Tickets grants you access to the 90-minute experience on any of the exhibitions. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Go Car Racing at Ekart Zabeel

As you probably noticed by now, there’s no shortage of fun activities to enjoy at Dubai Mall, and you still haven’t gone car racing! 

Ekart Zabeel features a great kart track where you’ll get to race your friends in a thrilling karting experience , suited up in the Ekart jumpsuit and driving like a professional. In fact, actual professionals, as well as complete amateurs will find this attraction enticing, as it offers both simple sessions and racing events. 

Sit behind the wheel, put your helmet on, and let the race begin! 

⚠️ Drivers have to be 14+ years old, and at least 140 centimeters tall to race. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 11 PM  Entrance Fee : From AED 95 (26 USD)

Check Out The Souk

Souks are everywhere in the city, including at Dubai Mall. The Souk is a section of the mall that reminisces of the traditional souks in Dubai , showcasing an old-looking facade and emulating the local markets.

It contrasts the modern look of the rest of the mall, although you’ll still find contemporary shops and facilities. Make sure to visit it especially if you don’t have time to check out the real souks – although I highly recommend that you do!

Have Lunch (or dinner) at These Restaurants

As you would expect in Dubai’s largest mall, there are plenty of places to eat . Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a sweet treat, and pretty much everything in between, you’ll find a restaurant serving it at Dubai Mall.

The only thing to bear in mind is that alcohol is not served inside the mall . You’ll have to enjoy your lunch with a glass of water or juice, and if you’re in the mood for a beer, get it later somewhere else. Now, find out which restaurant you’ll be stopping by during your visit.

▶️ One of the best places to eat in Dubai Mall is Tribes , an African-inspired restaurant that specializes in meat dishes, and offers indoor and outdoor seating areas from where you’ll enjoy great views of Dubai. 

▶️ For Lebanese cuisine you should check out Bebabel , which also faces Burj Lake and offers incredible views, along with traditional dishes and appetizers. 

▶️ For authentic Emirati dishes , the best food is on Dubai Mall’s third floor, at Logma . Soups, salads, sandwiches, and appetizers are some of the options you’ll have, as well as typical breakfast platter and Khaleeji meals. 

▶️ Looking for something quick and cheap? No worries. Dubai Mall also features a gigantic food court with all sorts of fast-food restaurants and eateries, so you will be spoiled for choice.

See the Dubai Creek Tower’s Replica

The Dubai Creek Tower is in the race to become the tallest tower in the world , surpassing Burj Khalifa by, it is estimated, a couple of hundred meters. 

The Tower is still under development, and its exact height has not been revealed yet , but it promises to be not only incredibly tall but gorgeous. And while it’s not yet possible to marvel at the real building, you can do so at Dubai Mall’s Grand Atrium, where you’ll find a replica that depicts all of its splendor . 

I bet that after finding the replica, one of the prettiest things to see in Dubai Mall, you’ll start planning your next trip to Dubai because you won’t want to miss the real thing!

Jump at Trampo Extreme 

Another fabulous attraction for children is Trampo Extreme, a playground with plenty of adrenaline-packed activities that range from trying out trampoline flips to playing dodgeball, climbing walls, diving in a foam pit, and showing off their basketball skills. 

Trampo Extreme offers a safe environment where kids from 3 years old will be able to have tons of fun and run around until they’re tired (or their time is up). 

Opening Hours : Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Friday & Saturday open until 11 PM Entrance Fee : From AED 100 per hour

Eden Gallery 

Eden Gallery occupies 10 thousand square feet of the mall, showcasing a spectacular curation of contemporary art pieces from all over the world; one of the best attractions in Dubai Mall for art lovers ! 

Located in the luxury area of the mall, this world-leading art gallery aims to catch the eye of collectors and art enthusiasts, but even if you’re none of them, it doesn’t hurt to walk around a fantastic gallery and enjoy the work of so many different artists. 

If you’re into art but don’t have space on your walls (or bags!) keep an eye on the gallery, which is also developing NFTs with some of its most prominent artists. 

Opening Hours : Sunday to Wednesday from 10 AM to 12 AM, Thursday to Saturday open until 1 AM  

Play Pickleball at Zabeel Sports District

Located on the rooftop of Dubai Mall’s expansion, which is connected to the main building by a footbridge, is the Zabeel Sports District , a complex that offers several sports you can enjoy , all the while checking out the incredible views of the city as a background. 

The sports center features five paddle tennis courts, two volleyball and basketball courts, an indoor cricket pitch, and four badminton courts; remember to put on your sports shoes before heading to the mall! 

If you get thirsty or need some refueling, there’s a snack and juice stall in the complex. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 12 AM Entrance Fee : From AED 100 (27 USD) per session

Things To Do Near Dubai Mall

If after your visit to Dubai Mall you’re still looking for things to do, there are great places to visit nearby . Check them out! 

▶️ Make sure to check out Sky Views Dubai to enjoy Dubai from above and slide down the glass slide from the 53rd floor. Thrilling!

▶️ Burj Park is one of the best places to visit near Dubai Mall. This park is actually a small island located in Burj Lake, and besides relaxing at the park or renting one of the water rides, you’ll find events, markets, food trucks, and concerts throughout the year. 

▶️ On the edge of Burj Park you can’t miss The Wings of Mexico , a fantastic sculpture that makes a great photo stop and that is named after its artist’s nationality. The sculpture represents and celebrates the potential of human beings, as well as their dreams and victories. 

▶️ The Green Planet is a vertical tropical rainforest, home to plenty of birds, reptiles, and lovely sloths, where you can live an immersive experience.

Get caught in a tropical thunderstorm, snorkel with piranhas, and discover the nocturnal animals when the night falls. This is truly one of the best attractions near Dubai Mall, and if you get hungry during your adventures, there’s even a cafe on-site where you can get refreshments. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

▶️ Finally, among the things to do around Dubai Mall, there’s also the Dubai Opera , housed in a building styled to resemble a dhow, the Emirate’s traditional sailing vessel.

The opera can be rearranged to become a conventional theater, a concert hall, a conference space, and even an area for exhibitions, and it hosts cultural events that range from drama to ballet, opera, and concerts.  

Things to do at Dubai Mall FAQ

Dubai Mall is the biggest mall in the Emirates, so you can bet there are tons of things to see and do that you won’t find in any other mall, from a suspended aquarium to an ice rink, high-end shopping stores, and eateries to suit every taste. 

When visiting Dubai Mall you can wear casually and not too conservatively, as it’s mainly a tourist attraction. However, avoid wearing anything that’s too revealing, translucid, or short. 

Some of the best things to do in Dubai Mall for free are window-shopping at the world’s leading stores, checking out the Dubai Waterfall, enjoying the Dubai Fountain show outside, catching the view from the Nike store, and meeting the 150 million-year-old dinosaur.  

Dubai Mall has a total area of almost 6 million square feet. No wonder it’s the biggest mall in Dubai…and the country!

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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12 Things to Do in Dubai Mall – FREE & Paid

Originally posted 2019-10-29 02:01:36.

With a massive 1,124,000 square meters of space, the Dubai Mall holds the title of being the WORLD’S LARGEST shopping mall for its grandeur and variety. On November 04, 2008, this vast shopping paradise officially opened its doors. To put that size into perspective, it stretches from units, tens, hundreds, and millions, just as you would find in school textbooks.

There are over 1200 shops inside this iconic mall, offering a shopping experience for all tastes and preferences. With 22 cinemas and 120 restaurants and cafes, Dubai Mall has something for everyone. Rolex’s largest watch store is the perfect place to see luxury timepieces. If you are craving sweets, stop by Candylicious, the world’s biggest sweet shop, offering a variety of delightful sweets.

With 75 million visitors annually, Dubai Mall is the busiest shopping mall in the world. With such an array of attractions and shopping opportunities, Dubai Mall is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Dubai Mall , entertainment in Dubai Mall , or simply curious about what to do at Dubai Mall , this iconic location has a wealth of options to keep you engaged and entertained

Table of Contents

Fly Emirates A380 Airbus

Believe it or not, anyone can experience the thrill of flying the Emirates Airbus A380 at the Dubai Mall. The Emirates A380 Flight Simulator offers an exclusive and exciting opportunity to pilot the largest Airbus A380 in the world. It’s an extraordinary and uncommon activity within the mall.

This thrilling adventure allows you to choose from a selection of 12 busy airports as your starting point, adding an extra layer of excitement to your experience. While in the simulator, you’ll fly through the skies while honing your navigation skills under the guidance of a skilled instructor. They will provide you with a complete tutorial before your flight, ensuring your well-being. This means you have a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of the world’s largest Airbus before taking to the virtual skies.

Whether you’re a seasoned aviation enthusiast or just looking for unique things to do at Dubai Mall , the Emirates A380 Flight Simulator promises an unforgettable and educational experience. It’s a fantastic addition to Dubai Mall’s fun things to do. It offers a chance to explore aviation and enjoy piloting this iconic aircraft.

• Off-peak sessions lasting Half-hour  begins  at AED 325 and peak  session price AED 375.
• The Simulator Open Sun-Wed from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Thu – Sat from 10:00 am to 12:00 midnight.

VR Park is a first-of-its-kind attraction in the Middle East. It’s a Virtual Reality with several distinctive augmented reality experiences. However, many rides are there for kids, quite a few designed for adults. However, Loads of arcade game options are there which even an adult can try. As Soon As I sat in Dubai Drone & Burj Drop, My heart stopped beating for a few moments due to the fact I had no clue what to prepare for. Read a detailed guide on VR Pakr over here .

• Rates commence at AED 35 for individual activities, while an adult day pass fees AED 150
• The VR Park Dubai Mall is accessible on weekdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 am and on the weekends from 10:00 am to 01:00 am.

Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Mall is a remarkable destination for those seeking things to see in Dubai Mall . Its WORLD’s largest indoor aquarium is a true marvel, and you can even dive with sharks there. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo houses over 33,000 aquatic animals and offers a variety of ticket options , making it one of the best places for adults to explore in Dubai. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Dubai Mall or places to visit in Dubai Mall , this attraction has you covered.

Falling Man Waterfall

A Singapore-based architecture firm, DPA Architects , has designed the busiest selfie point at the Dubai Mall’s falling human waterfall , which is now a popular selfie spot . It is made up of two cylindrical structures, the largest of which is 30 meters in length and the smallest of which is 24 meters in length. When I looked at this imaginary waterfall for the first time, the first thing I noticed was that it depicted human movement , so when you look at it for the first time, you would think that people actually move forward and fall down while they move forward. The waterfall is surrounded by several coffee shops where one can sit and chill out . For those seeking free things to do in Dubai Mall , capturing the perfect selfie at this iconic spot is an excellent choice

Dubai Mall seriously isn’t all about shopping. If you think you’re fearless and not a faint-hearted person, or if you love scary movies, I invite you to visit it. 10 minutes cost is 100 AED , which could be extravagant for numerous people. It’s an adult adventure , so I give you advice if you have. If you think you’re fearless and not a faint-hearted person, or if you love scary movies, I invite you to visit it. Children under 15 years , don’t take them there. It is possible to record your experience, but with a GoPro camera as mobile phones are not permitted because you may drop. If you’re looking for entertainment in Dubai Mall or things to do in Dubai Mall today , this spine-tingling experience might be right up your alley.

You have children who would adore being a policeman , a chef , or a firefighter , then you should consider spending the upcoming weekend with them in Kidzania . It’s a children’s amusement center in Dubai Mall which offers over 50 entertaining activities for kids . It would be a memorable & healthy experience for your kids. In case you are planning to check it out on the weekend, visit in the morning because by afternoon it gets jam-packed . You would most likely need 4 or 5 hours inside to pass all the games so ensure that you have got sufficient time . If you’re seeking kids activities in Dubai Mall , Kidzania is an excellent choice for a day filled with fun and learning.

The ticket price is AED 185 for kids + AED 75 for adults. If book online in advance = AED 129.50 for kids + AED 52.50 for adult.

 DUBAI DINO

I want to state this is undoubtedly one of the best selfie spots in the Dubai mall . It’s an almost 155-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton discovered in Wyoming in 2008. The DINO is 7.6m tall and measures 24.4m long . Previously, it was at the entrance, but recently it moved to the Souq area off of the mall . If you’re looking for places to see in Dubai for free or an intriguing backdrop for your photos, this dinosaur skeleton is a must-visit spot within the Dubai Mall.

 DUBAI ICE RINK

With the capacity of hosting up to 2,000 people , Dubai Ice Rink is the largest , most popular, and Olympic-sized ice skating rink in the entire city of Dubai. The Dubai ice rink is located on the ground floor alongside The Souk. Anyone can try skating, even if you’re a beginner; you can try it. The staff is very supportive and knowledgeable who would guide you and would be happy to make you comfortable for your first skating. For those seeking Fun things to do at Dubai Mall , this Olympic-sized rink offers a fantastic and fun experience. Dubai Ice Rink Ticket Price : AED 150 .

Drive an F1 Car

Do you want to drive an F1 car? Go to the Ferrari Store on Level 1 (just beside the waterfall Hidden inside).

Play football on a FIFA-certified pitch

If you’re a football enthusiast, Dubai Mall i s an ideal place to fulfill your dreams by playing on FIFA-qualified turf . Dubai Mall has a FIFA-qualified turf where kids between 5 and 15 can play a real professional football match. There are plenty of activities for kids at Dubai Mall, but this is a great opportunity for those who want to experience a professional soccer match or are looking for kids activities in Dubai Mall. One-day packages will cost Dhs200 with seven-day options available for Dhs800 . Activities will run from 9 am until 3 pm .

Reel Cinemas

Dubai Mall won’t stop shocking you with many different things to do . Operated by Emaar Entertainment, Reel Cinemas invites you to watch the most recently released movies on one of 26 screens . Besides the big screen with quality sound, the cinema presents a wide range of food and drinks. The Reel Cinemas at Dubai Mall is a great choice if you are looking for some entertainment in the mall for catching the latest movies and tasting delicious snacks and drinks.

The Dubai Fountain

This is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, located behind the Dubai mall at Burj Khalifa Lake and behind the Dubai mall. The Dubai Fountain can spray 22,000 gallons (83,000 liters) of water into the air at any moment. Certainly one of the busiest tourist spots in downtown Dubai after the Burj Khalifa & the Dubai Mall, there are many restaurants with views of the fountains and Dubai mall , so you might want to book your reservation there to avoid the crowds. Fountain shows are organized regularly in daytime, at 1:00 and 1:30 (Friday at 1:30 & 2:00 PM) shows are presented. The first evening shows start at 6:00 pm and keep going on after every thirty minutes (30 minutes) till 11:00 pm. The performance lasts for five (5) minutes. There is no ENTRY fee for it.

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Dubai Mall: 10 Must-See Attractions

Updated: Dec 7, 2023

Dubai, known for its stunning architecture and extravagant lifestyle, houses an attraction that represents the essence of the city like no other - the Dubai Mall. This enormous shopping and entertainment complex is not just a place for shopping; it's a whole world of attractions offering a variety of activities catering to all interests and age groups. Delve into an Adventure: Discover the Diverse Activities Awaiting You at Dubai Mall.

The Dubai Mall offers a shopping experience like no other, with over 1,300 retail stores that include luxury global brands (Gucci, Prada, Chanel, and more), familiar retailers (Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear), sportswear shops (Nike, Adidas, Puma), a dedicated electronics floor, a variety of jewelry stores, art galleries, and more. It's a shopper's paradise with something for everyone.

1-Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue Indulge in opulence at Fashion Avenue within Dubai Mall. Housing iconic brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, this upscale destination defines luxury with the latest trends and designer showcases. Take a break at Cipriani Coffee, where Italian excellence meets a sophisticated ambiance. Explore exclusive collections, enjoy personalized shopping with expert stylists, and bask in the luxurious ambiance. Witness iconic fashion shows celebrating the artistry of haute couture. Fashion Avenue isn't just a shopping experience; it's a celebration of sophistication, style, and unparalleled elegance.

2- The Gold Souk at Dubai Mall

Explore opulence at the Dubai Mall's Gold Souk, where tradition meets modernity. Discover meticulously crafted gold pieces, from traditional to contemporary designs. Find the perfect piece to match your style, whether it's a delicate bracelet or a bespoke ring. Craft personalized jewelry with skilled artisans, adding a unique touch to your collection. Beyond gold, enjoy a cultural journey with traditional architecture and ambiance. Knowledgeable staff are ready to guide you through the intricate world of gold. The Gold Souk promises an extraordinary journey into refined elegance at the heart of Dubai Mall.

3- Reel Cinema at Dubai Mall

Reel Cinema in Dubai Mall offers a cinematic experience like no other. With state-of-the-art technology, comfortable seating, and a diverse selection of films, it's the perfect destination for movie enthusiasts. Enjoy the latest blockbusters or explore niche films in a modern and immersive setting. Whether you're a solo moviegoer or with friends and family, Reel Cinema ensures a memorable and entertaining time at Dubai Mall.

4- Souvenirs and Gifts Shops

If you're looking for souvenirs for family and friends, visit the ground floor of Dubai Mall. There, you can find a variety of shops with local handmade crafts, decorations, and Dubai-themed memorabilia that you can take back to your loved ones. If you're more inclined to bring a sweet souvenir, stop by the Hafez Mustafa shop for a taste of excellent Arabic sweets and grab a delightful box for your close ones.

5- Chinatown Dubai Mall

Discover the charm of ChinaTown at Dubai Mall, located on the first floor near the Dubai Ice Rink. This authentic Asian experience features a captivating panda and a traditional Chinese home with a golden dragon statue. From neon-lit hallways to areas adorned with Chinese lanterns, every corner offers Instagram-worthy moments. Explore the extensive food court with eight operational food and beverage spots, showcasing authentic Chinese cuisine from dim sum to Sichuan dishes. Whether shopping, dining, or enjoying art, ChinaTown in Dubai Mall promises a unique cultural experience. Don't miss the Yinyang Massage centre for a tranquil escape, applying traditional Chinese medicine principles.

6- The Waterfall in Dubai Mall The spectacular Waterfall in Dubai Mall is a mesmerizing centerpiece that captivates visitors with its grandeur and elegance. Cascading from the ceiling to the ground over four levels, the Waterfall is a visual masterpiece that combines artistry and engineering. As you stroll through the mall, the Waterfall provides a serene backdrop, creating a soothing ambiance amid the bustling shopping environment. Illuminated by dynamic lights, the Waterfall transforms into a radiant display, offering a tranquil escape and a perfect spot for contemplation. It stands as a testament to Dubai's commitment to creating awe-inspiring spaces that seamlessly blend luxury, art, and nature.

7- The Dubai Aquarium The Dubai Aquarium in Dubai mall is a mesmerizing underwater world that invites you to discover the beauty of marine life. With its giant acrylic panel, it showcases a diverse range of sea creatures, from graceful rays to vibrant fish. The highlight is the Underwater Tunnel, where you can walk through a transparent tube for a 270-degree view of the aquatic wonders. Engaging activities like shark feedings and underwater cage experiences add an adventurous touch. Conveniently located within the mall, it's a must-visit for families and marine enthusiasts.

8- The Ice Rink at Dubai Mall The Dubai Mall Ice Rink, nestled in the heart of the city, offers a cool escape for all ages. Whether you're a novice or a pro, enjoy the thrill of skating on the Olympic-sized rink. With over 2,000 rental skates and turbo sessions for added excitement, it's a must-visit oasis in the bustling mall. Ice Marshalls ensure a safe experience, making it an ideal family-friendly activity in Dubai's iconic shopping destination.

9- The Dubai Fountain at Dubai Mall The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa, is a mesmerizing spectacle that enchants visitors daily. This captivating water display features synchronized performances set against the backdrop of the city's skyline, accompanied by music and illuminated by a stunning play of lights. As the world's largest choreographed fountain system, it offers a breathtaking experience, with water jets shooting up to incredible heights. The Dubai Fountain is a must-see attraction, providing a magical and rhythmic show that showcases the grandeur of Dubai's modern architecture and engineering.

10- At The Top Burj Khalifa Discover the peak of Dubai's skyline at 'At the Top, Burj Khalifa,' an iconic observation deck located conveniently next to the Dubai Mall. Accessible through the mall, this experience offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Journey to the top via a dedicated entrance, where you'll be whisked away in a high-speed elevator, opening up to stunning vistas of Dubai. Explore both indoor and outdoor observation areas, each providing a unique perspective on the city's architecture and natural beauty. Whether day or night, 'At the Top, Burj Khalifa' promises a memorable encounter with Dubai's unparalleled skyline.

• Shopping in Dubai
• Activities in Dubai

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Dubai Mall: A Complete Visual Guide to the Largest Shopping Center in the World

Dubai Mall, the world’s second-largest shopping center, attracts millions of travelers annually. The mall has everything, including high-end luxury boutiques and affordable items. Starting may be difficult given the many options over 1,200 businesses, 200 restaurants, and other entertainment venues. 

Introduction to the Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the second world’s largest mall. The mall is a part of the Burj Khalifa complex, which also includes the tallest building in the world. The 12-million-square-foot mall boasts 1,200 retailers, 200 eateries, and family and fashionable entertainment.

The mall is home to some of the world’s most luxurious brands, including Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton are in Dubai Mall. The mall has stores for every budget. Mall visitors enjoy fashion shows, art exhibits, and festivals.

Apart from shopping, the Dubai Mall offers a plethora of entertainment options, including an aquarium, an ice rink, a theater, and a virtual reality park. Dubai Fountain, a massive indoor waterfall, must be seen.

History and interesting facts about the Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping center, has a rich history and many intriguing facts. The 2008 mall has almost 12 million square feet of retail space. It has about 1,300 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, and a movie complex.

Downtown Dubai, a city center redevelopment, includes the mall. Emaar Properties, a world-renowned architecture firm, created the landmark project.

The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo have the largest acrylic panel in the world. The aquarium’s aquatic life is beautifully displayed on the 32.88-meter-wide, 8.3-meter-high, 750 mm-thick panels.

The mall has Ski Dubai, a 155-meter indoor ski slope. The world’s largest indoor ski resort offers winter sports in a hot and sunny climate.

Dubai visitors must see the Dubai Mall, a marvel of engineering and architecture.

The architecture and design of the Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall’s architecture is stunning. The 5.9-million-square-foot mall has 1,200 retail stores, 200 food and beverage outlets, and an indoor amusement park. The mall caters to luxury brand shoppers and budget shoppers.

The Burj Khalifa fountain is a Dubai Mall highlight. Every mall visitor must attend this 30-minute fountain performance. The world’s largest choreographed fountain system shoots water 500 feet into the air to music and lights.

The mall’s inside is stunning too. Natural light, lofty ceilings, and water elements calm shoppers. Shoppers may easily access the mall’s four levels via walkways and bridges.

Finally, the Dubai Mall is a commercial and cultural center. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo include approximately 300 aquatic animals in the mall, including sharks and rays. A virtual reality park, Olympic-sized ice rink, and multiplex cinema make the mall a complete entertainment destination.

The top attractions and activities to do at the Dubai Mall

• The Dubai Mall is an enormous complex with a wide variety of attractions and activities in addition to shops. With so much to see and do, it’s simple to become overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best Dubai Mall offers in entertainment.
• The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – For shoppers, this is a must-see spot at the shopping center. The aquarium houses hundreds of marine species, including the largest sand tiger sharks ever gathered in one place. Even swimming with sharks is an option.
• The Dubai Fountain – The Dubai Fountain is a must-see and can be seen right outside the shopping center. Every 30 minutes, visitors may enjoy a breathtaking performance by the world’s largest synchronized fountain system.
• KidZania – Those with little children will enjoy themselves here. Here in KidZania, youngsters may assume the role of adults while learning about various careers.
• VR Park – VR Park is a fantastic destination for everyone interested in virtual reality. Various virtual reality experiences are available, making them suitable for multiple audiences.
• Dubai Ice Rink –  One of the world’s largest indoor ice rinks may be seen in the Dubai Mall. Skating is fun for everyone, whether you’re just learning or have been doing it your whole life.
• Dubai Mall Fashion Avenue – The Dubai Mall Fashion Avenue is a paradise for those who love clothes. There are more than 150 high-end labels and boutiques in one area alone.

I’ve listed a sampling of the many venues and pursuits available at the Dubai Mall. Given its wealth of attractions, it’s simple to see why it ranks among the world’s most frequented travel spots.

The shopping experience at the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall offers a unique shopping experience. The Dubai Mall features over 1,200 shops, containing everything you could want. The Dubai Mall has stores ranging from the ultra-expensive Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton to the more reasonably priced H&M and Zara.

The Dubai Mall has a fantastic collection of clothing and contains electronics, jewelry, cosmetics, and furnishings. The mall offers more than just retail therapy; it also features an ice skating rink, a movie theater, and an indoor theme park.

Compared to other malls, the Dubai Mall stands out due to its enormous size and impressive architecture. The mall’s 13 million square feet are home to some eye-catching attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo and the Dubai Fountain, which puts on a dazzling water and light show several times a day.

A visit to the Dubai Mall is a must if you enjoy shopping. The experience is undoubtedly one-of-a-kind, making it a must-see for any tourist in Dubai.

Dining options and restaurants at the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall’s food selections are remarkable. Around 150 restaurants and bars offer something for everyone.

Dubai Mall provides fast food and gourmet dining. Al Fanar, Shake Shack, Five Guys, and PF Chang’s serve foreign and Emirati cuisine.

The Rainforest Cafe and Cheesecake Factory are themed eateries at the Dubai Mall. Themed decor and atmosphere make these eateries more than just good meals.

The Dubai Fountain waterfront promenade is a popular dining spot in the Dubai Mall. Visitors can dine while watching the fountain performance.

Laduree and Magnolia Bakery are among the Dubai Mall’s many cafes and dessert stores.

Dubai Mall eating is spectacular, diversified, and has something for everyone. Visitors will discover a memorable meal with so many possibilities.

Entertainment and leisure activities at the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall has several entertainment and leisure activities for all ages. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo are located in the mall. Sharks, rays, and 140 fish species await visitors. The aquarium provides cage snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat excursion to get near the aquatic species.

Dubai Mall contains an indoor ice rink, VR Park, and “VR Park Dubai” theme park for adrenaline junkies. The theme park offers virtual reality roller coasters and activities.

The Dubai Mall’s Reel Cinemas has 22 screens and serve food and drinks. The Dubai Fountain, one of the world’s largest choreographed fountains, includes a stunning water and light performance to music.

KidZania is Dubai Mall’s children’s area. It’s a role-playing and career-learning center for kids. Around 80 role-playing exercises let kids become physicians, firefighters, cooks, and more.

The Dubai Mall offers everything from shopping to entertainment and recreation for everyone.

The Dubai Fountain Show

The Dubai Fountain Display is stunning. Fountain shows are held on Burj Lake outside the Dubai Mall every night. Water shoots up to 500 feet in a synchronized performance of classical and modern music. The fountains’ changing lights will captivate you.

Dubai Mall visitors must see the Dubai Fountain Show. Visitors can view the free spectacle from several Burj Lake locations. For more immersive entertainment, take a boat trip on the lake. This way, you can see the fountains’ water dance up close.

Dubai’s Fountain Display is one of the world’s most spectacular. It’s excellent for ending a day of shopping at the Dubai Mall or starting an evening of entertainment in Dubai. The Dubai Mall exhibition is worth seeing!

Tips for visiting the Dubai Mall

Preparation is the key to making the most of your time at the Dubai Mall, which can otherwise feel like a complete and utter blur. To assist you to get about the mall more efficiently, here are some suggestions:

• Wear comfortable shoes: It is crucial to wear comfortable shoes to the Dubai Mall so that you may stroll around for hours without experiencing discomfort.
• Plan your visit: The Dubai Mall’s roughly 1,300 stores might be overwhelming. Please prioritize the stores you wish to visit in advance. You can download a mall map from their website or obtain one from the information desk.
• Visit during weekdays: Visit the Dubai Mall during the week to avoid crowds on weekends.
• Use the mall’s amenities: The shopping center has a variety of attractions, including free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, a movie theater, and a variety of eateries and cafes. Make use of these amenities to enhance the comfort of your stay.
• Visit the outdoor areas: The Dubai Mall features a variety of outdoor attractions, including the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa, in addition to its shopping opportunities. Visit these attractions to obtain the complete Dubai Mall experience.

Following these suggestions will make your visit to the Dubai Mall pleasurable and unforgettable.

Emaar Properties

Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa – Dubai

• Attractions
• At the Top of Burj Khalifa
• Out of the Ordinary
• Ekart Zabeel
• Sky View Observatory
• Zabeel Sports District
• Infinity des Lumieres
• Dubai Opera
• Reel Cinemas
• Trampo Extreme
• Dubai Ice Rink
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Featured Categories

• Electronics
• Fashion – Children
• Beauty & Fragrances
• Fashion – Men
• Fashion – Women
• Chopard Boutique
• Christian Louboutin
• Henry Jacques
• Level Shoes
• Louis Vuitton
• Roberto Cavalli
• Tiffany & Co.
• Anniversary
• Back to School
• Festival Season
• Gifts for Her
• Gifts for Him
• Housewarming

Directions 

From jumeirah lake towers dubai.

• Get on Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11 from First Al Khail St  6 min (3.8 km)
• Follow Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11. Take exit 50 from Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11  14 min (20.2 km)
• Drive to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd  2 min (450 m)
• Slight left onto Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, and you will reach The Dubai Mall

From Al Ittihad St  Al Mamzar – Dubai

• Follow E11 to Financial Center Rd/D71. Take exit 50A from Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11  13 min (17.6 km)
• Drive to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd  3 min (900 m)  The Dubai Mall

From Jumeirah Beach – Jumeirah – Dubai

• Head southwest toward Al Athar Street  2 min (700 m)
• Turn right onto Jumeirah St/Jumeirah Beach Rd/D94  59 sec (300 m)
• Take Al Bagaara St‬‎ and Al Athar Street to Al Hadiqa Rd/D69‬‬‬  4 min (2.3 km)
• Drive to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd  7 min (5.7 km)  The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is directly connected to the Dubai Metro by the link bridge, which can be accessed from Level 2 near Fashion Catwalk. The station’s name is Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall.

There are two buses that service The Dubai Mall every 16 minutes: route 27 from the Deira Gold Souk station and route 29 from the Ghubaiba bus station. These buses arrive and depart from the tourist drop-off area, located in front of the Grand Drive Entrance on the Lower Ground Floor of The Dubai Mall.

Car Parkings 

Dubai Mall has 14,000 parking spaces across three multi-story car parking and also offers valet services.

• Grand Parking with 1490 slots
• Fashion Parking with 2191 slots
• Zabeel Parking with 2287 slots
• Cinema Parking with plenty of available slots.

Parking Fee

Valet parking charges start from AED 50 and go up to AED 100 for VIP Valet Parking. 

Parking Timings 

• Sun-Thurs: 10:00 AM- 12:00 AM
• Fri-Sat: 10:00 AM – 01:00 AM

The taxi stand is located on the lower ground floor near the Cinema parking.

CAREEM and UBER

• P1 Cinema Parking – Waitrose Exit
• The Village
• P3 Fashion Parking – Welcome Court
• Waterfront Promenade
• Fashion Avenue Expansion – Boulevard Level

Car Rental Companies are located on the Dubai Mall Ground Floor level.

You can now come to the Dubai Mall via the City Sightseeing Bus Tour. For tickets and inquiries, visit the kiosk located at Gate A, adjacent to the taxi pick-up area. The bus pickup area is also at Gate A, adjacent to the Expo Shuttle Bus pickup area.

Electric Vehicle Charging

• Grand Parking B2 Cinema Parking 
• Fashion Parking Lower Ground floor
• Zabeel Extension Parking 6

Other nearby Attractions

• Burj Khalifa
• The Palm Jumeirah
• Museum of the Future

Dine In/Food court 

Top picks: cuisine:.

Angelina American Cuisine

Eataly Bakery

Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet British Food

Magnolia Bakery Chinese

Markette Fast Food

Nando’s Indian Food

Social House Italian

The Cheesecake Factory Japanese

Middle Eastern Food

High-speed Wi-Fi is available in Dubai Mall.

Lost & Found

The “Lost & Found” office is located on the Lower Ground Floor, next to Abu Dhabi National Bank.

You can contact  by calling +97144485064 or emailing [email protected]

Prayer Rooms

The Dubai Mall has onsite prayer rooms for men and women on every level, and they are clearly marked. For more details, please approach any Guest Services Desk or refer to the mall e-directories for locations.

Power bank/Charging Station

 Power Banks can be loaned from any Guest Services Desk on a complimentary and temporary basis. Simply provide a valid form of ID or leave a security deposit, and you can take the Power Bank with you as you enjoy your shopping.

Wheelchairs

can be provided at no charge. Please inquire at any Guest Services Desk to have this arranged.

Luggage & Bag Drop Services

The Dubai Mall counter, in partnership with DUBZ – Dubai’s premium baggage delivery check-in service provider, also works as a check-in station. You can contact +971523829090 or email to [email protected] for luggage concierge and airport check-in service.

Nursing Room

Mother care rooms are available on Level 2. At the Lower Ground (by Holland & Barrett), a baby changing room with toddler play facilities and a separate nursing room with a chair is also available. 

Eligibility

The dubai mall rewards program is open to anyone.

Anyone with an Emirates Skywards membership is eligible for the Dubai Mall Rewards Program (Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum). Skywards Miles cannot be earned by My Family, Skywards Skysurfer, or Business Rewards accounts.

Do I have to live in Dubai or the United Arab Emirates to be a member for Rewards Programme?

No, everyone can participate in the Dubai Mall Rewards Program, no matter where they are located in the world. You must shop at The Dubai Mall and consequently be a visitor or resident of the UAE in order to be eligible to earn Skywards Miles.

Earning Skywards Miles

How can i begin earning skywards miles.

Download the The Dubai Mall app from the App Store or Google Play, sign up for the The Dubai Mall Rewards Program, and link your Emirates Skywards account to start earning Skywards Miles. To earn Skywards Miles, go to The Dubai Mall, start shopping, and upload your receipts to the app.

Which shops at The Dubai Mall allow me to earn Skywards Miles?

Members can earn Skywards Miles by purchasing goods at any retail establishment, restaurant, or leisure and entertainment facility (including KidZania, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, VR Park, Reel Cinemas, Dubai Ice Rink, and At the Top, Burj Khalifa) at The Dubai Mall.

Is there a minimum amount I must spend?

Yes, in order to earn Skywards Miles, Emirates Skyward members must trade at least AED 100 (about USD 27) per transaction.

Can I upload a receipt that was issued to someone else?

The account name on the Skywards receipt must be the same.

Will I receive a certain amount of Skywards Miles, and is there a maximum limit?

As shown on the table below, this depends on the tier you are in.

How long does it take before my account is credited with Skywards Miles?

Within one week of providing a legitimate receipt, Skywards Miles for purchases under USD 1,000 (or roughly AED 3,670) will be paid to your Emirates Skywards account. Transactions exceeding this threshold can require more time to complete.

Other Benefits

What further advantages does the dubai mall rewards program offer.

Along with earning Skywards Miles, the following advantages are also available to you.

Technical Support

What should i do if my skywards miles have not been credited.

To guarantee that your receipts are eligible for validation, please make sure you have read the Transactions portion of this FAQ.

The validation procedure could take longer than the typical 1 week if your receipts total more than USD 1,000 (about AED 3,670).

You can reach The Dubai Mall’s customer service department by phone at 800 38224 6255 (800 DUBAI MALL), or by email at [email protected] if your Skywards Miles have still not been credited.

Who can help me with The Dubai Mall app’s technical issues?

To reach The Dubai Mall’s customer service department, dial 800 38224 6255 (800 DUBAI MALL), or send an email to [email protected] .

Who can I contact if my Emirates Skywards account is having technical issues?

Contact Emirates Skywards at 600 555 555 or visit www.emirates.com/Skywards with any questions.

What are the operating hours of Dubai Mall?

The operating hours of Dubai Mall are from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Sunday to Wednesday, and 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Thursday to Saturday. However, some of the stores and restaurants inside the mall may have different operating hours, so it’s best to check with them directly.

What are the best shops to visit in Dubai Mall?

Dubai Mall offers a wide range of shopping options, from luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel to high-street favorites like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21. Some must-visit shops include Galeries Lafayette, Bloomingdale’s, and the Dubai Mall Souk.

What dining options are available at Dubai Mall?

Dubai Mall offers a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining. Some popular options include The Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s, and Nando’s. There is also a food court with a variety of international options.

Can I find luxury brands at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall is home to many luxury brands, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, and more. There is also a luxury wing, which features several high-end boutiques.

Is there a cinema at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall has a 22-screen cinema, VOX Cinemas, which features both 2D and 3D movies, as well as VIP and IMAX screens.

Can I find a wide range of fashion options at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall offers a wide range of fashion options, from luxury brands to high-street favorites. There are also several department stores, such as Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette, which offer a variety of fashion options.

Are there any entertainment options at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall offers a variety of entertainment options, including the Dubai Fountain, an indoor ice-skating rink, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Is there a kids’ play area at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall has a dedicated play area for children, called Magic Planet, which features a variety of games and activities.

Are there any parking facilities at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall has a multi-level parking facility with over 14,000 parking spaces.

Can I find any traditional souvenirs at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall has a dedicated souk, where you can find traditional souvenirs such as spices, textiles, and traditional jewelry.

Are there any discounts or promotions available at Dubai Mall?

Dubai Mall regularly offers discounts and promotions on selected items, which are announced through the mall’s website and social media channels.

How can I get to Dubai Mall by public transportation?

Dubai Mall is easily accessible by metro, with the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station located just a short walk away from the mall. Bus services are also available, and the mall also offers a complimentary shuttle bus service.

Is there a tourist information center at Dubai Mall?

Yes, there is a tourist information center at Dubai Mall, where visitors can find information about the mall, as well as other tourist attractions in Dubai.

Are there any events or activities happening at Dubai Mall?

Dubai Mall regularly hosts events and activities, including fashion shows, pop-up markets, and cultural events. Information about upcoming events can be found on the mall’s website.

Can I find halal food options at Dubai Mall?

Yes, Dubai Mall offers a variety of halal food options, including restaurants and food court options that serve halal food. Visitors can also find a number of halal-certified restaurants in the mall, which are identified by a halal certification logo. Some popular halal food options include Nando’s, TGI Fridays, and KFC.

• Luxury shopping: Gucci, LV, Chanel, Prada, luxury wing.
• Entertainment: Dubai Fountain, ice rink, aquarium, zoo.
• Dining options: Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s, Nando’s, food court.
• Convenient location: centrally located, easy access by metro, bus, car.
• Events & activities: fashion shows, pop-up markets, cultural events

Website 

https://thedubaimall.com/

Conclusion and final thoughts on the Dubai Mall.

The Dubai Mall is a shopaholic’s dream and a must-see for tourists. You’ll always have things to do here, with over 1,200 retail stores, plenty of entertainment, and several restaurants.

The mall’s enormity can be intimidating, so plan early and give yourself enough time to see everything.

The Dubai Mall has the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, VR Park, and Dubai Ice Rink in addition to shopping. You can spend a day here without becoming bored.

The mall also has abundant parking and a direct Dubai Metro connection. Disability-friendly features make the mall an inclusive destination.

The Dubai Mall’s architecture and engineering demonstrate Dubai’s global reputation as a shopping and tourism hub. The Dubai Mall is great for shopping or just having fun.

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Dubai   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things to Do in Dubai

There is a delicate balance of old and new in Dubai, resulting in a smorgasbord of things to do – many of which fall under the one-of-a-kind, five-star or over-the-top categories. You can spend your mornings sprawled out on a beach backed by high

• All Things To Do

Burj Al Arab Burj Al Arab free

Overlooking the Persian Gulf from its perch between Jumeirah's shore and the Palm Jumeirah , this stunning building has wowed architecture buffs since it opened in 1999. Its curved glass façade – modeled after the sails that have graced Dubai's waterways all these years – shelters a world-class, über-luxurious hotel located on its own human-made island. The hotel not only houses one of the tallest atriums in the world at nearly 600 feet high, but it is one of the tallest hotels in the world. Architecture aside, amenities include revolving beds in some suites, as well as a helipad, in case you thought arriving via a Rolls-Royce was too pedestrian.

You don't have to stay at the Burj Al Arab to enjoy it (and let's face it, most can't given that rooms start at $1,000 per night). Gain entry by booking an Inside Burj Al Arab Tour (249 dirhams or roughly $68) or by grabbing a bite at one of the on-site restaurants. Among them are Ristorante L'Olivo at Al Mahara, which features floor-to-ceiling windows guarding a massive fish tank, and the sky-high Al Muntaha, located on the scenic 27th floor of the building.

Dubai Mall Dubai Mall free

Skirting the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai is every shopper's paradise. The massive Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the world and houses more than 1,200 stores. Even if you aren't interested in buying anything, a visit to this immense retail center is a must: Dubai Mall contains numerous entertainment facilities, such as an ice rink, a movie theater and several kid-friendly attractions, including an aquarium that houses thousands of creatures. If you happen to be around at night, stop by the Dubai Fountain outside of the mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa . Created by the team who designed the Bellagio 's famous dancing fountains, the fountain features nightly shows set to a mix of western and eastern music.

Visitors were taken by how much was at the mall – everything you could possibly need can be found inside its sprawling square footage. However, a few visitors were keen to point out that you'll encounter large crowds and high prices for goods. Still, many said that shouldn't stop you from popping in for a visit. Of course, if you're on the hunt for a taste of Middle Eastern culture, this isn't the place to experience it. It is, however, a great escape from the heat, according to travelers.

Jumeirah Mosque Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is nestled near the shore in one of Dubai's older and most picturesque neighborhoods, Jumeirah 1. Its detailed sand-hued façade – which graces older 500-dirham notes – mimics the architectural style of the medieval Fatimid period. Unlike most of Dubai's other mosques, non-Muslims are invited inside to marvel at Jumeirah's ornate decor, featuring detailed painted panels with splashes of bright blue and yellow. Even if you're not religious, travelers strongly recommend a visit to this mosque for its educational value and cultural significance. Visitors loved the tours and the guides' informative presentation on the architecture of the building and Islam. Visitors also recommend arriving at the morning session to enjoy the Emirati breakfast that is served.

Those planning to enter the mosque should come in modest dress – that means long sleeves and long pants or skirts. Women also must arrive with a scarf as they are required to cover their hair

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Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood free

Along the Dubai Creek lies the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the original heart and hub of Dubai before the modern skyscrapers began rising to the south. Originally called the Bastakiya Quarter, this former fishing village earned its name from the numerous Bastak (Iranian) traders that settled here in the mid-19th century. The charming little neighborhood houses the popular outdoor café, the Arabian Tea House, and several art galleries that feature the work of local and international artists, among others. Some of the restored buildings also include wind towers, which was an early form of air conditioning. The Dubai Museum is also located here.

Recent visitors found Al Fahidi to be a nice respite from the glitz and glam of modern Dubai, and enjoyed seeing what the city looked like before all of its developments came to fruition. Some recommend this as a good location to buy reasonably priced souvenirs. A few visitors warned against driving here due to traffic in the narrow streets and difficulty finding parking.

Burj Khalifa Burj Khalifa

Although we don't recommend experiencing it the way Tom Cruise did in "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol," Burj Khalifa is a crucial item on any Dubai agenda. Rising 2,716.5 feet above the city (that's a whopping 160 stories), Burj Khalifa proudly holds the title of "world's tallest building." But that's not the only title this tower's got under its belt. Burj Khalifa is also the tallest free-standing structure in the world and home to the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. You know what that means: gorgeous views. Visitors are invited to ride the elevator to At the Top, one set of observation decks, on the 124th and 125th floors for breathtaking city vistas extending all the way out to the Persian Gulf. Once on your lofty perch, you can use high-powered telescopes and try other immersive and virtual reality experiences. You can also travel higher to the 148th floor, the world's highest observation deck, but it will cost you extra.

Traveler reviews were mixed for the world's tallest building. On the one hand, visitors say it's a must-see simply for its world-famous distinction. On the other hand, some found the attraction to be overpriced with lackluster views as well as suffering from long lines and disorganization. A few tips: If you decide to take a trip to the top, book in advance because tickets sell out quickly. If you can, schedule your visit around sunset: According to travelers, the spectacular views more than make up for the long wait to the top.

Expo City Dubai Expo City Dubai

Even if you were unable to visit Dubai's World Expo from 2021 to 2022, you can still visit the custom-built "city" that played host to it. Expo City Dubai remains an excellent family-friendly destination with plenty to see and do. In addition to restaurants serving global cuisine, there are a number of pavilions that cover various important topics such as sustainability, contributions from women and an organic farm. Don't miss Al Wasl Plaza, the city's captivating hub that features the world's largest 360-degree projection surface with light projections starting at sunset each evening.

Visitors recommended visiting Expo City Dubai in the cooler months as well as during holidays such as Christmastime and Ramadan, when there is holiday-inspired decor and entertainment taking place. Families agreed this was a good place to take children and that renting scooters help traverse the destination more easily. Visitors said they appreciated the mix of culture, technology and environmental aspects that were on display as well as its spectacular architectural features.

Kite Beach Kite Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If visiting with energetic kiddos, plan for time to visit XPark Jr., right across the street from the beach, an ultimate play park experience. Parents can grab a coffee from the kitty-corner Circle Café, a local favorite. – Laurel Munshower

Kite Beach in the pretty Umm Suqeim neighborhood remains Dubai's classic beach destination. Offering an ideal blend of excitement and relaxation – not to mention a great view of Burj Al Arab – it boasts a family-friendly, neighborhood atmosphere with activities such as volleyball, kitesurfing, wakeboarding and stand-up paddleboarding, as well as plenty of sandy space to catch some rays. The waters are calm and clear, perfect for a leisurely dip and to glimpse schools of small fish shimmering beneath the swells.

Gold and Spice Souks Gold and Spice Souks free

Dubai is and has been a titan of trade for centuries. To get a sense of what commerce was like back in the day, take a stroll through one of the city's traditional souks , or bazaars.

The Gold Souk, located near Dubai Creek's north bank in the Deira neighborhood, specializes in glitz and glamor. Featuring glittering displays of necklaces, bracelets and earrings from more than 350 retailers, the Gold Souk is one of the most renowned gold jewelry trading centers in the world. In fact, approximately 20% of the world's gold passes through this market (it could even be as much as 40%). But if you're not one for gold, don't fret. The souk also sells platinum, diamonds and silver. You're also guaranteed to get what you're paying for. The government tightly controls what is sold and by who in the souk's shops, so you don't have to walk away thinking there's a chance you may be holding something counterfeit. Just beware and steer clear of the free-agent hawkers strolling the walkways, of which there are many touting counterfeit goods. Most vendors are open for business every day between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. 

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Textile Souk Textile Souk free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Refuel with regional cuisine in the neighborhood, either at Bayt Al Wakeel that serves excellent juices and Moroccan tea right on the Creek, or try authentic Persian skewered meats at Al Ustad Special Kabab. – Laurel Munshower

Nestled among a warren of narrow lanes – some covered by atmospheric, vaulted wooden ceilings that shield the outdoor market from the sun – the colorful Textile Souk sits in the Bur Dubai neighborhood on the south bank of Dubai Creek. A trip here is a fascinating look into Dubai's past, with plenty of opportunities to haggle for supple pashminas, embellished slippers and reams and reams of exotic fabrics. It's a great opportunity to pick up something special for your home, such as cushions, foot rests, rugs and painted serving dishes.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

When the glitz and glam of urban Dubai grows tiresome, visitors strongly recommend escaping to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The UAE's first national park sits on the outer edges of the city, and occupies about 87 square miles of the Arabian Desert. The reserve acts as a research unit, but travelers are allowed to explore the area – with one caveat: visitors aren't allowed to tour the reserve by themselves. The interesting flora and fauna, as well as all of the fun activities, made the experience unforgettable for most travelers. Reviewers were keen to praise the staff, who they said made them feel comfortable and welcome as well as being knowledgeable. Many recommended the dune bashing and desert safari, described at times as "exhilarating."

Luckily, the park offers many different types of activities. Thrill-seekers can go sand boarding, dabble in archery or go dune driving on a luxury four-wheeler. Those looking for a more relaxed experience can soak up the spirit of the desert on low cushions in Bedu tents for a delectable dinner, or arrange for a private meal. There's also traditional camel treks, horseback rides and even a class on falconry. Visitors can also camp on-site, or retreat to Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa at the end of the day.

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

Since its opening in 2008, Aquaventure Waterpark has been the UAE's premier destination for watery thrills. Following its 13.5-acre expansion in 2021, Aquaventure holds the title of world's largest waterpark at 55 acres, as well as the record for most water slides (50 total). There are more than 105 waterlogged activities in total. With that many attractions, there truly is something for everyone: a high-speed, near-vertical drop into seemingly shark-filled waters with the Leap of Faith; lazy rivers and lagoons; and numerous kid-friendly areas with slides and pools. There's even snorkeling, dolphin and sea lion encounters and an aquarium with more than 65,000 animals.

The wide variety of activities and rides were praised by recent parkgoers. Many recommended arriving early with the expectation to spend a full day at the park to make the most of it. They also suggest making a plan before you go to ensure you get to ride the slides you most desire, as lines can be long – although some advised purchasing an Aqua XPress ticket to bypass queues.

Dubai Museum Dubai Museum

Sitting near the  Bastakiya Quarter , the Dubai Museum offers visitors a glimpse of where this monumental city has been and where it's going. The museum occupies the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest building in Dubai, previously used by the monarch and as a defense station. Today, the museum features a variety of wings dedicated to Dubai's cultural, historical and geographical landscape. Wander around and you'll find everything from goods sold in the 1950s, located in the markets wing, to information about the marine life that lies under the Arabian Gulf, appropriately located in the sea wing. There's also a folklore wing that will likely keep younger ones entertained, and a courtyard equipped with models of local boats and bamboo houses decorated with furniture used during that time period. 

Travelers recommend a visit if you're into history, or looking to beat the heat for an hour or two. Many said it was a "must-see" if it's your first visit to Dubai. 

Dubai Frame Dubai Frame

Rising 492 feet from Zabeel Park – and right between the gleaming skyscrapers of "new" Dubai and bustle of "old" Dubai – Dubai Frame stands as a symbol of the city's visionary spirit, bridging the gap between past and future. More than a towering landmark, this is also an exhibition that takes visitors on a journey through Dubai's past, present and future, showcasing "Old" Dubai through 3D projections and reveals "Future" Dubai through a tunnel vortex of special effects. "Present" Dubai, located high on the sky deck level, takes advantage of its location to showcase sprawling views of old Dubai – Bur Dubai, Dubai Creek, Deira – on one side and new Dubai – Sheikh Zayed Road and Downtown Dubai – on the other.

Recent visitors remarked that the "spectacular" views of the two sides of Dubai from the "Present" Dubai observatory were well worth the visit. They suggest buying tickets in advance to avoid a long wait to get inside, particularly in hotter months. Although some guests appreciated the informative aspect of this attraction, others noted that the main reason to visit was for the views as the educational and exhibits portion was a bit light.

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Wild Wadi Waterpark Wild Wadi Waterpark

Located along the shore opposite the Burj Al Arab , Wild Wadi Waterpark is a collection of 30 water rides and play areas designed for all ages. Juha, a character often referenced in Arabian folklore, is featured predominantly among the park. Thrill-seekers can slide down Tantrum Alley or the Burj Surj, while those looking for a little more relaxation can glide along the lazy river, Juha's Journey. There are also multiple moderate slide options, as well as Juha's Dhow and Lagoon water park just for the kiddos and the Wipeout and Riptide Flowrider, which is a thrilling simulated surfing ride.

Travelers overall say Wild Wadi is a guaranteed hit with kids of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. However, despite all the fun-filled things to do, some found the park a bit too pricey and that it is in need of updates, especially when compared to Aquaventure. Reviews were mixed when it came to customer service.

Ski Dubai Ski Dubai

"Surreal" is one way to describe Ski Dubai. Even when the city is enveloped in sizzling triple-digit temperatures, this massive indoor winter wonderland is never without fresh powder.

The Middle East's first indoor ski center, Ski Dubai boasts five ski runs (the longest of which spans more than 1,300 feet with a 197-foot vertical drop), a freestyle snowboard zone, a chairlift, as well as room for toboggan runs and snowball fights. Inside there's also the world's first indoor black run, ski lessons for all ages, as well as a penguin colony.  

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

You'll find Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, featuring one of the world's largest suspended aquariums, inside the Dubai Mall . The aquarium boasts more than 140 species of marine life in a larger-than-life tank that holds more than 2.5 million gallons of water. While you can casually watch the aquarium's marine life as you walk through the mall (for free), a 167-foot-long transparent tunnel that runs through the tank is the best way to get a close look at its creatures that include sand tiger sharks and rays. Its Underwater Zoo, separate from the enormous tank, includes a wide array of additional marine life, such as piranhas, eels and even otters. And if you're a real fan of marine life, a variety of animal encounters will get you up close with critters such as a crocodile, penguins or rays.

Recent visitors appreciated the helpful guides and note that children particularly enjoyed visiting to see the wide variety of marine life, calling the underwater tunnel "mesmerizing." Some travelers recommended including add-ons such as the Feeding Presentation or Otter Encounter to the visit to get an ever closer look at the animals. A few said the attraction was overpriced and felt that the free view from the mall was good enough.

Palm Jumeirah Palm Jumeirah free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the best ways to get a look at Palm Jumeirah are from beyond: a jump with Skydive Dubai offers unparalleled views of the "tree" while an afternoon yacht excursion can take you around the perimeter in style. – Laurel Munshower

The human-made island Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai's most iconic sights – its palm-tree form seen clearly from above – and destinations. An archipelago made of a "trunk," "fronds" and "crescents," it is connected to the mainland via a road bridge and monorail.

Museum of the Future Museum of the Future

A truly unique piece of architecture in a city filled with eye-catching structures, the Museum of the Future is appropriately futuristic looking with its calligraphy-covered circular shape that is lit up with an otherworldly glow at night. Sitting near the base of one of the city's most classic skyscrapers – Jumeirah Emirates Towers – this relatively new addition to the skyline takes museumgoers on a journey that mixes exhibitions with immersive experiences that showcase potentially world-changing innovations. Spread across five "chapters," or exhibits, your visit includes a space station, Dubai in 2071 and an inspiring play space for children.

Many recent reviews laud the Museum of the Future as a transformative experience, praised for its visionary exhibits, thought-provoking insights and state-of-the-art facilities. However, a few visitors felt the museum's exhibits were lackluster and that the best part was viewing the brilliant structure from the outside. They also appreciated the museum's commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, offering a platform for dialogue on pressing global challenges.

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Global Village Global Village

Where the city gives way to the desert, Global Village is one of Dubai's most classic and time-tested attractions, incredibly popular with tourists and Emirati residents alike. Spanning more than 17 million square feet, Global Village showcases pavilions representing more than 90 countries, each offering a vibrant tapestry of culture, heritage and commerce. From bustling bazaars filled with handcrafted treasures to tantalizing aromas wafting from international food stalls, and lively performances and activities that change yearly, travelers are transported on a journey around the world without ever leaving Dubai.

Reviews from travelers overall sing the praises of Global Village, lauding its immersive cultural experience, diverse entertainment options, plethora of merchandise and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors also appreciate its reasonable entry fee. A few travelers felt that it was too far away from Dubai, and that the experience too much like a tourist trap to be worth spending an evening at.

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3 Reasons Why You Should Visit The Dubai Mall

Take your shopping experience to a new height at the world’s one of THE BEST shopping destinations. Dubai is home to the biggest shopping mall in the world, The Dubai Mall, located in the heart of Dubai Downtown. It hosts two of the biggest shopping festivals, the Dubai Shopping Festival and Summer Surprises Festival which attracts millions of people to the land of Sheikh every year.

I was glad to attend the Shopping Festival in 2016 and witness the madness. It was the last day of the Festival, and the retail outlets were giving out crazy discounts. However, I went more as a spectator than a participant.

P.S: Not a shopping enthusiast, unless there’s a camera on sale! 😉

The Dubai Mall is more than just a rendezvous of top retail outlets. Spend a day at the mall to explore unique experiences, from an underwater zoo to opera. Here’s a list of 3 must-do things at the Dubai Mall.

Table of Contents

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

Head to Burj Khalifa the tallest building in the world to get a splendid 360-degree view of the city. Ride one of the fastest elevators in the world and reach the 125th level in 60 seconds. Enjoy the bird’s eye view from three different levels (124, 125 and 148). You can also take home a beautiful miniature of Burj Khalifa from the souvenir shop on the 125th floor.

How to reach – The entrance to At the Top is from the ground floor of the Dubai Mall.

Ticket & Timings – At the Top remains open seven days a week, from 8:30 am – 10 pm. The last entry to the deck is 45 minutes before closing.

Pre-book your tickets to avoid long queues. 124th & 125th-floor combo ticket is the best and the cheapest option available. However, if you want to get a taste of luxury then go for the 124, 125 & 148th-floor combo ticket that includes special privileges.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to more than 33,000 aquatic animals and the world’s largest crocodiles King Croc and his Queen at the Underwater Zoo. Explore the sand tiger sharks, stingrays and other beautiful species and gets fascinating insights about marine life.

How to reach – Located opposite to Gosport outlet on the ground floor. For Underwater Zoo, take the elevator adjacent to the Aquarium entrance to reach the second floor.

Ticket & Timings – Open only on weekdays, from Sunday to Thursday 12 pm – 10 pm. The last admission is at 9 pm. You can directly walk in or buy the tickets online . However, I recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute availability issues.

The Dubai Fountain Show

Watch the marvellous water show at the world’s tallest performing fountain set on the Burj Khalifa Lake. The fountain features 6,000 light, 25 coloured projectors, and 22,000 gallons of water performing an astonishing choreography of water, sound and light synced to Arabic and world music that will leave you breathless. You can watch the show from the mall complex or hop on a traditional water taxi called “abra” to get a closer view.

How to reach – Exit Fashion avenue to reach the fountain located at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

Ticket & Timings – The show happens every day from 6 pm to 11 pm at an interval of 30 minutes and is completely free. For a boat ride, you can directly walk in or buy the tickets online .

Other Unique experiences at the Dubai Mall

There are plenty of additional unique attractions that you can add to your list. Experience the sheer pleasure of gliding along the ice at the Dubai Ice Rink . Face your deepest and darkest fears at Hysteria . Immerse yourself in the world of Virtual Reality at VR Park . Enjoy world-class live performances at the Dubai Opera and feel the adrenalin rushing through your veins at the Ekart Zabeel ‘s indoor electric go-karting.

Tip: iVenture Card is a great money saver when travelling to Dubai. You can choose up to 7 top attractions and redeem them at your convenience.

Meenakshi is a designer by profession and traveller by heart. Photography is something that she cherishes and goes on a Click! Click! Click! spree wherever she goes.

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Meenakshi, I must say, there is a reason why Dubai is one of the global cities and a beautiful example of human architectural and technical creation of our times. I just got this thought reconfirmed reading this. 🙂

I feel so happy that you felt this way! thanks a lot 😀 <3

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17+ TOP Dubai Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

Looking for the  best things to do in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates,  and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular Dubai attractions to visit is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting the city for the first time and have limited time, not even to mention the budget.

From gleaming skyscrapers and modern landmarks to the desert and historic souks, Dubai has something for everyone. But it’s also a rapidly growing city with countless new tourist attractions springing up like mushrooms and choosing which places to visit and which ones to skip might look like a daunting task…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Dubai, in this guide we share the  VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Dubai that are worth your time the most . In addition, we also include a few fun experiences for those looking to experience Dubai beyond the ‘musts’.

We also created a  map of all the top places that should help you plan your Dubai sightseeing itinerary. You can find it at the bottom of this article. In addition, for every place featured in this guide, we include some practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit. Take a look!

Good to know:   We list the must-see places and experiences first, followed by some additional tips for things to do in Dubai further down the list.

If you are short on time, concentrate on the top sights indicated as ‘must-see’ first. In addition, see if you can also fit in some of the ‘highly recommended’ experiences listed further down.

But if you have more time and are looking for even more ideas for places to visit and interesting tourist attractions beyond the most popular sights, be sure to check the complete list.

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, on our blog, you can also find sample itineraries for first-time visitors: a Dubai stopover itinerary (from 6 hours to 1-2 days) and a detailed Dubai itinerary for up to one week .

Here are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

If there is one place you have to see in Dubai, it’s Burj Khalifa , the tallest building in the world. This iconic skyscraper is the most visited landmark in Dubai.

While you will see Burj Khalifa from all over the city, it’s most impressive when seen from the bottom. So don’t miss that!

In addition, no trip to Dubai would be complete without ascending to the 124th and 125th floors for breathtaking views of the city skyline, coastline, and desert. For an extra price, you can also visit the SKY Level on the 148th floor.

Good to know: Standard tickets include timed-entry access to 124-125th floors. However, even with a dedicated time slot, be prepared to queue for a long time. The SKY Level 124,125, and 148th floors ticket is more expensive, but includes skip-the-line access for the security check and elevator. It also includes access to the lounge with snacks and drinks.

PRO TIP: Whatever option you choose, be sure to book your tickets online in advance or you may not be able to visit at all. If you want to catch the sunset at the top, be sure to book a time slot at least 1.5 hours before the sunset time (just beware that those time slots are also more expensive).

2. Dubai Mall

You might be wondering why in the world we list a shopping mall as one of the must-see places in Dubai… Well, the Dubai Mall is not just a shopping paradise, but a destination in itself. Plus, it’s located right at the Burj Khalifa so you’ll come here anyway.

The largest shopping mall in the world, Dubai Mall has over 1,200 shops, including high-end designer stores and flagship fashion brands. In addition, you can choose from more than 200 restaurants and food outlets. But it’s worth coming here even if you are not interested in shopping and dining.

You can’t miss the gigantic Dubai Aquarium – the centerpiece of the Mall, or you can get a ticket and visit inside. There are also huge waterfalls, a 155 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton, an Olympic-size ice skating rink, a mini-city for kids KidZania , and countless other attractions. You could literally spend several days in here and still not see it all…

TIP: If you want to visit the aquarium, opt for a combo ticket that includes Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium. Otherwise, the aquarium price is really steep for what it is.

3. Dubai Fountain Show

The captivating Dubai Fountain Show can be seen on the Burj Lake right outside the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa. It’s a mesmerizing water, music, and light show that takes place multiple times a day and is FREE to watch.

The world’s tallest performing fountain, it dances for a few minutes to a selection of different melodies ranging from popular hits to traditional Arabic and classical music.

Good to know: The Dubai Fountain shows run every half an hour from 6 PM to 11 PM. There is also a performance at 1.30 PM, plus at 1 PM on weekdays and 2 PM on weekends.

PRO TIP: If you are looking for something nice to do in Dubai, book a boat ride on Burj Lake during a fountain show . It takes just 30 minutes and is not expensive (definitely for Dubai standards). Everyone in our family really enjoyed it.

4. Old Dubai & Traditional Souks

Dubai has more to offer than its modern landmarks and one of the best places to experience the authentic side of Dubai is its Old Town .

Be sure to visit the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi (formerly known as Bastakiya), cross Dubai Creek on a traditional  Abra boat , and don’t miss the best traditional markets in Dubai – the Gold Souk and Spice Souk .

To be completely honest, the Al Fahidi neighborhood is not that authentic, but has the feel of an overly nicely restored open-air museum. You can wander through a few picturesque narrow alleyways lined with wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafes. There are also several tiny museums and some traditional shops selling souvenirs to tourists.

Nevertheless, it’s the best place to catch a glimpse of old Dubai and get a better understanding of the fascinating journey of the fascinating expansion of the UAE in just a few decades. The transformation of a few tiny fishing villages in the desert to the global metropolises of the 21st century is nothing short of remarkable.

PRO TIP:  Visit the old town  with a local guide ! That way, you can be sure to see all the musts but also learn more about the history of Dubai. The tours are very affordable and some also include local food and drinks. We visited the Dubai old town and traditional markets on different occasions, most recently with this highly-rated tour and I can highly recommend it as one of the top experiences in Dubai.

5. Dubai Marina

Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and filled with luxury yachts, Dubai Marina is one of the must-see places where you can experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai.

The best way to explore the area is by taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade known as Marina Walk. It’s almost 3 kilometers long and is lined with upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and luxury boutiques. If you don’t want to walk the entire length, focus on the area close to Marina Mall or join a guided  e-scooter tour .

For a unique perspective, hop on a luxury yacht cruise – it’s a great and very relaxing way to see some of the most impressive skylines. If you are looking for a more traditional experience, you can also opt for a dhow dinner cruise to admire the dazzling skyline illuminated against the night sky.

There is so much more to do at the Dubai Marina than just enjoy the scenery! You can go  jet skiing , parasailing , zip line across the Marina , or even dine in the sky .

6. Dubai Desert

Dubai has grown into a huge ultra-modern metropolis, but its roots are still in the desert. So no trip would be complete without seeing the Dubai desert. Even if just for the contrast and to get a better understanding of how remarkable the journey of the UAE has been.

Let me be very honest with you – the desert around Dubai is not that impressive, especially if we compare it to places like e.g. Sossusvlei in Namibia or Death Valley in the USA. However, there are many exhilarating desert safari experiences, such as dune bashing in a 4×4 , quad rides , camel riding , hot-air balloon flights , etc. and these are well worth your time.

In addition, most Dubai safari tours include a visit to a desert camp, built in a traditional Bedouin style. Here, you can indulge in Arabian BBQ dinner and taste all kinds of local food, see the national bird of the UAE – the falcon, or get a henna tattoo. In the evenings, you can also see all kinds of traditional performances such as Tanoura dance, belly dancing, or fire shows.

Good to know: There are  many desert tour options and most of them last 4 to 7 hours. The desert camp experience is similar on all evening tours, but be sure to read the tour description to choose the main activity (jeep, quad, camel, etc.) that best aligns with your interests. For example, most desert tours include a very short camel ride (for a picture), but only a few offer a longer camel ride experience.

Our experience:  We have been on two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and really enjoyed them both. One of them included dune bashing in a jeep and the other one – camel riding . They both included dinner and other desert camp experiences.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

7. Dubai Museum Of The Future

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The Museum of the Future is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai. The remarkable building is a must-see, but the museum itself is quite interesting and well worth a few hours of your time.

The museum is very interactive and showcases Dubai’s vision of the future and what it will look like some 50 years from now. They cover all kinds of topics like space travel, artificial intelligence, and robotics, but also climate change, healthcare, spirituality, etc.

PRO TIP:   Reserve tickets for the museum at least a few weeks before your trip. When we traveled, they were sold out for almost 3 weeks, not even to mention being able to pick a time slot that fits your itinerary. Also, if you can, book the first time slot in the morning so that you can enjoy the interactive exhibits before it gets too crowded.

8. Sky Views Observatory & Sky Edge Walk

Sky Views Observatory  offers a great view of Dubai’s Downtown. It’s also one of the best places to admire the iconic Burj Khalifa from a higher angle at a rather close distance.

In addition, you can also walk over a glass-bottom walkway, slide down a transparent tube at the side of the building, or – for an additional fee – do the Sky Edge Walk on an open-air platform on the 52nd floor.

Good to know:  Regular tickets are very affordable and much cheaper than the Burj Khalifa tickets. But if you are not afraid of heights and have some extra time, we highly recommend a ticket that also includes the Edge Walk – it’s one of the most unique things to do in Dubai!

9. Global Village

Global Village Dubai  is one of the most popular attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international visitors. Just as the name suggests, it’s a place where you can experience a wide variety of cultures from all over the world.

With over 90 countries represented, it’s a unique opportunity to get acquainted with different countries, sample traditional foods, or purchase some interesting souvenirs. There are also cultural shows and live performances.

It’s a bit like a big country fair, but very unique because of its global character.

Good to know:  A visit to Global Village is very affordable and  entry tickets  cost just around $6. However, you’ll have to pay extra for most of the rides and attractions inside.

PRO TIP:  Avoid weekends and try to arrive around the opening time (usually around 4 pm, but during Ramadan around 6 pm). Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest.

10. Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah  is a man-made palm-tree-shaped island in the Arabian Gulf and connected to the city via tunnels and bridges and tunnels. The Palm is home to upscale residences, luxury hotels, and beachfront resorts, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm .

There are several places of interest to see at the Palm including the best water park in Dubai, Atlantis Aquaventure and Dolphin Bay, Lost Chambers Aquarium, and several luxurious sky pool experiences.

If you just want to catch a glimpse of this remarkable feat of engineering, visit The View at The Palm Observatory . From here, you can enjoy 360° views of the city and the Arabian Gulf, including an elevated view of this unique palm island.

PRO TIP: For the best aerial views and to fully appreciate The Palm, opt for a  sightseeing helicopter tour .

11. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab  is one of the most recognizable symbols of Dubai. The sail-shaped luxury hotel was opened in December 1999 and was the first one in a series of Dubai’s most remarkable landmarks that were built in the 21st century.

One of the world’s most luxurious and most expensive hotels, Burj Al Arab is not only impressive from the outside. Inside, you can admire its lavish interiors and find some extravagant experiences such as its world-famous gold cappuccino.

Good to know: A stay at this hotel will quickly cost you over $1,500 per night. But a tour of the interior is much more affordable. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to the luxury tour to include a visit to the 25th floor (where the Royal Suites are located) and a sip of the gold cappuccino.

12. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

NICE TO SEE

Located just near the Burj Al Arab,  Souk Madinat Jumeirah  is a bustling indoor market that combines traditional Arabian architecture and Middle Eastern charm with modern-day comforts such as air conditioning and meticulously clean facilities.

You will find an array of little shops here selling all kinds of traditional merchandise and souvenirs. There are also bakeries, cafes, and a variety of restaurants.

With small rivers, little bridges, and traditional Arabian architecture, the area feels like a charming little town. You can walk around or take a boat on the picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: You can easily combine a visit to the Souk with that of Burj Al Arab. Boat rides can just be booked and paid at the spot.

13. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame  is another remarkable landmark that you have to see in Dubai. This colossal picture frame is visible from afar so you can’t really miss it. But it’s also possible to visit it inside.

The 150-meter-high observation deck has a glass-bottomed walkway and also offers panoramic 360° views of both old and new Dubai.

The views are quite nice, but not nearly comparable to those from Burj Khalifa, Sky Views, or the View at The Palm. On the other hand, the structure is absolutely unique and we personally found it worth a visit.

Good to know:  Depending on the season and time of day, it can be very busy here. Be sure to  book tickets online  and if you can, try to visit either early in the morning or in the evening.

14. Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden  is a must-see in Dubai for everyone who loves flowers, colors, and all kinds of quirky displays. From cartoon characters like the Smurfs to gigantic swans and from colorful castles to a life-size A380 Airbus plane – everything here is covered in flowers.

The world’s largest natural flower garden, Dubai Miracle Garden features over 150 million flowers. However, don’t expect a big variety of flowers here. There are not many plants that do well in such a hot and dry climate, so the majority of floral displays are created using petunias.

Good to know:  Buy skip-the-line tickets online and plan an hour or two for a visit. It’s quietest in the morning. However, many people combine a visit here to that of the nearby Global Village, and the latter only opens late in the afternoon, so keep that in mind if you want to visit both attractions on the same day.

15. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

NICE TO SEE (MUST DO if visiting with kids)

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is the biggest water park in the world and by far the best one in Dubai. Featuring over 100 water rides and attractions from splash pools to adrenaline-rushing water slides, Aquaventure is great for all ages.

In addition, you can also meet sea lions or swim with dolphins, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. You can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located at the same place.

This is a must-do if you are visiting Dubai with kids (especially teenagers!), but it’s definitely not just for families.

PRO TIP:  Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online, and you can save a bit more if you book at least a week in advance. We recommend  a combo ticket  that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Here you can find more ticket options , including dolphin experiences.

LEARN MORE:  Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

16. AYA Universe

AYA Universe  is one of our family’s favorite places to visit in Dubai. It’s not a must-do, but it’s also a very unique experience that will leave you speechless.

A visit to AYA is like stepping into a series of different fairytale-like worlds, with colorful light displays and captivating high-tech experiences. Some of the rooms reminded us of the beautiful dreamy universe created in Avatar films .

We visited AYA Universe with our teens who are hard to impress, and they loved it. We spent much more time than expected here, wandering through different rooms and simply sitting down and enjoying the moment. It’s such a nice and positive experience. We loved it!

Good to know:  Book your  tickets online and count about 45-60 minutes for a visit. If you want to enjoy it without too many people around, we recommend booking the earliest time slot.

17. Dubai Beaches

Dubai has many beaches and since the temperatures are suitable for swimming the whole year round, you may want to plan to spend some time at the beach. By far the best way to do this is by choosing a hotel that has its own private beach or is located near one of the public beaches.

One of the nicest public beaches in Dubai is Marina Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence. There is a very nice waterfront area here with tons of cafes and restaurants and lots of hotels. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular options here.

We once stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach nearby which has its own private beach, but we walked to this area all the time because it was so nice. We had most of our lunches and dinners at Marina Beach unless we were away sightseeing.

Jumeirah Public Beach is another beautiful Dubai beach that is well worth visiting. In addition to white sands and swimming, here you can also enjoy a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab which makes a great backdrop for your vacation pictures. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a very nice place to stay in this area and all guests enjoy free access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Waterpark.

La Mer Beach further north and closer to the city center is also worth checking out. This area is still developing but already has a nice hip feel. We recently stayed at the Rove La Mer Beach Hotel and really enjoyed it. The location is also great for sightseeing since it’s so close to the downtown area.

More Ideas for Things to Do in Dubai

There is SO MUCH to see and do in Dubai that it’s impossible to cover all those experiences in one article (or visit in one trip). Nevertheless, I want to highlight some additional places and attractions that I think are certainly worth it.

So here are some additional recommendations for fun things to do in Dubai:

• La Perle by Dragone is the #1 show in Dubai. This is a mind-blowing acrobatic show in, on, and above water and in the air. If you enjoy Cirque de Soleil shows, you’ll love this one!
• The Green Planet   is an indoor rainforest with a wide variety of tropical plants, birds, and animals such as sloths, squirrel monkeys, etc. It’s great for families but is enjoyable for all age groups.
• Dubai Butterfly Garden is a great place to see all kinds of colorful butterflies from all over the world. It’s located just next to the earlier-mentioned Miracle Garden so you can easily visit both.
• iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center. If you ever wanted to try skydiving but didn’t dare, this is your chance to give it a try in a safe and controlled environment. Our kids loved this!
• Skydiving . If you rather try the real thing, there are quite a few possibilities to go skydiving in Dubai. The views are amazing!
• Skiing and snow experiences . If you want to experience winter in the desert, you can go skiing in Dubai. But that’s not it! They have other snow experiences as well such as a Giant Ball, Bobsled, Tubing Run, and Bump Car to mention a few.
• Water sports , jet skiing , parasailing , etc.
• Theme parks and water parks. There is no shortage of all kinds of theme parks in Dubai. Some of the best include IMG Worlds of Adventure and LEGOLAND Dubai (this one also has a water park). If you are looking for more water parks, check out Wild Wadi as well – it’s a lot smaller than Aquaventure if you want to avoid the big crowds.
• Day trips to the other Emirates. The most popular are day trips to Abu-Dhabi , but you can also visit Al Ain ‘Garden City’ or go on a snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Day Tour from Dubai

Map of Top Dubai Attractions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main Dubai attractions are located, we created a  map  indicating all the main points of interest and top sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time in Dubai. However, please keep in mind that distances between places are big and traffic is very busy. Even with the skip-the-line tickets, you’ll often need several hours for the main attractions and can only visit a few of them per day. So plan your time well!

In addition, remember that Dubai can get scorching hot, and not just during the summer months. So dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.

TIP:  For more information and helpful tips, please also see our guide with top travel tips and things we wish we had known before visiting Dubai via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning a first trip!

READ ALSO: Dubai Travel Tips

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Dubai. I hope it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan an unforgettable trip.

If you are still wondering whether Dubai is worth a trip… Yes, it is! Even though it feels quite artificial and polished, it’s also a very unique destination that will impress even the biggest skeptics. It’s well worth seeing (and experiencing), at least once!

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• What to Wear in Dubai
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Public Transport in Dubai
• What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• 1-2 Days in Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days
• Fun read: Interesting Facts About Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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THE 10 BEST Dubai Shopping Malls

Shopping malls in dubai.

• Gift & Specialty Shops
• Shopping Tours
• Shopping Malls
• Art Galleries
• Fashion Shows & Tours
• Department Stores
• Antique Stores
• Factory Outlets
• Flea & Street Markets
• Farmers Markets
• Airport Shops
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Al Quoz Industrial Area
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Dubai Mall

2. Mall of the Emirates

3. Global Village

4. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

5. Ibn Battuta Mall

6. City Walk

7. Dubai Festival City Mall

8. Dubai Marina Mall

9. City Centre Mirdif

10. Gold And Diamond Park

11. Mercato Shopping Mall

13. Deira City Center Shopping Mall

14. Karama Market

15. Al Ghurair Centre

16. Waterfront Market

17. Dubai Outlet Mall

18. Nakheel Mall

19. Dragon Mart

20. The Outlet Village

21. Boxpark

22. The Pointe

23. Burjuman Centre

24. Al Barsha Mall

25. Dubai Hills Mall

26. Etihad Mall

27. Galleria Mall

28. City Centre Me’aisem

29. Trampo Extreme The Dubai Mall

30. Abraj Shopping Centre

What travelers are saying.

• The Dubai Mall
• Global Village
• Mall of the Emirates
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Dubai Festival City Mall
• City Centre Mirdif
• Deira City Center Shopping Mall
• Beladamaz Jewellery
• Ibn Battuta Mall

A visitor’s guide to Dubai Mall, 15 things you must do

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Dubai Neighbourhood Guides Dubai Mall

The Emirati city of UAE, Dubai is popular for its opulent experience. The city is all about ultramodern architecture, with the best hotels in the world, and magnificent malls. With hundreds of places to visit and many things to do, not visiting the Dubai Mall while in the city would be a wasted trip. There are so many things to do in Dubai Mall, including those where you wouldn’t have to shell out a dirham!

Dubai Mall is the second largest mall in the world with more than 1200 shops spread over 4 floors. The mall is visited by more than 54 million visitors each year! The best part is that this mall is not just a place to shop and enjoy excellent food. There are attractions that you can visit such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, VR Park, Hysteria, Rainforest Cafe, Creek Tower Replica, KidZania, etc.

About the size of 200 soccer pitches, the Dubai Mall is an architectural marvel with everything under its roof. From an aquarium as high as 11 meters to the Olympic size Ice rink perfect for international events.

Interestingly, the Dubai Mall is situated right next to the Burj Khalifa, located right on Financial Center Street. The mega mall is a part of the Dubai $20 billion Downtown Dubai complex. Surrounding the Dubai Mall is some of the world-renowned premium luxury hotels including The Address Dubai. Visitors get to explore and shop from Fashion avenue - the lifestyle precinct which has every high-end brand in the world. Besides that, there are plenty of things that you can do at the Dubai Mall for free such as the Dubai Dino Exhibit with a view of the monumental exhibit of 155 million years old dinosaur skeletons at the Souk, a view of Dubai Burj Khalifa, the Fountain lake, the largest Aquarium in the world, VR park entrance, the Breathtaking site Human Waterfalls, and more.

Why should you visit Dubai Mall?

• If you are with your family or friends, or on a bachelor party tour or honeymoon, Dubai Mall is the ultimate entertainment spot for you. It has something for all age groups.
• Shop to your heart’s content from brands like Gucci, Bloomingdale’s, Ralph Lauren, Jo Malone London, etc., among the 1200+ retail stores.
• Its prime location ensures that if you are short on time you can easily visit major highlights of Dubai including Burj Khalifa. Spend the day shopping and simply exploring the extravagance of Dubai Mall, and move on to the evening view of the magnificent Dubai Fountain. If there is something happening in the world worth knowing about, you will catch the highlights at the Burj Khalifa.
• The food scene at the Dubai Mall is the most extensive experience you will have in your lifetime. There are 200+ food outlets here with American, European, Indian, Mediterranean, Asian, Middle Eastern, and other cuisines.
• If you have your kids with you, then they’re in for a delightful treat! Places like KidZania, Ice Rink, Trampo Extreme, Carousel Kids play, Ekart Zabeel, Dino Display, VR park and more are going to present you with the challenge of steering your kids away!

Top 15 things to do inside the Dubai Mall

1 burj khalifa- at the top.

Offering a 360-degree view of Dubai, Burj Khalifa is the world’s longest skyscraper. The magnificent architectural marvel has 163 floors. The 124th floors combined together are the highest outdoor observatory. The experience of looking down at the majestic city of Dubai from the 124th and 125th floors is mindblowing. Enjoying immersive virtual realities, and clicking pictures against greenscreens to later edit them as per your choice are just a few of the activities that you can participate in here. The view you get from one of the many telescopes available here is the highlight. The way to get into Burj Khalifa- At the Top is through the ground floor of the Dubai Mall. It takes you across the entire floor up to the entrance.

2 Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Home to marine animals of more than 14 species, including the most number of tiger sharks in the world, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is genuinely spellbinding. The 11-meter-tall aquarium holds 33000 liters of water and is the largest hanging aquarium in the world. There is a 48 meters long tunnel that you can walk through while looking at the base of the aquarium, filled with underwater marine life. There is a lot of scope for great photography here. On the second level, above the Aquarium, there is the Underwater Zoo which is a thrilling part of this attraction. experience. Experience the Rainforest, Living Ocean, and Rocky Shore here all at once. Being a major highlight of Dubai Mall, this place can get pretty crowded, so it’s best to visit the Aquarium early in the morning or late evening. Additionally, 5-6 pm is the busiest hour here at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

3 Dubai Fountain

The Dubai fountain is the world’s most popular site which attracts large-scale tourists every day. The experience is extra special when visited during the evening because of the 6600 lights and 50 colored projectors building effects that become more apparent at that time. Nevertheless, you can catch the 5-minute show during the afternoon at 1 and then 1:30 pm every day. In the evening, the frequency increases as a 5-minute show happens every 30 minutes until 12 am. The shows are a combination of music including Arabic and contemporary, with lights and colors that convey peculiar messages.

4 Infinity Des Lumieres

Visit the immersive dynamic art museum which is the first of its kind in the UAE. The gallery contains digital copies of extraordinary artists including Van Gogh, Dreamed Japan, and Verse. The experience is so rich and unique that you will be taken to a different world. Look at the world-famous arts in a new light. Explore their details as you walk through them. The exhibits currently on display at the Infinity Des Lumieres are: The Imagination Architect, Gaudi, The Abstraction Odyssey, Kandinsky, The Music Painter, Klee, Feel the Infinite, Cosmos, Dubai Data.

Heaven for thrill seekers, VR Park is the world’s largest indoor virtual reality zone. Now known as the Play DXB, this is one of the best experiences for techies out there. Any amount of time spent here is insufficient. Bringing together the old-school arcade games, trampolines, inflatable playgrounds, and ultramodern high-end VR games under one roof there is something for both kids and adults alike. Indulge in multiplayer activities with your family or friends or treat yourself to single-player games. The adventure games with mind-boggling virtual reality concepts can be played using Oculus gaming headsets. Most activities of this experience are all accessible except for a few which have age and height restrictions based on the intensity.

6 Ice Skating Rink

Escape the sweltering hot weather of Dubai at the Olympics-sized Ice Skating Rink at Dubai Mall. This is the world’s largest indoor snow park which can host international-level competitions. This offers a wide range of fun-filled thrilling activities including tobogganing, plunging down a twin track bobsled, penguin shows, a human hamster ball slide, skiing, and a large number of rides that can be thrilling or romantic based on who you are with. The place also offers skating lessons for kids. An experience best enjoyed with family and kids or friends can be customized to your comfort instantly. In fact, you don’t have to be dressed for it, as the entry tickets include the apt attire simplifying things further. Some of the activities are not recommended for people with pre-existing health issues or pregnancy. Taking proper precautions and wearing protective headgear is highly recommended at all times.

7 KidZania Dubai

The ultimate edutainment experience for your child between the ages of 4 to 16 awaits you at KidZania . A highly recommended Dubai Mall activity for parents and kids who want to try role-playing simulations as they venture into different career opportunities together. Teach your child or motivate and inspire them by allowing them to take the seat of an adult professional and do their job. Let them become a surgeon or a train driver for a day. The University is a section that gives the children a chance to graduate with their favorite degree, then take on various roles at the Al Alan Tv studio, Radio Station, or Metropolitan Stage Theater including stage manager, cameraman, hosts, etc. Discover the world of Food and Beverages in various degrees of professional cooking from a factory to McDonald’s kitchen. Or allow the young minds to gain interest in the field of Science at the Microsafe Antimicrobial Lab by working alongside real scientists.

8 Ekart Zabeel

Test your skills against the latest super-speed electric go-kart engines by Emaarat, the indoor Go-karting courses at the Dubai Mall. The best thing about this thrilling adventure is that you do not need any prior experience. It is easy and challenging enough at the same time for people to enjoy it irrespective of their skill level. This adventure is meant for you if you are traveling with your friends or family. Challenge them for a race and simply have the best time. The three laps are timed for clear competitive events that can be enjoyed by groups of people including corporate events. The course is extremely challenging yet safe, You get the helmets and jumpsuits to put on as a strict safety precaution. This karting zone is designed to maintain world-class standards and safety, hence it is extremely sturdy to tackle the speed and force of the ultra-modern go-karts zooming away.

9 Address Sky View

The 5-star luxury hotel close to Burj Khalifa is an excellent way to make your tour prince-like. If you visit Dubai, especially with shopping in your mind, Address Sky View is the perfect place to stay. It is situated in Downtown Dubai close to the Dubai Mall and has a bus and metro station nearby. The hotel is also close to the airport. The 5-star luxury hotel offers a poolside bar, a terrace to get a panoramic view of Dubai, a sauna and steam room, a Spa and massage services. The luxurious hotel has some excellent nearby places to visit as an option including Emaar Square, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, and Dubai Fountain, all the highlights at a maximum of 10 minutes distance from the Dubai mall.

10 Dubai Dino

Check out this spectacular display of 150 million years old skeletons of the Diplodocus Longus Dinosaur. It is 24 meters long and 4 meters high in structure with magnificent grace. The Diplodocus Longus Dinosaur has an elongated neck and tail which makes this display a breathtaking site.

11 The Human Waterfall

The majestic site of the cascading waterfall and the striking image of human forms hanging is a site that no one can overlook. It is the drama of the Human Waterfall that enunciates the level of architecture and artistry which defines the futuristic city of Dubai at one glance. The surreal beauty of the diving human forms is so realistic and out of this world at the same time. The fun fact about these diving human forms is that it has been crafted using fiberglass. With the effect of water streaming down, the human structures frozen mid-dive come alive under the beautiful skylight illuminating the site. This is a replica of an oasis in the desert and succeeds in creating a serene vibe of one. The palm trees surrounding the attraction further make the picture real.

12 Emirates A380 experience

How many times do you get to pilot a plane? Have you ever wondered what the pilot’s job entails? Here at the Emirates A380 experience, grab the chance to look at the city of Dubai from the pilot’s perspective. The stimulator brings you the experience to pilot the world's biggest passenger plane with realistic controls and situations. Simply choose a location among thousands of airports across the globe and choose a perfect path for a safe journey ahead! Compete against your family and friends or simply absorb the unique feeling as you go. You get to choose the flight type, weather, and other challenges. Watch your flight fly above the world’s beautiful gems including the Eiffel tower. You can choose the timing for the experience between the three options which is 15, 30, or 60 minutes.

13 Hysteria

A haunted house experience for really strong-hearted and fearless people that is one of its kind. Walk through the stuff out of the scariest of nightmares and horror movies all placed in one place. Hysteria is defined as the extreme fear experience. Be ready to walk through the doors of a haunted mansion with dim lights full of scary elements that might freeze you with fear. Brave your way through the petrifying and gruesome sites displayed across 15 rooms. If you are a thrill seeker and happy to scream at the top of your lungs and enjoy a shot of adrenaline rush in your blood, do not miss out on Hysteria.

14 Reel Cinemas

Experience Cinema with ultimate luxury at the Dubai mall with Reel Cinemas. Choose your movie and watch it exactly the way you like it. Reel Cinemas promise the experience to be most comfortable and convenient for their guests no matter what. As you watch movies dine in with 5-star delicacies served to you by a personal butler on call. Sit back or lie down with pillows and warm blankets on ultra-luxurious reclining leather seats to enjoy your movie. The seat offers three levels of reclining to balance optimal comfort and angle. The A la Carte menu style option serves you all that you can desire from the movie trend food to gourmet lunch or dinner from major brands.

15 Shopping

Enjoy the finest shopping experience in Dubai: Shopping at the Dubai Mall. In this ultimate shopping experience, you can find pretty much everything. Fashion, footwear, perfumes, furnishings, electronics, etc. The mall contains some exclusive options as well, which cannot be found anywhere else in the city. These include Bloomingdale's, Galeries Lafayette, Missguided, Moncler, Candylicious, etc. There are 1200+ outlets to explore which can easily overwhelm you. Have a clear idea in your mind as to what you want and then select the store you want to hit in order to have your personal best experience at the Dubai Mall.

Plan your visit

Dubai mall opening hours.

Dubai Mall is open on all days of the week. Here’s what you should know about hours:

1. Dubai Mall Entrance: - Saturday- Monday: 10:00 am to 12:00 am - Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm 2. Food and Beverages: - Saturday- Monday: 10:00 am to 01:00 am - Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 am to 12:00 am - On weekends, by 9 am, you can find a few cafes and restaurants open for breakfast. - Waterfront Promenade Restaurants are open on all days between 10:00 am to 01:00 am. 3. Metro Link Bridge Outlets: - All days, 10:00 am to 12:00 am

The best time to visit Dubai Mall

• If you enjoy crowds and a happening environment, visit the Dubai mall during the evening hours during the weekdays.
• For a quiet experience, visit in the morning at 10 am or so when a very little crowd can be observed.
• For shopping purposes visit in the month of January during the Dubai Shopping Festival or mid-July for the 45 days long Dubai Summer Surprises to enjoy insane discounts.
• If you prefer a cooler season to enjoy your visit choose either the start of the summer period that is May, which is beautifully warm at 23-36 degrees Celsius.
• Months between November to April are super busy due to the winter season making it a bit crowded but still a great time to visit.
• The period between June to August is not very convenient due to the sweltering heat but the crowd is really on the low side.

How to reach Dubai Mall

By Metro The nearest Dubai Metro station to the mall is the Burj Khalifa/ The Dubai Mall station. It is within a walking distance of the mall entrance. In fact, the walk is an experience in itself as you get to cross the famous Metro Link Bridge which is a complete air-conditioned glass tunnel between the metro station and the mall.

By Bus Choose one of the two buses available 16 minutes apart with service routes 27 from the Deira Gold Souk and 29 from the Ghubaiba bus station. Both the buses drop off at the Lower Ground floor of the Dubai Mall every day.

By Car If you are driving to the Dubai Mall, consider this route from the center of Dubai, then start by taking the first interchange and move along the Financial Center Road/ Doha Street. On the right side, you will see the approach road to the mall. Considering that you are coming from Abu Dhabi, exit the Financial Center Road from the first interchange.

By Taxi The most comfortable way to reach the Dubai Mall, is via taxi. The available options include Careem and Uber. Simply download the app of your choice and enter the Dubai Mall as the drop-off location.

Best Restaurants inside Dubai Mall

There are 200+ eateries ranging from casual to high-end available in the Dubai Mall. Here is a combination of the top must-visit places to try:

Experience the French way of life at this prestigious brand which has been called the little Paris in Dubai for its authentic cuisines and culture. The Angelina scales the simple tearoom experience, offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. It caters to vegan, halal, gluten-free, vegetarian, and other preferences. Angelica is the best spot To sample French pastries and other baked goods with coffee and hot chocolate. Level: Ground Floor

Eat, shop, and learn at this Italian restaurant. With an international presence across the globe, the chain offers high-quality Italian food at reasonable prices. The restaurant intends to create a place that is natural, simple, and informal for people to eat in peace. Eataly has acquired 8+ awards and recognitions in different countries. Level: Lower Ground Floor

“A temple to gastronomy and gourmandize”, the restaurant is the ultimate gourmet luxury spot for you. Here you can find cuisines from all over the world under one roof by award-winning chefs. The casual sitting environment is all about food and fun with comfort. The combinations include Izu Baker and Brasserie, Wok Tales, Sushi Bar, Tandoonari, etc. The all-day food hall has everything in terms of services along with the unique blend of flavors and textures for you brought by culinary masters. Level: Second Floor

The restaurant has 250+ items on their menu, and they've been delivering freshness since 1972. Their menu is so extensive that you might end up being confused about what to eat from the array of options including Appetizers, Salads, Pastas, Steaks, Desserts, and of course Cheesecakes. Level: Ground Floor

Things to do around Dubai Mall

2 minutes away The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Standing at a staggering 829.8 metres (2,722 feet), it's hard to miss this iconic structure when visiting Dubai. If you're looking to get an incredible bird's eye view of the city, then a trip to the top of the Burj Khalifa is a must. There are two observation decks open to the public – At the Top, Burj Khalifa and At the Top SKY.

4 minutes away Address Sky View Dubai is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, and it offers stunning views of the skyline. The hotel is located in the heart of Dubai, and it is close to many attractions. If you are looking for a 5-star hotel experience, then Address Sky View Dubai is the perfect place for you.

5 minutes away Visiting the Museum of the Future is an experience like no other. With its cutting-edge exhibitions and interactive displays, the museum offers a glimpse into the future of technology, design, and innovation. Whether you're interested in gadgets and gizmos or the latest advances in science and medicine, this museum has something for everyone.

7 minutes away If you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, then you need to add the Dubai Garden Glow to your travel list! This one-of-a-kind destination is illuminated with over 50 million energy-saving bulbs and features intricate displays that are spread out across five different zones namely, Glow Park, Dinosaur Park, Ice Park, Magic Park and Art Park

7 minutes away This place is teeming with life and is truly a nature lover's paradise. From the moment you step foot into this magical place, you will be mesmerized by its beauty. Dubai Green planet is home to some of the most exotic plants and animals on the planet. You will be able to see everything from rare birds, to giant snakes, to huge elephants!

10 minutes away The Dubai Frame is one of the most unique and Instagram-worthy attractions in the city. Located in Zabeel Park, the 150-meter tall structure offers stunning views of both old and new Dubai. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the frame, where they will be treated to panoramic views of the cityscape. On a clear day, you can even see the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah from here!

11 minutes away When in Dubai, one mustn't miss the opportunity to experience Ski Dubai! It is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and offers an amazing experience for all. The slopes are suitable for beginners as well as advanced skiers and there is also a snow park for those who want to try their hand at other winter activities.

Dubai Mall - Accessibility, Facilities and Services

• With the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi stay connected with the Dubai Mall app to navigate and explore the mall conveniently.
• If you shop worth AED 500 at least, your bags will can be delivered to your home or hotel safely, within the same day, or by the next day across the UAE.
• There are Interactive digital maps located Throughout the mall, from where you can look for a specific place or simply check out what’s on all four levels of the mall including amenities like washrooms.
• Book a buggy service at the Guest service desk and get driven to all the stores of your choice without getting too tired to shop.
• Prayer rooms are available on all floors for men and women with distinct markings for convenient recognition.
• Loan power banks from the Guest Services desk for free in exchange for a refundable security deposit and a valid ID.
• At the Cinema Car Park, P3 you can get your Car Windows Tinted as you spend your day shopping and enjoying inside the mall.
• The mall is wheelchair accessible and guests can also loan them conveniently at the mall from the Guest Services desk, free of cost.
• Hire exceptional babysitters and childcare professionals from Malaak at the Dubai mall. The cost for the service is 100 AED per hour.
• Things you should know! - Pets are not allowed in the mall. - No smoking on the premises. - No dangerous activities like rollerblading are allowed inside. - No kissing or overtly physical display of affection is allowed.

Insider tips to know before visiting Dubai Mall

• The best season to expect sales is during the month of January during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
• Your dress should cover your shoulders and knees irrespective of gender during the visit to avoid any hassles later on.
• Wear shoes that are comfortable as you are visiting the world’s biggest mall, there is a lot of walking to do.
• You are allowed to take pictures almost everywhere in the mall. Only a few places do not allow photo ops so seek permission before you click pictures just to be sure.
• - Avoid visiting on a Friday, when the place is absolutely packed.
• - Avoid visiting during the month of Ramadan as one cannot be seen eating or drinking in public due to the tradition of fasting for an entire month. In Fact, you will find most of the eateries closed during the day.
• Be respectful towards the local culture and religion during the time of your visit.

How many stores are there in the Dubai Mall?

There are over 1,200 stores in the Dubai Mall! You could spend days exploring them all.

How big is the Dubai Mall?

The mall covers an area of over 12 million square feet! It's one of the largest malls in the world.

What is there to do in the Dubai Mall?

In addition to shopping, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the mall. There is an aquarium, a cinema complex, and a theme park, among other attractions.

Where is the Dubai Mall located?

The Dubai Mall is located in the heart of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.

Can I buy tickets to the attractions in the Dubai Mall online?

Yes, you can purchase tickets to the attractions in the mall online.

Dev Ramkumar

Born and brought up in Mumbai, I am a content creator by day and a musician by night. My love for travel peaked when my music career took me to various parts of the country. Now, my dream is to explore the world, attend all kinds of music festivals, and experience the culture of each city I visit. My journey has just begun and I've already covered parts of France, Spain, and Thailand.

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Things to do

31 Amazing things to do in Dubai for the ultimate holiday

Sun, August 14, 2022

Tick off the city's top things to do and places to visit.

Burj Khalifa

Standing 828m high, the  Burj Khalifa  is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai's must-visit attractions. The majestic building is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity day and night. Just looking up in awe at the sheer scale of this magnificent structure is memorable in itself, but it's definitely worth venturing inside too. You can capture perfect views of the city from the  observation  deck at levels 124 and 125, or have a bite to eat in the  At The Top Sky Lounge . For special occasions, treat yourself to a sunset session at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa ,  the highest lounge in the world at 585m. 

Opening hours - At The Top:  8am - 12am, daily

Price - At The Top: from AED169

• 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of Burj Khalifa  is one of the world's largest choreographed fountain displays, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants at Dubai Mall  or Souk Al Bahar , both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.

Opening hours:  6pm - 11pm, daily

Price:  free

• Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to its vast array of high-end hotels – Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray  and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm . Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system.

• Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Creek

• Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra  boat ride  to the souks on the other side of the creek. 

• Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai

The Dubai desert

Less than a 20 minute-drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities  such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can book a safari with leading tour companies  Platinum Heritage  and Arabian Adventures . From the unforgettable offroad drive to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa .

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Rd - Dubai

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches. Even an entire day spent here is not enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue  is home to a range of other fun attractions.

Opening hours: 10am - 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)

• Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai

Skydive Dubai

If there's one thing every adventure-seeker must sign up for, it's a skydiving experience. Skydive Dubai provides tandem skydive opportunities, supervised by trained professionals. You'll have to book well in advance to secure a spot, but it's worth it as you dive through the clouds from 13,000 feet and take in views  of the landmark Palm Jumeirah or rolling dunes of the desert. And you can keep reliving the epic experience thanks to perfectly-captured videos by the Skydive Dubai team. It's one for every braveheart's bucket list.

• Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', the Madinat Jumeirah complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. Housing luxury hotels and private enclaves designed to reflect traditional Arabian architecture, it's a great spot to indulge in a therapeutic day at the world-class Talise Spa , splurge on local trinkets and boutique brands at the Madinat Souk , or immerse yourself in the work of famous artists at the high-tech Theatre of Digital Art . And, with over 40 restaurants and lounges featuring cuisines from around the world, it's also an ideal place to refuel.

Opening hours & price: vary, depending on venues within the complex

• 6 King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Dubai Frame

Since opening in 2018,  Dubai Frame  has become a cultural landmark that connects the Dubai's past with its present and represents a remarkable engineering feat.  Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park , this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm, daily

Price:  from AED20

• Zabeel Park, Za'abeel 1 - Dubai

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills , although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab  in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.

Opening hours: 24 hours, daily, although sporting and dining venues at the beach have varying timings.

• Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road

Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai  through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City  development, home to the thrilling  La Perle by Dragone  show, five-star hotels and an array of trendy restaurants.

• Dubai Water Canal - Al Safa - Dubai

If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and swim in the sea all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema and plenty of trendy boutiques , The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating watersports on offer or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The Beach is also connected to the trendy new  Bluewaters Island  district by a pedestrian bridge.

Opening hours - F&B outlets: 10am - midnight, Saturday - Wednesday, extended to 1am on Thursday and Friday 

• Opposite JBR, Dubai Marina - Dubai

City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options – perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists . Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to The Green Planet  to see real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby  Coca-Cola Arena , the Middle East's largest indoor arena.

• Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Wasl - Dubai

Dubai Miracle Garden

A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. The 72,000sqm park has an impressive line-up of famous buildings and structures completely transformed into colourful flower displays. You can immerse yourself among more than 50 million blooming flowers throughout the different exhibits. The nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden  is also worth a trip. Here, children can explore over 15,000 species of butterflies whilst learning more about them in a fun setting.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm on weekdays, extended until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday

Price:  from AED60

• Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Dubai

Dubai Opera

Located in the Downtown district, Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of  The Dubai Fountain  and located next to Burj Khalifa , the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit  Dubai Calendar .

Opening hours:  10am - 9pm, daily (show timings may vary)

Price:  from AED145

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Near Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai - Dubai
• Dubai Marina

A 130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta , a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences . Recent additions to the area include Hatta Dome Park ,  a glamping experience that takes advantage of  Hatta’s mountainscape  views and back-to-nature vibes, plus  a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, mountain biking and more at Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.

• Hatta Wadi Hub, located off the Dubai-Hatta road

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Unlimited fun, excitement, speed and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park  is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides , IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man and The Avengers.

Opening hours : noon - 10pm, Sunday to Thursday, extended to 11pm on the weekend

Price - general admission:  AED345

• E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia Dubai Land, Dubai

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to the city's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes  Motiongate , Real Madrid World  and Legoland and Legoland Water Park . Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard , home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, or the region's first and only Legoland Hotel, both located within the theme park destination.

Opening hours:  10am - 11pm, daily

Price - One Park Pass:  from AED295

• Sheikh Zayed Rd, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai

The View at The Palm

Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of  Palm Jumeirah  alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline  in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition that showcases the development of the island, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop. 

Opening hours : 9am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED100

• Level 52, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Deep Dive Dubai

The latest addition to the city's thriving sports and adventure activities scene, Deep Dive Dubai is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts . The recreational centre's 60.02m-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving. Aside from its remarkable depth, the pool features other unrivalled underwater additions, such as a 'sunken city', alongside year-round freediving and  scuba diving  courses and guided experiences.

Opening hours : 9am - 6pm, except on Friday (closed)

Price:  from AED400

• Deep Dive Dubai, NAS Sports Complex, Dubai

Sky Views Dubai

Thrill-seekers can try a trio of epic experiences at Sky Views Dubai, perched 219.5m above ground on top of the Address Sky View hotel. The Glass Slide allows visitors to zoom down a transparent tunnel on the 53rd floor, while the Observatory features a glass elevator and bridge to further test your head for heights. Meanwhile, true risk-takers will look forward to the Edge Walk – as they dangle off the building's side while strapped to a safety harness. All three experiences allow participants to enjoy phenomenal views  of Downtown Dubai's iconic landmarks, including the nearby Burj Khalifa .

Opening hours : 10am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED70

• Address Sky View hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai

Burj Al Arab

For the first time since its launch, Dubai's famed Burj Al Arab  has opened its doors to visitors, granting access to the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors on an immersive 90-minute tour. Not only will you get to explore the landmark’s gilded suites, and enjoy its incomparable views of the city , but you'll also uncover the hotel’s history and wealth of untold stories. You can also delve deeper and make the most of your experience with tour customisations.

Tour timings: 9:30am - 8:30pm, daily Price: from AED249

• Jumeirah Road - Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Museum of the Future

One of Dubai's most famous architectural landmarks , the Museum of the Future  takes pride of place along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities.

Opening hours : 10am - 9:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED149

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre - Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Built along the historic Dubai Creek and designed in the shape of a traditional Islamic lectern, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the latest cultural hotspot to open its doors in the city. A landmark  unique to Dubai, the library is the largest in the region and representative of its collective cultural wisdom, educational milestones and continued forays in research and academia. Aside from enjoying the remarkable architecture and exploring the library's nine levels, visitors can discover a fully digitalised laboratory and several specialised collections inside.

Opening hours : 9am - 9pm, daily, except on Friday (opens 2pm) and Sunday (closed)

Price:  free

• Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf

Serious foodies can’t possibly visit Dubai without making a stop at the  MENA 50 Best Restaurants  top spot, 3Fils. Its chic yet casual setting, coupled with calming harbourside views and a no-reservations policy, makes this one of Dubai's most unassumingly spectacular dining hotspots . Serving modern Asian cuisine, you’ll find tantalising dishes such as salmon carpaccio, wagyu sushi and fire-grilled octopus on the menu.  Opening hours : noon - 11:30pm, daily

• Shop 2, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah - Dubai

Aura Skypool

Unwind in the world's highest 360-degree swimming pool as you gaze out at landmarks including Burj Al Arab  and Ain Dubai. Situated 200m above ground, AURA Skypool is the perfect place for an unforgettable swim. Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah venue can also relax in its chic lounge area and sample a menu filled with delicious sharing plates and Pan-Asian flavours . Standouts to try include the glazed miso salmon, chilli honey cauliflower popcorn and matcha tiramisu. 

Opening hours : 10am - 7pm, daily

Price:  from AED150

• The Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah

Prepare to be amazed by Dubai's first permanent show, which combines acting, acrobatics, aquatic feats and aerial stunts across an exhilarating 90 minutes. All the action takes place inside a tailor-made, 1,300-seat theatre in the heart of Al Habtoor City , featuring a high-tech ‘aqua-stage’ that can fill with 2.7 million litres of water. Watch from the edge of your seat as performers dive, fly and defy gravity, as they tell a story which pays homage to the UAE's pearl diving history .

Show timings : 6:30pm - 8pm & 9pm - 11:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED209

• Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay - Dubai

Alserkal Avenue

Once an industrial area in the centre of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue now comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafes and more. The neighbourhood has nurtured a culture of creativity and is now one of the region’s leading art hubs. Since its humble beginnings as a standalone gallery in 2008, word caught on and similar concepts soon moved into the area. Popular spots include arthouse theatre  Cinema Akil , the hipster-inspired  Nightjar Coffee  and Leila Heller Gallery.

• 17th Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai

Expo City Dubai

Building on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai , which welcomed 192 nations and more than 24 million visitors, is the future-centric Expo City Dubai. Explore popular country pavilions including the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, award-winning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion and reworked spaces for Luxembourg, Pakistan and Australia. Alif – the Mobility Pavilion and Terra – the Sustainability Pavilion have been transformed into interactive educational experiences, while the Opportunity Pavilion is now the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum.  Al Wasl Plaza , the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the Garden in the Sky observation tower and the Surreal water feature also remain at Expo City Dubai, which has its own metro station. 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily, though attraction timings vary Price: free to enter, though attraction tickets vary

• Expo Road Dubai South, Jebel Ali

Frequently asked questions

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Everything you need to visit Dubai in 2024

Dubai Mall: a must-see attraction in 2024!

12/04/2022 by Thibaut Leave a Comment

In this article, I present the Dubai Mall, a gigantic shopping mall not to be missed!

Here you'll find

• A presentation of the Dubai Mall
• Activities, stores and services
• Easy access to this shopping center
• Things to do in the area
• And much more!

If you're looking for information about the Dubai Mall, you'll love this article.

Follow the guide!

Dubai Mall: article summary

• Dubai Mall: discover the world's largest shopping mall!

What activities are available at the Dubai Mall?

How do i get to the dubai mall, dubai mall: rates, reservations, opening hours, practical information, what to do around the dubai mall, dubai mall: discover the world's largest shopping mall  .

Visit shopping enthusiasts will be delighted visit Dubai because the city offers shopping centers gigantic, with countless luxury boutiques, activities of all kinds and excellent restaurants.

The most famous of these is undoubtedly the Dubai Mall located in the heart of the city's central district. It's just a stone's throw from the iconic Burj Khalifa and the luminous Dubai fountain and is therefore an essential stop on your trip.

The Dubai Mall opened its doors on November 4, 2008 and is billed as the world's largest shopping mall . In 2019, it has even expanded by 15,000 m2 with an extension (the Dubai Mall Zabeel for a total surface area of 1.1 million m2!

It's colossal and you can easily spend several hours in this Mall, for shopping, but not only, as I'll detail below.

What's inside the Dubai Mall?

The Dubai Mall is much more than just a shopping mall, as it contains :

• More 1,200 brand-name boutiques such as Cartier, Bulgari, Louboutin and Louis Vuitton.
• A dedicated island in fashion with over 450 ready-to-wear stores, the first Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's stores in the Middle East
• A souk for the gold trade
• A superb aquarium to visit with your family
• A special zone child/teen with theme parks, rides, a section dedicated to Virtual Reality and a cinema.
• A skating rink to escape the heat
• From hotel rooms luxury
• Numerous restaurants
• And lots of surprises!

Whether you're a keen shopper or not, you're sure to find plenty to keep you entertained at the Dubai Mall! Here are a few activities that will appeal to young and old alike.

Whether you're visiting Dubai as a couple, with friends or with children, you can have a great time at the Dubai Mall. Here are the main attractions you won't want to miss!

Children's activities

• Kidzania a theme park where youngsters can discover adult life, in a world reproduced on their own scale!
• A carousel for a few rides on an old-fashioned merry-go-round
• One section Soft Play to let off steam in ball pools
• The Ice Rink to take your first steps on the ice

Activities for adults

• The haunted house Hysteria for thrill-seekers only
• Dubai Opera House to attend a classical show (such as La Traviata) or a more modern show (such as the Tribute to Michael Jackson in 2022).

Attractions for the whole family

• Visit superb Aquarium and underwater zoo with its impressive shark tunnel
• The VR Zone to enjoy immersive Virtual Reality experiences, with your headset on!
• Performance Infinity des Lumières to immerse yourself in digital art and discover striking creations
• The Burj Khalifa observation platform located at 124 e and 125 e floors, which you can easily enjoy with Dubai Pass

The Dubai Mall is located in the city's central district (Downtown Dubai), at the following address: Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road - Dubai

It is very easy to reach, by taking :

• The metro red line, Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall stop
• Visit bus routes 27 and 29 get off at the Dubai Mall stop
• By cab or car, with a parking lot offering over 14,000 spaces

Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit to the Dubai Mall.

Opening hours

The shopping center is open every day from 10am to midnight.

Some cafés open their doors as early as 9am, for those who want to have breakfast before exploring this vast space.

On-site amenities

The Dubai Mall offers many services to simplify your life:

• From Free wifi
• A delivery system for your purchases at your hotel/accommodation
• A service buggy with driver that takes you to the stores of your choice
• A prayer room
• A setpoint to drop off your luggage
• A babysitting service professional

Useful info

Pets are not allowed in the Dubai Mall. Please wear decent clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

The neighborhood Downtown Dubai is a must-see in Dubai, where many of the city's most famous major attractions of the city. And as well as visiting the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Fountain, you can take advantage of your visit to the Dubai Mall to :

• Take a stroll through this district that blends modernity with more traditional architecture, offering a perfect condensation of Dubai's history.
• Visit Souk Al Bahar and its hundred or so boutiques, just a 5-minute walk from the shopping center
• Discover the incredible Green Planet Dubai a tropical forest in the middle of the desert!

What to do in Dubai in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?

Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Dubai guide.

It's free and in PDF format.

All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.

EDIT: you can't enter your email?

Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Dubai guide!

About Thibaut

I help travelers to better visit the city of Dubai with up-to-date content written by locals for the best possible experience!

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Dubai Mall Facts

About dubai mall facts.

Dubai is a city that never fails to amaze tourists with its stunning architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and unique attractions. And among the many places that make this city stand out, the Dubai Mall is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone wanting to indulge in luxurious shopping. With over 1,300 stores, 200 food outlets, and world-famous attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, the Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination but an entertainment hub that caters to all ages and interests. From high-end fashion brands to unique souvenirs, several Dubai Mall facts will fascinate you.

Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping center; it's a destination that offers a world of experiences. From shopping to entertainment, dining, and leisure activities, this mall is a one-stop shop for tourists. It is the largest shopping center globally, covering an area of 13 million square feet, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. In addition to over 1,200 retail stores, you can enjoy a variety of leisure and entertainment options, including the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo .

Dubai Mall is an iconic destination on every tourist's must-visit list. The most interesting fact about Dubai Mall is that this shopping paradise is the world's largest shopping mall. Sprawling over 13 million square feet, it is home to over 1,200 stores, including high-end luxury brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. But the mall is not just about shopping; you can enjoy various entertainment options, such as an Olympic-sized ice rink, an aquarium, and an indoor theme park.

Among Dubai Mall's many attractions is Reel Cinemas, one of the largest cinemas in the world. With a seating capacity of over 2800, Reel Cinemas offers a unique movie experience featuring the latest technology and unparalleled comfort. Whether you are a movie buff or just looking for a fun night out, spending time at the Reel Cinemas at Dubai Mall is an experience you won't forget.

One of the most interesting facts about Dubai Mall is that it is home to the World's Largest Indoor Aquarium, the Dubai Aquarium, and Underwater Zoo. Spanning an incredible 10 million liters, it has 33,000 aquatic animals, including 400 sharks and rays. But that's not all - you can also enjoy a range of thrilling activities like cage snorkelling, shark diving, and glass-bottom boat rides, making it an adventure-packed destination for tourists of all ages.

Checkout Now: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Tickets

Candylicious, the world's largest candy store, is just one of the many exciting attractions at Dubai Mall. This sweet paradise is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, as the store boasts an impressive collection of sweets, chocolates, and traditional Arabian delicacies worldwide. You can enjoy interactive displays and innovative candy creations that will make you feel like a kid again. So if you plan a visit to Dubai, include Candylicious in your itinerary and savor some of the world's most delicious treats at Dubai Mall.

One of the most impressive Dubai Mall facts is that 1000 stores offer everything from high-end luxury fashion to affordable fashion and home goods. You could spend an entire day exploring the stores. The mall offers you a wide range of fashion, electronics, jewelry, and entertainment options. Whether you are a fashionista looking for the latest designer collection or a gadget lover seeking the newest tech, you will find it here. 

Dubai Mall is not only one of the largest shopping centres in the world, but it also attracts a staggering 75 million annual visitors, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The mall's annual visitors come from all corners of the world, seeking to experience the ultimate retail therapy in the luxurious surroundings of Dubai Mall. It is a shopper's paradise that offers a unique shopping experience with its vast range of luxury and high-street brands.

Dubai Mall is not just a place for shopping and entertainment, but it also provides a hassle-free parking facility for visitors. The mall boasts a vast parking lot that can accommodate up to 14,000 cars, making it one of the largest parking facilities in the world. The parking lots are equipped with advanced security features to ensure the safety of their vehicles. With such an enormous parking facility, you can easily park your cars and spend hours exploring the mall's various attractions, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience.

Dubai Mall, the iconic shopping center of Dubai, has the largest indoor aquarium in the world, featuring over 33,000 aquatic animals and 140 species. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo span three floors, offering you a mesmerizing experience of the underwater world. The main tank alone holds 10 million liters of water and houses the world's largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks. You can also witness the feeding sessions, cage snorkeling, and dive with the sharks.

One of the most exciting facts about Dubai Mall is that it boasts an Olympic-Size Ice Skating Rink. This impressive feature spans over 22,500 square feet and provides a unique experience for both skaters and visitors. It also has an Olympic-sized ice rink, perfect for families and ice-skating enthusiasts. The ice rink boasts amazing facilities and offers exciting activities like ice hockey, figure skating, and disco nights. So, lace up your skates and glide across the ice while enjoying the breathtaking views of Dubai Mall.

Also Read : Dubai Mall Ice Rink  

Dubai Mall is a shopping haven and a food lover's paradise with over 200 food and beverage outlets. There is something for everyone, from international fast-food chains to fine-dining restaurants. The mall offers a range of cuisines, such as Chinese, Indian, European, Japanese, British, and Middle East. So, whether you are in the mood for a quick bite or a luxurious dining experience, Dubai Mall has got you covered. Don't miss out on the mall's culinary delights during your next visit to Dubai.

One of the most exciting Dubai Mall facts is that it is home to the Guinness World Record for the world's largest acrylic panel. Located in the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, this panel stands 32.88 meters long, 8.3 meters high, and 750mm thick, offering an unforgettable experience of watching marine life up close. You can also watch the diverse marine life swimming in the aquarium, including over 300 sharks and rays.

If you are looking for thrilling rides in Dubai, look no further than the indoor theme park at Dubai Mall. The Dubai Mall indoor theme park is spread over an impressive area of 70,000 square feet and features many exhilarating rides and attractions. With over 20 rides and attractions, such as high-speed roller coasters, and gravity-defying drop towers, the park offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. You can also indulge in virtual reality experiences and interactive games that will leave them amazed.

Suggested Read: Indoor Theme Parks In Dubai

Dubai Mall is not only the largest shopping centre globally, but it also provides convenient access to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. The mall is located at the foot of the tower, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the iconic landmark. You can walk through the mall and reach the tower's entrance just a few steps away. You can easily grab tickets for the observation deck from the mall and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located in the tower.

Checkout Now: Burj Khalifa Tickets

What is the total area of Dubai Mall?

Dubai Mall covers a massive area of 13 million square feet, making it one of the largest shopping malls in the world. The mall has over 1,200 retail outlets, including luxury brands, department stores, and electronics retailers.

What are some of the unique attractions in Dubai Mall?

Apart from shopping and dining, Dubai Mall is home to several unique attractions, such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, the VR Park, and the Dubai Ice Rink. You can also enjoy the stunning water fountain show outside the mall.

Is there a dress code for visiting Dubai Mall?

Yes, there is a dress code for visiting Dubai Mall, as you are expected to dress modestly and avoid clothing that may be deemed offensive or revealing. It is recommended to wear clothing that covers the shoulders, knees, and midriff. Swimwear and beachwear are not allowed inside the mall. You may be denied entry if your attire does not comply with the mall's dress code. So, it is always better to dress conservatively to avoid any inconvenience.

Must Checkout: Dubai Dolphinarium

Can I use foreign currency to make purchases at Dubai Mall?

Yes, you can use foreign currency to make purchases at Dubai Mall. However, it is recommended that you exchange your foreign currency for local money, UAE Dirhams, to avoid any exchange rate fluctuations and transaction fees that may apply. The mall has several exchange offices located throughout the shopping center where you can easily exchange your currency.

Is there a shuttle service to Dubai Mall from other parts of the city?

Yes, Dubai Mall provides a shuttle service to and from various locations in the city, including hotels and popular tourist attractions. The shuttle service is affordable and can be booked in advance through the mall's official website.

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10 Best Places in Dubai That You Must Visit Once

D ubai, a city where modernity meets tradition, is a treasure trove of captivating destinations that leave an indelible mark on every traveler. From iconic architectural wonders like the Burj Khalifa to the enchanting tranquility of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the city offers a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Explore the bustling streets of the historic Al Fahidi district, indulge in retail therapy at the opulent malls, or bask in the luxurious ambiance of Jumeirah Beach. With its blend of futuristic innovation and rich heritage, Dubai invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey, unveiling its diverse facets that you must explore at least once.

Here are the ten of the best must-see places in Dubai:

1. IMG World -When it comes to must-visit places in Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure stands as a thrilling testament to entertainment. Offering an unparalleled fusion of excitement and imagination, IMG Worlds is a colossal indoor theme park that deserves a spot on every traveler’s list. With IMG tickets in hand, dive into a world where beloved characters come to life, heart-pounding rides await, and immersive zones transport you to fantastical realms. This ultimate adventure hub promises memories that linger long after your visit, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking a remarkable and unforgettable Dubai experience.

2. View at the Palm – One destination you absolutely must explore in Dubai is the renowned View at the Palm . This essential addition to your travel plans offers an unparalleled experience. Set your sights on the remarkable Palm Jumeirah from an extraordinary vantage point. With View at the Palm as your chosen destination, you’ll soar to new heights, taking in the city’s iconic skyline and the palm-shaped wonder below. Capture the moment against this breathtaking backdrop and embrace the thrill of comprehending Dubai’s immense scale and ingenuity. Immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring panorama, ensuring that your trip to Dubai becomes an unforgettable memory.

3. Dubai Frame: The Dubai Frame is a magnificent architectural marvel that offers visitors a mesmerizing glimpse into the city’s past, present, and future. This iconic landmark stands tall at 150 meters, with a unique design resembling a giant picture frame. Be sure to book your Dubai Frame tickets in advance for a seamless visit. Visiting Dubai Frame, can make a memorable journey through time and witness the breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai’s bustling cityscape. Step inside the elevator and be transported to the Sky Deck, where you can capture stunning photos and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city’s iconic landmarks. The Dubai Frame is a must-visit attraction, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

4. Dubai Miracle Garden: Enter a world of enchantment at Dubai Miracle Garden, a vivacious oasis bursting with myriad blossoms and mesmerizing creations. Wander along vibrant walkways embellished with floral masterpieces, themed gardens, and captivating edifices. The allure of the garden captivates both young and old, with children entranced by its splendor and adults admiring its meticulous craftsmanship. Opt for a visit during the more temperate months to relish the garden in its peak bloom.

5. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Dive into the captivating realm beneath the ocean’s surface at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Nestled within Dubai Mall, this captivating destination invites families to witness the captivating marine world through the planet’s largest acrylic viewing panel. Whether strolling through the shark-surrounded tunnel or delving into the diverse exhibits, this escapade offers an enriching and awe-evoking journey for all.

6. Aquaventure Waterpark: Escape the heat and make a splash at Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm. This thrilling waterpark offers an array of exhilarating rides, including water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Daredevils can brave the heart-pounding Leap of Faith slide, while younger children can enjoy the Splashers Kids’ Play Area. With its tropical landscapes and thrilling attractions, Aquaventure guarantees a day of endless fun and excitement for the entire family.

7. Dubai Parks and Resorts: Prepare for non-stop entertainment at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a sprawling complex featuring four theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Each park offers its own unique experiences, from thrilling rides based on blockbuster movies to immersive Bollywood-inspired performances and interactive Lego adventures. With a wide range of attractions and entertainment options, Dubai Parks and Resorts ensure an unforgettable day of family fun.

8. Dubai Creek : Step back in time and explore the historical heart of Dubai at Dubai Creek. This picturesque waterfront district offers a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and trading history. Take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride along the creek and witness the bustling activity of the dhows (traditional boats) loading and unloading goods. Visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, where you can learn about the city’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global metropolis. The creek area is also home to vibrant souks (markets) where you can bargain for spices, gold, textiles, and more. Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Dubai’s past at this cultural gem.

9. The Green Planet: Delve into the wonders of nature at The Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest located in City Walk. This lush ecosystem houses over 3,000 species of plants and animals, creating a mesmerizing experience for visitors of all ages. Walk through the forest, marvel at the towering trees, and encounter exotic creatures, including sloths, toucans, and colorful butterflies. The Green Planet offers educational programs and interactive exhibits, making it a perfect destination for learning and appreciation of the natural world. Immerse yourself in this unique environment and foster a love for conservation and biodiversity.

10. Dubai Ice Rink: Experience a winter wonderland in the heart of the desert at Dubai Ice Rink, located in The Dubai Mall. Strap on a pair of skates and glide across the Olympic-sized ice rink, surrounded by dazzling lights and lively music. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, Dubai Ice Rink offers public skating sessions as well as ice hockey and figure skating lessons. Families can enjoy fun-filled activities such as snowfall experiences and ice shows, adding a unique twist to their Dubai adventure. Lace up and embrace the cool excitement of this icy oasis.