The Dubai Mall,Dubai
The Dubai Mall is one of the world's largest shopping and entertainment complexes by total area and a defining landmark of modern Dubai. Opened in 2008 as part of the Downtown Dubai development, it showcases the city's rapid economic growth, ambition, and focus on tourism, retail, and leisure. The mall is intimately linked to other Dubai icons—most notably the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain—forming a major cultural and social hub where residents and visitors gather for shopping, dining, entertainment and events.



Places to visit
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- At The Top, Burj Khalifa entrance and observation decks
- The Dubai Fountain (adjacent outdoor attraction with choreographed shows)
- Dubai Ice Rink (Olympic-sized indoor rink)
- KidZania (interactive edutainment for children)
- The Souk and Fashion Avenue (luxury retail precincts)
- Reel Cinemas and entertainment zone
- Dubai Dino (dinosaur skeleton display)
Unique Aspects
- Over 1,200 retail outlets spanning global brands, flagship stores and local boutiques
- 10-million+ litre aquarium tank with a walk-through tunnel and underwater zoo
- Indoor waterfall (human water sculpture) and large central atrium spaces
- Direct link to Burj Khalifa and nightly Dubai Fountain shows on the adjacent Burj Lake
- Extensive dining options from casual to Michelin-starred restaurants
- Large events and exhibition spaces hosting seasonal festivals and promotions
Things to do
- Shopping across mid-range to ultra-luxury brands and visiting Fashion Avenue
- Watching the Dubai Fountain shows from the mall waterfront or terrace levels
- Visiting the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (tunnel walk, feeding sessions, cage snorkeling or glass-bottom boat experiences—ticketed extras)
- Ice skating or attending public skating sessions and learn-to-skate classes
- Family-friendly activities at KidZania and the indoor entertainment zones
- Catching films at Reel Cinemas and attending seasonal performances and pop-ups
- Dining at a wide variety of international and Emirati restaurants with lake or city views
- Photography and leisure walks around the mall and nearby Downtown Dubai promenades
Best Time to Visit
October to April for the most pleasant external weather; visit on weekdays and early mornings or late evenings to avoid peak crowds (weekends Fri–Sat are busiest). For fountain shows, evenings are best.
Weather Conditions
Dubai is hot and arid. Summers (June–September) are extremely hot and humid; the mall is fully air-conditioned and comfortable year-round. Outdoor attractions (fountain, promenades) are best enjoyed in cooler months.
Entry Fees & Permits
The mall itself has free entry. Individual attractions have separate fees: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (ticketed), At The Top/Burj Khalifa observatory (ticketed), Dubai Ice Rink (session fees), KidZania (ticketed). Typical mall hours are roughly 10:00–00:00 (may extend later for some outlets); hours can change during Ramadan and holidays—check official websites for current times and attraction ticket prices.
Accessibility
Accessible by road, with extensive parking (paid) and valet options. Closest metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line) — from the station take the Metro Link Bridge or a short shuttle/walk to the mall. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is approximately 15–20 km away (30–45 minutes by taxi depending on traffic). The mall is wheelchair-accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms; many attractions provide accessibility information on booking.
Recommended Duration
Half a day for shopping and a couple of key attractions; a full day (or more) to explore multiple attractions, dine, and attend shows without rushing.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Lightweight, breathable clothing for outdoors; modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is respectful in public spaces in Dubai. Comfortable walking shoes. Carry a refillable water bottle and a light layer for air-conditioned interiors if you feel chilly.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try Middle Eastern and Emirati specialties available in food courts and restaurants—shawarma, mezze, Arabic coffee and dates. Popular souvenirs: locally made perfumes and oud, spices, traditional sweets (baklava, luqaimat), gold and jewelry from specialized stores, and branded retail gifts from flagship stores.