On my first day in Dubai, I decided to go to the place that most reminded me of the great American past time of shopping.
Little did I know that the Dubai Mall is more than a place to buy some designer jeans, this place is an institution in Dubai and currently holds the title of the largest mall in the world. It’s said 750k people come here every week!
Since this mall is so huge, I created a top 10 list. I am sure there is load more to do here, but the list easily represents 1/2 a day or even a whole day in the city. Also, in the height of the summer months, Dubai folk live in malls just like this one. Wouldn’t you if it were 120 in the shade?
Also the good thing is, a lot of these attractions are also totally free, which in a city like Dubai where you can spend a lot, is a relief for your wallet.
How to Get to the Dubai Mall
Getting around Dubai is cheap and easy. There is a skytrain that runs through the center of Dubai with popular stops at Dubai Mall, Mall Emirates, and Burj Khalifa. Taxis are also plentiful and inexpensive. A typical cab fare across town wont run you more than $10.
Dubai Mall’s Best Attractions
1. Ice skating
Ice skating in a mall in the desert? No really! This is probably something you didn’t know about Dubai. But if its hot outside and you want a break, why not go skiing!
2. Aquarium and underground zoo
Not just a couple gold fish aquarium. This sucker is huge and has sharks
3. Cure your sweet tooth
Buy sweets. Believe it or not, the treats in this mall are epic. Go for some high end designer chocolate at Cacao Sampaka or every man’s candy at Candylicious
4. Luxury shopping
This store doesn’t skimp on high end shopping, just ask Luis Vuitton, Alexander McQueen, Fendi, and Dolce and Gabbana to name a few, plus everyman places like Bloomingdale’s.
5. Buy gold
Nice little gold souk right in the center of the mall.
6. The Promenade
Outside the Mall, there is a lovely walkway along a man made lake. When the weather is not 130 degrees in the shade, the promenade, is a nice escape from the crowded mall.
7. See the Dubai Fountain show
Outside the food court, lies the promenade and every night at 6 pm, the man made lake comes alive with a fountain show.
8. Caffeine it up
There are so many cafes, once the fatigue from shopping sets in, just relax with a mochacino in over 20 different cafes
9. People watch
Nothing quite beats the Dubai Mall for this. Never have I seen just a complete mix of cultures from the garrishly dressed Russians to the fashion forward middle eastern women clothed in tightly fitting black robes.
10. Eat!
There are over 47 places to chow down. Go find all the main restaurants, or seek out the hidden gems.
View more advice on my Dubai travel guide.
