Recently opened malls in Dubai
Dubai Mall – The District
Dubai Mall has expanded with the launch of The District, a new section that opened on March 1. Located near the Dubai Ice Rink and Level Shoes, The District adds 65 new retail and dining options to what is already one of the world’s largest shopping destinations.
Home to more than 1,200 retail outlets, two major department stores, and hundreds of F&B options, Dubai Mall spans over 1 million square metres, roughly the size of 200 football fields and sits next to the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Upcoming shopping malls and expansions in Dubai
New community mall in Sobha Hartland
A new Dh210 million community shopping mall is under development within Sobha Realty’s Hartland master plan. Set to open in the second half of 2026, the mall marks Sobha Realty’s first foray into retail real estate.
The development will cover 339,000 square feet of built-up area, offering 115,000 square feet of leasable space across 35 outlets, including over 10 F&B options designed to serve residents and visitors in the area.
Mall of the Emirates expansion – Dh5 billion upgrade
Mall of the Emirates is undergoing a major Dh5 billion expansion that will introduce an additional 20,000 square metres and 100 new retail stores. The expansion aims to further enhance its position as a top shopping and leisure destination in the region.
As part of the upgrade, Dh1.1 billion has already been invested in infrastructure improvements, a new wellness club, a cultural hub, and a reimagined dining area. Highlights of the expansion include:
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An indoor-outdoor precinct featuring casual dining and interactive entertainment
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The mall’s first outdoor F&B courtyard, expected to open in early 2027
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The New Covent Garden theatre, set to soft-launch in mid-2025 and fully open later that year
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New lifestyle and entertainment spaces to be completed by 2026
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Additional dining and ‘North End’ spaces to be unveiled by early 2027
Dubai Square – Emaar’s futuristic mega mall in Dubai Creek Harbour
Dubai Square is an upcoming mall in Dubai Creek Harbour, developed by Emaar Properties. Once complete, it will become one of the largest malls in Dubai, second only to Dubai Mall, and will be connected to the new Dubai Creek Tower. Set in a waterfront community, Dubai Square will feature:
· A design inspired by modern Middle Eastern architecture, with pedestrian-friendly walkways and a dramatic glass roof
The mall will be part of a wider 7.4 million sq. m. residential area with 500,000 sq. m. of green and open space. Its location is just 10 minutes from Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport, making it easily accessible for residents and tourists.
