The Dubai Mall is the world's most-visited shopping and entertainment destination, a 1.1 million sqm Emaar mega-mall at the foot of Burj Khalifa welcoming over 100 million visitors a year. Beyond its 1,200+ retail outlets and 200+ dining options, it houses the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania, Dubai Ice Rink, Play DXB Dubai Mall, Reel Cinemas, Hysteria, the iconic Souk section with the Gold Souk-style atrium, and direct access to Burj Khalifa's At The Top observation deck.
Quick facts:
Duration full day · 1,200+ stores · Aquarium inside · Free entry
Did you know?
Dubai Mall is so large that it takes about three weeks to walk through every store – it spans the equivalent of more than 50 football pitches and welcomes more visitors than New York, Los Angeles and Madrid combined.
Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings for relaxed shopping; evenings for the Dubai Fountain shows visible from the lakeside promenade.
Where to eat nearby:
Over 200 restaurants and cafés inside the mall span every cuisine; the Fountain View dining strip and Souk Al Bahar across the lake offer excellent waterfront dining.
Tip:
Take Dubai Metro Red Line directly to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station – the connecting walkway is air-conditioned and saves you the long parking walk.
Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is consistently ranked the world's most-visited shopping centre. Reviewers praise the scale, variety of stores, the Dubai Aquarium, the connection to Burj Khalifa and the iconic Dubai Fountain views – describing it as a destination in itself.
Is the mall free to enter?
Yes, entry to the mall is free. Most attractions inside (aquarium, ice rink, KidZania, Burj Khalifa) charge separate entry fees.
What are the main attractions inside?
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania, Dubai Ice Rink, Play DXB Dubai Mall, Reel Cinemas, the Souk section, Hysteria horror house, and direct access to Burj Khalifa At The Top.
How do I get there?
Dubai Metro Red Line directly to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station with covered air-conditioned walkway access; or by car with paid parking.
Are there family facilities?
Yes – nursery rooms, children's play areas, prayer rooms, and over 30 baby-changing facilities throughout the mall.
When is it busiest?
Friday and Saturday evenings, especially during the Dubai Shopping Festival in January and the Dubai Summer Surprises in July.