Stroll around the Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre

Located right next to the famous Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is one of the not-to-be-missed sights of the United Arab Emirates. Covering an area of 1 million m², it is the largest shopping centre in the world. It houses over 1,200 shops and around a hundred cafés and restaurants. Inside, the design is impressive, with waterfalls and a glass wall revealing a giant aquarium. The Dubai Mall is like a mini-city, with plenty of surprises in store. You can easily spend a day or even several days here, and there's even a hotel. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or more of a contemplative type, the mall offers a range of activities. From the ice rink to the amusement park, not forgetting the flight simulator, the underwater zoo and the artificial ski station, there's no room for boredom. Once you've passed the entrance, the shopping centre will never cease to impress you!

The exterior of the Dubai Mall

The exterior of the Dubai Mall

- © dvoevnore / Shutterstock

Visit the world's largest shopping centre

Covering more than 800,000 m², the Dubai Mall is considered to be the largest shopping centre in the world. In fact, it contains 15 shopping centres within its walls. So whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find it at the Dubai Mall. Food, decoration, souvenirs, clothes... it's all there. Fashionistas will be delighted as more than 1,200 shops are open to the public.

The Dubai Mall

Inside the Dubai Mall

- © Elnur / Shutterstock

And there's something for everyone, with 450 haute couture brands including Dior, Chanel and Louis Vuitton, as well as ready-to-wear brands such as Zara, H&m and Galeries Lafayette. Children and adults can also take a tour of the world's largest sweet shop, which occupies 930m². Impressive!

La chute d'eau du Dubaï Mall

La chute d'eau du Dubaï Mall

- © Sergii Figurnyi / Shutterstock

Enjoy the many activities on the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping centre. It's a veritable city centre inside, where you can spend days without setting foot outside because there are so many activities. In fact, it's the preferred option for locals and tourists alike when it's hot and humid outside, but make sure you bring a jacket because the air-conditioning is very low and you may feel cold when you enter. Whether you're on your own, a couple or with children, there's no shortage of things to do, including the aquarium(one of the largest in the world), the Olympic ice rink, the 22-screen cinema and the Sega theme park.

From the shopping centre, you can access the Burj Khalifa and its observation platform. You can also stay at The Address Dubai Mall. Here you can enjoy a breathtaking experience as you climb to the 125th floor for a panoramic view of the city. And to get back down one floor, a glass slide lets you slide down while having the impression of being in a void.

Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Aquarium

- © Fabio Nodari / Shutterstock

Feasting in restaurants and cafés

The Dubai Mall is packed with restaurants and cafés. There are over a hundred establishments where you can take a break from shopping and sample cuisine from around the world. Whether it's a quick meal, lunch or a hearty snack, you'll be spoilt for choice: Italian, Japanese, Mexican, American and even French.

For a snack, you could go to the Cheesecake Factory, whose pastries look delicious, or to Café Blanc for a view of Dubai's fountains. We also recommend the Indian restaurant Peppermill, whose culinary flavours are unquestionable, or the Tulum Restaurant, for a taste of tasty Mexican cuisine.

Where to stay near the Dubai Mall?

⭐Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai

Located 10 minutes from the Dubai Mall, Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai, is a 5-star establishment that offers very good value for money. Double rooms, flats and villas are offered with all the necessary comforts and facilities. A swimming pool, wellness centre and tennis courts complete the services of this hotel, which also boasts a bar and restaurant. Expect to pay at least €130 per night. A real gem!

Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai 5* Dubai

Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai 5*

A 5-star establishment at affordable prices!
7.6 Fine
From
£130 / night
See prices

Practical information

🚌 Getting there: to get around Dubai, you can take the metro, a taxi, an Uber or Careem, the equivalent app. But you should be aware that by car, you may experience traffic jams. The Dubai Mall is very well served by metro, with a dedicated station on the red line. You can therefore take this means of transport and stop at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall, the shopping centre is located right next to the world's tallest tower.

👉 Best time of year: in Dubai, it's hot all year round, with temperatures barely dipping below 20 degrees. During the months of June to September, it can be between 40 and 50 degrees, so this is the period to avoid. At this time of year, many people spend their days in air-conditioned venues such as the Dubai Mall. Don't forget to cover up indoors, as there can be a big difference in temperature from the heat outside.

by Jude JONES
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