For all you mall haters, Dubai Mall will probably sway your opinion on shopping experiences for the better. The largest mall in the world houses over 1,200 retailers for those of you who dislike shopping, may find solace in just chilling on a bench overlooking the amazing Dubai Fountain or if its your turn to entertain the kids you’ll be itching to gaze at the wonders in the Dubai Aquarium or thrill-seek at the Sega Republic Indoor Theme Park. Dubai Mall has definitely done its homework in appealing to more than just the shopaholics.
Dubai Mall (courtesy of Dubai Mall)
Dubai Mall
Shopping in Dubai Mall
Housing well known labels from mid to top range, Dubai Mall offers an amazing variety of collections from around the world, be it the high street range or haute couture. To keep the kids amused, a replica of the famous British toy store, Hamleys has parked a spot at Dubai Mall as well as the famous American department store Bloomingdales. For all you foodies, head to Waitrose for the best food shopping experience you’ll ever have.
If you are in Dubai for a fleeting visit and tempted to buy some gold, Dubai Mall has its own Gold Souk, saving you a visit to the famous one in Deira. You’ll find most of the famous chain stores like Marhaba and Damas and don’t feel you can’t bargain because you are in a mall - no piece is a fixed price! On the topic of authentic gifts, if time is short on your hands and you are in need of some ethnic gifts. Head across the Dubai Fountain, over the bridge into the Souk Al Bahar, where you’ll find a modern take on a souk filled with stall like shops selling everything from shawls, authentic homeware, dates and lots more.
Dubai Fountain
No trip to Dubai Mall is complete without stopping at a bench to view the amazing performance of the world’s largest musical fountain, with the iconic Burj Khalifa as the backdrop – and it’s free! The water jets spray up to 500 ft in the air and the light beams used in the display can be seen up to 20 miles away and is said to be visible from space. Performances are on every 30 minutes from 1800 – 2200/2300 weekday/weekend. There are also shows at 1300 and 1330 daily. There is ample space to stand and get an awesome view, but make a meal to remember by booking at one of the fountain side restaurants such as Wafi Gourmet, Carluccios amongst others. The opposite side of the fountain is the Souk al Bahar where you’ll find a host of more outdoor restaurants with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. Great photo opportunities.
Burj Khalifa – ‘At the Top’ viewing experience
If your time is limited in Dubai, going on top of the Burj Khalifa has to be on your top list of things to do. The views are spectacular and the giddy may even overcome their fear of heights! You can book tickets days in advance to get the timing slot of your choice or if you are only their for a day you can buy an immediate entry ticket. All tickets can be bought in person from Dubai Mall or online. Read more about the Burj Khalifa here www……
Dubai Aquarium
If you have kids you’ll give yourself atleast 2 hours of sanity if you take them to the Dubai Mall Aquarium. Better still pack them off with Dad while mum can enjoy a good gallivant round the shops. The Dubai Aquarium has one of the largest tanks in the world and has already achieved the Guinness World Record for largest viewing panel, another one to tick off the list! Dubai Aquarium has over 33,000 living animals amongst which 400 are sharks and rays combined. Alongside this there is the Underwater Zoo in which you can view an array of sea life from a suspension bridge or tree canopy. Entrance starts from 50 AED.
Sega World, Dubai
No UAE mall is complete without its own amusement arcade, but Sega World has got to be the mother of all amusement arcades with over 250 amusement games spread over five zones. Ideal for all age groups – even adults. Entry prices start at 140 AED.
Dubai Ice Rink
A great way to cool off the summer heat is to get the blades on and head for Dubai’s largest ice skating rink. Whether you are a skilled skater or a novice, the Dubai Ice Rink holds different themes every evening to hone your skills or just to have fun. When not in use, the Dubai Ice Rink can seat up to 2000 for functions. Prices start from 50 AED for a 2 hour session including skate hire.
So if all the above don’t tickle your fancy and you like the simple things in life, the Dubai Mall has a over 150 cafés, fast food outlets and fine dining restaurants and to finish off an evening choose from one of 22 screens at Dubai’s largest cinema venue – Reel.
