Great Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall, located in Downtown Dubai adjacent to the iconic Burj Khalifa, is the largest shopping mall in the world by total area, covering approximately 1,124,000 square meters (about 12.1 million square feet) equivalent to over 200 football fields.

It was inaugurated on November 4, 2008, developed by Emaar Properties, a leading real estate company in the UAE. The mall quickly became a world-renowned destination, known not only for its vast retail space but also for its comprehensive entertainment and leisure options. Initially opened with about 1,000 retailers, Dubai Mall now hosts over 1,200 stores, including flagship department stores such as Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s, as well as over 200 luxury brands housed in its Fashion Avenue.

Dubai Mall is much more than a shopping center; it is a cultural and entertainment hub attracting millions of visitors each year. Its attractions include one of the world’s largest aquariums and underwater zoos, an Olympic-sized ice rink, the Dubai Fountain—the world's largest dancing fountain system—and an indoor waterfall.

It also hosts entertainment venues such as SEGA Republic (an indoor theme park), the Dubai Ice Rink, and KidZania, making it a popular destination for families and tourists. The mall offers over 200 dining options ranging from international cuisine to local specialties.

The mall significantly contributes to Dubai’s economy by boosting tourism and increasing property values in the surrounding Downtown district, one of the city's most sought-after neighborhoods. Visitor numbers have grown remarkably since its opening, reaching over 105 million annually in 2023, making it the most visited building globally.

The Dubai Mall continues to evolve with expansions and technological enhancements, including virtual and augmented reality experiences, and maintains strong commitments to sustainability and environmental consciousness. This vast complex, combining luxury retail, culture, and entertainment, stands as a symbol of Dubai’s modern urban vision and global appeal.