What To Know
- Dubai Square promises an experience-driven approach to retail, featuring the largest Chinatown in the Middle East, an expansive digital plaza with immersive art installations, a dedicated arts district, and even a rooftop waterpark.
- Scheduled to open in December 2028, the mall will house over 400 retail outlets and 80 restaurants, making it one of the largest shopping destinations in the northern emirates.
- 4 billion Ghaf Woods community, the mall is being designed as a “mall in the forest,” offering visitors a refreshing escape from traditional indoor retail environments.
Dubai’s shopping scene is about to level up — again. From forest-inspired retail spaces to high-tech lifestyle hubs and mega developments connected to future landmarks, a new wave of malls is set to redefine how the city shops, eats, and socialises. Whether you’re into luxury fashion, immersive dining, or family-friendly entertainment, these upcoming malls in and around Dubai are worth keeping on your radar.
Ghaf Woods Mall
Image: majidalfuttaim/Website
Dubai is preparing to unveil a truly unique retail destination with Ghaf Woods Mall, a groundbreaking concept developed by Majid Al Futtaim. Touted as the region’s first forest-integrated mall, this project blends shopping, dining, and entertainment with lush greenery and nature-led design.
Set within the Dhs15.4 billion Ghaf Woods community, the mall is being designed as a “mall in the forest,” offering visitors a refreshing escape from traditional indoor retail environments. While the final architectural details are yet to be revealed, the mall will reflect the wider community’s focus on sustainability, wellbeing, and immersive experiences.
Location: Ghaf Woods community, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Opening: Expected in phases until 2031
Sobha Hartland Community Mall
Image: sobharealty/Website
Opening in 2026, Sobha Hartland Community Mall is designed as a lifestyle-focused destination rather than a traditional shopping centre. Spanning 339,000 square feet with an investment of over Dhs210 million, the mall will bring together retail, wellness, dining, and recreation under one roof.
Visitors can expect a supermarket, around 35 retail outlets, a gym, sports courts, children’s play areas, and more than 10 restaurants. Natural light, greenery, water features, and open spaces play a central role in the design, creating a calm and welcoming environment. A standout architectural feature known as the “vibrant bowl” will connect multiple levels through green walls and floating pods, while smart technology will enhance navigation and the overall visitor experience.
Location: Sobha Hartland, Mohammed Bin Rashid City
Opening: 2026
Dubai Square
Image: properties.emaar/Website
One of the most ambitious retail developments in the pipeline is Dubai Square, located in Dubai Creek Harbour. Once complete, it will rank among the largest malls in Dubai and will be directly connected to the future Dubai Creek Tower.
Dubai Square promises an experience-driven approach to retail, featuring the largest Chinatown in the Middle East, an expansive digital plaza with immersive art installations, a dedicated arts district, and even a rooftop waterpark. Designed with wide pedestrian walkways and a striking glass roof, the mall aims to blend culture, entertainment, and retail in one futuristic destination.
Its strategic location places it just minutes from Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport, making it one of the city’s most accessible upcoming shopping hubs.
Location: Dubai Creek Harbour
Opening: To be confirmed
Mall of the Emirates Expansion
Image: .malloftheemirates/Website
Even Dubai’s most iconic malls aren’t standing still. Mall of the Emirates is undergoing a major Dhs5 billion expansion, reinforcing its status as one of the city’s top retail and leisure destinations.
The expansion will introduce 100 new stores along with more than 20,000 square metres of additional retail and entertainment space. Highlights include a new outdoor dining courtyard, upgraded cultural and lifestyle zones, and enhanced leisure areas. The new sections will open in stages between now and 2027, ensuring the mall continues to evolve alongside Dubai’s growing lifestyle expectations.
Location: Al Barsha, Dubai
Opening: Phased rollout until 2027
Madar Mall, Sharjah
Image: arada/Website
Just beyond Dubai, Madar Mall is set to become a major retail and entertainment landmark in Sharjah’s Aljada development. Scheduled to open in December 2028, the mall will house over 400 retail outlets and 80 restaurants, making it one of the largest shopping destinations in the northern emirates.
Designed as a family-friendly and community-focused space, Madar Mall will include a cinema, ice rink, dancing fountain plaza, rooftop dining, and an observation tower offering panoramic views. The mall aims to blend retail with culture, leisure, and social experiences, attracting visitors from across the UAE.
Location: Aljada, Sharjah
Opening: December 2028
The Future of Shopping in Dubai
From eco-conscious concepts to mega retail destinations connected to future landmarks, Dubai’s upcoming malls reflect a clear shift toward experience-led shopping. These projects are not just about retail — they’re about community, culture, technology, and lifestyle. As each new mall opens its doors over the coming years, Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s most exciting shopping destinations is only set to grow.
