Dubai's shopping scene is about to level up — again. A fresh wave of new malls opening in Dubai is set to redefine how the city shops, eats, and socialises. From forest-inspired retail spaces and high-tech lifestyle hubs to mega developments connected to future landmarks, these upcoming destinations are worth putting on your radar — whether you're into luxury fashion, immersive dining, or family-friendly entertainment.
Ghaf Woods Mall
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. The wider community will be home to 35,000 trees, and the mall will reflect the development'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
Opening in 2026, Sobha Hartland Community Mall is designed as a lifestyle-focused destination rather than a conventional shopping centre. Spanning 339,000 square feet with an investment of over Dhs210 million, the mall will bring 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. A standout architectural feature known as the "vibrant bowl" will connect multiple levels through green walls and floating pods, while smart technology enhances navigation and the visitor experience.
Location: Sobha Hartland, Mohammed Bin Rashid City Opening: 2026
Dubai Square
One of the most ambitious retail developments in the pipeline is Dubai Square, located in Dubai Creek Harbour. Developed by Emaar, once complete it will rank among the largest malls in the region 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 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 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: Expected around 2028
Mall of the Emirates Expansion
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. New sections will open in stages through 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
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 — designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and backed by a Dhs2.18 billion contract — 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 an 11-screen cinema, an ice rink, a dancing fountain plaza, rooftop dining, and a central observation tower with a restaurant at the top. 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 cities 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 over the coming years, Dubai's reputation as one of the world's most exciting shopping destinations is only set to grow.
