Abu Dhabi

🛍️

Malls and Shopping Centers

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Malls and Shopping Centers in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a shopper’s paradise, offering a mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly shopping options. The city’s malls are not just retail hubs but also entertainment and cultural destinations, making them a must-visit for residents and tourists alike. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the malls and shopping centers in Abu Dhabi.

1. Popular Malls in Abu Dhabi

Yas Mall

  • Overview: Located on Yas Island, Yas Mall is one of the largest malls in Abu Dhabi, offering a mix of high-end and mid-range shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Shopping: Features over 370 stores, including international brands like Zara, H&M, Sephora, and luxury outlets such as Gucci and Prada.
  • Entertainment: Home to a 20-screen VOX Cinema, KidZania (an interactive children’s play area), and direct access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
  • Dining: Over 90 dining options, ranging from fast food (McDonald’s, Shake Shack) to fine dining (The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s).
  • Accessibility: Easily accessible by car or taxi; public buses also connect to Yas Island.
  • Parking: Free parking with over 10,000 spaces available.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Friday and Saturday).

The Galleria Al Maryah Island

  • Overview: A luxury shopping destination located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s financial district.
  • Shopping: Features high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier, and Rolex, alongside mid-range stores like Zara and H&M.
  • Entertainment: Includes a VOX Cinema and an outdoor promenade with stunning waterfront views.
  • Dining: Offers a mix of fine dining (COYA, Zuma) and casual eateries (Shake Shack, Paul Café).
  • Accessibility: Centrally located and accessible by car, taxi, or public transport.
  • Parking: Free parking for the first 3 hours; valet parking is available.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Friday and Saturday).

Marina Mall

  • Overview: Situated near the Corniche, Marina Mall is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and family entertainment.
  • Shopping: Offers a mix of luxury and mid-range brands, including Marks & Spencer, Adidas, and Tiffany & Co.
  • Entertainment: Features a bowling alley, ice rink, and VOX Cinema. The mall also has a 100-meter-high viewing tower for panoramic city views.
  • Dining: Includes international chains like Starbucks and Nando’s, as well as local Emirati cuisine options.
  • Accessibility: Located near the Corniche, easily reachable by car or taxi.
  • Parking: Free parking available.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Friday and Saturday).

Abu Dhabi Mall

  • Overview: A centrally located mall popular with both residents and tourists.
  • Shopping: Features over 200 stores, including international brands like H&M, Mango, and Aldo.
  • Entertainment: Includes a VOX Cinema and a Fun City play area for children.
  • Dining: Offers a variety of dining options, from food court staples to sit-down restaurants like Chili’s and P.F. Chang’s.
  • Accessibility: Located in the Tourist Club Area, easily accessible by public transport, car, or taxi.
  • Parking: Free parking available.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Friday and Saturday).

Dalma Mall

  • Overview: One of the largest malls in Abu Dhabi, located in the Mussafah area.
  • Shopping: Features over 450 stores, including Carrefour, Marks & Spencer, and Centrepoint.
  • Entertainment: Includes a Cine Royal Cinema and Fun City for kids.
  • Dining: Offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food to casual dining.
  • Accessibility: Located in Mussafah, accessible by car or taxi.
  • Parking: Free parking available.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Friday and Saturday).

2. Shopping Categories

  • Luxury Brands: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Yas Mall.
  • Mid-Range Brands: Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Dalma Mall.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre (for gold and traditional items), Al Wahda Mall.
  • Traditional Souvenirs: Souk Qaryat Al Beri (for handicrafts, perfumes, and spices).

3. Entertainment Options

  • Cinemas: Most malls feature VOX Cinemas or Cine Royal, offering the latest movies in standard, 3D, and VIP formats.
  • Family Entertainment: KidZania (Yas Mall), Fun City (Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall), and ice rinks (Marina Mall).
  • Cultural Experiences: Souk Qaryat Al Beri offers a traditional Arabian market experience.

4. Dining Experiences

  • Fine Dining: COYA, Zuma, and LPM Restaurant & Bar (The Galleria).
  • Casual Dining: The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s, and Paul Café.
  • Fast Food: McDonald’s, KFC, and Subway are available in most malls.
  • Local Cuisine: Try Emirati dishes at restaurants like Al Fanar or Milas.

5. Costs

  • Shopping: Prices vary depending on the brand and product. Luxury items are expensive, while mid-range and budget-friendly options are widely available.
  • Dining: Fast food meals cost around AED 25-50, while fine dining can range from AED 150-500 per person.
  • Entertainment: Movie tickets cost around AED 35-50, while family attractions like KidZania or Fun City have entry fees starting at AED 50.

6. Accessibility

  • Public Transport: Abu Dhabi’s bus network connects major malls, but taxis and ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber) are more convenient.
  • Parking: Most malls offer free parking, with valet services available at an additional cost.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: All malls are wheelchair-friendly, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

7. Cultural Considerations

  • Dress Code: Dress modestly in public spaces. Avoid wearing revealing clothing out of respect for local customs.
  • Behavior: Public displays of affection are discouraged. Be respectful of local traditions and customs.
  • Prayer Rooms: All malls have prayer rooms for men and women.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol is not served in most mall restaurants, except in licensed fine-dining establishments.

8. Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are less crowded, while weekends (Friday and Saturday) are busier.
  • Sales and Discounts: Look out for seasonal sales, especially during Ramadan, Eid, and the Dubai Shopping Festival.
  • Currency: The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: English is widely spoken, and most mall staff are multilingual.

Abu Dhabi’s malls are more than just shopping destinations—they are cultural and entertainment hubs that cater to all ages and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, family-friendly activities, or a taste of local cuisine, the city’s malls have something for everyone.