Dubai’s reputation as a global retail capital isn’t slowing down. As new communities rise and established districts expand, the city continues to invest heavily in next-generation malls that blend shopping, entertainment, technology, and lifestyle experiences.
Here’s a straightforward look at five major malls currently in development and two big upgrades coming to Dubai’s most visited retail destinations.
1) Dubai Square — A “City Within a City” at Dubai Creek Harbour
Part of Emaar’s long-term Dubai Creek Harbour master plan, Dubai Square is set to be one of the most ambitious mall projects in the region.
Key Facts
- First announced in 2018, with revised plans shared in 2024.
- No confirmed opening date yet.
- Spans 2.6 million sqm, making it one of the largest retail concepts ever proposed in Dubai.
- Designed wide enough for electric vehicles to move through the space.
Why It Matters
Dubai Square isn’t positioned as a traditional mall. It’s pitched as an indoor city, blending retail, dining, immersive digital experiences, and entertainment under one climate-controlled environment. It will also be directly linked to the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower, expected to become a major global attraction once completed.
2) Ghaf Woods Mall — The Region’s First Forest-Integrated Retail Destination
Following the announcement of Ghaf Woods, Majid Al Futtaim’s AED 15.4 billion nature-focused community, the developer has confirmed plans for a flagship mall at its center.
Key Facts
- Will be the company’s 30th mall.
- More than 30,000 trees planned across the wider community.
- Positioned as a forest-themed shopping and lifestyle hub.
What to Expect
MAF is known for experiential retail, think Mall of the Emirates’ slopes or City Centre’s leisure zones. Ghaf Woods Mall will take this further by blending greenery and smart technology into a quieter, wellness-driven environment. Expect a curated lineup of retail, dining, and entertainment built around walkability and nature.
3) Sobha Mall — A Community Mall with Premium Touches
Sobha Realty has begun work on the AED 210 million Sobha Mall, set to serve the fast-growing Sobha Hartland community.
Key Facts
- 339,000 sq ft mall under construction.
- Scheduled for completion in late 2026.
- Includes 35 retail outlets, 10+ dining concepts, and lifestyle amenities.
Highlights
Beyond retail, the mall will feature a supermarket, gym, sports courts, and family entertainment zones. With Hartland’s population increasing quickly, the mall is positioned to become a daily-needs hub that still offers upscale touches.
4) Liwan Mall — A New Luxury Hub for Wadi Al Safa 2
Set to open in the second half of 2026, Liwan Mall is being developed by KeyMavens Group to bring an elegant, destination-style retail space to Wadi Al Safa 2.
Key Facts
- Built across 113,674 sq ft.
- Features luxury retail, restaurants, cafés, landscaped areas, and even a pool.
- Inspired by Spanish architecture and contemporary open-air layouts.
Why It Stands Out
Liwan Mall is aimed at becoming a premium neighborhood destination, especially for the growing residential belt stretching across Wadi Al Safa and surrounding communities.
5) Villa Square — A Family-Friendly Mall for The Villa Community
Also developed by KeyMavens Group, Villa Square focuses on convenience, community, and lifestyle.
Key Facts
- 124,000 sq ft of built-up area.
- Located in Wadi Al Safa 5, ideal for residents of The Villa.
- Completion expected in Q3 2026.
Design & Experience
The mall emphasizes natural light, greenery, and indoor-outdoor flow features increasingly popular with family-focused developments. Expect wellness zones, landscaped courtyards, and a balanced mix of retail and dining.
Major Upgrades to Dubai’s Top Malls
Even as new developments take shape, two of Dubai’s most iconic malls are undergoing major transformations to keep up with evolving retail trends.
Dubai Mall — A Dhs 1.5 Billion Expansion
Already one of the world’s largest malls, Dubai Mall is expanding further.
Key Facts
- AED 1.5 billion investment into new retail and dining.
- Adding 240 new stores and restaurants.
- A new exhibition center is expected to begin accepting bookings in 2026.
The mall also opened The District in March, a new zone featuring 65 shops and restaurants, located near the Dubai Ice Rink.
Mall of the Emirates — A Dhs 5 Billion Makeover
Majid Al Futtaim’s flagship mall is preparing for its most significant redevelopment yet.
Key Facts
- AED 5 billion upgrade announced in April 2025.
- Plans include 100 new stores, with global names like Primark, Ulta Beauty, and Skims.
- A new outdoor F&B courtyard covered in greenery will open in early 2027.
This outdoor dining space will operate during the cooler months, adding a more seasonal, lifestyle-driven element that aligns with global retail trends.
