Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates, one of the Middle East’s most iconic shopping and lifestyle destinations, has unveiled a sweeping Dh5 billion ($1.36 billion) expansion plan to mark its 20th anniversary. The project, announced by owner Majid Al Futtaim, will transform the mall into a next-generation lifestyle hub, redefining retail, entertainment, and cultural experiences for millions of visitors.
A Vision for the Future
Majid Al Futtaim’s investment signals a bold new chapter for the Mall of the Emirates. The expansion is not just about adding more shops but about creating a vibrant, experience-driven destination that reflects Dubai’s dynamic spirit and global ambitions.
Khalifa Bin Braik, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management, said, “Two decades ago, Mall of the Emirates set a new benchmark for retail and entertainment in the region. Today, we’re building on that legacy with a bold investment that redefines what a mall can be. This transformation goes beyond physical expansion — it’s about creating new ways for people to connect, unwind, and be inspired, all in one destination”.
Key Features of the Expansion
1. More Retail Space and New Stores
- The expansion will add 20,000 square metres of retail space.
- Around 100 new stores will open, spanning luxury, fashion, and lifestyle brands.
- This will enhance the mall’s already impressive offering of 545 shops and 96 restaurants and cafes.
2. Wellness and Lifestyle Upgrades
- The SEVEN Wellness Club, a premium fitness, spa, and recovery center, will open at the Kempinski Hotel.
- This club will offer a refined space for fitness, relaxation, and holistic well-being, setting new standards for wellness in a mall environment.
3. Cultural and Entertainment Hubs
- The “New Covent Garden” cultural district, developed with the Dubai Performing Arts Academy, will open in early 2025.
- It will feature a 600-seat theater and rehearsal spaces, making the mall a center for art, performance, and community engagement.
- Four new entertainment concepts will launch by late 2026, including the world’s most advanced IMAX experience at VOX Cinemas.
4. Enhanced Dining Experiences
- A new indoor-outdoor dining precinct will debut, anchored by the mall’s first open-air food and beverage courtyard, set to open in early 2027.
- This adaptable space will transform into a lush green oasis during the cooler months, offering a unique setting for dining and socializing.
5. Infrastructure and Accessibility Improvements
- Major road upgrades, including a new flyover connecting Sheikh Zayed Road directly to the mall’s parking, have been completed to improve access and traffic flow.
- Additional lanes and improved parking systems will make visits smoother, accommodating the mall’s high daily vehicle traffic.
6. Sustainability at the Core
- The expansion will integrate energy-efficient technologies, smart systems, and eco-conscious design.
- Majid Al Futtaim emphasizes sustainability, aiming to create a future-ready, environmentally responsible retail destination.
Phased Rollout and Timeline
The transformation will unfold in phases over several years:
- 2025: Opening of the New Covent Garden cultural hub and theater.
- 2026: Launch of new lifestyle and entertainment spaces.
- 2027: Debut of the new indoor-outdoor dining precinct and additional dining outlets.
Economic and Social Impact
The Mall of the Emirates welcomed more than 40 million visitors in 2024, underscoring its status as a global retail powerhouse. The expansion is expected to boost footfall, attract new brands, and support Dubai’s vision as a leading global city.
The retail sector in the Gulf is experiencing robust growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 4.6% between 2023 and 2028. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading this expansion, and investments like this ensure Dubai remains at the forefront of the region’s retail and lifestyle innovation.
Commitment to Innovation and Quality
Majid Al Futtaim has already invested Dh1.1 billion in improvements currently underway, including luxury wellness, cultural facilities, and infrastructure upgrades. The company’s broader 2030 program aims to keep the Mall of the Emirates at the cutting edge of retail and lifestyle trends.
What Shoppers and Visitors Can Expect
- A wider range of international and emerging brands.
- New spaces for art, culture, and community events.
- Next-level entertainment, including immersive cinema and family attractions.
- More diverse and elevated dining options, both indoors and outdoors.
- Improved access and convenience, making every visit smoother and more enjoyable.
The Dh5 billion expansion of the Mall of the Emirates represents one of the most ambitious retail and lifestyle projects in the region. By blending shopping, wellness, culture, and entertainment, the mall is set to offer visitors a richer, more connected, and future-ready experience. As Dubai continues to grow as a global destination, the Mall of the Emirates stands as a symbol of the city’s vision, innovation, and commitment to excellence.
