Posted inShoppingFeatures

Where to shop in Abu Dhabi: the best malls in the capital

All the ultimate places to shop across the emirate

Looking for the ultimate place to shop? Maybe you need to buy the perfect present for a loved one, or you’re looking to treat yo’ self. Whatever your reason for shopping (not that you need one), Abu Dhabi has you covered with some incredible malls.

Besides browsing, there are tons of other things to do at the mall as well. Abu Dhabi’s best malls also include cinemas, play areas for the kiddos, dining destinations, gyms and cool attractions.

Wondering where to shop in Abu Dhabi? Looking for the best mall? We’ve got you covered.

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Abu Dhabi Mall

Abu Dhabi Mall is located downtown, in the heart of the city, which makes it an easy choice when you need to nip in somewhere. The sprawling retail complex is home to more than 200 major outlets, including Zara, Calvin Klein, DKNY and Tommy Hilfiger. After a series of escalators (it seems there’s no escaping the escalators whether you’re walking in or coming in from parking) you’ll find yourself choosing from a huge number of retail destinations. Be ready to get your steps in. There’s plenty of great entertainment for the kids too with Fun City, VOX Cinemas, Xtreme Zone and Apple Tree Garden Games to choose from. We’re putting on our walking shoes.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Al Zahiyah, near Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi (02 645 4858).

Al Seef Village Mall

This community mall has fast become a popular destination with the launch of The Walk district, just behind the mall. There are a number of shops, restaurants, and even a library to check out, and it’s worth ducking into this hub. The Walk is home to several shops, salons and even an art gallery. Looking for somewhere to take the kids while you shop? Fun Ville is an easy choice. There are also some great non-cafeteria dining options such as Nolu’s, Joud Café and Sanderson’s to make sure you don’t go hungry.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Al Salam Street, Khalifa Park area (02 448 8886).

Al Raha Mall

From Arabian fashion brands to international outlets, to toy and book stores and a supermarket, Al Raha mall has loads of things to choose from outside of the city centre. There is also a Fun Zone for the kids and a cinema showing the latest blockbuster releases. Its location on the highway, link with Al Raha Beach Hotel, proximity to the airport and connection with Al Raha Beach make it an easy choice when shopping in Abu Dhabi.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-11pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Channel Street, Al Raha (02 556 2229).

Al Wahda Mall

You really can do it all at Al Wahda Mall – especially since the new extension was built. This mall is a little bit like a maze, and with every twist and turn you find a new store to explore (every time we go, we end up saying: “I didn’t know this was here”). There are tons of stores, entertainment attractions and eateries, such as Peppermill and TGI Fridays. It’s also conveniently located next to the Abu Dhabi bus station and buzzing Al Wahda area, which is full of incredible hidden gems.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Hazza Bin Zayed Street (02 443 7000).

Deerfields Mall

Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, this mall is the perfect spot for anyone living near the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border. But even if you live downtown, be sure you don’t overlook this spot, especially when you need to do a big shop. Deerfields Mall has a massive Carrefour supermarket for all your grocery needs. There’s a dedicated space for fitness fanatics at Gold’s Gym, and plenty of entertainment spaces including a cinema, Xtreme zone, Thrill Zone and more.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Al Shahama Road (02 501 0826).

Marina Mall

One of the most striking shopping complexes in the city, Marina Mall boasts more than 400 brands and stores and hosts fun visitor attractions such as an ice rink, a bowling alley, a cineplex, musical fountains and a 100 metre high viewing platform. There’s also a BOUNCE for kids and big kids alike to get their jitters out.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Corniche breakwater (800 6623).

The Galleria Al Maryah Island

Looking for a taste of the high life? Al Maryah’s luxurious shopping and dining destination is definitely the place for you. There are a raft of high-end retailers and brands to check out here, including leading fashion names such as BVLGARI, Dolce & Gabbana, Cartier, Dior and much, much more. But if you’re looking for more accessible brands, the new extension at The Galleria Al Maryah Island has you covered, with brands such as Zara, H&M, Mango and more to choose from. Foodie fans are also in for a treat with some of the city’s best restaurants including 99 Sushi Bar, Loca, Roberto’s, Nusr-Et and Zuma. Throw in a beautiful waterfront setting, and this is the ultimate mall experience.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Al Maryah Island (02 616 6999).

The Mall at World Trade Center

This mall is full of surprises. From the interesting architectural touches (does anyone else feel like they’re inside a beautiful bird cage here?) to the surprising dining and nightlife destinations, this mall is unexpected in the best way. There you’ll find a giant Lulu’s Hypermarket, traditional souk complete with spices and souvenirs, and tons of retail options to peruse while you tour the mall. Looking to transition from shopping to nightlife? The Hub is located inside the mall and includes Back Yard Bistro, Jazz@PizzaExpress and Tamba as some of the places on offer for a night out or a bite to eat.
Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Al Markaziyah (02 508 2400).

Yas Mall

This mega mall just underwent a massive transformation (almost as massive as the mall itself). If you’re looking for the marathon version of retail therapy, you’ll definitely find it at Abu Dhabi’s largest mall. There are more than 400 big name brands, a 20-screen cinema and a massive family entertainment zone. You could actually shop until you drop.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Yas Island (800 927 6255).