6 New Malls Coming to Dubai You Need to Know About
The image of the city that Dubai has as an international shopping destination is going to soar to new levels. The city is undergoing a booming growth process, and new neighbourhoods are springing up, and new large scale developments are transforming the retail environment of the city. The emirate is famous globally with such iconic malls as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, and it is trying to keep the bar high by creating next-generation retail, futuristic entertainment and high-end lifestyle spots.
From forest-integrated shopping complexes to mega indoor cities, here are six new malls coming to Dubai, along with two massive transformations at the city’s largest shopping landmarks.
1. Dubai Square – A “Next-Gen Indoor City” at Dubai Creek Harbour
The Dubai Square is one of the greatest retail projects that are currently being designed in Dubai Creek Harbour by developer Emaar.
The futuristic mall was first proposed back in 2018 by the Emaar CEO Mohamed Alabbar, and revised in 2024, the mall is expected to be opened in 2028.
Key Highlights
Part of the mega Dubai Creek Harbour masterplan
Spanning 2.6 million sq m — three times the size of Downtown Dubai
Designed as an “indoor city” with streets wide enough for electric cars
Connected directly to the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower
Features advanced technologies, immersive entertainment, luxury retail, and new dining concepts
Dubai Square aims to merge city living, retail, and leisure in one climate-controlled urban environment — a first of its kind in the region.
2. Ghaf Woods Mall – The Region’s First Forest-Integrated Retail Destination
Developed by Majid Al Futtaim, Ghaf Woods Mall will sit at the center of the Dhs15.4 billion Ghaf Woods community.
The mall introduces a pioneering concept: a shopping destination surrounded by over 30,000 trees, making it the UAE’s first forest-integrated mall.
What to Expect
Immersive nature-focused design blending greenery with modern architecture
Premium retail, dining, leisure, and entertainment offerings
A sustainable, tech-enabled environment connected to one of Dubai’s newest residential communities
Once completed, it will become Majid Al Futtaim’s 30th mall worldwide.
3. Sobha Mall – A Luxury Retail Hub in Sobha Hartland
Construction is already underway on the Dhs210 million Sobha Mall, a new upscale shopping destination by Sobha Realty.
Expected completion: Late 2026
Features & Offerings
339,000 sq ft of curated retail and lifestyle experiences
A supermarket, gym, sports courts, and children’s soft play area
Over 35 retail shops, 10+ dining outlets, and new cultural spaces
Focused on residents of the rapidly growing Sobha Hartland community
The mall intends to provide high-end neighbourhood shopping experience with luxury bias tenant mix..
4. Liwan Mall – New Luxury Hub in Wadi Al Safa 2
Scheduled to open in the second half of 2026, Liwan Mall is being delivered by KeyMavens Group.
Mall Features
113,674 sq ft of built-up area
Luxury retail stores, boutique cafés, and international restaurants
Landscaped outdoor zones, green spaces, and a swimming pool
A sophisticated Spanish-inspired architectural style
Liwan Mall is designed for nearby residential communities while also appealing to visitors across Dubai.
5. Villa Square – Family-Focused Mall Coming to Wadi Al Safa 5
Also developed by KeyMavens Group, Villa Square will provide a family-centred retail and leisure space within Wadi Al Safa 5.
Expected completion: Q3 2026
What Shoppers Will Find
Retail stores, casual dining, and wellness facilities
124,000 sq ft of built-up space
A Spanish-inspired design emphasizing natural light and blended indoor-outdoor spaces
Landscaping zones, wellness areas, and family-friendly attractions
This shopping centre is particularly convenient to people living in The Villa community and neighbourhood.
6. South Bay Mall – A New Landmark in Dubai South
The proposed South Bay Mall, which was announced by the Dubai South Properties, will be located at the centre of the rapidly developing district of Dubai South.
Key Highlights
200,000 sq ft across ground, first, and rooftop floors
Stunning lagoon views and open-air walkways
60 retail units, 2 anchor stores, and a premium food hall
Outdoor leisure zones, a clubhouse, gym, spa, and clinic
Positioned to become a key lifestyle hub for Expo City Dubai and nearby communities
This mall blends modern open-air design with wellness-driven amenities, making it a standout addition to Dubai’s retail map.
Major Upgrades Coming to Dubai’s Existing Super Malls
Dubai isn’t only building new malls — two of its most iconic destinations are going through massive renovations worth billions of dirhams.
1. Dubai Mall – A Dhs1.5 Billion Expansion in Progress
Already one of the world’s largest malls, Dubai Mall is undergoing a major redevelopment that will add:
240 new luxury retail and dining outlets
A state-of-the-art exhibition centre opening for bookings in early 2026
In 2024, the mall also launched The District, a new zone featuring 65 stores and restaurants located near the Dubai Ice Rink.
The expansion strengthens Dubai Mall’s position as a world-leading retail and entertainment destination.
2. Mall of the Emirates – A Dhs5 Billion Transformation
To be announced in 2024, Mall of the Emirates is set to be redeveloped in a massive Dhs5 billion project, which will transform the experience of its visitors.
What’s Coming
100+ new stores, including Primark, Ulta Beauty, and SKIMS
The mall’s first outdoor dining courtyard, opening winter 2027
An aesthetic design depicting a green garden all through the new precinct.
This growth will provide additional lifestyle, fashion and entertainment services as well as improving the community atmosphere.
Dubai’s Mall Scene Is Entering a New Era
Having six giant malls on the road and unprecedented extensions on already existing shopping giant, Dubai is preparing to go through the next level of retail, entertainment, and urban living. Not only do the new projects showcase the ambition of the emirate, but also address the increase in residential population, tourism and need to experience something new in their lifestyles.