Mall of the Emirates is far more than just a shopping center—it’s a comprehensive entertainment, dining, and lifestyle destination that offers something for every visitor. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, a family with children, or an adventure seeker, understanding all the things to do in Mall of the Emirates will help you maximize your visit to one of Dubai’s most iconic malls. This comprehensive guide covers everything from world-class shopping and unique attractions like Ski Dubai to gourmet dining, family activities, and hidden gems that many visitors miss. We’ll provide practical tips, money-saving strategies, and an optimized itinerary to ensure you experience the best this extraordinary destination has to offer.
Why Mall of the Emirates Stands Out in Dubai
Before diving into specific activities, it’s important to understand what makes Mall of the Emirates special. Unlike traditional malls, this destination combines luxury shopping with unprecedented entertainment options, creating a full-day (or multi-day) experience rather than just a shopping trip. The mall’s most famous feature—Ski Dubai—represents the incredible ambition of Dubai itself: an indoor ski resort in the middle of a desert city. But beyond this iconic attraction, the mall offers over 630 retail outlets, 100 dining destinations, a 14-screen cinema, luxury hotels, and innovative entertainment options that continue to evolve. Its convenient location along Sheikh Zayed Road, directly connected to the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, makes it easily accessible from anywhere in Dubai. Whether you have two hours or two days, this guide will help you prioritize the things to do in Mall of the Emirates that match your interests and timeframe.
Shopping: From Luxury Brands to Local Finds
Luxury & High-End Shopping
Mall of the Emirates serves as Dubai’s premier luxury shopping destination alongside Dubai Mall. Key luxury areas include:
- Fashion Dome: This stunning section houses most luxury brands including Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Cartier
- Via Rodeo: Designed to resemble Beverly Hills’ famous shopping street
- Bloomingdale’s: The anchor department store offering premium brands across three expansive levels
- Harvey Nichols: British luxury department store with exclusive collections
Shopping Tips:
- Visit during weekdays (Sunday-Thursday mornings) for fewer crowds
- Check for tourist promotions—many stores offer VAT refunds and tourist discounts
- The Luxury Shopping Concierge can assist with personal shopping services
- Seasonal sales (Dubai Shopping Festival in January, Summer Surprises in July-August) offer significant discounts
Mainstream & High-Street Fashion
For more accessible shopping:
- H&M, Zara, Mango: Large flagship stores with extensive collections
- American Brands: Gap, Forever 21, Hollister, Aeropostale
- Sportswear: Massive Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour stores
- Electronics: Apple Store, Samsung, Virgin Megastore
Local & Specialty Stores
Discover unique Dubai and regional offerings:
- The Souk: Traditional market-style area with Arabian-inspired stores
- Ounass: Local multi-brand retailer featuring Middle Eastern designers
- Bateel: Luxury dates and gourmet foods—perfect for gifts
- Camel Company: Authentic Emirati souvenirs and camel milk products
Ski Dubai: The Indoor Winter Wonderland
As the mall’s signature attraction, Ski Dubai deserves special attention. This massive indoor ski resort maintains temperatures of -1°C to -2°C year-round.
Activities at Ski Dubai:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Suitable for all levels with instructors available
- Snow Park: Includes tobogganing hills, snow caverns, bobsled rides, and tubing
- Penguin Encounters: Meet real Gentoo and King Penguins (additional cost)
- Chairlift Ride: Offers views of the entire snow park
- Zorb Ball: Rolling down slopes inside a giant transparent ball
Practical Information:
- Hours: Typically 10 AM-11 PM Sunday-Wednesday, 10 AM-12 AM Thursday-Saturday
- Tickets: Various packages available (Snow Park only, Full Day Ski, Penguin Encounter combos)
- What’s Included: Winter clothing (jacket, pants, boots, socks), equipment (skis/snowboard/poles)
- What to Bring: Gloves (available for purchase), long pants, and sleeves (to wear under provided clothing)
- Booking Tips: Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts; weekdays are less crowded
For Non-Skiers:
Even if you don’t ski, the viewing gallery offers free observation of the slopes, and the Alpine-themed café, Après, provides a cozy mountain lodge atmosphere.
Family & Children’s Activities
Mall of the Emirates is exceptionally family-friendly with numerous activities for children:
Magic Planet
One of the largest indoor family entertainment centers in Dubai:
- Arcade Games: Hundreds of the latest video and redemption games
- Rides: Small amusement rides suitable for younger children
- Bowling: Modern 12-lane bowling alley
- Laser Tag: Multi-level arena
- Soft Play Area: For toddlers and young children
- Virtual Reality Experiences: Latest VR games and simulations
Other Family Attractions
- KidZania: Educational role-playing city for children 4-14 (though temporarily closed, check for reopening)
- Dinosaur Park: Interactive dinosaur exhibits and activities
- Theatre by Roxy: Family-friendly movies with occasional children’s programming
- Winter Garden: Open space for children to play (seasonal installations)
Family Services:
- Parent Rooms: Well-equipped with feeding areas, play spaces, and changing facilities
- Stroller Rentals: Available at information desks
- Family Parking: Designated family parking areas close to entrances
- Baby Facilities: Available throughout the mall
Dining: From Quick Bites to Gourmet Experiences
With over 100 dining options, Mall of the Emirates is a food lover’s paradise:
Fine Dining & Special Occasion Restaurants
- Al Nafoorah: Renowned Lebanese cuisine with elegant atmosphere
- The Cheesecake Factory: Popular American chain with massive portions
- P.F. Chang’s: Asian fusion in sophisticated surroundings
- Texas Roadhouse: American steakhouse with lively atmosphere
- Wagamama: Popular Asian-inspired chain with healthy options
Casual Dining & Cafés
- Shake Shack: Premium burgers and shakes
- Paul: French bakery and café perfect for light meals
- Starbucks Reserve: Unique Starbucks experience with special beverages
- Jones the Grocer: Australian-inspired café with excellent breakfast
- Comptoir 102: Health-focused café with organic options
Food Court & Quick Options
The extensive food court offers:
- International fast food (McDonald’s, KFC, Subway)
- Middle Eastern favorites (Operation Falafel, Manoushe Street)
- Asian options (Japanese, Chinese, Indian)
- Healthy choices (Salad Jar, Just Salad)
Unique Dining Experiences
- Après Ski: Alpine-themed restaurant in Ski Dubai
- The Gourmet Gallery: High-end food hall with artisanal products and dining
- Kempsinski Hotel Restaurants: Multiple upscale options within the connected hotel
Entertainment Beyond Shopping
Vox Cinemas
State-of-the-art movie experience:
- 14 Screens: Including MAX and 4DX experiences
- Theatre by Roxy: Luxury cinema with gourmet food service
- Family Screenings: Special showings for children and parents
- Latest Releases: Both Hollywood and regional films
Cultural & Seasonal Events
The mall regularly hosts:
- Fashion Shows: Showcasing latest collections
- Live Music: Evenings and weekends in common areas
- Seasonal Festivals: Special decorations and activities for Ramadan, Eid, Christmas, and Diwali
- Art Exhibitions: Rotating displays in collaboration with local galleries
Gaming & Virtual Reality
- VR Park Dubai: Although located in Dubai Mall, virtual reality experiences are periodically available at Mall of the Emirates through pop-ups
- E-Sports Events: Occasionally hosted in collaboration with retailers
Beauty, Wellness & Relaxation
Spa & Beauty Services
- Nail Spa: Multiple nail salons throughout the mall
- Hair Salons: Including Toni & Guy and other international brands
- Massage & Spa Services: Available at some beauty centers
- Makeup Counters: Most major beauty brands offer makeovers
Wellness & Fitness
- Fitness First Gym: Large facility with classes and equipment
- Yoga Sessions: Occasionally offered in open spaces
- Walking Routes: The mall’s size makes it perfect for indoor walking (especially during summer heat)
Practical Information & Visitor Tips
Getting There & Parking
- Metro: Direct connection to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station (Red Line)
- Parking: Over 7,000 parking spaces with valet service available
- Taxi: Multiple dedicated taxi stands at all entrances
- Rideshare: Designated pick-up/drop-off points for Careem and Uber
Mall Hours
- Shopping: Generally 10 AM-10 PM Sunday-Wednesday, 10 AM-12 AM Thursday-Saturday
- Restaurants: May have extended hours, some open until 1 AM
- Ramadan Hours: Typically 10 AM-1 AM with adjustments for iftar
Services for Visitors
- Information Desks: Multiple locations with multilingual staff
- Currency Exchange: Several exchange counters throughout
- Prayer Rooms: Well-maintained facilities for men and women
- Wi-Fi: Free throughout the mall
- Luggage Storage: Available for tourists
- Wheelchair Rentals: Free of charge at information desks
Money-Saving Tips
- Tourist Discounts: Many stores offer additional discounts for tourists—ask and show your passport
- Combination Tickets: Look for Ski Dubai and Magic Planet combination deals
- Loyalty Programs: Sign up for the Mall Rewards program
- Happy Hours: Many restaurants offer early evening specials
- Weekday Visits: Less crowded with occasional weekday promotions
Seasonal & Special Events
Mall of the Emirates hosts numerous events throughout the year:
Dubai Shopping Festival (December-January)
- Extended shopping hours
- Massive discounts and promotions
- Live entertainment and raffles
- Special family activities
Ramadan & Eid
- Special decorations and atmosphere
- Extended hours (often until 1 AM)
- Iftar and suhoor offerings at restaurants
- Cultural activities and entertainment
Summer Surprises (July-August)
- Indoor activities to escape the heat
- Back-to-school promotions
- Family entertainment programs
- Sales across most stores
Holiday Season (November-December)
- Christmas decorations and events
- Santa meet-and-greets
- Seasonal performances
- Special holiday shopping promotions
One-Day Itinerary Suggestions
Family Day Itinerary
- 10:00 AM: Arrive, park in family parking
- 10:30 AM: Visit Magic Planet for morning entertainment
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at family-friendly restaurant (Cheesecake Factory or food court)
- 2:30 PM: Ski Dubai Snow Park session
- 5:00 PM: Shopping for children’s clothing and toys
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at casual dining restaurant
- 8:30 PM: Movie at Vox Cinemas
- 10:00 PM: Depart
Luxury Shopping & Fine Dining Itinerary
- 11:00 AM: Arrive, valet park
- 11:30 AM: Luxury shopping in Fashion Dome
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at fine dining restaurant (Al Nafoorah or similar)
- 3:30 PM: Continue shopping or visit beauty counters for makeovers
- 6:00 PM: Après Ski for drinks in alpine atmosphere
- 8:00 PM: Gourmet dinner at Kempinski hotel restaurant
- 10:00 PM: Evening stroll through luxury sections
Adventure & Experience Itinerary
- 10:00 AM: Ski Dubai full ski session
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at casual sports bar
- 2:30 PM: Magic Planet for arcade games and bowling
- 5:00 PM: Explore unique stores in The Souk area
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at themed restaurant
- 9:00 PM: Evening cinema experience at Theatre by Roxy
Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Features
Secret Spots for Relaxation
- Winter Garden: Often quieter than main corridors
- Kempinski Hotel Lobby: Elegant space to sit away from crowds
- Upper Level Seating Areas: Near cinema entrance with good views
Photography Opportunities
- Ski Dubai Viewing Gallery: Free and offers great photos of skiers
- Architectural Features: The mall’s design includes interesting angles and lighting
- Seasonal Decorations: Particularly impressive during major festivals
Unique Services
- Personal Shopping Assistants: Available through information desks
- Gift Wrapping Services: Multiple locations offering premium wrapping
- Shoe Shine Stations: Convenient for refreshing during shopping marathons
Accessibility Features
Mall of the Emirates is highly accessible:
- Wheelchair Access: Ramps and elevators throughout
- Accessible Parking: Designated spots near all entrances
- Accessible Restrooms: Available on all levels
- Visual & Hearing Assistance: Available upon request at information desks
- Service Animals: Permitted throughout the mall
Nearby Attractions & Combined Visits
Since Mall of the Emirates is centrally located, consider combining your visit with:
- Dubai Miracle Garden: Seasonal garden (open November-May)
- Dubai Butterfly Garden: Year-round attraction
- Avenue at Etihad Mall: Smaller, adjacent mall with different stores
- Al Barsha Pond Park: Outdoor green space for contrast to indoor mall
Health & Safety Measures
The mall maintains high health and safety standards:
- Security: Visible security presence and CCTV throughout
- Cleanliness: Regular cleaning with attention to high-touch areas
- First Aid: Stations available with trained staff
- Emergency Procedures: Clearly marked exits and assembly points
- COVID-19 Measures: Depending on current regulations, may include sanitization stations and capacity management
Sustainability Initiatives
Mall of the Emirates participates in Dubai’s sustainability efforts:
- Energy Efficiency: LED lighting and efficient HVAC systems
- Waste Management: Recycling programs throughout
- Water Conservation: Efficient fixtures in restrooms
- Green Building Features: Designed with environmental considerations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the must-visit stores in Mall of the Emirates?
A: For luxury: Chanel, Louis Vuitton in Fashion Dome. For mainstream: Bloomingdale’s, Zara. For local: The Souk area, Bateel for dates.
Q2: Is Ski Dubai suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Ski Dubai offers lessons for all levels, and the slopes are graded for different abilities. The Snow Park is perfect for non-skiers.
Q3: How much time should I allocate for a visit?
A: Minimum 3-4 hours for basic shopping. A full day if you plan to visit attractions like Ski Dubai or Magic Planet.
Q4: Are there prayer facilities?
A: Yes, well-maintained prayer rooms for men and women are available. Ask at any information desk for directions.
Q5: What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
A: Weekday mornings (Sunday-Thursday, 10 AM-12 PM). Evenings and weekends are busiest.
Q6: Can I store my luggage while shopping?
A: Yes, luggage storage services are available. Check with the information desk for locations and fees.
Q7: Are there discounts for tourists?
A: Many stores offer tourist discounts when you show your passport. Also check for VAT refund opportunities.
Q8: Is the mall accessible by public transportation?
A: Yes, it’s directly connected to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station on the Red Line. Buses and taxis also serve the mall.
Q9: What dining options are available for specific dietary needs?
A: Most restaurants offer vegetarian options. For vegan, gluten-free, or other specific needs, check with restaurant staff—many can accommodate.
Q10: Are there activities for young children?
A: Yes, Magic Planet has areas for young children, and there are often seasonal activities in common areas. The mall is stroller-friendly with family facilities.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Visit
Mall of the Emirates offers an unparalleled combination of shopping, entertainment, dining, and leisure activities that can fill an entire vacation or provide a perfect day out. By planning ahead using this guide, you can prioritize the things to do in Mall of the Emirates that match your interests, whether that’s hitting the slopes at Ski Dubai, indulging in luxury shopping, enjoying family entertainment, or sampling diverse culinary offerings.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes—the mall spans over 2.4 million square feet—and consider downloading the mall’s official app for real-time information on stores, promotions, and events. Whether you’re visiting during Dubai’s hot summer months and seeking indoor entertainment or looking for holiday shopping during the winter season, Mall of the Emirates delivers a world-class experience that goes far beyond traditional shopping.
With its continuous evolution and addition of new attractions, dining concepts, and retail experiences, each visit to Mall of the Emirates can offer something new. From your first glimpse of skiers through the glass wall of Ski Dubai to your final purchase from one of the world’s leading luxury brands, this destination encapsulates the ambition, luxury, and innovation that define Dubai itself.
