One of the most iconic malls in not just Dubai but the whole world is about to see a massive overhaul and is going to get even bigger and better. The Mall of the Emirates is on a spending spree and is all set to spend a massive Dh5 billion in an expansion move that is all set to rock and shock shoppers from all over the world. So what is all the hype about, and what is going to happen with the expansion? Well, for starters, they are going to be adding one hundred new stores, a new complex under Vox Cinemas for movie lovers, a new indoor and outdoor dining area, more entertainment areas, and places for health and wellness, which have caught on like wildfire in the not just the United Arab Emirates but in the whole world.
So, who is going to be footing the bill for this? Well, Majid Al Futtaim, the owner and operator of this Dubai icon, has plenty of cash lying around, and they are not afraid to spend it either. They said work is already in progress to add 20,000 square meters of more retail space, with Dh1.1 billion having been splashed out already on the massive expansion, and they have not broken a sweat as of yet. Visitors will “begin to see the results soon” as the mall transforms into an experience-led, multi-sensory destination, a senior Majid Al Futtaim executive said
Expansion marks its Anniversary
The mall’s expansion comes on the occasion of its 20th anniversary and is part of the 2030 vision to create a “Mall of New Possibilities.”
As part of the massive expansion of the mall, a new indoor-outdoor area will be made to create a dynamic mix of fast-casual food court and the best entertainment int he UAE. At its heart will be the mall’s new outdoor Foon & Beverages courtyard, set to debut in the beginning half of 2027. This adaptable space will turn into a lush green oasis in the cooler times of the year.
“We will be announcing high-end restaurants to elevate experiences. There are some incredible uplifts that will be unveiled in due course,” Majid Al Futaim said in a statement to a leading media outlet.
“Market research shows visitors now seek more than just shopping; they want unique experiences, cultural engagement, and seamless convenience,” it said.
The New Covent Garden theater is ready to soft-launch in the middle of 2025, with a grand opening later in this year while the multi-offering area’s lifestyle and entertainment spaces will be open for business by next year. It will have rehearsal areas along with 600 seats.
Massive Entertainment Complex
Four new entertainment offerings will be open for the public by late 2026, together with the launch of the world’s most advanced IMAX setup at VOX Cinemas.
Majid Al Futtaim said the additions also include a total revamp of the West End district, upgrading its design and environment to make a vibrant social hub.
“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,” said Khalifa Bin Braik, who is the CEO, or Chief Executive Officer, of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management.
A well-diversified group, Majid Al Futtaim owns businesses valued at $19 billion and has more than 43,000 people working for it. It owns and operates more than two dozen shopping malls, several high-end hotels, and almost half a dozen mixed-use communities, which welcome more than 600 million people through their doors annually.
This is a great addition to Dubai, and we are all excited to see it become a success.
Explore:
UAE: Dubizzle Group acquires real estate platform Property Monitor
UAE sets tax nexus rules for non-resident investors in real estate and funds