The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall’s outlets and family entertainments draw all types of visitor. The array of fashion houses, sportswear, children’s shops, and more make it an exciting shopping experience, while entertainment-seekers will love Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium, and the Burj Khalifa ‘At The Top’ observatories. Other musts include Dubai Dino, the Jurassic-era dinosaur skeleton displayed at the Souk Dome. It's no surprise that the mall features on many Dubai tours—usually as an exterior photo op. Some tours include a guided walk and free time to shop, while others add on entry to the Burj Khalifa, Ski Dubai, or Dubai Aquarium.

• The Dubai Mall is a must-visit for shopaholics and fun-loving families with kids.

• Expect to spend half a day or more here, perhaps on top of a visit to the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Aquarium.

• Wear comfy shoes: the mall is the size of 200 football pitches, so there’s lots of walking.

• Some shops are grouped into themed areas, such as boutiques at Fashion Avenue, footwear at Level Shoes, and jewelers at the Gold Souk.

• Free WiFi, mobile charging stations, and ATMs are available in the mall.

The easiest way to reach The Dubai Mall is by cab or metro. If the latter, take the Red Line to the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa stop, and catch a shuttle or ride the travelators on the Metro Link glass bridge—it’s a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) trip. Frequent buses to the mall also run from Deira Gold Souk and Al Ghubaiba bus station.

The Dubai Mall is great any time, but perhaps best in summer, when it offers cool respite from Dubai’s heat. The quietest times to explore are early after the 10am opening, and Sundays-Wednesdays before the weekends hit. Perhaps synchronize your visit with the Dubai Fountain shows outside: at 1pm and 1:30pm (1.30pm and 2pm Fridays) and half-hourly between 6pm and 11pm.

The Dubai Mall is ringed by the attractions of Downtown Dubai, so it’s easy to combine a visit with other activities. Perhaps catch The Dubai Fountain show at the adjoining Burj Lake or relax at a waterfront restaurant outside the mall with Burj Khalifa views.