DUBAI: The Mall of the Emirates is set for a bold new chapter as it rolls out a massive Dh5 billion upgrade, introducing five major developments that will transform the mall’s landscape by 2027.
The revamp, launched by Majid Al Futtaim to mark the destination’s 20th anniversary, will bring significant additions across retail, dining, entertainment, wellness, and cultural spaces.
The transformation will be delivered in phases, with some features already completed and others launching through to 2027. The expansion will add 20,000 square metres to the mall’s footprint and introduce 100 new stores – a major boost to one of the Middle East’s most visited shopping and lifestyle hubs.
Retail expansion
At the heart of the development is a retail upgrade, with 100 new outlets set to open across the expanded space. From fashion and electronics to lifestyle and luxury, the additional stores will offer shoppers a broader mix of global and regional brands. This move comes in response to growing visitor demand for variety and immersive experiences in a single destination.
The expansion is part of Majid Al Futtaim’s 2030 vision to create a “Mall of New Possibilities,” positioning the mall as more than just a shopping centre – but a cultural and social destination.
Cultural hub
One of the most anticipated additions is the New Covent Garden theatre, set to soft-launch in mid-2025, with a full opening later that year. Featuring a 600-seat auditorium and rehearsal spaces, the venue is being developed in collaboration with the Dubai Performing Arts Academy. It aims to establish a dedicated cultural space for live performances and events, enhancing the mall’s offering for both residents and tourists.
Wellness redefined
The wellness sector is also seeing a high-end boost. Already open at Kempinski Hotel, the SEVEN Wellness Club offers gym facilities, spa services, and advanced recovery treatments. The club forms part of a broader push to introduce wellness as a central element of the mall experience – a reflection of shifting consumer expectations for holistic lifestyle integration.
Around Dh1.1 billion of the total investment has already been deployed in initial enhancements, including the wellness club and other infrastructure developments.
Dining precinct
A new indoor-outdoor dining precinct is currently under development and scheduled to open in early 2027. At its centre will be the mall’s first-ever open-air food and beverage courtyard – a flexible space that will transform into a green oasis during Dubai’s cooler months. The precinct will also house casual dining options and interactive entertainment, designed to create a more social and seasonal atmosphere.
West End revamp
The mall’s West End is being completely reimagined to improve flow, access and aesthetics. Enhancements include barrier-free parking with the Parkin system, improved road access from Sheikh Zayed Road and the Umm Suqeim bridge, and bridge upgrades in collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority. These works are expected to be completed by September 2024.
Other developments
Four additional entertainment experiences are scheduled for launch by late 2026, while VOX Cinemas has already unveiled what is being described as the world’s most advanced IMAX experience, setting a new benchmark for cinematic innovation in the region.
“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,” said Khalifa Bin Braik, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management.