Major Expansion Planned for Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is set to invest a staggering Dh5 billion in a significant expansion project, which will feature the addition of 100 new retail outlets, a brand new cinema, enhanced indoor and outdoor dining areas, increased entertainment venues, and wellness facilities.
Majid Al Futtaim, the organization behind the mall, has announced that construction is already in progress, with 20,000 square meters of new space being developed and Dh1.1 billion of the budget already allocated. Shoppers can expect to experience the transformation shortly, as the mall evolves into a destination that offers immersive, multi-sensory experiences.
This major expansion coincides with the mall’s 20th anniversary and aligns with the long-term Vision 2030 initiative to introduce a “Mall of New Possibilities.”
Features of the Transformation
The upcoming transformation will highlight a new area combining outdoor and indoor environments, which will blend fast-casual dining with interactive entertainment options. Central to this redesign will be the mall’s inaugural outdoor food and beverage courtyard, expected to open in early 2027. This versatile space will convert into a verdant oasis during the cooler months.
“We aim to introduce high-end dining options to enhance visitor experiences. Many exciting developments will be announced soon,” Majid Al Futtaim stated.
Research indicates that modern consumers are looking for more than traditional shopping experiences; they desire unique experiences that include cultural interactions and convenience.
Entertainment Developments
The New Covent Garden theatre is projected to soft-launch in mid-2025, with a grand opening anticipated later that same year. The lifestyle entertainment zones are set to be completed by 2026 and will include rehearsal areas and a seating capacity for 600 attendees.
By late 2026, four additional entertainment venues will also be unveiled, alongside the introduction of a cutting-edge IMAX experience at VOX Cinemas.
In addition to these projects, Majid Al Futtaim stated that there would be a comprehensive renovation of the West End district, aimed at modernizing its design and creating a lively social environment.
Vision for the Future
“Twenty years ago, Mall of the Emirates established a new standard for retail and entertainment in the region. Today, we are enhancing that legacy with this ambitious investment that reimagines the future of malls. This project is more than just physical growth; it’s about fostering new ways for individuals to engage, relax, and be inspired, all within one location,” expressed Khalifa Bin Braik, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management.
Majid Al Futtaim is a well-diversified conglomerate with assets valued at $19 billion and a workforce of over 43,000 people. The company manages 29 shopping centers, seven hotels, and five mixed-use developments, attracting more than 600 million visitors each year.