Dubai Mall (Emirates Mall)

Dubai Mall (Emirates Mall)

Dubai Mall (Mall of Emirates) is now at least one of the top five shopping malls in the world. It covers an area equivalent to 73 football fields and houses around 400 shops, over a dozen cinemas, nearly 70 restaurants, and an indoor ski slope. The mall has a floor map covering the entire complex, which is quite intricate.

There is a luxury brand street within the mall that gathers multiple top-tier global luxury brands, especially featuring a large number of women's fashion stores and housing many high-end labels. Many clothing brands here cannot be found in China. Although the architecture still retains a strong traditional Middle Eastern Arabic style, the striking contrast with the Western luxury brands it houses creates a powerful visual impact. Among the shoppers are locals dressed in traditional white or black Arabic attire, who, while devoutly adhering to Islamic teachings, remain enthusiastic about following fashion trends.

Additionally, the UAE is a tax-free country, making international luxury brands very affordable in Dubai. The tax-free shops here are also among the largest in the world, with many top global brands having a presence in the UAE. Compared to prices in China, the most worthwhile purchases here are luxury goods such as watches, branded clothing, cosmetics (including perfumes), as well as designer sunglasses, bags, shoes, etc., which are generally 40–60% cheaper than in China. (Luxury brands include: Ralph Lauren, Celine, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tod’s, YSL, BVLGARI)

There are also some items with Arabic characteristics, such as the local specialty—dates. Dates were among the earliest foods of the Arabs. Dates contain most of the nutrients the human body needs, and eating just six a day can sustain life. They include more than seven types of vitamins and even have anti-cancer properties.

Also, consider buying some Arabian perfumes as souvenirs. In Arab homes, the tradition of continuously burning incense has been passed down through generations. Sandalwood scent also symbolizes a host’s sincere welcome to guests from afar, hence the saying “perfume belongs to the Arabs.” Persian carpets are exquisitely crafted, durable, and full of exotic charm, making them premium home décor items. Additionally, daggers, Middle Eastern-style teapots, ornate hookahs, and copper items such as swords in Persian styles are also worth purchasing. Many of these copper pieces are inlaid with gemstones, offering both elegance and value. Finally, there are some inexpensive yet memorable items, such as colored sand—made by layering sands of seven different colors from the UAE’s seven emirates, which are beautifully crafted.

Basic Information about Emirates Mall

Address: P.O. Box 72999, Dubai, U.A.E.

Phone: (971 4) 409 9000

Fax: (971 4) 409 9888