The Dubai Mall is a shopper's paradise and the world's second-largest mall by total area. It boasts over 1,200 stores, from luxury brands to high-street favorites. It also has countless dining options, entertainment facilities, and even an indoor ice rink. The Dubai Mall is not just a place for shopping, but a destination for a full day of fun and excitement.
While designer boutiques and celebrity chef restaurants can put a dent in your wallet, the mall offers plenty to see and do that's easy on the budget. In fact, you could go through an entire day in Dubai Mall with only 100 AED, and not on a taxi to go back home. From delicious meals to gorgeous attractions, you shouldn't let your budget hold you back from what Dubai Mall has to offer.
Here's how you can spend 100 AED or less in Dubai Mall for a day!
Grab an espresso from Arabica – 17 AED
Time to wake up and smell the coffee! To start off your day at Dubai Mall, you have to try a cup of espresso from this coffee shop.
Arabica is a haven for coffee lovers, boasting a unique concept that originated in Kyoto, Japan. They source and roast the finest beans from all over the world, including their very own farm. Their reputation is built on providing a perfect yet simple cup of coffee, alongside a selection of delicious food options.
The Dubai Mall branch is conveniently located on the Ground Floor between Markette and Level Shoe District Kids. Just like all Arabica locations, this branch offers a welcoming atmosphere to relax and enjoy their coffee. They have a 17 AED espresso, a great choice for a quick, classic, and cheap pick-me-up. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Arabica is probably the cheapest, yet most delicious coffee you could in Dubai Mall. It's a perfect spot to grab a delicious espresso and begin your day.
Where: Ground Floor
Check out the record-breaking Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo — FREE
Lucky for you, Arabica is located just a corner away from the Dubai Aquarium. The blue glow of the aquarium is sure to add something special to your morning stroll across the mall.
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a massive 10 million-litre tank in Dubai Mall, home to over 33,000 aquatic animals and the world's largest collection of sand tiger sharks. The aquarium, which measures 51 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 11 meters in height, is a popular attraction for adults and children and it goes up all the way to the third floor! It houses over 140 species of sea life and features a 48-meter underwater tunnel for an immersive experience.
The complex also includes the Underwater Zoo, offering experiences like cage diving with sharks and fish feeding shows. However, you don't have to pay to see the magnificent creatures from outside. Though some of the unique experiences cost money, you can still enjoy observing the marine life from the outside without purchasing a ticket. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo provides a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world for visitors of all ages.
Where: Ground Floor
Enjoy a combo lunch from Al Baik — 23 AED
Al Baik, a Saudi Arabian fast-food chain, has taken the UAE by storm with its legendary fried chicken. Founded in 1974, it's garnered a cult following for its unique crispy coating and juicy, flavorful chicken. Beyond their signature dish, Al Baik offers a surprisingly diverse menu including grilled dishes, seafood options like shrimp meals, and even vegetarian falafel sandwiches. Their commitment to quality ingredients and reasonable prices keeps customers coming back for more.
Located conveniently in the food court, it's a haven for hungry shoppers seeking a delicious, satisfying, and affordable meal. For just 23 AED, you can enjoy a yummy combo meal containing 10 chicken fillet nuggets OR 4 pieces of crunchy chicken, both spicy and regular. With over 40 locations across the UAE, Al Baik has become a household name for those craving delicious fast food.
Where: Second Floor Food Court
Treat yourself to a Cinnabon — 17 AED
Of course, there's always room for dessert, and if you don't believe that, all you have to do is walk by Cinnabon. Inevitably you'll pass by as you leave the food court, but the mouthwatering smell of the cinnamon rolls will definitely stop you in your tracks.
Cinnabon is a global bakery franchise synonymous with warm, gooey cinnamon rolls. Their secret recipe, featuring layers of buttery dough, fragrant cinnamon, and a decadent cream cheese frosting, has won over taste buds worldwide. Whether you're craving a classic cinnamon roll or looking to explore their menu, Cinnabon is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The Dubai Mall branch is a haven for cinnamon roll lovers. Just like all Cinnabon locations, this branch offers the aroma of freshly baked goods and a warm, inviting atmosphere. They boast all your Cinnabon favorites, from the classic rolls to decadent Cinnabon Stix, perfect for sharing (or not!). If you're looking for a quick pick-me-up or a sweet treat to end your shopping spree, the Cinnabon branch at the Dubai Mall is the perfect spot to indulge.
Where: Second Floor Food Court
Get prehistoric and learn with the Dubai Dino — FREE
While on y our stroll, you may encounter a gigantic creature, but don't be afraid! That's just the Dubai Dino.
The Dubai Mall is home to the incredible Dubai Dino, which showcases a 155-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton originally from Wyoming. This remarkably preserved skeleton stands an impressive 7.6 meters tall and spans a length of 24.4 meters, providing a fascinating window into the ancient past. You can find this astonishing display in The Souk, adjacent to the ice rink, and it's completely free to visit during the mall's regular opening hours. The Dubai Dino is a captivating attraction that ignites curiosity about dinosaurs and paleontology, making it an essential stop for anyone passionate about these prehistoric creatures or seeking remarkable photo opportunities.
Where: Ground Floor
Snap some pics at the Urban Outfitters photobooth — 20 AED
Urban Outfitters is a haven for trendsetters seeking a unique shopping experience. This popular American clothing and lifestyle retailer offers a curated selection of on-trend apparel, accessories, home goods, and vinyl records. Whether you're looking for a statement outfit or quirky home décor pieces, Urban Outfitters has something for everyone.
Adding to the fun factor is the in-store photo booth, a hidden gem for capturing memories with friends. For 20 AED, you can strike a pose alone or with friends at this unique photo booth. After getting your pics, you can even stick a copy on the photo booth itself, making sure your legacy lives forever!
@yaraaf1 #fypシ #foryou #photobooth #friends #fun #uae #dxb #abudhabi #dubai #photography #اكسبلورر ♬ son original - FYP 🤍🇲🇺
Where: First Floor
Watch the Dubai Fountain — Free
The Dubai Fountain is an impressive spectacle located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, and it holds the title of being the world's tallest performing fountain. Spanning over 900 feet, its stunning design incorporates five circles of varying sizes and two grand arcs.
During the show, you can witness an enchanting display of water jets shooting up to an incredible height of 500 feet, all while being illuminated by over 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors.
Finding an ideal spot to view this spectacular show is effortless. The fountain's strategic location on the Burj Khalifa Lake offers breathtaking views from the promenade outside the Dubai Mall or the numerous restaurants surrounding the area.
Where: Ground Floor
Timings: Every 30 minutes from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Take a glance at the iconic Burj Khalifa – FREE
No trip to Dubai Mall is complete without a look at the world's tallest skyscraper.
Burj Khalifa is a landmark that needs no introduction. Towering over the Dubai skyline, the Burj Khalifa is an architectural marvel and the world's tallest structure.
While you have to pay to get to the top of the 163 floors, you can take in the skyscraper's glory from below for free! Of course, the view from below can't compare to the view from above, but it's just as magnificent. The sheer size and beauty of the building make it a sight to behold, even if you're admiring it from the ground.
Browse Souk Al Bahar — FREE
Souk Al Bahar, a modern Arabesque marketplace in Downtown Dubai, offers a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. Known as the "sailor's market," it sits by the water and is accessible via Dubai Mall's walkway. The market features natural stone corridors, restrained lighting, and Arabian decor. Over 20 shops and 17 restaurants offer views of the waterfront promenade, while alleyways feature fashion, Arabian handicrafts, perfumes, and antiques. Despite its modernity, visitors can still immerse themselves in the city's heritage and traditions.
Where: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
Immerse in the lights of Chinatown – Free
Get ready to be transported to the vibrant streets of the Far East without leaving the city. Chinatown at the Dubai Mall, situated on the first floor opposite the Dubai Ice Rink, offers an immersive experience that will leave you dazzled. As you step through the grand entrance, prepare to be mesmerized by the visual spectacle of classic red lanterns, neon lights, and a magnificent giant panda sculpture. The traditional Chinese architecture, with its hip-and-gable roof styles adorning the storefronts, creates an authentic and enchanting ambiance that will leave you in awe.
Where: First Floor
End your day with Karak and biscuits from Ana Restaurant – 21 AED
There's nothing better than a fresh and hot cup of Karak after a long day. Luckily, Ana Restaurant offers some of the best Karak in Dubai Mall.
Nestled near the cascading waterfall on the first floor of the Dubai Mall, Ana Restaurant offers a delightful taste of Emirati cuisine. This modern and welcoming space is designed to enrich your dining experience, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the UAE. Their menu features an array of traditional dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients and presented with a contemporary flair.
Karak is a strong, milky tea, spiced with cardamom and other aromatics, and is a beloved beverage in the UAE. Ana's Karak boasts a perfectly balanced flavor profile, offering a comforting and authentic taste of Emirati culture at a price that can't be beaten.
Where: First Floor
With two dirhams left, you can successfully say you spent a full day in Dubai Mall using less than 100 AED!
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