Mall of the Emirates Turns 20—And Gets a Billion-Dollar Birthday Suit!

Image Source: Egypt Tours Plus

Dubai’s iconic Mall of the Emirates is set for a transformative AED 5 billion ($1.36 billion) redevelopment to mark its 20th anniversary, positioning itself as a “next-generation lifestyle destination.” The ambitious project, led by Majid Al Futtaim, will expand retail, wellness, cultural, and entertainment offerings, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global shopping and leisure hub.

Expansion and Investment

AED 5 billion ($1.36 billion) will be invested in the makeover, with AED 1.1 billion already spent on continuous improvements.
The mall will have 20,000 square metres of retail space added, bringing 100 new stores in luxury, fashion, and lifestyle segments.

New Wellness and Cultural Facilities

The SEVEN Wellness Club will open at the Kempinski Hotel, providing upmarket fitness, spa, and recovery facilities.
A cultural destination called "New Covent Garden," designed in collaboration with Dubai Performing Arts Academy, will open in early 2025 with a 600-seat theater and rehearsal facilities.

Improved Dining and Entertainment

An indoor-outdoor precinct with new fast-casual dining combined with entertainment experiences will create dynamic socializing opportunities.
The mall's inaugural outdoor food and beverage courtyard is opening in early 2027, becoming a green oasis in colder months.
Four new entertainment concepts are planned for late 2026, and VOX Cinemas has upgraded to offer the world’s most advanced IMAX experience.

Infrastructure and Sustainability

Major infrastructure upgrades include a barrier-less parking system, improved access roads, and bridge enhancements, in partnership with Dubai’s Roads andTransport Authority, targeted for completion by September.
Sustainability is central to the redevelopment, with energy-efficient technologies, smart systems, and eco-friendly design integrated throughout the project.

Vision and Legacy

The redevelopment is set to expand on the mall's heritage as a regional shopping and entertainment leader, with innovation, quality of life, and enabling Dubai to become a global city at the forefront of its agenda.
CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management Khalifa Bin Braik reinforced that the revitalization is all about "creating new ways for people to connect, unwind, and be inspired, all in one destination".

Sources: Arabian Business, Zawya