Dubai is experiencing significant growth in the retail sector, with plans to launch six new shopping centers between 2026 and 2027 to meet the increasing demand for shopping destinations. These centers have become popular retreats for families and individuals throughout much of the year.
According to local reports, the new shopping centers will be strategically located in vibrant areas of the emirate. The Heartland area is set to welcome the Shoba Heartland Mall, which is expected to boost shopping activity, especially for nearby residential communities. It will offer small and medium retail spaces, daily services, including shops, supermarkets, a gym, and family facilities, which will support local spending and create opportunities for small businesses.
Meanwhile, Liwan Mall in the Liwan area features a design focused on open spaces, cafes, and restaurants, enhancing its commercial appeal as a local destination with mid-range spending. It will cater to both residents and visitors while providing a cost-effective environment compared to large enclosed malls.
Villa Square stands out in the heart of Wadi Safa 5 as an investment model combining retail and health sectors. It will include shops alongside wellness facilities and selected dining options, reflecting the market’s shift towards value-added specialized projects capable of attracting new consumer segments and creating lasting experiences.
In Dubai South, the South Bay Mall is anticipated as a significant opening due to its location and views, featuring dozens of stores along with service amenities such as a food court, a gym, a spa, and a clinic. This will enhance the area’s attractiveness for investment and residential purposes.
Dubai Square Mall is one of the most impactful economic projects, designed as a self-contained city within the Dubai Creek area. It leverages advanced technologies for retail and entertainment management, offering walkable spaces and interactive experiences. This bolsters Dubai’s competitiveness in the smart retail sector and attracts quality investments.
With an estimated investment of around 180 billion AED, this project ranks among the largest retail investments in the region. The Ghaf Woods Mall, set to open three years from now, reflects an investment direction towards sustainable projects by integrating commercial activity with green spaces and outdoor activities within a new urban community, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly initiatives and enhancing the property value in surrounding areas.
Expansion Plans
The shopping centers in Dubai are undergoing significant expansions alongside new projects. Dubai Mall is currently enhancing its luxury retail spaces, while Mall of the Emirates is developing its entertainment offerings, dining options, and social areas, aiming to increase tourist spending and diversify income sources.
The Majid Al Futtaim Group has announced a massive expansion of Mall of the Emirates, with an investment estimated at about 5 billion AED set for 2025. This expansion includes adding 20,000 square meters of retail space to accommodate 100 new stores focused on fashion, luxury, and lifestyle.
These expansions collectively demonstrate that Dubai views shopping centers not just as commercial establishments, but as urban platforms that reflect the lifestyle of the city, meeting the aspirations of its residents and visitors while supporting its status as a global destination that blends economy, entertainment, and quality of life. This signifies a notable shift in the economic model of retail centers, where the focus has expanded beyond mere sales to include wellness as a key driver of economic and investment value.
The planned expansions come at a time when the retail sector in Dubai is witnessing a transformation in consumer patterns. Shopping centers are no longer reliant on traditional retail alone; they are being designed as multifunctional economic destinations that combine trade, entertainment, health services, and community spaces, thereby increasing visitor duration and boosting investment returns.
2025 Developments
<pIn 2025, Dubai saw a retail boom, surpassing 6,500 stores with a total leasing space exceeding 13 million square feet. The previous year also experienced significant growth in the establishment of small to medium-sized retail centers in residential neighborhoods, aimed at providing daily services and shopping options that are closer to consumers.