Charging your electric vehicle in Dubai isn’t just a necessity – it’s a spectacle.
With public charging stations situated in awe-inspiring destinations, there’s never been a better reason to plug in and head out into the city, starting with Dubai Mall.
The world’s largest shopping mall offers free charging stations throughout its car parks. And though many EVs take anything from 30 minutes to charge, there are endless ways to make a day of it – just don’t forget to vacate your space once you’re fully juiced.
Explore: What can I see at Dubai Mall?
Who said malls were all about shopping? A record-breaking structure in its own right, the Dubai Mall is a treasure trove of discoveries, and Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo takes the crown.
The giant 10-million-litre tank is home to more than 33,000 aquatic animals and is one of the biggest aquariums in the world. Take a stroll through the 48-metre tunnel as sand tiger sharks swim overhead or simply strike a pose in front of the 51-metre-long tank face.
The aquarium in the Dubai Mall is one of the biggest in the world.
Once you’ve finished facing off with the fish, it’s time to marvel at another of Dubai’s world record-breaking attractions. The Dubai Fountain is the planet’s tallest performing fountain, overlooked by the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
Submerged in the 30-acre Burj Lake at the base of the Dubai Mall, the captivating water, music and light experience sends 22,000 gallons of water shooting 140 metres into the air to the tune of anything from K-pop to Baby Shark.
No trip to Dubai Mall would be complete without putting your head in the clouds on the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa itself. At The Top observation deck offers 360-degree views across the entire city and is unbeatable at sunset, when the skyline truly comes to life. Opt for the Burj Khalifa Sky premium experience to teeter 555 metres above ground at the highest observation deck in the world.
The view from the Burj Khalifa is simply stunning. The world’s tallest building lives up to expectations.
Dine: Where can I eat?
There are endless food options at Dubai Mall, ranging from fine dining to fast food. One of the newest and most exciting concepts, however, is the addition of Chinatown, transporting shoppers to the heart of the Far East.
Located on the mall’s first floor, the experience offers shopping, dining and wellness activities to visitors. Foodies should head straight for Singapore’s famed Hawker Chan food stall, for Michelin Star-winning soya chicken and rice, followed by a relaxing massage at YinYang Connection Spa.
To sample local flavours, head to Logma for a contemporary take on traditional Emirati grub or grab a table at The Cheesecake Factory for something to please everyone. Offering over 250 dishes from every cuisine imaginable, desserts are just the tip of the iceberg, with portion sizes guaranteed to strain even the stretchiest of waistbands.
For fine dining, Italian powerhouse Cipriani has created a café worthy of its mighty reputation. Cipriani Dolci is a luxurious take on the Italian Pasticceria serving eggs, baked goods, salads and, of course, delicious fresh pasta.
Play: Entertain the whole family
The world’s biggest indoor virtual reality zone, Play DXB offers more than 30 immersive adventures with options for all ages. Packed with rides and attractions including an inflatable playground, trampolines and an old-school carousel ride, there are hours of fun to be had, with free entry and attractions starting from just AED15.
Fancy cooling off? Head to a wintry wonderland at Dubai Ice Rink to glide around the ice to the beats of the in-house DJ. Cool activities here include skating lessons, broomball and ice dance parties. Feeling wobbly? Fear not – animal and snowman-shaped skating aids are available for newbies and trained staff are on hand to give you top skating tips.
The shopping options in Dubai Mall feel unlimited. From high-end fashion to simple accessories.
Shop till you drop
Got some cash to splash? Head to Fashion Avenue to browse high-end brands including Cartier, Chanel, Burberry and Celine. The precinct also offers VIP extras including porter services, an exclusive relaxation lounge and even a 20-metre catwalk if you want to model your new look. Grab a coffee at Somewhere for Dubai Fountain views or head to Home Bakery for an indulgent slab of coffee cake.
Step outside and cross the bridge to Souk Al Bahar for a contemporary take on the traditional Arabian marketplace. Meaning “market of the sailor” in Arabic, the popular spot combines shopping, entertainment, and dining. Here, you can pick up some traditional perfume, shop for trinkets or even invest in a kandoura among natural stone corridors and Arabia décor.
For a more Parisian take on shopping, head to Galeries Lafayette, Dubai’s biggest department store with a French touch. As well as designer threads for men, women and children, you’ll also find homewares, beauty, and an in-house food hall stocking a range of delightful bites across 10 different kitchens.
