- Seven new or expanded destinations are set to reshape the UAE shopping landscape.
- Community-centric designs move away from big-box malls toward wellness-led hubs.
- Dubai Square is envisioned as a tech-enabled indoor city at Creek Harbour.
- Nature-focused retail concepts like Ghaf Woods integrate thirty thousand trees for wellness.
The countdown to 2026 has officially begun, and it is clear that the UAE is no longer just building shopping centers; it is building lifestyles. While the era of the massive “big-box” mall continues to thrive, a new wave of community-centric and nature-focused venues is emerging to meet the needs of a more wellness-conscious audience. From the forest-living vibes of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road to the lagoon views of Dubai South, the next two years will see the debut of destinations that feel more like public parks and social sanctuaries than traditional retail stores.
Modern residents are increasingly seeking outdoor spaces and curated experiences that reflect their personal values, such as sustainability and mental well-being. This shift addresses a common pain point for city dwellers: the desire for “analog joy” and fresh air without sacrificing the convenience of world-class shopping. By integrating gyms, rooftop pools, and thousands of trees into retail designs, developers are proving a commitment to bold innovation in urban living. This reflects a transition where the mall becomes a neighborhood’s heart, offering a place to reset and connect rather than just a place to spend.
7 New UAE Malls and Major Expansions Opening in 2026
- Sobha Mall (Dubai Hartland) Located in the heart of the Sobha Hartland community, this AED 210 million luxury project is scheduled for completion in late 2026. Spanning 339,000 square feet, it will serve as a community-centric hub featuring boutique retail, a supermarket, gyms, play courts, and over ten diverse dining options.
- Ghaf Woods Mall (Dubai) Developed by Majid Al Futtaim, this first-of-its-kind “mall in the forest” is a highlight of the 2026 calendar. The nature-integrated design will feature over 30,000 trees, blending experiential retail and dining within a lush, green residential community along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
- Liwan Mall (Wadi Al Safa 2) Set to open in the second half of 2026, Liwan Mall brings a Spanish-inspired boutique experience to Dubai. This 113,674-square-foot destination will focus on luxury retail, café culture, and landscaped spaces, complete with a rooftop pool for a full-day leisure outing.
- Villa Square (Wadi Al Safa 5) Planned for Q3 2026, Villa Square is a boutique sustainable hub covering 124,000 square feet. It emphasizes indoor-outdoor layouts, wellness-friendly spaces, and curated eateries, offering a localized, slower-paced alternative to Dubai’s mega-malls.
- South Bay Mall (Dubai South) Strategically positioned in the Dubai South Residential District, this 200,000-square-foot mall is expected to be a social heart for the area. It will feature lagoon views, open-air walkways, a premium food hall, and over 60 retail outlets alongside a spa, gym, and clinic.
- Dubai Square (Dubai Creek Harbour) While currently in a mega-scale design phase with buzz for a 2026 opening, this “indoor city” concept aims to be three times the size of Downtown Dubai’s core area. It is set to feature groundbreaking tech, extensive walkways wide enough for electric cars, and a direct link to the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower.
- Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates Upgrades Major expansions of these iconic giants are due for completion around 2026. The Dubai Mall is adding 240 new luxury shops and high-end dining through a Dhs1.5 billion investment, while Mall of the Emirates is undergoing a Dhs5 billion makeover to add 100+ stores and a new outdoor F&B courtyard.
Take your lifestyle to a higher level by exploring these upcoming architectural marvels. Whether you are a foodie seeking lagoon-side dining or a nature lover looking for a forest-themed escape, the future of UAE retail has something for everyone. Learn more at the official developer websites and join the movement toward a more connected 2026!
