While shopping in Dubai will certainly spoil you for choice, some retail havens offer truly unique experiences too; one such place is Ibn Battuta Mall which is well worth a visit.

Planning A Visit

The mall stands adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road right next to the Ibn Battuta Metro Station. Ideally, look to stay at a 5-star hotel in Dubai just a short walk away like Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai. The mall is open from 10:00am to 10:00pm from Saturday to Wednesday and 10:00am to midnight from Thursday to Friday.

Unique Courts

The mall is named after and inspired by Ibn Battuta, a famed Moroccan explorer in the 14th century. Inside, one will find six different courts each themed on six countries (Persia, China, Egypt, Andalusia, India and Tunisia) that Ibn Battuta travelled to; highlights include a stunning hand-painted dome at the Persian Court.

DarafshDubai Darafsh (130)CC BY-SA 3.0

Shopping Galore

Home to over 270 shops, Ibn Battuta Mall offers countless hours of perusing and shopping. Marks & Spencer and H&M are among the anchor stores, while famous brands like Charles & Keith, Cotton On and Tommy Hilfiger are on offer too. Other popular names here include Swarovski, Forever 21, Al Jaber Gallery and Claire’s.

Fun Experiences

Amongst the best things to do in Dubai for families is to visit this mall as well. Apart from plenty of dining options, there’s lots of entertainment too. You can watch movies at a 21-screen cinema which also has an IMAX theatre, enjoy bowling and experience Sky Zone, the first all-walled trampoline playing court in the world!