Dubai, known for its opulence and luxury, is a shopping haven for tourists and locals alike. One of the city's many attractions is its high-end outlet malls, which offer various designer brands at discounted prices. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best designer outlet malls in Dubai, provide rankings based on various criteria, and include a comparison table to help you decide where to shop during your visit.
Ranking Criteria
To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, we'll rank the outlet malls based on the following criteria:
- Number of Stores: The variety of shopping options available.
- Brand Availability: Types and number of high-end brands housed.
- Discount Rates: Average discount percentage offered.
- Amenities: Additional facilities such as dining options, parking, and Wi-Fi.
Best Designer Outlet Malls in Dubai
| Rank | Mall | No. of Stores | Top Brands | Discount Rates | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dubai Outlet Mall | 240+ | Aldo, Adidas, Nike, Burberry | 20-90% | Free Wi-Fi, baby carts, dining options |
| 2 | The Outlet Village | 100+ | Coach, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss | 20-70% | Free parking, valet services, baby strollers |
| 3 | Mall of the Emirates | 560+ | Multiple luxury brands | Varied, up to 70% | Ski Dubai, cinema, extensive dining options |
| 4 | Dubai Festival City | 400+ | Luxury & mid-range brands | Up to 50-70% | IMAGINE show, dining, Wi-Fi |
| 5 | Global Village | Seasonal pavilions | Local & international brands | Up to 50-60% | Cultural shows, family-friendly facilities |
1. Dubai Outlet Mall
Dubai Outlet Mall tops our list due to its extensive range of brands and stores, significant discount rates, and excellent amenities. It's the city’s first outlet concept mall, making it a prime destination for those looking to snag luxury items at bargain prices.
Number of Stores: Over 240
Brand Availability: 1,200+ brands, including Aldo, Adidas, Nike, and Burberry
Discount Rates: 20-90% off
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, ATMs, baby carts, medical rooms, lost & found, various dining options
Accessibility: Easily accessible via metro and bus routes (Al Rashidiya Metro Station and Bus Routes 66, 67)
Location: Dubailand (Al Ain Road)
2. The Outlet Village
The Outlet Village offers a premium shopping experience featuring luxurious brands in a Tuscan-inspired setting. While it has fewer stores than Dubai Outlet Mall, the serene environment and excellent amenities make it a favorite among high-end shoppers.
Number of Stores: Over 100
Brand Availability: High-end brands like Coach, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss
Discount Rates: 20-70% off
Amenities: Free parking, valet parking, baby strollers, charging stations, Wi-Fi
Accessibility: Easily reachable via the metro (Red Line to Ibn Battuta Station and DPR1 Bus Stops)
Location: Jebel Ali (Near Dubai Parks and Resorts)
3. Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is not a typical outlet mall but earns its spot due to its comprehensive shopping experience. With over 560 stores and world-class amenities like Ski Dubai, it offers a unique blend of luxury and entertainment. The discounted seasons bring attractive offers on high-end brands.
Number of Stores: 560+
Brand Availability: Multitude of high-end brands, mixed with regular retail stores
Discount Rates: Varied, up to 70% during sale seasons
Amenities: Ski Dubai, cinema, extensive dining options, ATMs, baby changing rooms, Wi-Fi
Accessibility: Easily accessible via Mall of the Emirates Metro Station
Location: Al Barsha
4. Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall is renowned for its elaborate shopping festivals and the IMAGINE show. It balances luxury with family entertainment, making it a versatile destination for those seeking shopping and fun.
Number of Stores: 400+
Brand Availability: Luxury brands alongside mid-range options
Discount Rates: Up to 50-70% during sales
Amenities: IMAGINE water, light & laser show, various dining options, ATMs, baby changing rooms, Wi-Fi
Accessibility: Easily reachable via public transport and well-connected roads
Location: Dubai Festival City
5. Global Village
Global Village is a seasonal world exposition featuring pavilions from various countries, each offering unique goods. While not exclusively an outlet mall, its eclectic mix of shopping options and cultural experiences makes it a must-visit.
Number of Stores: Seasonal pavilions with hundreds of shops
Brand Availability: Mix of local artisans and international brands
Discount Rates: Up to 50-60%
Amenities: Cultural shows, dining options, ATMs, family-friendly facilities
Accessibility: Accessible by public buses and private transport
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Additional Tips for Shoppers
- Download Mall Apps: Many malls in Dubai offer dedicated mobile apps that provide information on ongoing sales, new store openings, and even mall maps to help you navigate.
- Early Bird Catches the Worm: Shopping early in the day can be a more pleasant experience, as the malls are less crowded, and you can have a more relaxed shopping spree.
- Plan Your Route: Given the grandeur and unique layouts of many malls, planning your visit can help you cover more ground without getting lost. Use the mall directories available online or within the apps.
- Comfortable Footwear: It's no surprise that a day of shopping in Dubai can be exhaustive. Wearing comfortable shoes can save you a lot of trouble and keep you energetic throughout your expedition.
- Check for Special Tourist Discounts: Some stores offer additional discounts for tourists—don’t forget to inquire and keep your passport handy.
- Transportation: While public transport is a viable option, renting a car or using a taxi might offer more convenience if you're planning to carry many shopping bags.
Final Thoughts
Shopping in Dubai is an adventure, seamlessly melding the high-end luxury shopping experience with remarkable discounts. The outlet malls offer something for everyone, whether you're a die-hard luxury brand fan or a casual shopper. Visiting Dubai Outlet Mall, The Outlet Village, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City Mall, and Global Village, shoppers can indulge in a diverse and fulfilling experience.
So next time you visit Dubai, allocate enough time to explore these shopping paradises. Happy shopping, and don't forget to grab those deals while they last!
