Dubai continues to cement its reputation as a global retail and lifestyle hub, with plans underway for six exciting new malls and major retail destinations set to open between 2026 and 2028. These developments reflect the city’s vision of blending luxury retail, community‑centric experiences, entertainment innovations, and sustainability — all within cutting‑edge architectural designs.

From mega‑scale retail destinations to boutique community centres, here’s a closer look at what’s coming next to Dubai’s booming retail landscape:

1️⃣ Dubai Square Mall – A Futuristic Retail City

One of the most ambitious projects in Dubai’s retail future, Dubai Square Mall — being developed in Dubai Creek Harbour — is designed to be three times the size of Downtown Dubai’s core retail area, spanning 2.6 million square metres. It will blend shopping, entertainment, dining and smart mobility with electric vehicle‑friendly interiors and immersive tech‑driven experiences. Linked to the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower, this project aims for an opening around 2028.

Key features:

• Indoor “retail city” concept

• EV‑friendly interior zones

• Smart experiences, digital retail systems

• Strategic location close to major urban hubs

2️⃣ Ghaf Woods Mall – Nature‑Integrated Shopping

Set along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Ghaf Woods Mall brings a “mall in the forest” concept to life. Developed by Majid Al Futtaim, this flagship destination will blend over 30,000 trees, experiential retail, dining, and leisure spaces within a natural landscape — redefining typical enclosed‑mall experiences.

Why it matters:

• Immersive nature‑centric design

• Lifestyle‑oriented leisure zones

• A new flagship retail destination for Dubai

3️⃣ Sobha Mall – Community‑Centric Retail in Sobha Hartland

Sobha Mall, part of Sobha Hartland’s expanding community master plan, is targeting late 2026 for completion. This AED 210 million project will offer a boutique‑style retail centre with:

• 35+ retail outlets

• Supermarket and everyday lifestyle offerings

• Gym, play zones, and family entertainment

• 10+ dining concepts
  It’s designed to serve local residents while adding a neighbourhood shopping destination with upscale touches.

4️⃣ Liwan Mall – Luxury Shopping & Lifestyle Hub

Emerging in Wadi Al Safa 2, Liwan Mall is set to open in the second half of 2026. This project brings an elegant, boutique shopping experience with:

• Luxury retail stores

• Cafés and lifestyle dining

• Landscaped spaces and a pool
  Its Spanish‑inspired architecture and curated tenant mix will focus on both local and destination shoppers.

5️⃣ Villa Square – Sustainable & Family‑Focused Retail

Another exciting project in the Wadi Al Safa area, Villa Square is planned for completion by Q3 2026. This mall emphasises sustainable design, indoor‑outdoor layouts, family entertainment zones, and wellness‑friendly spaces, offering a refreshing new retail format for residents and visitors. 

6️⃣ South Bay Mall – Dubai South’s New Retail Destination

Located in the rapidly growing Dubai South district, South Bay Mall will feature:

• Approx. 200,000 sq. ft. retail space

• Lagoon views and rooftop experiences

• 60+ shops plus a premium food hall

• Spa, gym, clubhouse, and outdoor leisure areas
  This community‑aligned centre aims to become a social and commercial heart of Dubai South.

Retail Giants Getting Upgrades Too

While new malls rise, Dubai’s established icons are also evolving:

Dubai Mall Expansion

A Dhs1.5 billion expansion will add 240 new luxury shops and dining concepts, a larger exhibition space, and more attractions — further reinforcing its status as one of the world’s top retail destinations.

Mall of the Emirates Revamp

Undergoing a Dhs5 billion transformation, Mall of the Emirates will add 100+ new stores, its first-ever outdoor F&B courtyard opening in early 2027, multiple entertainment concepts, and more lifestyle‑oriented spaces.

Why These Developments Matter

Dubai’s retail expansion reflects broader trends in urban planning, lifestyle demand, and economic diversification. These new malls:
✔ Boost community engagement and local convenience
✔ Attract tourists with unique concepts
✔ Encourage sustainable and tech‑forward retail design
✔ Expand job opportunities across sectors

Whether you’re a shopper, investor, resident or visitor, these upcoming developments will redefine the way people experience retail, leisure, and social living in Dubai.