Dubai expands retail footprint with nine new malls and hubs

Dubai is expanding its retail infrastructure with the development of nine new malls and commercial hubs scheduled to open across the emirate. The planned projects, ranging from large-scale regional malls to community-focused retail centers, aim to serve the growing population in newly developed residential districts and high-traffic tourist zones. Major upcoming retail projects The pipeline includes the Dubai Expo City Mall , which will feature over 190 retail outlets and dining units. Located within the Expo City Dubai site, it is positioned to serve residents of Dubai South and the surrounding logistics corridor. Another significant addition is Nad Al Sheba Mall , a Nakheel development spanning 1.4 million square feet, which will house 200 shops, a supermarket, and a multi-screen cinema. In the residential sector, the Meydan One Mall remains a central project in the city's long-term planning. Once completed, it is expected to host more than 550 retail units and a 13,200-square-metre hypermarket. Smaller community hubs, such as the Silicon Central in Dubai Silicon Oasis and expansion projects in Dubai Hills , are designed to reduce travel times for local residents seeking essential services and international brands. Infrastructure and economic impact The development of these retail hubs follows an increase in Dubai's population, which surpassed 3.7 million in 2024. This growth has created high demand for neighborhood-specific retail outlets that integrate leisure,…