Dubai Mall has solidified its status as the most visited place on Earth, recording an impressive 57 million visitors in the first half of 2024, a notable increase from 52 million in the same period last year.
This surge in attendance follows last year’s milestone when the mall achieved a staggering 105 million visitors throughout 2023, marking a 19 percent increase from the previous year.
The growth in foot traffic has been mirrored by a substantial rise in retail sales, with figures showing an increase of 8 to 15 percent compared to the first half of 2023. Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, which owns Dubai Mall, expressed pride in these achievements.
“This growth reflects the hard work and dedication of our team and partners. Dubai Mall continues to set new benchmarks in retail and leisure, drawing millions from around the world. We are committed to enhancing every aspect of the mall to constantly cement its position as a premier global destination,” he stated in a recent communication.
To further bolster its allure, Emaar Properties announced a massive Dh1.5 billion expansion plan for Dubai Mall, set to feature 240 new luxury retail stores and food and beverage outlets.
This ambitious expansion aims to enhance the mall’s already impressive offerings and ensure it remains a top destination for both tourists and locals.
Inaugurated in 2008, Dubai Mall is recognized as the world’s second-largest shopping mall, covering a sprawling 1.2 million square meters.
It houses over 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores and more than 200 restaurants, alongside a range of entertainment attractions such as the renowned Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
In a bid to manage the influx of visitors more effectively, Dubai Mall implemented a paid parking system starting July 1.
Under this new policy, the maximum tariff for 24-hour parking can reach up to Dh1,000, although some areas remain free, and certain individuals are exempt from fees.
The paid parking system is operated by Salik Company PJSC, Dubai’s exclusive toll gate operator. Feedback from shoppers on the first day of the new parking system was generally positive, with many expressing relief at the ease of finding parking spaces close to the mall’s entrance.
This initiative is expected to enhance the overall visitor experience by improving accessibility, especially during peak shopping hours.
With the combination of increased visitor numbers, a boost in retail sales, and ongoing expansions, Dubai Mall is poised to continue its reign as a top global shopping and leisure destination.
As it evolves to meet the demands of a diverse clientele, the mall remains a testament to Dubai’s commitment to innovation and excellence in tourism and retail.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members