Abu Dhabi Mall, UAE: A Complete, Expert Guide to One of the Capital’s Most Iconic Shopping Destinations

Abu Dhabi’s retail landscape has evolved dramatically over the last two decades, and Abu Dhabi Mall remains one of the few shopping centres that has not only kept up with the city’s rapid transformation — but continues to shape it. Since opening its doors on 15 May 2001, this mall has become more than a commercial hub; it is a cultural meeting point, a community gathering space, and one of the most visited urban landmarks in the Al Zahiyah / Tourist Club Area.

Drawing over 40,000 visitors per day, and earning recognition from Forbes as one of the best shopping malls in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi Mall blends international retail, waterfront dining, family-friendly attractions, and a strategic location connected directly to Beach Rotana Hotel — making it an essential stop for residents, expats, tourists, hotel guests, and corporate travellers.

In this comprehensive guide, TheDubaiWeb.com explores everything you need to know — from shops and restaurants to entertainment zones, amenities, services, opening hours, location insights, and helpful FAQs.

What Makes Abu Dhabi Mall a Standout Destination in the Capital?

Shopping in Abu Dhabi has always been synonymous with variety, luxury, and multicultural experiences — and Abu Dhabi Mall captures all of that in one well-designed space. Its location near Zayed the First Street, its easy access from Hamdan Street, and its proximity to waterfront promenades make it particularly popular among tourists staying in the city centre.

But what truly defines this mall is its balance of lifestyle, entertainment, and essential services — transforming it from a retail stop into a full-day leisure destination.

Let’s dive deeper into each aspect.

Restaurants and Cafés in Abu Dhabi Mall: A Culinary Crossroads

Dining plays a central role in the mall’s experience. Whether you’re catching up with friends, grabbing a quick snack between shopping, or enjoying a sit-down family meal, Abu Dhabi Mall offers a diverse culinary lineup.

Below is a fully refreshed and human-centric review of popular dining spots.

Café Nero (Level 1)

European-style coffee culture meets Middle Eastern friendliness at Café Nero — one of the mall’s busiest cafés. The brand’s signature lattes and cappuccinos pair well with its Italian-style pastries and sandwiches, making it ideal for casual meetings or a quiet work session.

• Price for Two: AED 40
• Contact: +971-2-676-6427

Denny’s (Ground Floor)

A hit among families and breakfast lovers, Denny’s serves hearty American comfort food — from pancakes and scrambled eggs to turkey bacon platters and hash browns. It’s especially popular among expats craving a taste of traditional American breakfasts.

• Price for Two: AED 225
• Contact: +971-2-445-3128

Charleys Philly Steaks (Level 3)

Famous for its juicy cheesesteaks, Charleys brings a slice of American street-food culture. Whether you choose the buffalo chicken, turkey cheddar, or veggie delight, every sandwich is grilled fresh.

• Price for Two: AED 60
• Contact: +971-2-644-2115

P.F. Chang’s (Level 1)

If you’re craving bold Asian flavours, P.F. Chang’s is a top pick. Known for its wok-fired dishes, this American-Asian fusion restaurant serves favourites like Mongolian beef, dynamite shrimp, lo mein, and chicken lettuce wraps.

• Price for Two: AED 280
• Contact: +971-2-612-0838 / +971-2-612-0839

More Popular Restaurants in Abu Dhabi Mall

A quick snapshot of additional dining options includes:

• Chili’s
• Paul Café
• Zaatar W Zeit
• La Brioche
• Famous Dave’s
• Gourmet Burger Kitchen
• Cinnabon
• Baskin Robbins
• Cold Stone Creamery

No matter your taste — American, Asian, Middle Eastern, European, or fast food — the mall offers something for every palate.

Shops in Abu Dhabi Mall: From Luxury Fashion to Everyday Essentials

With 200+ retail outlets, Abu Dhabi Mall delivers a comprehensive retail experience. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe, shopping for kids’ essentials, upgrading your gadgets, or exploring luxury brands, the mall offers a mix of high-end labels, fast-fashion names, artisanal boutiques, and speciality stores.

Bath & Body Works (Level 2)

A favourite among beauty shoppers, offering a wide collection of body mists, scented candles, hand soaps, skincare items, and seasonal collections.

Contact: +971-2-695-8128

Kate Spade (Level 1)

Known for its elegant and playful designs, Kate Spade showcases handbags, fashion accessories, jewellery, and lifestyle products that blend sophistication with bold, colourful aesthetics.

Contact: +971-58-103-1288

The Toy Store (Level 3)

One of the top children’s shops in the mall, offering an entire world of toys, bikes, games, books, craft materials, and kid-friendly collectibles.

Contact: +971-2-674-2360

Other International Fashion & Lifestyle Brands

Expect to find a strong mix of global retail names including:

• Adidas
• Nike
• H&M
• Sephora
• Mango
• Carolina Herrera
• Tommy Hilfiger
• Mothercare
• Aeropostale
• Rolex
• Victoria’s Secret
• La Senza
• Pull & Bear
• Oakley
• Balmain
• The Body Shop
• Nine West
• US Polo Assn.

Whether your interest lies in luxury, streetwear, beauty, home décor, or accessories, Abu Dhabi Mall covers every lifestyle niche.

More Retailers: Department Stores, Lifestyle Shops & Supermarkets

COOP Hypermarket (Ground Floor)

A one-stop destination for grocery essentials, electronics, homeware, clothing, snacks, and household products — all at competitive prices.
Contact: +971-2-645-9777

Mumuso (Level 2)

A Korean-inspired lifestyle brand offering trendy accessories, beauty supplies, electronics, home décor, soft toys, and cute stationery items.
Contact: +971-50-705-5386

Other Popular Speciality Stores

• Laser Gallery
• Persian House of Carpets
• Brand for Less
• Paris Gallery
• Al Jaber Optics
• Typo
• La Casa Del Habano (Cigar Lounge)

These shops contribute to the mall’s identity as a multi-category marketplace where shoppers can find both premium products and value-friendly alternatives.

Amenities & Services in Abu Dhabi Mall

Abu Dhabi Mall doesn’t only cater to shoppers — it supports everyday needs, healthcare requirements, grooming services, and lifestyle improvements. This makes it an especially convenient destination for families and residents living in Al Zahiyah, Tourist Club Area, and nearby waterfront communities.

Boots Pharmacy (Level 1)

Offering medicines, supplements, beauty essentials, kids’ care items, medical equipment, grooming products, and health advice.
Contact: +971-2-695-8119

Fitness First (Level 3)

A premium gym offering personal training, advanced equipment, group classes, and ladies-only training options — all led by certified fitness experts.
Contact: +971-2-674-6991

Other Useful Amenities in the Mall

• Kaya Skin Clinic
• Nails The Modern Manicure Studio
• Etisalat
• Al Ansari Exchange
• Clean Laundry
• Big Bus Tours counter

Customer Services & Facilities

To ensure a smooth and accessible experience, Abu Dhabi Mall provides:

• Wheelchair accessibility
• Mobile charging stations
• ATMs (ADIB, ADCB, RAK Bank, Emirates Islamic, etc.)
• Currency exchange centres
• Washrooms & prayer rooms
• Car rental services
• Red Crescent kiosk for donations

Entertainment and Attractions in Abu Dhabi Mall

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a weekend break, or simply looking for ways to keep the kids engaged, the mall excels in indoor entertainment.

Fun City (Level 3)

Packed with kiddie rides, arcade-style video games, soft play zones, and skill-based challenges, Fun City is designed for toddlers, kids, and pre-teens.
Contact: +971-2-644-2588

VOX Cinemas (Level 3)

One of the most popular activities in the mall — VOX Cinemas screens the latest Hollywood, Bollywood, Arabic, and South Indian films, with wheelchair-friendly seating and modern sound systems.
Contact: +971-60-059-9905

Xtreme Zone (Level 3)

A high-energy entertainment zone featuring trampolines, laser tag, rope course adventures, basketball hoops, and fun obstacle challenges. Perfect for kids, teens, and families.

Abu Dhabi Mall Timings

• Retail Stores:
  Saturday–Wednesday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
  Thursday–Friday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Restaurants & Cafés:
  10:00 am – 12:00 midnight
• COOP Hypermarket:
  Daily from 8:00 am – 12:00 midnight

Location of Abu Dhabi Mall

Where is Abu Dhabi Mall located?
The mall is situated in Al Zahiyah (Tourist Club Area) — one of Abu Dhabi’s most vibrant districts.

It is directly connected to Beach Rotana Hotel, making it extremely popular among tourists and business travellers.

Nearby areas include:

• Hamdan Street
• Zayed the First Street
• Corniche East
• Al Maryah Island (financial district)

This central positioning ensures seamless access to buses, taxis, and pedestrian routes.

Contact Details

• Phone: +971-2-645-4858
• Email: info@abudhabi-mall.com

For the latest promotions and store events, you may also visit the mall’s official website.

FAQs About Abu Dhabi Mall

Below are the most commonly searched questions online — rewritten for clarity, relevance, and SEO value.

1. Which is the largest mall in Abu Dhabi?

Currently, Yas Mall is the largest shopping mall in Abu Dhabi in terms of retail area and entertainment offerings.

2. Is Abu Dhabi Mall bigger than Yas Mall?

No — Yas Mall is significantly larger and includes major attractions like Ferrari World, IKEA, and massive entertainment zones.

3. Can I wear shorts in Abu Dhabi Mall?

Yes, shorts are allowed. Abu Dhabi has a modest but relaxed dress code. Just ensure your clothing is respectful and not overly revealing.

4. Is Yas Mall worth visiting?

Absolutely — Yas Mall is a major tourist hotspot known for shopping, dining, indoor adventures, and proximity to Yas Island attractions.

5. What is Abu Dhabi famous for shopping?

Abu Dhabi is known for luxury fashion, gold jewellery, perfumes, spices, traditional handicrafts, home décor, electronics, and premium malls like:

• Abu Dhabi Mall
• Yas Mall
• Marina Mall

6. What is not allowed to bring to malls in Abu Dhabi?

Items like weapons, illegal substances, dangerous objects, and pets (unless permitted) are prohibited.

7. Is it haram for men to wear shorts?

In Islamic jurisprudence, modesty is encouraged. However, wearing shorts in public malls is common and widely accepted.

8. Do’s and Don’ts in Abu Dhabi

Do: dress modestly, respect local customs, follow photography rules.
Don’t: engage in public displays of affection, disrespect religious sites, or behave disruptively.

9. What are the mall’s top attractions?

Fun City, VOX Cinemas, Xtreme Zone, COOP Hypermarket, and waterfront restaurants.

10. What is the 2nd largest mall in Abu Dhabi?

Marina Mall is commonly listed as the second largest after Yas Mall.

11. Why is it called Yas Island?

Yas Island is named after the Arabic word “yas,” which is associated with a type of tree historically found in the region.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi Mall stands at the crossroads of retail, culture, and urban convenience — a place where families gather, tourists discover the city’s lifestyle, and residents enjoy everything from fashion boutiques to casual dining, fitness, beauty services, and entertainment.

As Abu Dhabi continues developing its urban landscape with districts like Al Maryah Island, Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Mall remains an icon — blending tradition with modernity.

Whether you’re shopping, dining, catching a movie, or simply exploring, this mall delivers a complete experience that continues to evolve with the city.