Dubai Hills Mall at a Glance: Why It Matters in Dubai’s Urban Story

Dubai Hills Mall is not just another shopping centre—it is the commercial and social heart of Dubai Hills Estate, one of the first master-planned districts within Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City). Opened in February 2022 and developed by Emaar Properties, the mall reflects a clear shift in Dubai’s retail philosophy: from mega-tourist malls toward community-integrated lifestyle destinations that balance retail, leisure, greenery, and residential life.

Spanning over 2 million square feet of gross leasable area across two expansive levels, Dubai Hills Mall serves both local residents and destination-driven visitors, positioning itself as a calmer, greener alternative to Downtown-heavy retail hubs—without compromising on scale, brand diversity, or entertainment depth.

As a trusted Dubai travel and lifestyle resource, aboutdubai.online considers Dubai Hills Mall one of the most strategically designed malls in the city, particularly for families, long-stay visitors, and residents exploring newer urban zones.

The Evolution of Dubai Hills Mall: From Vision to Reality

Dubai Hills Mall was first announced in 2017 as part of Emaar’s long-term vision for Dubai Hills Estate—a mixed-use district combining:

• Low- and high-rise residential communities
• An 18-hole championship golf course
• Dubai Hills Park (one of the largest community parks in Dubai)
• Education, healthcare, and retail infrastructure

Originally planned for completion before 2020, the mall officially opened in 2022, aligning with Dubai’s post-pandemic retail rebound and renewed focus on experiential, family-centric spaces.

Owned and operated by Emaar Malls, the same entity behind The Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall was never designed to compete on sheer spectacle. Instead, its purpose is regional dominance—serving Al Barsha South, Emirates Hills, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and parts of Downtown Dubai through excellent road connectivity.

Location & Urban Connectivity: Where Dubai Hills Mall Sits in the City

Strategic Position Within Dubai Hills Estate

Dubai Hills Mall is located at the intersection of Al Khail Road (E44) and Umm Suqeim Street (D63)—two of Dubai’s most important arterial roads. This placement allows:

• Direct access from Downtown Dubai
• Easy reach from Dubai Marina and JLT
• Smooth connectivity from Emirates Hills, Arabian Ranches, and Al Barsha South

Nearby landmarks include:

• Dubai Hills Park
• Dubai Hills Golf Club
• Splash Park – Dubai Hills Estate
• Al Barsha South Park

This proximity to residential green spaces gives the mall a distinctly relaxed, neighborhood-first character.

Architectural Design & Spatial Experience

Dubai Hills Mall’s design is built around human-scale movement and natural orientation. Unlike enclosed mega-malls, it features:

• A central courtyard concept
• Interconnected “retail streets” rather than long corridors
• Extensive skylights and natural light penetration
• Pocket parks integrated into dining and leisure zones

The layout enhances wayfinding clarity, reduces sensory fatigue, and encourages longer, more comfortable visits—an important factor for families and older visitors.

Parking infrastructure supports 7,000+ vehicles across multi-level facilities, with smart guidance systems reducing congestion during peak hours.

Retail Landscape: Shopping at Dubai Hills Mall

Brand Diversity Without Overcrowding

Dubai Hills Mall hosts 650+ retail and dining outlets, covering:

• International high-street fashion
• Sportswear and athleisure
• Beauty, wellness, and pharmacy services
• Electronics and lifestyle technology
• Homeware, furniture, and DIY essentials

Fashion & Accessories

Zara, H&M, Mango, Michael Kors, Victoria’s Secret, Adidas, Nike, and regional labels like The Giving Movement ensure a balanced mix of global and local fashion identity.

Electronics & Home

Key anchors include:

• Apple Store
• Samsung
• Virgin Megastore
• Dyson
• Pottery Barn
• ACE Hardware

Hypermarket

A Géant Hypermarket (63,500 sq. ft.) serves both residents and visitors, reinforcing the mall’s community-first function.

Dining & Cafés: A Global Culinary Circuit

Dining at Dubai Hills Mall is intentionally diverse, spanning:

• Casual family restaurants
• International mid-range dining
• Cafés, bakeries, and late-night dessert spots

Notable names include:

• The Cheesecake Factory
• PF Chang’s
• Din Tai Fung
• Wagamama
• Reif Japanese Kushiyaki

Café culture is equally strong, with Starbucks, Costa Coffee, Paul Bakery, Five Guys, and Pizza Hut supporting everything from quick stops to long social gatherings.

Many restaurants operate until 1:00 AM, aligning with Dubai’s late-night dining culture.

Entertainment & Leisure: Beyond Shopping

The Storm Coaster

Dubai Hills Mall is home to The Storm, officially recognized as the world’s fastest indoor vertical-launch roller coaster. It anchors the mall’s entertainment identity and attracts thrill-seekers citywide.

Roxy Cinemas

The mall’s Roxy Cinemas complex includes:

• Luxury seating
• Advanced sound systems
• The Roxy Xtreme screen (423 sq. m.), among the largest in the Middle East

Family & Children’s Attractions

• Adventure Park by Emaar – climbing walls, trampolines, rope courses
• Play DXB – VR-based immersive entertainment
• La La Land – soft play for toddlers and young children
• Mumu Family – play areas, birthday halls, and creative activities

This concentration of family-focused venues positions Dubai Hills Mall as one of Dubai’s most child-friendly malls.

Accessibility, Transport & Visitor Services

Getting There

• Car: Direct access via Al Khail Road and Umm Suqeim Street
• Metro: Mall of the Emirates (Red Line) + taxi or bus
• Bus: F36 or DH1 routes connecting from Mall of the Emirates area

For schedules, visitors should consult RTA Dubai resources.

Visitor Comfort

• Free high-speed Wi-Fi
• Complimentary power banks
• Baby strollers & wheelchairs available at Guest Services
• Digital directories throughout the mall

Loyalty, Technology & Smart Retail

Dubai Hills Mall integrates seamlessly with:

• U By Emaar loyalty programme
• Tickit by Dubai Holding, rewarding dining, retail, and lifestyle spending

The Dubai Hills Mall mobile app enhances navigation, parking access, promotions, and event discovery—supporting a digitally assisted retail journey.

Living Near Dubai Hills Mall: Lifestyle Impact

Dubai Hills Mall significantly elevates the livability of:

• Dubai Hills Estate
• Al Barsha South
• Emirates Hills
• JVC and surrounding villa communities

Residents benefit from:

• Reduced travel for essentials
• Walkable retail-leisure integration
• Community events and pop-ups

For those exploring residential life in the area, aboutdubai.online offers in-depth guides on Dubai Hills Estate, nearby schools, healthcare access, and green spaces.

Future Outlook & Urban Role

As Dubai Hills Estate continues to mature, Dubai Hills Mall is expected to:

• Host more cultural pop-ups and seasonal events
• Expand experiential retail concepts
• Strengthen its role as a regional mall, not just a neighborhood centre

Its design aligns closely with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, emphasizing sustainability, community well-being, and mixed-use development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Dubai Hills Mall owned by Emaar?

Yes. Dubai Hills Mall is owned and operated by Emaar Malls, a subsidiary of Emaar Properties.

How many floors does Dubai Hills Mall have?

The mall has two main retail levels, designed for easy navigation and accessibility.

Is there a supermarket in Dubai Hills Mall?

Yes. A large Géant Hypermarket operates daily and serves both residents and visitors.

What are Dubai Hills Mall opening hours?

• Retail stores:
  • Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Restaurants & cafés: Until 1:00 AM
• Géant Hypermarket: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Is Dubai Hills Mall good for families?

Absolutely. With Adventure Park, The Storm Coaster, cinemas, and multiple play zones, it is one of Dubai’s most family-oriented malls.

Can I reach Dubai Hills Mall by public transport?

Yes. The nearest metro is Mall of the Emirates, followed by a short taxi or bus journey.

Final Thought

Dubai Hills Mall represents Dubai’s next-generation retail philosophy—community-led, experience-driven, and thoughtfully integrated into its urban fabric. Whether you’re shopping, dining, entertaining children, or simply enjoying a greener mall atmosphere, it delivers depth without overwhelm.

For more authoritative guides on Dubai’s neighborhoods, attractions, and lifestyle hubs, aboutdubai.online remains your reliable guide for navigating the city with confidence and context.