Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a great place not only for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche Beach, or Heritage Village, but also for… some seriously good shopping. This Abu Dhabi mall guide will help you choose the right mall for your trip style—quick shopping in the city center, a full day on Yas Island, or maybe luxury brands and the best restaurants.
In short: if you’re wondering where to shop in Abu Dhabi, the answer is “it depends on your goal”—because shopping malls and tourist attractions often go hand in hand here.
Read also: What is the currency in Abu Dhabi?
Shopping malls in Abu Dhabi – what makes them special?
In Abu Dhabi, malls are like air-conditioned cities within the city: hundreds of retail stores, a wide variety of world cuisines, entertainment, and places to relax. In practice, this means shopping in Abu Dhabi rarely ends with “I’ll just pop in for one thing”—it’s easy to get pulled into spending the whole day there, especially if you’re traveling with family.
And importantly: alongside the modern side (cinemas, entertainment zones, designer interiors), you’ll often find “local” elements too—small stalls, Arabic perfumes, jewelry, or spices.
Looking for accommodation in Dubai? Check out trusted stays in top locations—from budget hotels to places with city and beach views.
Best picks: the biggest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi
Below are the largest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi and the ones most often recommended to tourists. For each one, I’ve included why it’s a great choice (or when you might be better off choosing another).
1) Yas Mall (Yas Island) – the biggest “shopping + entertainment day”
If you want to plan a “mega day,” Yas Mall on Yas Island is a top choice: a huge selection of stores, plenty of restaurants, and a great base to combine shopping with Yas Island attractions. It’s a classic for people who want Abu Dhabi’s mall shopping and attractions in one place.
Best for: families, groups of friends, travelers focused on shopping + entertainment.
Tip: plan time for nearby attractions (Ferrari World / CLYMB / other Yas Island spots) to make the day feel complete.
2) The Galleria (Al Maryah Island) – designer brands and a “premium vibe”
If your goal is branded shopping in Abu Dhabi and a more elegant atmosphere than a typical food court, go for The Galleria. People come here for “quality”: boutiques, beautiful spaces, excellent restaurants, and cafés.
Best for: premium shopping, stylish interiors, and upscale dining.
3) Abu Dhabi Mall – central, practical, and convenient
If you just want to “get it done,” Abu Dhabi Mall is a convenient choice—especially if you’re staying in the city and don’t want to travel far. Lots of shops, many everyday brands, quick shopping, plus you can eat and take a break.
Best for: tourists without a car, tight schedules, quick shopping.
4) Marina Mall – shopping + the chance to enjoy the city skyline
Marina Mall blends shopping with what tourists love: a great location and a seaside vibe near the Corniche. It’s a good pick if you want to go for a walk after shopping or enjoy the skyline (depending on the season and your plans).
Best for: combining a mall visit with nearby Corniche Beach attractions.
5) Al Wahda Mall – practical shopping + entertainment
Al Wahda Mall is popular with locals, but tourists like it too because it’s simply a “solid, reliable” mall: lots of shops, plenty of food options, and decent entertainment inside.
Best for: a comfortable, safe choice—especially if you want food and shopping in one place.
6) Khalidiyah Mall – a more relaxed vibe (great for everyday shopping)
Khalidiyah Mall is sometimes skipped in tourist rankings, but it’s a pleasant option if you want a less “mega-mall” feel and prefer calmer shopping. A good pick in the Al Khalidiyah area.
Best for: travelers who prefer quieter malls and shopping without crowds.
What to expect in Abu Dhabi malls: attractions and stores
In the biggest malls in Abu Dhabi, the standard mix includes:
clothing and beauty stores (from high-street brands to premium),
electronics and accessories,
entertainment zones (cinema, play areas),
dining and restaurants: Arabic, Asian, European cuisine, dessert spots, cafés.
If you’re looking for specific brands, The Galleria and Yas Mall usually offer the widest selection, but most major malls feature a strong mix of international brands.
Read also: Free things to do in Abu Dhabi – the best places
Are there malls with luxury brands in Abu Dhabi?
Yes—and it’s easy to find them. If you’re after a higher-end experience, head to The Galleria (Al Maryah Island), and also check selected stores in Marina Mall or Yas Mall. In many places you’ll see both premium and true luxury segments.
What can you buy in Abu Dhabi shopping malls?
If you want something “from the Emirates,” beyond clothing and electronics consider:
local souvenirs (instead of mass-produced items—small crafts and décor),
spices and Arabic cuisine blends,
dates (often in beautiful gift packaging),
perfumes (perfume oils / Arabic compositions),
jewelry.
And if you want a more “local” feel, add a traditional Arabic market (souq) to your plan—it’s a different vibe than a mall and a great contrast to modern Abu Dhabi.
How to get to the shopping malls?
The easiest options:
taxi / ride-hailing apps (popular and convenient),
car (most places have large parking lots),
city buses (optional if you have time and a plan).
If you’re driving, parking is usually not a problem—but weekends and evenings can get busy.
Want to see Dubai without organizing everything yourself? Check trips in Dubai and tickets for top attractions—convenient options that save time on the ground.
Which Abu Dhabi mall should tourists choose?
Quick cheat sheet:
“I want the biggest selection and a full day of entertainment” → Yas Mall (Yas Island)
“I want premium brands, great restaurants, and a luxury vibe” → The Galleria
“I’m in the city center and want quick shopping” → Abu Dhabi Mall
“I want shopping + a walk/beach nearby” → Marina Mall (Corniche area)
“Comfortable everyday shopping + indoor entertainment” → Al Wahda Mall
How to combine shopping with Abu Dhabi attractions?
This is the best way to make sure shopping doesn’t take your whole day:
Marina Mall + Corniche Beach – the easiest combo (shopping + seaside walk).
Marina Mall + Heritage Village – a great contrast: tradition vs. modernity.
Any mall + Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – a must-see in Abu Dhabi, often planned in the morning or before sunset.
If you like a “palace” vibe, add the Emirates Palace area to your plan (even just for photos and coffee).
See also: Where to buy souvenirs in Abu Dhabi?
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the biggest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi?
The most often mentioned “must visits” are Yas Mall (Yas Island), Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall, and The Galleria (Al Maryah Island). Each has a different vibe and level of “premium.”Where can you shop in Abu Dhabi?
The easiest option is the major malls (Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall). If you want something more local, add traditional markets/souqs to your itinerary alongside the malls.What attractions do Abu Dhabi malls offer?
Beyond shopping: cinemas, entertainment zones, kids’ areas, seasonal events, and a very strong food scene—often “entertainment and restaurants” are a main reason people stay longer.Are there malls with attractions for kids in Abu Dhabi?
Yes—Yas Mall is the best pick for a full family entertainment day, and large malls like Al Wahda Mall usually have play zones and family-friendly facilities.
