As summer temperatures climb across the UAE, residents and tourists are seeking refuge indoors. Malls in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are offering a diverse range of activities that go far beyond shopping, providing unique entertainment from immersive sports experiences to indoor snow parks.
Dubai Mall: Classic Entertainment and Summer Camps
A perennial destination for visitors, The Dubai Mall continues to offer a host of attractions. While the famous fountain show is paused for renovations until the end of the year, guests can still enjoy the arcade, aquarium, and Reel Cinemas. To beat the heat, the indoor ice rink provides a cool escape.
The Dubai Mall Summer Camp is also running until 21 August, offering a packed schedule for children. The camp includes access to six key attractions: KidZania, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, At the Top, Reel Cinemas, and Play DXB. Spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended.
Mercato Mall: Circus Acts and Summer Surprises
The Mediterranean-themed Mercato Mall in Jumeirah is hosting a series of events as part of Dubai Summer Surprises. The line-up includes circus performances, magic acts, and comedy shows alongside special retail offers. A standout feature is a giant slide installed inside the mall, allowing shoppers to bypass queues in a fun and memorable way. These family-friendly activities are similar to the wide array of from staycation offers to free events that pop up across the city during holidays.
Dubai Hills Mall: An Indoor Rollercoaster Thrill
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Dubai Hills Mall is home to The Storm, a record-breaking indoor rollercoaster. The ride offers a unique thrill, launching passengers up to 50 metres high inside the building, providing a weather-proof alternative to the region’s outdoor theme parks.
The Messi Experience: An Immersive Football Attraction
Football fans have a limited-time opportunity to visit The Messi Experience in Dubai. This immersive attraction, covering 2,500 square metres, guides visitors through the career of football legend Lionel Messi. The experience uses interactive storytelling and themed games across nine distinct zones to bring his journey to life.
Abu Dhabi Malls: Cars, Perfumes, and Snow
The capital also features a variety of unique mall-based events throughout the summer.
Deerfields Mall: Classic Cars and Custom Scents
Until 31 August, Deerfields Mall is hosting a free museum exhibition called Special Edition for Classic Sports Cars. The display showcases vintage cars, antiques, and other collectibles. Additionally, from 27 to 29 June, the mall will hold a “Make your own perfume” event, where attendees can learn about and create their own signature scent.
Al Wahda Mall: Last Chance for Summer Carnival
The UK-themed Summer Shopping Carnival at Al Wahda Mall concludes on 29 June. The event features live entertainment, British-inspired decor, and family activities. Shoppers also have a chance to win a car in a lucky draw before the carnival ends.
Reem Mall: Indoor Snow and Summer Runs
Reem Mall offers one of the most direct ways to escape the heat at Snow Abu Dhabi, an indoor snow park with numerous rides and attractions. The mall is also hosting the Reem Run, a four-part summer running series. Some dedicated athletes even travel abroad to run marathons, but this series provides a local, air-conditioned challenge. Participants can choose from 2.5km, 5km, or 10km distances, with upcoming races on 12 July, 23 August, and 13 September.
