Dubai's Mall of the Emirates Celebrating Its 20th Anniversary: 20 Fascinating Facts Revealed
Mall of the Emirates: A Hub of Innovation and Entertainment
Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest shopping and leisure destinations in Dubai, has been a dynamic centre of attraction since its opening. Over the years, it has continuously evolved, introducing new experiences and amenities for its visitors.
In 2015, Mall of the Emirates welcomed two significant additions. The Vox Cinema, including the Vox Theatre by Rhodes, opened its doors, offering an immersive cinematic experience. Simultaneously, the first Apple store in the Middle East found its home at the mall, marking a milestone for technology enthusiasts.
The following year, Ski Dubai launched its unique Camp-outs, allowing visitors to experience the chill of -4°C climes under the stars. This innovative offering set a new standard for entertainment in the region.
In 2021, the mall expanded its offerings further with the opening of The 9, a luxury private members' club, and Cle D'Or, a luxury lounge featuring a beauty suite, personal shopping service, and private dining facilities. That, a 4,500-square-metre concept store with over 150 brands, also made its debut.
The mall has also shown resilience during challenging times. During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Mall of the Emirates and Vox Cinemas launched a drive-in cinema, providing an alternative means of entertainment for the community.
In terms of cultural offerings, the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre, which had been a part of the mall since 2006, closed down in July 2018 and reopened in 2020 as The Theatre.
Mall of the Emirates has also played a role in community service. In April 2024, during record-breaking storms that caused power cuts in residential buildings, dozens of people sought shelter in the mall.
More recently, in August 2025, Mall of the Emirates became one of seven malls to participate in the first Dubai Mallathon, a month-long indoor walking or running initiative.
While the developer responsible for the extended version of the Mall of the Emirates and the exact completion date are not explicitly mentioned in the search results, the mall continues to be a symbol of innovation and a favourite destination for both locals and tourists alike.
