Ski down slopes veiled in real snow, dine on Michelin-standard cuisine, shop the fashion world's biggest names and embark on VR adventures, all in one visit. Spend a full day with the family at Mall of the Emirates with our action-packed itinerary.
10am – Breakfast at Common Grounds
Mall of the Emirates opens at 10am, so beat the rush bright and early to stroll through its marbled halls. No morning is complete without a hearty breakfast to energise you for the fun ahead, so make your way to the second floor, where specialty coffee shop Common Grounds is tucked away in the eastern corner.
This warm Melbournian-style cafe is best known for its artisan coffee blends and healthy food. Savour a menu of international dishes – the Mexican tacos packed with eggs, crunchy beef bacon and braised black beans make for a filling meals. There are keto-friendly dishes aplenty too, but if you're looking for something sweet, the signature French toast with poached plum and salted caramel is a must.
11am – High-end window shopping
Well-fed and ready to go? There's no better way to find inspiration for your shopping spree than seeing what fashion's biggest names are up to. Mall of the Emirates is home to more than 80 designer brands, many housed in the exclusive Fashion Dome.
Look up from the valet entrance on the ground floor, and you'll see powerhouses such as Bottega Veneta, Versace, and Marc by Marc Jacobs neatly arranged one on top of another. As you venture further, you'll uncover extravagant storefronts for Louis Vuitton, Dior and Gucci, each teeming with the latest collections. If you'd like a more curated edit, head to the Harvey Nichols department store – a one-stop-shop for fashion, shoes, bags and beauty – or the on-trend Boutique 1 and Etoile for runway ready looks.
Take note of the latest trends as you shop at high-street staples such as Zara, Massimo Dutti and Promod. If your hands are full, no worries – Mall of the Emirates offers a 'hands-free' shopping experience, where you can drop your bags off to be stored for pick up later, or have it delivered to your car, home or hotel.
12:30pm – Enjoy some 'me time'
If you're exploring Mall of the Emirates with your family in tow, take a well deserved break for yourself. Drop the children off at Magic Planet, an indoor playground with arcade games, thrilling rides and cool obstacle courses.
While they heroically fight off villains in video and redemption games, and win tokens to bring home exciting prizes, moms can enjoy some 'me time' at NStyle Beauty Lounge. Sit back, relax and let their trained technicians pamper you with high-end manicures and pedicures. Pick colourful polishes to decorate your nails, and if you really want to destress, settle in for a deep tissue massage.
1:30pm – Lunch at More Cafe
In Dubai, More Cafe is pretty much an institution. This homegrown Dutch-owned eatery has stood the test of time thanks to its casual atmosphere and expansive menu that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Stop here for midday refueling with international dishes – the signature burger oozes Emmental cheese, while Moroccan chicken tagine is bursting with faraway flavours.
The cafe offers a pretty delectable dessert menu too, but if you're looking to really treat your your taste buds, walk next door to Alison Nelson's Chocolate Bar for their warm chocolate karak cake with vanilla ice cream.
2:30pm – Shop for little ones
After your satisfying shopping spree, why not take a stroll around the Mall of the Emirates to find some fresh fashion for your children? You'll find a wide range of childrenswear here, including high-end brands such as Burberry Kids and Bonpoint, a trendy French label located in Boutique 1.
Mall of the Emirates has plenty of affordable shopping options for children too. H&M has an entire store dedicated to its younger patrons, while you can find preppy California-style collections at Abercrombie & Fitch. As for newborns and mommies-to-be, there's nothing better than familiar brands such as Carters and Mothercare.
Once your child has tried and tested a whole new wardrobe, reward them with a visit to The Toy Store. Children can go wild exploring all the fun and educational games awaiting them. A highlight is the Build-A-Bear nook where toddlers can make their new best friend.
3:30pm – Go skiing at the mall
Right around the corner from The Toy Store is one of Mall of the Emirates' most prized possessions – Ski Dubai. This indoor attraction brings a snow-clad Alpine resort feel to the desert, with winter whimsy all year long. If you and your family have sufficient skiing experience, you can strap in and start gliding down Ski Dubai's five slopes. If you're new to the sport, sign up for the Ski School where trained instructors will teach you the ropes.
Otherwise, spend time playing in real snow at Ski Dubai's Snow Park. Throttle full speed down a mountain on a bobsled, whisk across the venue on a zipline, or get competitive over a tube race – you could spend a whole day at the park alone.
5pm – Teatime at L'ETO
Thaw out over an exotic blend of tea or artisanal Antipodean coffee at L'ETO Cafe. The posh eatery is known for its delectable cakes and French pastries, which you can enjoy from the centre of the sunlit hall, amid all the shops and action. Sit and relax while people-watching, and gear up for the remaining activities ahead.
For little ones, there's a whole spread of refreshing fruity drinks to choose from, and no doubt the dessert menu always satisfies.
6:30pm – Adventures at Dreamscape
If you have it in you for one more extraordinary experience at Mall of the Emirates, book a session at Dreamscape. This virtual reality attraction whisks groups of six into alternative universes, from an alien zoo to an ancient temple ride. Along the way, you'll embark on imaginative adventures and complete remarkable challenges for whichever journey you choose.
Each session lasts 35 minutes, from checking in to wrapping up, and is best suited for guests aged 10 or older.
7:30pm – Dinner at Din Tai Fung
Worked up an appetite? Well, you're right in time for dinner. Mall of the Emirates is home to one of Dubai's few branches of the renowned Taiwanese eatery, Din Tai Fung. Bite-sized dumplings oozing with Asian spices, pillow-soft buns filled with vegetables, and hand-crafted sharing plates inspired by tradition, Din Tai Fung has earned its rightful place on the international culinary map.
It started as a small, family-owned store selling cooking oil before evolving into one of the world's most famous Asian restaurants. Indulge in authentic flavours from a kitchen bustling with chefs whipping up flavourful treats. Our top recommendations include the Sichuan wontons and moreish crispy beef.
9pm – Watch a blockbuster
End your night right next door to Din Tai Fung, at Mall of the Emirates' cinema. You'll find a wide selection of leading blockbusters with something for all ages. Watch the latest action flicks or cartoons, with state-of-the-art screens and surround sound systems bringing each scene to life.
See the showtimes in advance if there's a film on your must-watch list, or leave it up to chance for a fun screening for the whole family. The concession stands at Vox Cinema also don't disappoint, so if you have space in your stomach after dinner, check out their extraordinary menu of treats, from fresh crepes to spicy samosas.