Perfectly situated in the center of the city, Abu Dhabi Mall is not just a mall; it’s a shopping and dining destination filled with surprises and energy in every corner.
Before malls started popping up at virtually every corner of the capital, there was always one that Abu Dhabi residents, and tourists alike, relied on and still do. With an exciting array of exclusive and revamped outlets, Abu Dhabi Mall is going through a reawakening that you need to come see and experience on your own. We spent a day at this Abu Dhabi institution and discovered there is so much to do here that you cannot find anywhere else in the city.
Located in the heart of the city, close to the Corniche, next door to Maryah Island and just over the bridge from Saadiyat, the mall is in an ideal location and accessible. The once chaotic and construction filled area is now paved, landscaped and perfectly manicured to gain you easy access in and out of the mall.
Xtreme Zone and Fun City are the two main entertainment centres in the mall which provide kids of all ages with plenty to do and keep them active. While Fun City is geared more towards younger children with games, rides and a soft play area, Xtreme Zone is perfect for the older set who are looking for a little more energy. A big trampoline park awaits children of all ages alongside a rock-climbing wall which will provide hours of active play and fun for your little ones. There is a coffee shop on site where parents can relax while your kids lash out all their energy. If your children are of an older age—mine are 9 and 10, you can drop them off to play (you need to sign a waiver) and roam the mall which is an added bonus.
After a tour around the mall and the kids having bounced, climbed and had their shot at laser tag, it’s quite easy to build up an appetite. There are many options to choose from whether you want something fast and easy at the food court or prefer a casual sit-down restaurant. Favourites such as PF Changs, Paul, Chili’s and Zaatar W Zeit are scattered around the mall as well as not as as readily available around Abu Dhabi favourites such as Famous Dave’s, Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Wagamama.
Tummies full and in need of something lower key, we decide to kick back, relax and check out the newest Vox Cinema. Renovated and revamped, the cinema is smaller in size, however offers everything you need from all the latest movies on offer to all the treats and goodies you need while watching the latest blockbuster. Because of the smaller size of the theatre, we found it nice and quiet and not having to deal with the usual rush you get at some of the larger theaters in town.
Having walked, bounced, climbed, ate, and relaxed around this city centre shopping and dining playground, we have regained our love again for Abu Dhabi mall. It has everything you need, in a central location with the added bonus of a re-energised space garnering excitement and something new at every turn.
Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiyah Area, Sat – Wed 10am-10pm, Thu – Fri 10am-11pm with restaurants open until 12 midnight. Abudhabi-mall.com
