Deira City Center is like one of those classic spots that everyone who has lived in Dubai for a while knows about. This mall is one of the oldest and most endearing in the city for shopaholics. Over the years, the mall has evolved to match modern tastes without losing its local charm. Read this guide to know about how this mall has changed and why it should be on your list of places to visit for the ultimate Dubai shopping experience
Deira City Centre: Essential information
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm. Friday to Sunday 10am to 12am.
Address: 8th St - Port Saeed - Dubai - United Arab Emirates. Get directions
A short history of City Centre Deira
When Deira City Centre first opened its doors in 1995, it marked the focal point of retail therapy in Dubai. It began as a modest-sized mall but has since expanded to house 371 diverse stores, becoming a flagship mall for Majid Al Futtaim properties. In 2013, a redevelopment initiative was announced, with a budget of $6 million to expand the dining space and enhance overall accessibility. Today, it boasts an impressive annual footfall of 22 million visitors, reflecting its enduring popularity and significance in Dubai's retail domain.
Shopping at Deira City Centre
Shopping at Deira City Centre is indeed a delightful experience for those who love the thrill of finding quality items without breaking the bank. Throughout the year, shoppers can take advantage of various offers and sales, making it an attractive destination for both residents and tourists. Whether it's fashion, accessories, or household goods, you're likely to find exactly what you're looking for among the myriad of stores. The mall prides itself on hosting a mix of popular international brands, including Marks and Spencer, and also offers a selection of traditional Arabic clothing, catering to a diverse clientele. For those in the hunt for the latest tech gadgets, Deira City Centre does not disappoint. With a wide variety of electronics at competitive prices, this is the place shoppers frequent for unbeatable deals. The mall's appeal also lies in its big-ticket promotions; spending just AED 300 could enter you into a life-changing lucky draw, with past events giving lucky shoppers the opportunity to become millionaires.
Dining at Deira City Centre
The dining area in Deira City Centre is a bustling hive of gastronomic activity, always alive with the murmur and bustle of satisfied diners. With a choice of 58 eateries, there's something for every palate, from fast-food giants like KFC to casual dining favorites such as Chili’s and Charley’s Grilled Subs. Among the myriad of flavors, I highly recommend you try the local’s favorite Chocolate Rocky Road ice cream. The mall also houses the oldest Carrefour Hypermarket in Dubai with an array of scrumptious snacks including akhrot (walnut), cashew, and sesame dates boxes. Don’t miss the Godiva chocolates here which is an absolute treat. This spot holds a special place in the hearts of local residents for its nostalgic vibe and long-standing presence in the community.
Entertainment at Deira City Centre
Vox Cinemas
Deira City Centre offers not just shopping but a full-scale entertainment experience as well. At the heart of this is the Vox Cinemas, a movie-goer's paradise with 20 screens capable of seating 3,000 people. It's a cinematic experience that caters to all preferences, ranging from the immersive 4DX screens that offer motion seats and environmental effects, to the luxurious Gold screens designed for a more exclusive experience. The Kids screens provide a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for young viewers, while the Vox Café serves up delectable treats for a perfect movie night. Vox Cinemas is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM.
Magic Planet
The Magic Planet is a haven for children and families. Here, you can enjoy tons of simulators, video games, and theme rides. The gaming zones are designed to capture the imaginations of all ages, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. The timings are as follows:
- Saturday to Wednesday: 10am to 10pm
- Thursday and Friday: 10am to 12am
Getting to Deira City Centre?
Deira City Centre is located right next to the Dubai International Airport and is accessible by both private and public transport.
- By Metro: The mall has its own metro station and falls on the red line. Use Exit 1 and head eastward to get to the mall.
- By Bus: Bus number 33, C19, 55, C15, 27, C10, C14, 48, 11A and 4 all stop at the bus station near City Centre Deira.
- By Car: If you are coming from Dubai take the Garhoud Bridge and follow the lane marked for Deira. Alternatively, you can take the Maktoum Bridge and turn right before the Clock Tower Roundabout. Take the first right and then the left to reach City Centre Deira. If you are coming from Sharjah, reach the Dnata intersection along the Dubai-Sharjah Road and the City Centre Deira will be on your left.
