Ever heard about retail therapy? Yes, it's a real thing, and there's no better place to indulge in it than at some of the largest shopping malls in the world.
A bad day at the office or a fight with your beloved, a window-shopping session can lessen the pain (for some time at least.) After exploring a lot of places, these are my favourite malls.
Malls are more than just shopping centres; they are a haven for entertainment, dining, and even cultural experiences. As global tourism and consumerism continue to rise, these megamalls have become tourist attractions, boasting more than just stores.
They provide luxury, leisure, and unforgettable experiences under one roof. Whether you're a retail therapy enthusiast or a curious traveller, these malls are destinations worth visiting. Let's explore the top 5 biggest malls in the world
1. New South China Mall, Dongguan, China
With a whopping area of 6.46 million square feet, New South China Mall in Dongguan, China, holds the title of the ‘third-largest shopping mall in the world’. This gigantic complex houses over 2,350 stores, including brands from all over the world. However, it's not just about shopping here. The mall features seven distinct zones, each themed after a different international city, offering visitors a unique global shopping experience.
There’s also a massive indoor amusement park with roller coasters and a replica of the Arc de Triomphe. Once labelled a “ghost mall” due to its underwhelming foot traffic, New South China Mall has now bounced back, becoming a bustling hub of commerce and entertainment.
This shopping mall is much more than a place to shop; it has regular opera performances, live music, and dance events to keep everyone entertained.
Additionally, the mall has a kid’s play area with several play zones, climbers, and fun slides. It provides a fun place for your children.
2. Golden Resources Mall, Beijing, China
Beijing’s Golden Resources Mall comes in second place, covering 6 million square feet. It was nicknamed the "Great Mall of China" and offers an upscale shopping experience.
You can explore six floors filled with high-end brands, offering everything from luxury fashion and jewellery to electronics and home decor. Unlike other malls, it is not filled to the brim, which makes it a hidden gem for those who seek a lavish and quiet shopping experience.
The Golden Resources Mall has everything you could possibly need—from a wide range of retail stores to delicious food outlets and even lifestyle centres. It’s beautiful to walk through, with its stylish design making the whole experience even better.
3. ICONSIAM, Bangkok, Thailand
Located in the heart of Bangkok, ICONSIAM is a relatively new entrant in the mall scene, yet it has quickly become one of the most popular shopping destinations in Thailand. Spanning 5.65 million square feet, ICONSIAM is more than just a mall; it’s a lifestyle experience.
With a stunning riverside location, the mall has ICONLUXE, a separate wing dedicated entirely to luxury brands. ICONSIAM is where culture meets opulence, making it a must-visit for both tourists and locals.
ICONSIAM is a massive 10-story lifestyle complex with over 7,000 shops, located along the famous Chao Phraya River. As a visitor, you can grab a free tourist card to enjoy special perks.
One highlight of the mall is SOOKSIAM, a themed area featuring an indoor floating market where you can pick up unique souvenirs like herbal skincare, handmade textiles, and aromatherapy products.
Aside from shopping and dining, art enthusiasts can explore a collection of works by more than 100 Thai and international artists displayed throughout the mall. Getting there is easy too—just take the free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier.
4. SM Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines
SM Mall of Asia is not just one of the biggest malls in the world but also a favourite among locals and tourists in the Philippines. Covering 5.1 million square feet, this mall is designed to offer entertainment and dining experiences on top of retail therapy. It features two main buildings—Mega A and Mega B—connected by walkways.
With over 200 restaurants, an IMAX theatre, a bowling alley, an Olympic-sized skating rink, and a massive arcade, the SM Mall of Asia ensures that there’s something for everyone.
5. CentralWorld, Bangkok, Thailand
CentralWorld, another massive shopping destination in Bangkok, spans 4.6 million square feet. Known for its sleek, modern architecture and wide array of stores, CentralWorld is a major attraction for tourists and residents alike.
Aside from shopping, this mall offers breathtaking views of the city, particularly from its rooftop garden. The mall also has an ice-skating rink, a cinema with an IMAX screen, and even an indoor amusement park, making it a fantastic destination for families.
6. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination; it's an experience. Spanning 5.4 million square feet, it offers over 1,200 stores, including the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, alongside popular global retailers. But beyond the shopping, Dubai Mall is home to extraordinary attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain – one of the largest choreographed fountain systems in the world.
The most iconic time to visit is during the evening, especially around sunset. This is when the Dubai Fountain shows come alive, synchronized with music and lights, while the Burj Khalifa lights up the sky in the background. This magical atmosphere, paired with the glimmering cityscape, creates an unforgettable visit that blends retail therapy with mesmerizing sights.
Must-Visit Malls in India
While the malls mentioned above top the list globally, India is home to some truly impressive malls that deserve recognition. If you’re visiting India and are a fan of retail therapy, here are two malls you should not miss:
Ambience Mall, Gurgaon, India
Ambience Mall in Gurgaon is one of the largest and most popular malls in India. With over 1.8 million square feet of retail space, this sprawling shopping centre offers a wide range of international and Indian brands. Whether you’re in the mood for high-street fashion, gourmet dining, or entertainment, Ambience Mall has it all.
The mall also features an ice skating rink, making it a fun destination for families. Its convenient location, close to Delhi, ensures that it draws a large crowd of shoppers and tourists.
Lulu Mall, Trivandrum, India
One of the most talked-about malls in India, Lulu Mall spans 2.5 million square feet, making it one of the largest shopping destinations in the country.
It offers a blend of international and local brands, a food court with over 20 outlets, a multiplex, and an ice rink. Lulu Mall also stands out for its eco-friendly initiatives and impressive customer service. If you’re visiting Kerala, Lulu Mall is a must-see for a premium shopping experience.
Sarath City Capital Mall (Hyderabad, Telangana)
Located in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Sarath City Capital Mall stands as one of the largest malls in India, offering an incredible 2.7 million square feet of retail and entertainment space. Since its opening in 2017, this massive shopping hub has been a go-to destination for anyone looking to explore a wide variety of stores, from fashion to electronics and home goods. With over 300 outlets, you're sure to find whatever you need under one roof.
Final Thoughts
The world’s largest malls offer much more than just retail therapy; they provide an immersive experience, combining shopping, dining, and entertainment under one gigantic roof. From China to Thailand, the Philippines to India, these malls reflect the global trend of turning shopping into an all-encompassing experience. Visiting these megamalls is bound to be a memorable adventure in itself.
So, how many of these shopping giants have you visited, and which ones are next on your list?
Remember, shopping is not just an activity but an experience – and these malls offer the very best!
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