Joanna James
There's a myriad of must-have experiences in a cutting-edge coastal desert oasis like Dubai, and its state-of-the-art shopping, recreation, lifestyle complexes certainly top the list! Here's why you need to spend the day in the city's most iconic mall.
Full of quaint Bedouin charm underlying its high-tech glamour, Dubai's innovative and tradition-bound spirit is reflected perfectly by its most authentic retail hub. With a stunning array of over 300 stores set into its vibrantly jewel-toned enclaves, a plethora of delectable restaurants, and plenty of thrilling entertainment amenities, Ibn Battuta is easily one of the world's most immense themed shopping malls. Hosting internationally acclaimed and locally bougie brands, such as Yves Rocher perfumery at the Mughal-themed India Court, Toy Station at the Souq-styled Egypt Court, and Technology Babel at the regal Andalusia Court.
A tribute to avant-garde whimsicality, Dubai's most ambitious mall is aptly named after the famous learner Moroccan explorer, Ibn Battuta, who spent a lifetime immersed in the world's most vibrant cultures. Visitors are welcome to ogle at the architectural marvels and lush festive atmosphere of the visionary themed courts, journeying through legendary empires and dynasties of old, from Persia and Egypt to India and China. If you're looking for plush hotel apartments near Ibn Battuta Mall, venture no further than Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai.
If you're headed to Ibn Battuta mall exclusively to sample its cultural mosaic of cuisines, you won't be disappointed! From aromatic spiced delicacies at India Palace and Italian Deli-style Carluccio's for a flavour-packed bite to getting Yo Sushi at the cheerful open-scheme restaurant and some piquant Iranian- themed buffet at Zaferan, foodies are indulgently spoilt for choice.
After indulging your tastebuds at one or more of Ibn Battuta's aesthetic restaurants, you can shed some of those calories in the most exhilarating manner at Sky Zone. This gigantic free-for-all indoor trampoline park is the ideal place to embrace your inner child and take your kids along with you! Bouncing off walls, free-falling, zip-lining, and taking on the 'warrior course' is all in a day's work at this swagger-loving zone.
If you're in the mood for some rejuvenating self-care or a peaceful hour of walking down gleaming boutique aisles without your kids, Ibn Battuta has the idyllic solution. You can simply drop them off at the massive play area, complete with multiple edutainment workshops and creative zones where they can run free. Chuck E. Cheese, nestled into the imperial China Court, is another great hideout for family fun with colourful games and rides.
From the mesmerising turquoise-and-gold mosaic promenades of the Persia Court handily equipped with a Starbucks to the papyrus columns, hieroglyphics, and bazaar lanterns of the high-end Egyptian sector, every inch of this cavernous wonder is perfect for an Insta-worthy photoshoot, especially for the young adults.
For a quick stimulating detour from shopping and sightseeing, stop at Ibn Battuta's uproariously popular ace bowling facility and strike out on one of the uber-cool glow-in-the-dark lanes.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
