How to get the Best out of Your Visit to Ibn Batutta Mall

Occupying pride of place in New Dubai, the mammoth Ibn Batutta Mall is not only one of the largest shopping hotspots in the desert capital of the UAE but a recreational playground like no other. Welcoming thousands of visitors daily, the sprawling entertainment and retail powerhouse offers tourists of all ages a space to shop, wine, dine and play in. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your tour of this iconic mallscape in Dubai.

1. Get a Head Start

Those who wish to experience all that the Ibn Batutta Mall has to offer should ideally visit this landmark retail complex more than once as the sheer variety of activity bases and retail hotspots make it impossible to explore in a single visit. Tourists should also aim to be at the mall when it opens so as to capitalize on the time available and avoid the large crowds that head to the mall once the day wears on. Although the shopping complex is so vast one will hardly feel congested by fellow shoppers and visitors, the lack of queues at the cinema and other recreational hubs around the complex will make it a more pleasant experience.

2. Shop till You Drop

As the main reason most travellers head to the Ibn Batutta Mall in the first place, no trip to this mega mall would be complete without a shopping spree. Home to hundreds of designer clothing brands and consumer goods outlets, the Ibn Batutta Mall is also the perfect place to pick up tech toys, accessories, books, gifts, footwear and time pieces. Some of the most coveted shop spaces at the venue are occupied by H&M, Marks & Spencer and countless other globally renowned fashion labels. Even if shopping for souvenirs or keepsakes at this luxurious mall is not within one's budget, simply walking into the plush signature stores is a pleasure no visitor should miss out on.

3. Jump Around

The addition of a Sky Zone Dubai enclave has only made the mall an even more popular leisure centre for the young and restless. This dedicated trampoline park is not only for kids but also adults who wish to work on their fitness or simply jump around for the fun of it during a trip to the mall. Basketball and dodge ball facilities are also part of Sky Zone Dubai where one also finds a Warrior Obstacle Course and trampoline courts. Families based at the Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel Dubai or any similar hotels near Dubai Marina will find that heading to Sky Zone Dubai is the best way to keep the young ones occupied.

4. Catch a Flick

The Novo Cinema is another reason why most locals and travellers head to the Ibn Battuta Mall as this 21-screen Cineplex screens the latest offerings of Hollywood and Bollywood. Employing state-of-the-art technology, the IMAX and 3D movie experiences on offer at Novo Cinemas are available nowhere else in Dubai while those with international credit cards will find that many discounts and promotional offers are also available to them when booking tickets for a show at this Cineplex.

5. Head to Fun City

The dedicated children's play region in Ibn Battuta Mall is aptly titled Fun City and the sheer range of activities available at this enclosure is what makes it a hit with families. Toddlers and older children alike can have a memorable day out at Fun City thanks to the many educational and engaging games and play areas contained within this part of the mall. Also regarded as the best place to host a kid's birthday party, this children's enclave is located next to the Carrefour outlet in Ibn Battuta Mall.