Opened in 1981, Al-Ghurair City is Dubai‘s oldest shopping mall and residential complex and the first of its kind in the entire Gulf region!

Al-Ghurair City will always have a special place in my heart, after all, my family and I lived there for 8 whole years! Nostalgia aside, it is objectively a beautiful shopping mall and residential complex, even home to the most aesthetic and iconic mosque I’ve ever seen! The simple blue and white colors and the Arabian palm trees were a brilliant design choice that makes you feel the Middle Eastern desert vibes in the heart of a busy city!

The Shopping Mall That Has It All!

Living in Al-Ghurair as a child, moving into his teen years was quite literally a fever dream. We weren’t the richest of families, and yet, this apartment complex made us feel like we were living the millionaire life! Countless restaurants and cafes from international global icons were all gathered in this one space, and they even had their own cinema too.

MASSIVE Food Courts!

Whether you were craving Panda Express or Santino’s Pizza, Al-Ghurair City’s food courts had you covered! In addition, there were plenty of dine-in restaurants, including Chili’s, TGI Fridays, and Mugg and Bean. The food court is always evolving and expanding with new global franchises entering the scene, so I may be out of touch with the latest developments!

STACKED International Supermarkets

The supermarkets in Dubai are packed to the brim with every international brand you can think of (as well as many local brands too!). The great thing about the Middle East is that it really is in the center of the world, making both Arab and global brands super accessible. So whether you want a packet of American fiery hot Cheetos or a bottle of minty Lebanese Freez, Al-Ghurair’s Spinney’s and Carrefour have you covered!

AMAZING Residential Facilities

Not only were these apartments on top of a shopping mall, but they also had amazing residential facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, and even karate and yoga classes! A little club called Al-Naadi was known for hosting club events, gyms, snooker and table tennis, and even a squash court. It wasn’t all physical activity, as there were also quiet rooms where you can study, work, or just relax with a good book.