World Trade Center Mall Abu Dhabi
A vibrant hub blending modern retail with traditional Souk charm, featuring unique attractions like the Velocity Slide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful shopping
World Trade Center Mall Abu Dhabi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub blending modern retail with traditional Souk charm, featuring unique attractions like the Velocity Slide.
"A charming mix of tradition and modern shopping — but parking needs improvement."
Ride the Velocity Slide! :roller_coaster:
Don't miss the tallest and longest indoor slide in the Middle East for an adrenaline rush!
Explore the Souk :shopping_bags:
Find unique spices, textiles, and jewelry in the traditional Souk connected to the mall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Velocity Slide
Top floor
Experience the thrill of the Middle East's tallest and longest stainless steel indoor slide. Pure adrenaline!
The Souk at WTC
Adjacent to the mall
Discover traditional spices, textiles, perfumes, and jewelry in this atmospheric bazaar-style market.
Lulu Hypermarket
Mall level
A one-stop shop for groceries, electronics, clothing, and household essentials with competitive prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Souk & Mall
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ride the Velocity Slide! :roller_coaster:
Don't miss the tallest and longest indoor slide in the Middle East for an adrenaline rush! 
Explore the Souk :shopping_bags:
Find unique spices, textiles, and jewelry in the traditional Souk connected to the mall.
Lulu Hypermarket Deals :money_with_wings:
Check out Lulu for great prices on groceries and more, especially during promotions.
Parking Strategy :car:
Parking can be tricky; consider valet or off-peak hours for easier access.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ride the Velocity Slide! :roller_coaster:
Don't miss the tallest and longest indoor slide in the Middle East for an adrenaline rush!
Explore the Souk :shopping_bags:
Find unique spices, textiles, and jewelry in the traditional Souk connected to the mall.
Lulu Hypermarket Deals :money_with_wings:
Check out Lulu for great prices on groceries and more, especially during promotions.
Parking Strategy :car:
Parking can be tricky; consider valet or off-peak hours for easier access.
Family Fun Zone :child:
The Action Zone offers VR, soft-play, and toddler areas for younger visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the World Trade Center Mall for its beautiful architecture, blending modern design with traditional Emirati elements, and its diverse offerings from international brands to the charming Souk. The Velocity Slide is a unique thrill, and Lulu Hypermarket is a convenient shopping hub. However, parking can be a significant challenge, particularly for non-local visitors, with some noting confusing routes and narrow lanes.
"Lulu Hypermarket has excellent ratings across various locations. Here's what customers have to say ¹ ² ³:
- Overall Rating: 4.1-5 out of 5 stars, based on thousands of reviews.
- Product Variety: Lulu offers a wide range of products, including groceries, electronics, clothing, and household essentials.
- Customer Service: Staff are often described as friendly and helpful, providing a pleasant shopping experience.
- Prices: Competitive pricing with frequent promotions and discounts.
- Store Organization: Well-organized stores make it easy to find what you need.
Some notable benefits of shopping at Lulu include ¹ ³:
- Convenience: One-stop shopping experience with a vast array of products.
- Quality Products: Fresh produce, meats, and other essentials are readily available.
- Promotions: Regular discounts and offers on various products.
However, some customers have reported issues with ¹ ⁴:
- Parking: Limited parking spaces, especially during peak hours.
- Cleanliness: Some locations appear dusty or dirty.
- Security: Concerns about surveillance systems and customer safety.
Employees also seem to appreciate working at Lulu, with a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars for work experience ⁵.
Overall, Lulu Hypermarket is a popular destination for shoppers in Dubai, offering a wide range of products and competitive prices."
MUHAMMAD ASIM
"I love this mall very much . They should have classified the shops according to what they are selling and set a place in each category. Quiet and orderly with a fair number of shops, a more than adequate food hall and Lulu… Easy to get around and well worth a visit. Integrated local heritage makes for a refined setting. Good for shopping, food, and comfort"
Adv Shemeema Sheyin
"Nestled in Abu Dhabi’s historic Central Market area, the World Trade Center Mall—also known as WTC Mall—opened in 2014 and reimagined the site of the original souk destroyed in 2004 . Designed by Foster + Partners, the mall marries traditional Arabian motifs (like mashrabiya‑style wooden screens and geometric patterns) with sleek contemporary design, including a retractable roof, landscaped rooftop gardens, and 3,000 sq m of terraces .
The retail space spans around 230–250 brands across mid‑to‑premium categories—featuring fashion (H&M, Victoria’s Secret), jewellery (Pandora, Pure Gold), health, beauty, home décor, and even Lulu Hypermarket, House of Fraser and Max Fashion . More than 45 restaurants and 13 fast‑food outlets offer everything from local Emirati dishes to international flavors; cafés include Costa, Starbucks, Bagel Factory, Cinnabon, Shake Shack and more .
Entertainment highlights range from Novo Cinemas (8 screens including IMAX and recliner seating) to The Action Zone (VR, soft‑play, toddler area) and Velocity, the longest and tallest stainless‑steel indoor slide in the Middle East, offering adrenaline‑pumping fun from the top floor .
The adjacent three‑level Souk at WTC—connected via Khalifa Bridge—adds cultural charm with traditional objects like spices, textiles, abayas, perfumes, and jewellery in an atmospheric bazaar‑style layout .
With underground parking for 5,000 cars, valet service, and proximity to office towers and residences (plus a Courtyard by Marriott hotel), the WTC Mall offers a blended experience of shopping, dining, entertainment and culture in the heart of the city"
Akhil ansaf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mall is centrally located in Abu Dhabi. Taxis are readily available, and many ride-sharing apps operate in the city. If driving, follow signs for the World Trade Center.
While specific bus routes can vary, public buses do service the area around the World Trade Center. It's advisable to check local Abu Dhabi transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The mall offers extensive underground parking for approximately 5,000 cars, including valet services. However, some visitors find parking access challenging, especially for non-locals.
Yes, car rental services are available in Abu Dhabi. If you plan to rent a car, be prepared for potentially confusing parking routes and consider using valet services for convenience.
The mall is designed to be accessible, with ramps and elevators available. It's always a good idea to contact the mall directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to enter the World Trade Center Mall itself. You only pay for specific attractions or purchases within the mall.
Mall operating hours typically vary, but generally, it's open from morning until late evening. Lulu Hypermarket may have slightly different hours. Check the official WTC Mall website for the most current times.
Yes, the Velocity Slide is an attraction that requires a ticket. The price is around AED 12.50, offering a unique thrill.
The mall frequently hosts events and promotions, especially during festive seasons like Diwali or for sales events. Keep an eye on their social media and website for updates.
Yes, the Souk at WTC is connected to the mall via a bridge, allowing for easy transition between modern shopping and traditional market experiences.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The mall features a mix of international brands in fashion, beauty, home decor, and electronics, alongside the traditional Souk for local crafts and jewelry.
Lulu Hypermarket is a major anchor store within the mall, offering a vast selection of groceries, household items, and more. +1
There are over 45 restaurants and 13 fast-food outlets, including international chains like Shake Shack and Starbucks, as well as local Emirati cuisine.
The mall offers mid-to-premium category brands, including popular international fashion and jewelry stores.
Absolutely! The adjacent Souk at WTC is the perfect place to find traditional items like spices, textiles, perfumes, and local jewelry.
🎫 🎢 Entertainment & Activities
WTC Mall offers Novo Cinemas with IMAX, The Action Zone (VR, soft-play), and the thrilling Velocity Slide.
The Velocity Slide is an adrenaline-pumping ride, best suited for thrill-seekers. Younger children might enjoy The Action Zone's play areas.
Yes, Novo Cinemas is located within the mall, featuring 8 screens including IMAX and recliner seating for a premium movie experience.
The Action Zone is an entertainment area within the mall that includes virtual reality experiences, a soft-play area, and a dedicated toddler zone.
The Velocity Slide is a standout unique experience, offering a record-breaking indoor slide. The blend of the modern mall and traditional Souk also provides a unique cultural experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The mall's architecture, blending traditional and modern elements, offers great photo opportunities. The Souk's vibrant stalls and the Velocity Slide area are also popular spots.
Yes, you can take photos inside the Souk, but be mindful of vendors and other shoppers. Capturing the vibrant colors and textures of the market can yield stunning shots.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require prior permission from mall management.
Visitors often capture the mall's unique architectural features, the lively atmosphere of the Souk, and the excitement of the Velocity Slide.
You can get dynamic shots from the top floor looking down the slide, or from the base looking up. Capturing people's reactions as they slide down is also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond entertainment, Lulu Hypermarket is a convenient spot for stocking up on snacks and essentials. The mall's layout is generally easy to navigate, and the variety of dining options means you can find something to please everyone's palate. Remember to factor in potential parking challenges when planning your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 The mall also features a wide range of fast-food outlets and cafes offering more economical dining options compared to sit-down restaurants. Exploring the Souk can also be budget-friendly if you're looking for unique souvenirs, as there's potential for negotiation. Simply wandering through the mall and Souk, enjoying the architecture and atmosphere, is a free activity.
couples
For a more unique experience, explore the Souk hand-in-hand, discovering local crafts and perhaps picking out a special memento. The mall's beautiful architecture and rooftop gardens also offer scenic spots for a relaxed outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture: A Fusion of Old and New
This architectural approach creates a refined and inviting atmosphere, making the mall more than just a shopping destination. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the thoughtful design and the seamless integration of cultural elements into a modern urban space. The contrast between the sleek interiors and the traditional Souk provides a dynamic backdrop for exploration and photography.
Visitors often praise the mall's beautiful architecture, noting it as a standout feature. The careful consideration given to both historical context and modern functionality results in a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, contributing significantly to the overall visitor experience.
The Velocity Slide: An Adrenaline Rush Indoors
+2This unique attraction has garnered significant attention, with many visitors sharing their exhilarating experiences online. It's a novel way to add a dose of adventure to a shopping trip, making the WTC Mall a destination for more than just retail therapy. The sheer scale and design of the slide make it a talking point and a key reason for many to visit.
+1While it's a thrilling ride, it's important to note that it's best suited for those who enjoy high-speed descents. The cost is relatively modest, making it an accessible thrill for many. Capturing the experience, whether through photos or videos, is a popular way for visitors to share their daring adventure.
+1The Souk: A Glimpse into Tradition
Unlike the sleekness of the mall, the Souk provides a more authentic and immersive cultural experience. Visitors can haggle for unique souvenirs, discover local crafts, and soak in the heritage that the mall's architecture also seeks to preserve. It’s an excellent opportunity to find distinctive items that reflect the UAE's rich traditions.
Many visitors appreciate the Souk for its cultural charm and the opportunity to find traditional objects. It offers a refreshing contrast to the global brands found in the mall, providing a well-rounded shopping experience that caters to diverse tastes and interests.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit