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Dubai is welcoming a fresh wave of international retailers, adding even more choice to a city already famed for world-class shopping. If you’re planning a mall day soon, expect new flagships, first-in-region concepts and plenty of buzz as global brands come to Dubai.
From high-end fashion houses to lifestyle and tech giants, Dubai’s malls rival the best retail destinations on the planet. Landmarks like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates host icons such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci, alongside global crowd-pleasers and homegrown favorites. And the list is growing. Below are the headline openings to watch.
Global retail brands opening in Dubai
Primark
Fashion fans have been waiting for this one: Primark is finally on its way to Dubai. The UK-based, Ireland-born retailer (launched as Penneys in 1969) has built an ardent following by blending trend-led design with wallet-friendly price points. The brand’s model—streamlined supply chains, large-volume purchasing and minimal advertising—helps keep costs low while delivering a huge assortment of womenswear, menswear, kidswear, lingerie, beauty, homeware and accessories.
What to expect when Primark lands in Dubai:
- Value-first fashion across basics, seasonal collections and collabs
- Extensive ranges for the whole family, from denim and dresses to schoolwear
- Everyday essentials (socks, tees, loungewear) and fun impulse buys
- Home and lifestyle edits, including bedding, storage and decor
Primark is known for keeping pricing as accessible as possible across markets, so shoppers can look forward to the same value-driven ethos in the UAE. Expect big-store energy, broad size runs and quick-turn trends that make refreshing your wardrobe feel effortless.
Haribo
A sweeter mall trip is coming to Dubai Festival City Mall with Haribo’s new experiential concept: Haribo Happy World. The German confectionery pioneer behind the original gummy bear is bringing a playful, family-friendly destination that mixes treats, discovery and nostalgia.
Inside Haribo Happy World, expect:
- Colorful zones celebrating Haribo’s most-loved gummies and limited editions
- A dedicated F&B counter for sweet snacks and drinks
- Exclusive merchandise and gifting stations
- Party-ready spaces ideal for birthdays and kid-friendly celebrations
Whether you’re team Goldbears or a sour candy loyalist, this immersive store will make it easy to sample, stock up and snap photos along the way.
Ulta
Beauty lovers, get ready: Ulta is set to debut its first store in Dubai. The American retailer is renowned for its “high-low” mix—prestige, mid-range and mass brands all under one roof—spanning makeup, skincare, hair care, fragrance and tools. True to its tagline, “All Things Beauty. All in One Place,” Ulta shines as a one-stop destination for discovery and value.
Highlights to look forward to at Ulta Dubai:
- A curated, inclusive product mix featuring established labels and indie favorites
- Salon-style services in select locations (think hair and brow bars)
- Regular promotions and seasonal edits for easy gifting and try-ons
- Hands-on testing zones to find your shade, finish or routine match
Ulta announced plans to enter the region in early 2025, with an opening expected toward year-end. As always, timelines may shift, but the promise is clear: more choice, more price points and more beauty in one convenient spot.
SKIMS
Founded by Kim Kardashian in 2019, SKIMS reshaped the conversation around shapewear by prioritizing comfort, inclusivity and modern styling. The brand’s expansive shade range, thoughtful fits and seamless constructions turned everyday essentials—think bodysuits, bras, briefs and loungewear—into cult-favorite pieces. Over time, SKIMS has also branched into maternity, swim and lifestyle collections.
In Dubai, the first physical SKIMS store is set to open at Mall of the Emirates. Until the doors open, fans can shop select edits online via Ounass to find their size and preferred styles. When the boutique launches, expect a sleek, minimalist environment that makes it easy to navigate categories and try on fits—plus staff trained to help match tones and support levels.
Where to find these openings
While final locations and launch dates can evolve, here’s how to plan your mall days:
- Mall of the Emirates: A likely home for fashion-forward flagships and premium experiences (SKIMS is slated here).
- Dubai Festival City Mall: Set to welcome the Haribo Happy World concept.
- The Dubai Mall: A magnet for global debuts, pop-ups and limited editions.
- Other hubs to watch: City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, and Dubai Hills Mall for family-centric and value-led concepts.
Tips for a smarter shopping trip
- Visit during weekdays or earlier in the day for quieter stores and shorter fitting room lines.
- Use mall apps and directories to navigate quickly between anchor stores.
- Ask about size ranges and inclusive fits—brands like SKIMS and many beauty labels offer extended options.
- Check return/exchange policies before purchasing, especially for lingerie, beauty and sale items.
- Tourist VAT refunds: Keep your passport and eligible receipts handy for easy processing at the airport.
FAQs
What is the biggest brand in Dubai?
Among the most prominent are Emirates Airline and Emaar. Emaar is behind landmark developments like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, while Emirates is one of the world’s most recognized carriers.
Which new global brands are coming to Dubai malls?
Primark (value fashion), Haribo (with its Haribo Happy World concept), Ulta (beauty megastore) and SKIMS (shapewear and loungewear) headline the latest wave. Nando’s—famous for its peri-peri chicken—is also slated to open at Mall of the Emirates.
When will these stores open?
Timelines vary. Ulta indicated a 2025 launch window, while SKIMS and Haribo are expected soon, and Primark is preparing for its first UAE opening. Exact dates are subject to change; follow brand and mall channels for announcements.
Will prices match what I’m used to abroad?
Many retailers aim for competitive, globally aligned pricing, but local factors (logistics, duties, exchange rates) can affect tags. Primark is known for keeping prices accessible across markets, and beauty retailers like Ulta typically offer a wide range for different budgets.
Where are these brands likely to open?
Early signals point to Mall of the Emirates (SKIMS), Dubai Festival City Mall (Haribo), and other major hubs like The Dubai Mall, City Centre Deira and City Centre Mirdif for additional concepts. Final sites are confirmed by brands or mall operators at launch.
Do Dubai malls offer tourist VAT refunds?
Yes. The UAE levies 5% VAT, and eligible tourists can reclaim VAT on qualifying purchases through the official refund program. Keep your passport and receipts, and allow time at the airport for processing.
What are typical mall opening hours in Dubai?
Most major malls operate roughly 10am–10pm on weekdays and stay open later—often until midnight—on weekends and holidays. Hours can vary by mall and season, so always check the latest schedule before visiting.
That’s the roundup of upcoming global brands in Dubai. With newcomers like Primark, Haribo, Ulta and SKIMS joining the city’s already star-studded retail line-up, shoppers can expect even more variety, value and discovery under one roof.
