I have a confession. I'm not a mall kinda gal. And I've moved to a city where the mall is ubiquitous. And Saudi does give very good shopping mall. Don't get me wrong, I like shopping, I am a consumerist like the best of us but only when I actually need something. I can't be doing with wandering around shops unless I have a mission - there are better things to do.
And the other thing about this city is that many things are on the pricey side until you get to know the Riyadh shopping landscape - then you know where to get your bargains, what times of year are good for sales (after Eid, November, August & September, and end of season times). In Riyadh, the city's malls are not just about shopping; they're lifestyle hubs where luxury, leisure, and culture converge. And with the sun beating down, it's the only way to shop.
As a Ghirnatah local, the shopping malls I go to most are the ones with supermarkets e.g. Granada has Carrefour and Atyaf has LuLu. Some malls are better to visit if you want to grab a bite to eat somewhere good and have a browse e.g. Al Nakheel or Granada. Some malls get their footfall because they are great at local entertainment e.g. Park Avenue has laser tag, cinema, fairground, bowling, escape room but the shops are still developing. Get to know what you have in your area but in the meantime, let’s explore the best shopping malls in Riyadh, each offering a unique experience.
1. Riyadh Park Mall
Location: Northern Ring Branch Rd, Al Aqiq.
What It's Known For: Riyadh Park Mall is a haven for luxury shopping and entertainment. It's home to high-end brands, a diverse food court, and VOX Cinemas for a movie experience after a day of shopping.
Shop Types: Luxury and high-street fashion brands, beauty stores, and electronic outlets.
Reason to go: great place to walk, have dinner and pick up a few purchases
2. Al Nakheel Mall
Location: Imam Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Branch Rd, Al Mughrizat.
What It's Known For: Al Nakheel stands out for its stunning architecture and family-friendly environment. It features a mix of international and local brands, a spacious food court, and entertainment options for kids.
Shop Types: Apparel, accessories, home decor, and children's stores.
Reason to go: you live nearby and you are bored of always going to Granada Mall, it bigger and better. It is also the biggest in Riyadh so you will definitely get your steps in.
3. Kingdom Centre Tower
Location: Al Olaya.
What It's Known For: This iconic skyscraper is not just a landmark but a shopping destination. The mall offers luxurious shopping experiences with high-end brands and designer boutiques.
Shop Types: So fancy! Designer fashion, luxury jewellery, and upscale beauty products.
Reason to go: head up the Kingdown Tower to see the best views over the city, cinema and dinner or lunch at Al Mamlaka https://kingdomcentre.com.sa/articles/?al-mamlaka-social-dining/
4. Hayat Mall
Location: King Abdulaziz Rd, Al Ghadir.
What It's Known For: Popular among locals, Hayat Mall is great for affordable shopping, with a range of local and international brands. It also has a good selection of dining options. And it is next door to Sahara Plaza.
Shop Types: Affordable fashion, lifestyle brands, and local boutiques.
Reason to go: it's your local mall
5. Panorama Mall
Location: Takhassusi St, Al Mathar Ash Shamali.
What It's Known For: With its distinctive circular design, Panorama offers a pleasant shopping experience with a variety of brands, a food court, and a children’s play area.
Shop Types: Mid-range fashion brands, electronics, and cosmetic stores.
Reason to go:Where else can you soak in splendid architecture, tick off your shopping list, and catch the latest flick, all under one roof? It's a haven for those who love a bit of everything - shopping, cinema, and a spot of people-watching in the food court.
6. Sahara Plaza
Location: King Abdul Aziz Rd, Al Mughirah.
What It's Known For: Sahara Plaza is a family-oriented mall with a range of retail stores, a large supermarket for grocery shopping, and a selection of eateries.
Shop Types: Everyday fashion, home goods, and a large supermarket.
Reason to go: The go-to spot for every day finds, Sahara Plaza shines as a family-friendly mall, specialising in ladies' and children's fashion. With its diverse range of shops and eateries, it's perfect for a stylish, yet relaxed shopping day.
7. Riyadh Gallery
Location: King Fahd Rd, King Fahd.
What It's Known For: A favorite among families, Riyadh Gallery has a relaxed atmosphere, a mix of shops, a central fountain, and a spacious food court.
Shop Types: Casual and formal wear, electronic stores, and a variety of restaurants.
Reason to go: a bustling hub with 170 stores across four floors, featuring everything from hypermarkets to fashion boutiques, plus a 4-star hotel – all in Riyadh's King Fahd District. It's known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is one of the most popular malls in Riyadh.
8. Centria Mall
Location: Olaya St, Al Olaya.
What It's Known For: Centria is an upscale mall catering to a luxury shopping experience with designer boutiques, high-end eateries, and premium services.
Shop Types: Luxury fashion, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive beauty salons.
Reason to go: BECAUSE YOU LOVE FASHUN BABY. The epicenter of high fashion in Riyadh. At Centria, it's all about exclusive designer labels and luxury shopping experiences in a chic setting.
9. Granada Mall
Location: Eastern Ring Rd, Exit 9, Ash Shuhada.
What It's Known For: Granada Mall is a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With its spacious layout, it's an ideal spot for families and individuals alike. Its anchor store, Carrefour, is a big draw for grocery shopping.
Shop Types: A mix of international and local brands, department stores, electronics, and home decor.
Reason to go: Perfect for a family day out with its variety of shops, eateries, and the convenience of having a major supermarket. Plus, it’s less crowded compared to some of the more central malls (or deserted depending on what time of day you go) making for a more relaxed shopping experience.
10. VIA Riyadh
Location: King Fahd Road, Al Olaya.
What It's Known For: VIA Riyadh is renowned for its luxurious ambience and high-end shopping experience. Opening in 2023, it’s a modern mall with an elegant design, attracting a chic crowd.
Shop Types: Upscale fashion labels, designer boutiques, and premium beauty products.
Reason to go: If you’re in the mood for some serious high-fashion shopping or just want to soak in the luxury of Riyadh’s upscale shopping scene, VIA Riyadh is the place. It’s also great for spotting the latest trends and enjoying a classy dining experience.
Now, a couple of things to remember while you're on your shopping escapade:
Check Opening Hours: Always a good idea, as mall hours can vary, especially during Ramadan and on holidays.
Dress Code: Remember, Riyadh is not Brighton Beach. Dress modestly to respect local customs – keep it classy and covered.
Plan Dining & Activity Options: These malls aren't just about shopping; they're a smorgasbord of culinary delights and entertainment options. The food scene is as diverse as a British weather forecast – always something new!
Watch this space...
Future mega malls include the Mall of Riyadh and The Avenues, Riyadh ... not to be confused with Riyadh Avenue Mall please.
Whether you’re looking for luxury shopping, family entertainment, or just a casual stroll, Riyadh’s malls cater to every need and preference. Each mall has its unique charm and selection of stores, making Riyadh a shopper's paradise.
So, get ready to indulge in some retail therapy in the heart of Saudi Arabia!
Happy shopping, and until our next adventure.
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