Adil Raza Khan | September 26, 2025
The Top 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World 2025 shows that shopping is not just about buying something but also about a whole lifestyle.
Futuristic architecture, theme parks, indoor gardens, and posh restaurants are some of the products offered by these retail giants, which attract millions of people to their cities and increase the value of properties.
At APIL Properties Dubai, we track these mega-developments because malls of this scale often predict the next hotspots for luxury real estate investment. No matter what, you need a high-end apartment in Downtown Dubai or a villa in the outskirts of the latest retail centers of the city, knowing the largest malls in the world, you can see where the urbanization is moving.
Let's dive into the details!
If you’re wondering what is the biggest mall in the world, the answer is the New South China Mall in Dongguan, China.
It is the largest retailer worldwide in terms of gross leasable area, with an unbelievable 6.46 million sq ft (600,000 m2) of shopping space out of the GFA of 9.6 million sq ft (892,000 m2).
This mega destination, which opened in 2005, was designed to accommodate close to 2,300 stores. At one point, it experienced low occupancy, hence its nickname of a ghost mall.
Step into New South China Mall and feel the indoor carting circuit, an IMAX cinema and a global village of brands- it is certainly a place to be visited when listing the top 10 largest malls in the world!
The biggest mall in the world is the Golden Resources Mall. It opened in 2004 and is currently one of the largest in the world, with a GLA of 6.0 million sq ft (560,000 m2) in a complex of 7.3 million sq ft (680,000 m2).
Don't miss ICONSIAM, where you can stroll in a floating market (indoor), visit a river museum, and stay in the ultra-luxury wing in ICONLUXE, when shopping in the world-renowned fashion houses. No wonder it is the 10th largest mall in the world 2025!
Bangkok’s ICONSIAM isn’t just one of the biggest shopping malls in the world—it’s a riverside cultural marvel.
This retail complex opened in 2018 and covers 5.65 million sq ft (525,000 m2) of leasable area in a total area of 8.1 million sq ft (750,000 m2).
Visitors can visit an indoor floating market, river museum, and ultra-luxury ICONLUXE wing, in addition to global fashion houses, securing the ICONSIAM’s position as one of the largest malls in the world in 2025.
The Philippines boasts of being among the top 10 biggest malls in the world through SM Megamall. It has an extended shopping area of over 5.1 million sq ft (474,000 m2) in two giant buildings—Mega A and Mega B—hosting more than 800,000 visitors daily, and has secured its place among the top malls in the world in 2025 and beyond.
The SM Mall of Asia, another Filipino treasure, is one of the largest shopping malls in the world.
It is distinguished by its spectacular waterfront prominence above Manila Bay, and its 4.66 million sq ft (433,000 m2) of leasable space provides an ice skating rink up to an indoor amusement park.
The SM Mall of Asia in Manila is a must-visit place! It has a stunning view of Manila Bay and an indoor ice skating rink or amusement park—all in one of the largest shopping malls in the world!
Bangkok is back again with CentralWorld, a megacomplex that explains why Thailand is a destination for the largest malls in the world. This destination covers 4.62 million sq ft (430,000 m2) of GLA and offers retailing, cultural events, live concerts, and even a cooking school.
Another mall that should not be missed is CentralWorld in Bangkok. This is full of shopping, live concerts, and even a school of cooking—it is the single best testament to why Thailand has some of the biggest malls in the world.
The West Edmonton Mall, the representative of North America in the pantheon of the biggest malls in the world, has 3.77 million sq ft (350,000 m2) of retail fun. In addition to shopping, there is an indoor amusement park, a water park, mini-golf, and bowling, which explains why it is still a leading competitor in the largest shopping mall in the world 2025 list.
Istanbul Cevahir is often referred to as Europe’s biggest shopping mall. It consists of six stories of shopping, a roller coaster, and a 12-screen movie theater, among other exciting entertainment resources.
Its 5 million sq ft (465,000 m2) size has made it one of the must-visit malls, with millions of shoppers annually. So, are you ready to visit Cevahir in Turkey?
The Berjaya Times Square also adds a touch of Malaysian to the list of the top 10 biggest malls in the world. It has a leasable space of 3.44 million sq ft (320,000 m2) spanning two 48-story towers.
It is a Southeast Asian icon of size and entertainment with more than 1,000 retail stores and 65 dining places, including its IMAX theatre and indoor theme park. If you’re travelling to Malaysia, this mall is a must-visit!
By gross floor area, the Iran Mall is the largest of the lot and the largest shopping mall in the world 2025, with a staggering 21 million sq ft (1.95 million m 2).
Although its leasable area of 3.23 million sq ft (300,000 m2) is less than New South China Mall, its size alone, cultural attractions, and extensive gardens place it as a landmark destination to any person under the impression of having the biggest mall experience in the world today
People tend to confuse the Dubai Mall with the biggest mall in the world, which can be located in Dubai. It has a 12 million sq ft (1.1 million m2) total space and 4.3 million sq ft (399,500 m2) of retail area, making it an icon of luxurious presence in the world.
Perhaps the biggest attraction in Dubai Mall is its association with the Burj Khalifa, the largest aquarium globally, and a skating rink. However, it is still topping the list of the top 10 biggest malls in the world, particularly for the traveler looking to experience the biggest shopping mall in the world in the Middle East.
With more than 80 million visitors every year, it contributes to the increase in the demand for high-end housing in Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa, where APIL Properties Dubai assists buyers in renting luxury apartments and penthouses with great potential for earning.
For more details, explore our top 5 guides on malls in Dubai:
The biggest mall in the world in 2025 is not only a question of size. The new era of retail will be characterized by sustainability and smart technology. From AI-driven navigation to environmentally conscious architecture, these malls will provide highly realistic experiences that would appeal to shoppers and investors.
Iran Mall has botanical gardens and a cultural library, whereas Dubai Mall keeps growing with smart parking and app-based services. Such innovations drive up the property values in the area, and one must employ market specialists such as APIL Properties Dubai to determine which investment is the best.
There is nothing more convenient, entertaining, and profitable to invest in than real estate near the largest shopping mall. The real estate around the Top 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World 2025 usually provides better rental income and better growth.
Head of the largest luxury and lifestyle shopping mall in the world, Dubai is still a worldwide pioneer. The examples of communities such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, and Business Bay are excellent examples of communities where retail and real estate development are closely interconnected.
The connection between mega malls and property value cannot be ignored, both at Iran Mall, with its cultural richness, and at Dubai's biggest mall in the world, with its glamour. At APIL Properties Dubai, we use market data and our ground skills to advise clients on performing investments. Search our listing of luxury properties in Dubai, conveniently located near the world-renowned retail outlets of Dubai.
The Top 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World 2025 is not just about shopping trends but also a manifestation of the future of city living. These mega-structures improve tourism, generate employment, and change the real estate market in Tehran, Bangkok, Beijing, and Dubai.
In the eyes of investors, the property around major malls always performs better than the market.
Contact APIL Properties Dubai to own a piece of the city that continues to attract global standards in retail, lifestyle, and luxury living.
The Iran Mall in Tehran is currently the biggest mall in the world by total floor area.
The Dubai Mall remains the largest in Dubai and one of the most famous globally.
The world’s largest mall spans over 15 million square feet of total space.
GFA (Gross Floor Area) measures total building size, while GLA (Gross Leasable Area) measures rentable shop space.
China leads with several of the top 10 biggest shopping malls in the world 2025.
It offers 1,200+ stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, and direct access to Burj Khalifa, making it a global attraction.
Yes, homes near mega malls like Dubai Mall provide high rental returns and long-term value.
From theme parks and aquariums to luxury shopping, these malls go far beyond retail.
Dubai Mall welcomes over 80 million visitors each year, boosting nearby property demand.
Top destinations include Iran Mall, IOI City Mall, Dubai Mall, and SM Megamall, among others.
WRITTEN BY
Adil Khan is a Dubai luxury real estate expert with over 13 years of experience in the UAE property market. He is the Chairman of APIL Properties.
Breakfast is not just an important meal that we break out fast with in the morning. The first meal of the day has undergone wonderful transformation where it is enjoyed as a proper wholesome meal.
Top breakfast spots in Dubai 2025 is our tribute to the growing popularity of the megacity as one of the most vibrant hubs of breakfast and brunch in the world.
Dubai will stop at nothing, and their larger than lifestyle is well-portrayed with their breakfast choices and venues as well. So, if you are in Dubai for fun or work do try these breakfast spots for a filling and fulfilling munching experience.
The Best Hospitals in Abu Dhabi 2025 provide the best standards in healthcare worldwide.
Healthcare is not merely a service in a city that boasts a luxury lifestyle and progressive development. Whether you’re a UAE resident, an investor, or a newcomer to the capital, understanding where the best hospitals are located can guide you to a home that’s both secure and smartly priced.
At APIL Properties Dubai, we focus on assisting buyers and investors in locating properties near core services such as high-quality healthcare.
In this guide, the author discusses the list of the most distinguished hospitals in Abu Dhabi in 2025 and describes how proximity to such leading agencies increases property value and quality of life.
_1758964949.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Reportedly, 2 million Indian nationals stay in Dubai now in 2025. A lot many tour the megacity every now and then. It is not a surprising fact that Google gets frequent sear queries asking for ‘best indian restaurants in Dubai’.
We thought why not give Google yet another good blog to help Indian food lovers (whether Indian nationals or any food enthusiast) find some top Indian restaurants in Dubai with reliable information on cuisine type, must try dishes, opening hours, bill expectations and more.
We in Dubai also love to taste Indian food. Indian food fascinates the imagination of people worldwide with their range of flavors, colors, and variations. Thanks to the exotic Indian spices that sensitize the taste buds offering pure bliss at every bite.
