Dragon Mart Mall is the largest Chinese trading hub outside mainland China, a 1.2 km long dragon-shaped complex in International City developed by Nakheel. Dragon Mart 1 (opened 2004) is the original wholesale-focused souk with 3,500+ shops across seven zones selling electronics, furniture, textiles, building materials, tools and household goods at negotiable prices. Dragon Mart 2 (opened 2015) is a separate adjacent building operating as a more traditional shopping mall with fixed-price retail, a Géant hypermarket, Grand Cinema complex, restaurants and a gaming zone. Combined, the two buildings span over 150,000 sqm.
Quick facts:
DM1 + DM2 · 3,500+ shops in DM1 · Bargaining in DM1
Did you know?
Dragon Mart 1 is literally shaped like a 1.2 km long dragon when viewed from above – making it one of the most architecturally distinctive retail complexes in the world. The complex welcomes over 50,000 visitors daily.
Best time to visit:
Weekday afternoons for the least crowded shopping; bring comfortable shoes as walking the entire DM1 complex alone can take 2–3 hours.
Where to eat nearby:
52 restaurants across both buildings including Chinese, Asian and international cuisine; DM2 has a dedicated food court with outdoor terrace dining options.
Tip:
Bargaining is expected in DM1 (wholesale souk) but DM2 operates on fixed retail pricing like a traditional mall. DM1 and DM2 are separate buildings next to each other – not internally connected. Prices may vary – check official website.
