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Yas Mall
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Yas Mall
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Yas Mall (Arabic: ياس مول) is a mall in Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It serves as a place for shopping, dining and entertainment for residents of Abu Dhabi and Yas Island. It covers approximately 235,000 square metres (2.5 million square feet).[1]

Key Information

History  

[edit]

The construction started in 2011 and by February 2013, 50 percent of the project was completed. It was initially due for completion in March 2014, but its opening was postponed to coincide with the Formula One Grand Prix season finale that took place at the Yas Marina Circuit and the mall was officially inaugurated in November 2014.[2] It was occupying a total area of 25 km2 (2,500 ha).[3]

Yas Mall was developed and operated by Aldar Properties PJSC, a real estate development, management and investment company based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.[4] It was built by lead contractor Six Construct, a subsidiary of the BESIX Group. Throughout the project, Six Construct used environmentally friendly materials and followed strict plans for waste management and indoor air quality.[5] Aldar Properties PJSC worked with the engineering firm, AECOM, as lead designers for the project, and then as construction supervisors;[6] whilst the UK-based architecture, planning and design firm CallisonRTKL was responsible for the design of the mall.

Between the opening date and December 2015, the mall had around 20 million visitors.[7]

Design and attractions

[edit]

Yas Mall is laid out in a series of streets, avenues, boulevards and squares,[8] with a focus on light and space.[9] Its interior features a naturally-lit central gathering space, with sculptures by the South African artist Marco Cianfanelli and fibre art by the Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar.[10] The mall includes a Town Centre, located at the centre of the complex connecting four of its five main corridors or avenues. It is characterized by an indoor courtyard surrounded by trees, restaurants and shops, and a shallow pool.[11] The mall's four parking areas have capacity for approximately 10,000 vehicles.[12]

There is a wide range of international and regional retail brands, as well as leisure and entertainment options.[13] Some of the mall's stores include Tryano,[14] Debenhams,[15] West Elm, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi connected to the mall,[16] and House of Fraser.[17]

The mall contains outdoor and indoor restaurants and cafés that serve international cuisines and desserts.[18] These include Ladurée, Texas De Brazil, Carluccio's, Tim Hortons, Starbucks, The Cheesecake Factory and Le Pain Quotidien. In addition, the food court comprises a further 24 outlets, and Cascade Dining offers al-fresco dining at 18 world-class restaurants, including Buca Di Beppo, Yu Shan Fang, Chilis, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes, and Café Bateel.[19]

Events

[edit]

Throughout the year, Yas Mall hosts a number of events and exhibitions, as well as entertainment activities and performances.[20]

Yas Gaming Festival

[edit]

Held annually at Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, the Yas Gaming Festival is an interactive experience combining cosplay, multi-player tournaments, retro arcades, e-sports and virtual reality. It includes guest appearances by social media stars and technical experts from the gaming industry, as well as influencers from around the world.[21]

Modest Fashion and Beauty Weekend

[edit]

A three-day event, held at Yas Mall, is dedicated to celebrating the elegance of dressing. It is hosted in collaboration with Grazia Middle East and features catwalk shows, jewelry displays, customization workshops, pop-up shops and a design competition.[22]

24 Hours Mega Sale

[edit]

Launched in 2017, the event features sales for which most stores stay open for 24 hours and offer discounts of up to 90%. During that time, Yas Mall hosts a parade of performances by jugglers, dancers and musicians, as well as hourly prizes and giveaways.[23]

Black and White Sale

[edit]

The Black and White Sale is a five-day event at Yas Mall that offers discounts ranging from 25% to 90% at selected stores, along with a Spend & Win competition.[24]

Awards

[edit]

Since its opening, Yas Mall has been awarded with several awards, including:

  • Best International Shopping Centre - Global RLI Awards 2015[25]
  • Commercial Project of the Year Award - Construction Week Awards[26]
  • Gold Award 2015 for Design & Development - Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC)[27]
  • Gold Award for Best Sales, Promotion & Event for Yas Mall's 24-Hour Eid Al Fitr Sale - ICSC MENA Shopping Centre Awards 2017[28]
  • Gold Award for “Fashion Hits Home” event in the Public Relations category – MECSC Awards 2018[29]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Yas Mall

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Yas Mall is a super-regional shopping and entertainment destination located on in , . Opened on November 19, 2014, by developer , it spans 2.5 million square feet (235,000 square meters) and houses over 370 international retail brands across three floors. As the largest mall in Abu Dhabi and one of the largest in the UAE, Yas Mall serves as a key attraction for both residents and tourists, integrating luxury shopping with diverse dining and leisure options. It features 68 food and beverage outlets, ranging from international restaurants to casual cafés, many offering indoor and outdoor seating. Entertainment amenities include a 20-screen Vox Cinemas complex, the family-oriented Fun Works arcade, and a Manchester City-themed experience with interactive challenges. The mall's strategic position on provides seamless access to world-class attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and CLYMB Abu Dhabi, enhancing its role as a multi-experience hub. Designed to attract over 20 million visitors annually, Yas Mall contributes significantly to 's tourism and retail economy, with ample parking for 10,000 vehicles and extended operating hours until midnight on weekends.

Overview

Location and Development

Yas Mall is situated on , a premier entertainment and leisure destination in , . The mall is conveniently located approximately 15 minutes from , 30 minutes from the city center, and 45 minutes from , with easy access via major routes such as Sheikh Zayed Road and Sheikh Khalifa Highway. As an integral part of 's integrated development, which includes attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and , the mall benefits from its position within a vibrant waterfront community designed to attract both residents and tourists. Developed by PJSC, a leading real estate company based in , Yas Mall represents a flagship retail aimed at enhancing the island's status as a global hub. Construction began in 2011 under the main contractor Six Construct, part of the BESIX Group, with a total value of approximately $544 million (AED 2 billion). The mall spans 235,000 square meters (about 2.5 million square feet) of gross leasable area across three levels, making it one of the largest shopping centers in the UAE at the time of its completion. It was designed to house over 370 retail outlets, 68 food and beverage options, and extensive facilities, directly connecting to Ferrari World for seamless visitor flow. In 2021, Aldar announced a AED 500 million ($136 million) plan, completed by 2023, to enhance retail, dining, and offerings. The mall officially opened to the public on , 2014, following a nine-month delay from its initial target date, and quickly became a key driver of footfall to , projected to attract up to 25 million visitors annually. In a notable achievement for , Yas Mall earned a 2-Pearl rating under Abu Dhabi's Estidama system—the highest for any retail project of its scale in the UAE at the time—incorporating energy-efficient designs, measures, and eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental impact. This certification underscored Aldar's commitment to practices in large-scale commercial developments.

Size and Facilities

Yas Mall spans 2.5 million square feet, making it one of the largest shopping destinations in . This expansive space accommodates a diverse array of retail, dining, and entertainment options, designed to serve as a comprehensive hub on . The mall features over 370 international retail brands, ranging from luxury boutiques to everyday essentials, including anchor stores like and . Dining facilities include 68 food and beverage outlets, offering a mix of global cuisines, casual eateries, and experiences within dedicated food halls and courts. Entertainment amenities are extensive, with a 24-screen Vox Cinemas complex providing premium viewing options, including and theaters. Additional attractions encompass Fun Works, an indoor family entertainment center with arcade games and rides, and an interactive Manchester City-themed experience featuring 14 skill-based challenges. The mall also connects directly to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, enhancing access to theme park thrills. Practical facilities support visitor convenience, including nearly 10,000 covered parking spaces for easy access. services are available at key entrances, and the mall offers free , support, and accessible pathways throughout its multi-level layout.

History

Planning and Construction

was developed by PJSC as a key component of the entertainment and leisure district in , . Planning for the mall began in the late 2000s, aligning with the expansion of Yas Island's master plan, which aimed to create an integrated destination featuring retail, dining, and attractions connected to facilities like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The project was designed to address the growing demand for a super-regional in Abu Dhabi, with initial leasing efforts starting as early as 2011, when over 50% of the space was pre-committed to retailers. Construction commenced in late 2011 following the awarding of the main contract to Six Construct (a subsidiary of BESIX) in October 2011, valued at approximately US$643 million. AECOM was appointed as the lead designer and construction supervisor, collaborating closely with Aldar to ensure the delivery of a 235,000 square meter facility with over 2.3 million square feet of leasable retail space. The build involved a 378,000 cubic meter concrete structure across a 1.4 million square meter site, emphasizing sustainability through the use of environmentally friendly materials, strict waste management protocols, and indoor air quality measures. This made Yas Mall the first shopping center in the UAE to achieve a 2-Pearl rating under the Estidama Pearl Rating System, equivalent to LEED Silver. The project timeline initially targeted completion in the fourth quarter of 2013, but faced revisions and a subsequent nine-month delay due to construction complexities, pushing the opening to November 2014. Despite the setback, the mall was delivered on schedule for its revised launch, coinciding with the weekend to maximize initial visitor traffic. The development included provisions for 10,000 parking spaces and direct linkages to adjacent attractions, enhancing its role as a central hub.

Opening and Expansion

Yas Mall, developed by , was initially slated to open on March 26, 2014, as announced by the developer in June 2013, positioning it as the UAE's second-largest at the time. However, construction delays pushed the opening to November 19, 2014, just ahead of the 2014 Formula 1 , allowing the mall to capitalize on the event's influx of visitors. Upon opening, the 235,000-square-meter complex featured nearly 400 stores, numerous dining options, and direct connections to attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, drawing an estimated 25 million annual visitors and establishing it as a key retail and entertainment hub in . In response to evolving consumer preferences and post-pandemic recovery, launched a AED 500 million ($136 million) redevelopment plan for Yas Mall in March 2021, aimed at modernizing the facility and enhancing its appeal as a lifestyle destination. This multi-phase upgrade, completed by September 2022, expanded the food and beverage offerings by 40% through the addition of a new Yas Food Hall and multiple international brands, while introducing a dedicated home furnishings district with stores like EBarza and —making their debuts. The project also included revamped flagship stores for retailers such as Zara, , and , alongside over 30 new tenants added in early 2022, increasing overall F&B and spaces by more than 50%. This not only refreshed the mall's infrastructure but also aligned it with broader retail trends, such as experiential shopping and diversified leisure options, solidifying Yas Mall's role within Aldar's expanding AED 1 billion retail portfolio by 2023. In September 2024, Aldar and Mubadala announced a to create a AED 9 billion retail platform, incorporating Yas Mall alongside other premier destinations, to drive further growth and integration. The upgrades contributed to sustained footfall growth, with Yas Mall reporting a 12% increase in visitors as of the first nine months of 2025, continuing to integrate seamlessly with Yas Island's ecosystem of attractions.

Design and Architecture

Architectural Features

Yas Mall was designed by the international architecture firm CallisonRTKL, which conceptualized the structure as a series of interconnected urban neighborhoods to enhance the shopping experience and align with brand categories. This layout incorporates streets, avenues, boulevards, and squares that mimic an open-air , fostering a sense of exploration and community within the enclosed environment. Eight large courtyards serve as central gathering spaces, connected by skylight-covered avenues that promote natural daylight penetration throughout the 235,000-square-meter interior. A key architectural highlight is the expansive central atrium, covered by a transparent (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) roof that allows abundant while providing lightweight, durable protection against the harsh . The system, known for its high transparency and low maintenance, contributes to the mall's energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Complementing this, light-filled interior malls link the various zones, ensuring seamless navigation and a cohesive spatial flow. Externally, the mall features a striking entrance canopy spanning 240 meters in length and 12 meters in width, constructed from advanced composite materials for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The facade incorporates marble slabs etched with a jagged motif inspired by traditional screens, blending modern minimalism with cultural references to Emirati . These elements collectively emphasize sustainability, with the mall achieving a 2-Pearl rating under the Estidama Pearl Rating System for its efficient use of materials and design.

Interior and Art Installations

The interior of Yas Mall features expansive, naturally illuminated spaces designed to create an inviting and luxurious atmosphere. Large glass domes filter sunlight into the central gathering areas, complemented by indoor fountains and a long that enhance the serene ambiance. Integrated performance spaces support cultural events and live entertainment, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Permanent art installations emphasize cultural symbolism and modern innovation. Two 12-meter-high steel sculptures of Ghaf , crafted by South African artist Marco Cianfanelli, stand as indoor highlights; their leaves are formed from , representing the UAE's national and its deep-rooted heritage. Additionally, "Hanging " by Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar consists of over 50 suspended paper sculptures evoking the undulating dunes of the Empty Quarter, installed from the ceiling to add dynamic texture to the mall's walkways. Digital art experiences further enrich the interior, courtesy of installations by Necsum Trison. The Gold Waterfall, a striking 3D digital artwork, simulates a cascading golden cascade on a 170-square-meter screen boasting over 25 million pixels, captivating visitors with its immersive depth. Complementary features include the interactive digital sculpture, which animates upon approach, and WOW 3D contents optimized for sharing, alongside exclusive projections of dynamic scenes like performances. These elements transform shopping zones into interactive galleries. Yas Mall promoted contemporary Emirati creativity through the Art Space initiative (2020–2021), a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism - and , which rotated exhibitions in retail areas to integrate art into daily experiences. A key display featured abstract paintings by Emirati artist Abdulrahim Salim titled Formations, depicting soft color gradients with emerging figures inspired by the traditional muse-like maheerah, extending his solo show Between Serenity and Chaos at the Cultural Foundation. The program ran through May 2021 across multiple malls including Yas, highlighting local talent and fostering public engagement with .

Retail and Dining

Shopping Brands

Yas Mall features over 370 international brands, encompassing a diverse array of and regional shopping brands across multiple categories. The mall's retail landscape emphasizes , , and lifestyle goods, with anchor tenants like hypermarket and department stores such as providing comprehensive options for everyday needs. In the fashion sector, Yas Mall hosts prominent global chains including Zara, , and for unisex apparel, alongside women-focused brands like and Forever 21. Men's wear is represented by outlets such as Boss and , while children's clothing options include and . The mall also caters to cultural preferences with Arabic fashion brands like Khunji Abayas and Kashkha, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Electronics enthusiasts can find dedicated stores from Apple and Virgin Megastore, offering the latest gadgets and entertainment products. Accessories and luxury items are available at , , and high-end names like and , appealing to premium shoppers. Home furnishing sections feature Home Centre and , providing modern decor solutions. Sports and activewear brands dominate the athletic retail space, with Nike, , , and Sun & Sand Sports offering extensive selections for fitness and . This mix of over 370 brands ensures Yas Mall serves as a one-stop destination for fashion-forward and practical retail experiences in .

Food and Beverage Outlets

Yas Mall features an extensive array of food and beverage outlets, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences with options spanning , casual dining, , cafés, and specialists. The mall's dining venues are strategically distributed across its floors, including the vibrant Yas Food Hall on the ground floor and the open-air , which together offer indoor and outdoor seating for 68 outlets. This diversity reflects the mall's commitment to providing a global culinary experience, blending international cuisines with local Emirati influences to appeal to shoppers, tourists, and residents alike. The Yas Food Hall, spanning a dedicated area on the ground floor, serves as a central hub for casual and fusion dining, housing around a dozen restaurants and cafés under one roof. It features outlets like for Portuguese and Mediterranean dishes, Babu Town offering Indian classics, and SLRP specializing in Japanese , alongside an Asian supermarket for retail options. Upcoming additions, such as & Co. for and Wontoneria for Chinese dumplings, further expand its eclectic mix. This hall emphasizes vibrant, shareable meals in a communal setting, ideal for families and groups. In the Town Square and surrounding areas, more upscale and themed restaurants provide variety for extended dining experiences. Examples include on the first floor, renowned for its extensive menu and over 30 cheesecake varieties, and , focusing on grilled beef with signature herb butter sauce. Lebanese cuisine is represented by Kronfol, while Asha’s delivers North Western Indian fusion. Outdoor seating in the Town Square enhances the ambiance for Mediterranean-inspired spots like Somewhere, which twists traditional flavors with modern presentations. Fast food and quick-service options are concentrated in the first-floor food court, offering convenient bites for on-the-go visitors. Chains such as McDonald’s, , , and provide familiar American-style burgers and fried items, while international flavors appear in places like for Turkish wraps and Wama for Japanese rolls. This area supports the mall's high footfall by delivering efficient service without compromising on variety. Cafés and coffee houses dot the ground, first, and lower ground floors, creating relaxed spots for beverages and light fare. Standouts include % Arabica for premium coffee, Paul Café for French pastries, and for healthy smoothies and sandwiches. Emirati Coffee offers traditional brews, adding a cultural touch to the selection. Dessert enthusiasts can indulge at specialized sweet outlets across multiple levels, featuring global treats from Godiva Café's chocolate confections to Pinkberry's . and provide classic donuts and , while Candylicious offers an interactive candy store experience. These venues complement the savory options, rounding out Yas Mall's reputation as a comprehensive destination. Beyond these categories, standalone restaurants like Rainforest Café immerse diners in a jungle-themed environment with American , and P.F. Chang’s delivers Asian-inspired dishes. Lebanese at Al Fanar and Brazilian steakhouse highlight the mall's emphasis on authentic, high-quality international dining. Overall, the food and beverage offerings at Yas Mall prioritize accessibility, quality, and cultural fusion, enhancing the visitor experience in line with the venue's entertainment-focused ethos.

Entertainment and Attractions

Internal Entertainment

Yas Mall features a diverse array of internal entertainment facilities designed to cater to families, thrill-seekers, and cinephiles, enhancing its role as a comprehensive leisure destination. These attractions are integrated within the mall's expansive 235,000 square meter structure, providing air-conditioned, year-round options amid Abu Dhabi's hot climate. Central to the mall's offerings is VOX Cinemas, a 20-screen complex on Level 2 that includes , , , and dedicated KIDS theaters, delivering immersive viewing experiences with advanced technologies like motion seats and sensory effects. This cinema complex supports a wide range of formats, from blockbuster Hollywood releases to family-friendly animations, and is positioned adjacent to the for convenience. For active and adventurous pursuits, CLYMB occupies a prominent ground-floor space, housing the world's widest indoor skydiving chamber at 32 feet and the world's tallest indoor climbing wall, earning two . Participants can experience simulated freefall flights or tackle multi-level climbing routes suitable for to experts, with professional instruction available to ensure safety. Family-oriented edutainment is exemplified by on the ground floor, an interactive mini-city where children aged 2-16 engage in over 40 role-playing activities mimicking real-world professions, such as piloting or , to foster . This award-winning concept spans a dedicated area within the mall, promoting in a controlled environment. Inflatable and adventure parks like Air Maniax on the ground floor offer 15 diverse activities across more than 2,000 square meters, including obstacle courses, slides, and trampolines for ages 2 to 65, emphasizing and family bonding. Complementing this are facilities such as Fun Works on the first floor, a classic arcade with games and rides, and Manchester City Challenge, an venue featuring skill-based challenges and safe play zones inspired by professional football. Additional play areas, including Leo & Loona—a themed park breaking traditional leisure stereotypes with interactive elements—and Pop-in and Play, which provides , arts, crafts, and building sessions for various age groups, round out the internal options. These attractions collectively contribute to Yas Mall's appeal as a self-contained entertainment hub, drawing visitors for extended stays.

Connections to Yas Island

Yas Mall is centrally positioned on , functioning as a key connectivity point within the island's in , . This strategic location enhances visitor convenience by integrating shopping and leisure with the island's major attractions, promoting a seamless multi-experience itinerary. The mall features direct physical links to select Yas Island venues, notably Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and CLYMB Abu Dhabi. These indoor connections allow guests to transition effortlessly from retail and dining areas to adrenaline-fueled rides at Ferrari World or adventure activities like indoor skydiving and at CLYMB, all without exposure to outdoor elements. Such integrations underscore Yas Mall's role in the island's cohesive entertainment ecosystem. For broader access, Yas Mall relies on the complimentary Yas Express shuttle service, a luxury bus network operated across . This free, air-conditioned shuttle connects the mall to prominent sites including , , , and , with routes like Y2 making frequent stops at these locations from early morning to late evening. The service supports efficient navigation, enabling visitors to combine mall visits with theme park adventures or motorsport events. Additionally, Yas Mall facilitates bundled experiences through multi-park packages, offering discounted access to multiple attractions alongside shopping privileges. This connectivity not only boosts foot traffic but also positions the mall as an essential gateway for exploring the island's diverse offerings, from aquatic thrills to cinematic worlds.

Events

Recurring Events

Yas Mall hosts the Walking Club, a free community fitness initiative offering guided indoor walking sessions every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Participants of all fitness levels meet at the ground floor between and Optics, with registration required through a trainer prior to each session; parking is available in the Fashion Parking area. The club emphasizes light movement, social interaction, and in the mall's air-conditioned environment, accommodating early risers and casual walkers alike. Shoppers can participate in the recurring "Shop & Earn 10x Etihad Guest Miles on " promotion, where Etihad Guest members earn ten times the standard miles on qualifying purchases across participating retailers every . This weekly incentive, integrated with the mall's Rewards program, encourages weekend visits by linking spending to airline loyalty benefits, with miles redeemable for flights, upgrades, and other rewards. The offer runs ongoing, subject to Etihad Guest enrollment and app linkage for tracking. In alignment with broader wellness efforts, Yas Mall periodically extends free curated fitness classes under initiatives like "Choose Your Move," featuring sessions such as , cardio, tabata, and full-body workouts on select weekdays, though availability varies seasonally. These classes, held in May and June 2025, aimed to motivate diverse participants with expert trainers and were extended monthly during the summer period. While not year-round, they represent the mall's commitment to recurring programming.

Recent and Special Events

In 2025, Yas Mall hosted the EcoRun, a plastic-free indoor running event held on July 27, emphasizing community health and with race distances of 2.5 km, 5 km, and 10 km. This special initiative attracted participants seeking an eco-conscious fitness experience within the mall's air-conditioned spaces, promoting awareness of alongside . Following closely, the Yas Gaming Festival returned from July 30 to August 10, transforming the mall's into a gaming hub with free entry, featuring a Switch-inspired arena, cosplay competitions, and interactive zones for gamers of all ages. The event highlighted emerging trends in and , drawing crowds to experience cutting-edge gaming setups and live demonstrations. In early November 2025, Yas Mall served as a broadcast venue for The Games of Hope, an inclusive sports event for people of determination held on November 7-8 at West Yas Community Park, allowing shoppers to view live coverage and celebrate themes of empowerment and unity. The screening underscored the mall's role in amplifying regional initiatives for accessibility and inspiration.

Recognition

Awards

Yas Mall has received numerous accolades recognizing its architectural innovation, marketing excellence, and overall contribution to retail and leisure in the Middle East. These awards highlight its status as a premier destination since opening in 2014, emphasizing design, promotional strategies, and immersive experiences. In 2014, shortly after its completion, Yas Mall was honored with the Commercial Project of the Year award at the Construction Week Awards, acknowledging the project's scale and execution by as a retail and hub on [Yas Island](/page/Yas Island). This recognition underscored the mall's 235,000 square meters of leasable space and integration with entertainment facilities. The following year, 2015, marked a series of design-focused triumphs. Yas Mall won the Best International Shopping Centre at the Global RLI Awards, celebrating its global appeal and innovative layout that blends shopping with . Additionally, it secured a Gold Award for & Development in the New Development category from the Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC), praising its architectural excellence and sustainability features. Complementing these, the mall earned a Gold Award for Best New Development at the ICSC MENA Shopping Centre Awards during RECon MENA, recognizing its rapid establishment as Abu Dhabi's largest mall. Marketing initiatives have also been lauded. In 2017, Yas Mall's 24-Hour Sale campaign received the Gold Award for Best , Promotion & Event at the ICSC MENA Shopping Centre Awards, highlighting its ability to drive footfall through time-limited events. Further, in , the mall's Black and White Sale earned another Gold in the Sales & Promotions category at the MECSC Awards, while the Hits campaign won Gold for Marketing Excellence. More recently, in , Yas Mall was named the Most Immersive Attraction and Experience at the Retail & Leisure Industry Awards, reflecting its evolving role in experiential retail. The Yas Mall Experience installation also won recognition at the MUSE Creative Awards for its innovative visitor engagement. These honors affirm Yas Mall's ongoing impact in fostering community and tourism within .

Visitor Impact

Yas Mall serves as a pivotal attraction within , which draws over 30 million visitors annually and significantly enhances Abu Dhabi's retail landscape. This substantial footfall, comprising both local residents and international tourists, underscores the mall's role in diversifying the emirate's economy beyond oil dependency by fostering extended stays and multi-attraction itineraries. Integrated with nearby landmarks such as Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, the mall amplifies visitor engagement, contributing to 's overall record of more than 38 million visits in 2024, a 10% increase from the previous year. The economic ripple effects of these visitors are profound, with retail sales, dining expenditures, and entertainment revenues bolstering local commerce and generating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. For instance, the opening of 42 brands by at the mall in 2014 alone created 2,000 jobs across fashion, food, health, and beauty sectors, illustrating its ongoing capacity to stimulate workforce growth in hospitality and services. This visitor-driven activity aligns with Abu Dhabi's sector, projected to contribute AED 62 billion to the economy in 2025, up 13% from prior years, by promoting sustainable retail experiences that encourage repeat tourism. Beyond , the mall's high volume promotes cultural exchange and vitality, hosting diverse events that attract global demographics and reinforce Yas Island's position as a year-round destination. However, this scale also necessitates robust measures, such as energy-efficient designs and , to mitigate environmental pressures from increased foot traffic.

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  39. https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts/the-countrys-art-and-soul-on-show-12-most-creative-works-on-display-in-the-uae-1.108176
  40. https://necsum.com/en/projects/yas-mall
  41. https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts-culture/art/artists-brighten-up-abu-dhabi-s-malls-with-art-space-initiative-1.1152035
  42. https://www.aldar.com/en/explore-aldar/art
  43. https://www.yasmall.ae/media/yl3jk3ee/yas-mall-digital-guide_aug-2024.pdf
  44. https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/things-to-do/shopping/yas-mall
  45. https://www.yasmall.ae/media/mgqbibx5/f-b-guide_v3.pdf
  46. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment
  47. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/vox-cinemas
  48. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/clymb/
  49. https://www.clymbabudhabi.com/
  50. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/kidzania/
  51. https://abudhabi.kidzania.com/en-ae
  52. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/air-maniax
  53. https://airmaniax.com/yas-mall-abu-dhabi/
  54. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/fun-works
  55. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/leo-ve-loona
  56. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/entertainment/pop-in-and-play
  57. https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/plan-your-trip/around-the-emirate/yas-express
  58. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/events/fitness-wellness
  59. https://www.timeoutabudhabi.com/news/yas-mall-walking-club-abu-dhabi
  60. https://gymnation.com/blogs/yas-mall-walking-club-your-cool-new-morning-routine/
  61. https://www.yasmall.ae/en/events
  62. https://www.etihad.com/en-us/etihadguest/earn-miles
  63. https://www.instagram.com/p/DKexu3TB72z/
  64. https://www.facebook.com/yasmallad/posts/another-energising-fitness-session-from-powerful-moves-to-good-vibes-all-around-/1120214820132869/
  65. https://www.inphota.com/en/event/ecorun-2025/
  66. https://www.facebook.com/Gulfmultisport/posts/ecorun-yas-mall-sunday-july-27-2025-limited-spots-register-now-for-your-early-bi/1281165297351036/
  67. https://www.timeoutabudhabi.com/news/yas-gaming-festival-2025
  68. https://gulfnews.com/things-to-do/events-concerts/yas-mall-abu-dhabi-hosts-gaming-festival-until-august-10-1.500216856
  69. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQuBkT-Ejjl/
  70. https://www.constructionweekonline.com/business/article-31721-cw-awards-yas-mall-is-commercial-project-of-year
  71. https://abudhabicityguide.com/news/news-details.asp?newsid=19395&newstype=News%2520Archive
  72. https://abudhabicityguide.com/news/news-details.asp?newsid=21503&newstype=News%2520Archive
  73. https://www.newswire.com/news/yas-mall-wins-gold-award-at-recon-mena-2015
  74. https://middleeastcampaigns.com/yas-mall-wins-gold-at-the-icsc-mena-awards-for-best-sales-promotions-and-events/
  75. https://www.aldar.com/en/news-and-media/aldar-wins-four-awards-at-mecsc-awards-2018
  76. https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/companies-news/yas-island-rounds-up-a-record-year-with-over-80-global-awards-and-accolades-nf85goas
  77. https://museaward.com/winner-info.php?id=222940
  78. https://www.wam.ae/en/article/b5p217t-yas-saadiyat-islands-see-significant-increase
  79. https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/tourism/miral-reports-record-visitation-numbers-with-10-percent-growth-across-yas-and-saadiyat-islands-in-2024/
  80. https://www.alshaya.com/sa/en/media-centre/alshaya-news/alshaya-prepares-to-open-42-brands-at-yas-mall-in-abu-dhabi-with-aldar/
  81. https://marketresearchabudhabi.com/insights/articles/abu-dhabi-tourism-2025-market-growth-and-economic-impact
  82. https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_news/?320210/Yas%252DMall%252Dpartners%252Dwith%252DEmirates%252DWildlife%252DSociety%252DWWF%252Dto%252Dlaunch%252Dnew%252Denvironmentally%252Dfriendly%252Dinitiatives%252Din%252D2018
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