What are the typical opening hours for malls and restaurants in the UAE?

The UAE provides extended and tourist-friendly business hours which make daily planning simple for visitors. Most malls and major shops in the UAE operate with extended hours that suit tourists and residents alike.

Mall hours: Shop late into the night

Major shopping malls in the United Arab Emirates operate from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM during weekdays. Many malls in Dubai and Abu Dhabi along with other cities extend their operating hours from Friday through Saturday until midnight or 11:00 PM. Malls in Ramadan adjust their operating hours by opening later in the day and extending their closing times after midnight to create an exciting shopping environment at night.

In smaller emirates, restaurant and mall hours may vary slightly, with some venues closing earlier than in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Restaurant hours from early breakfast to midnight meals

Restaurants operate between 12:00 PM and 10:00 or 11:00 PM yet upscale hotel restaurants extend their service hours past these times. Breakfast cafés in Dubai open their doors between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. In major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, 24-hour eateries are widely available. The combination of late-night operations at fast food outlets and local cafeterias serves both tourists and residents in the area.

Thursday evenings are especially busy in UAE malls as many residents begin their weekend (which falls on Friday and Saturday). On Thursdays, malls often extend their hours, staying open until 11:00 PM or midnight. Visitors should expect larger crowds and a vibrant atmosphere.

Although many restaurants are open until 10:00 or 11:00 PM, the last order (or last call) is typically taken 30 - 45 minutes before closing time - usually between 10:15 PM and 10:30 PM. It’s recommended to arrive earlier if you want to enjoy a full meal without feeling rushed.

Ramadan adjustments

Many restaurants remain open during the day but are required to serve food in private or covered areas. Most public dining resumes after sunset for iftar. The special tents and buffets provide an additional highlight to this event period.

The United Arab Emirates provides its visitors with both shopping and dining opportunities that extend from day to night hours.

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