5 must-try UAE mall activities that don't include shopping sprees

Looking to escape the summer heat without emptying your wallet on shopping sprees? UAE malls offer so much more than just retail therapy. From virtual reality adventures and mind-bending escape rooms to relaxing art exhibits and delicious dining experiences, there’s something for everyone craving a break from the usual shopping routine. These activities promise fun, excitement, and relaxation, all under one air-conditioned roof. So, if you want to make the most of your mall visit without grabbing another shopping bag, dive into these five fun UAE mall activities that will keep you entertained and refreshed all day long.

Why sweat outside when you can literally relax in AC? Ski Dubai offers skiing, snowboarding, zorbing, and even penguin encounters. Rent all your winter gear on-site, and spend a surreal afternoon forgetting you’re in the middle of the desert.

Pro tip: Book early online to avoid the queue and maybe pack a pair of socks.

Cinemas in the UAE aren’t your average multiplexes. We're talking about reclining seats, gourmet snacks. So, even if you’re watching arthouse or blockbuster, this is the most relaxing way to kill two (or five) hours.

If your dream afternoon involves shouting in a locked room while solving absurdly hard clues, UAE's escape rooms, are right here to help. Pick your choice, haunted mansion, spy mission, serial killer lair, and prepare for 60 minutes of panic, puzzles, and passive-aggressive team dynamics. It’s chaos, it’s confusing, and gloriously air-conditioned. Ideal for birthdays, team-building, or testing your relationship.

Zombies, skydiving, intergalactic chaos, all without breaking a sweat (or a nail)? Yes, please. VR Park is your all-access pass to a digital fever dream where reality blurs and adrenaline spikes. One minute you’re dodging aliens, the next you're plummeting off virtual skyscrapers or solving puzzles in zero gravity. It's a solid choice for thrill-seeking children competitive friend groups, or solo gamers showing off lightning-fast reflexes.
Cool, chaotic, and completely sun-free. What more could you want?

Art lovers, we have just the thing for you. Infinity des Lumières is a mood. We're talking about Van Gogh’s brushstrokes swirling around your ankles, Monet dancing across the ceiling, and waves of Japanese art pulsing to ambient music. You don’t view the art, you float through it. If you're looking for high culture with low effort (and zero sweat). It’s dreamy, dramatic, and looks good on your feed.