Mall of the Emirates adds lifestyle hub in US$1.4 billion overhaul

The Hangout Mall of the Emirates — The Hangout will house Activate, SOCO, Explorers, and a reimagined Magic Planet. (Source: Majid Al Futtaim)

By Kaycee Enerva October 6, 2026

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Mall of the Emirates is expanding with the launch of The Hangout, a new indoor-outdoor precinct featuring four entertainment concepts and 18 food and beverage outlets.

The project forms part of Majid Al Futtaim’s US$1.4 billion investment in the shopping centre.

“We are not simply introducing new concepts; we are evolving how the destination is experienced,” said Khalifa Bin Braik, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management.

The Hangout will house Activate, SOCO, Explorers, and a reimagined Magic Planet, with openings scheduled between now and next October.

Activate, which debuted at City Centre Mirdif, will open in October and offer interactive gaming experiences across 12 technology-powered challenge rooms.

SOCO will follow in the fourth quarter as a 2700 sqm social entertainment venue featuring bowling, simulators, augmented reality darts, karaoke, and private event spaces.

Explorers will open in the first quarter of next year as a family-focused attraction for children aged one to 12, with play zones and hands-on activities including cooking, woodworking, and arts.

Magic Planet will also be revamped as part of the precinct, introducing updated attractions while retaining the family entertainment brand’s core offering.

The Hangout will also include 18 dining venues comprising 12 restaurants and four kiosks, with two more concepts yet to be announced. Confirmed operators include Fatt Pundit, Crunch, Apollo, Asma, Junk Smash Burger, Public Pizzeria, Crystal Jade Noodle Bar, and Feels.

Visitors can also access the mall’s first dedicated food and beverage courtyard, which will connect the indoor precinct with an outdoor dining area. A climate-controlled pedestrian link to New Covent Garden Theatre and Fashion Dome is also planned.

“Mall of the Emirates has been defining retail and lifestyle experiences in Dubai for more than two decades,” Bin Braik added.

“Our ambition now is to ensure its next chapter is as transformative as its first.”