In today's age, malls are no longer just shopping destinations; they are self-contained cities offering retail, entertainment, culture, dining, and leisure under one roof. From massive retail floors to theme parks and cultural spaces, the world’s largest malls reflect how consumer experiences have evolved.
So, which mall truly stands as the largest in the world?
Here’s a ranked list of the top five largest malls globally, based on total gross leasable area and overall scale.
Iran Mall, Iran
The Iran Mall holds the title of the largest mall in the world. Spread across an astonishing area of over 21 million square feet, it is more than a shopping complex-it is an urban landmark. Alongside luxury and high-street brands, the mall houses a grand library, a traditional bazaar-inspired zone, museums, a hotel, sports facilities, and vast exhibition halls. Its design blends modern architecture with Persian cultural elements, making it both a commercial and cultural hub.
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South China Mall, China
Once known for being largely vacant, the South China Mall is still one of the biggest malls ever built, covering around 7.1 million square feet. It features themed zones inspired by cities like Paris, Venice, and Amsterdam, complete with canals and replicas. Although its occupancy has fluctuated over the years, its sheer scale keeps it firmly among the world’s largest malls.
SM Mall of Asia, Philippines
One of the most popular malls in Southeast Asia, SM Mall of Asia spans approximately 6.3 million square feet. Located along Manila Bay, it is known for its vibrant atmosphere, massive retail spaces, seaside promenade, indoor arena, and frequent events. It remains one of the most commercially successful mega-malls in the world.
SM City North EDSA, Philippines
Another Philippine entry, SM City North EDSA, covers about 6 million square feet. It functions like a small city, with multiple interconnected buildings, office spaces, entertainment zones, and lifestyle hubs. Continuous expansions over the years have kept it among the largest and busiest malls globally.
Dubai Mall, UAE
Spanning around 5.9 million square feet, the Dubai Mall is not just about size but spectacle. Home to the Dubai Aquarium, an indoor ice rink, luxury fashion houses, and direct access to the Burj Khalifa, it is one of the most visited malls in the world. It's not the largest by area, but it is arguably the most iconic.
While many malls compete in scale and grandeur, the Iran Mall in Tehran clearly stands as the largest mall in the world by size.
Each of the top five malls reflects a unique vision of cultural integration and tourism-driven luxury. These malls show how these complexes have transformed into global lifestyle destinations rather than mere shopping centres.
