Top 10 Asia Biggest Mall

Asia is home to some of the most impressive shopping malls in the world. These mega-malls are more than just places to shop—they are entertainment hubs, tourist attractions, and even cultural landmarks. From massive retail spaces to amusement parks and luxury boutiques, Asia’s biggest malls redefine the shopping experience.

Asia’s shopping malls aren’t just about retail—they’re massive entertainment hubs that attract millions of visitors. Whether you’re looking for luxury shopping, family fun, or cultural experiences, these malls have it all.

When we talk about the biggest malls, we consider several factors:

Total area

The physical size of the mall, usually measured in square feet or meters.

Number of stores

The variety and number of brands available.

Entertainment options

Malls today include ice rinks, amusement parks, cinemas, and more.

Visitor footfall

The number of people visiting daily or yearly.

With these criteria in mind, let’s explore the top 10 biggest malls in Asia!

New South China Mall (China)
  • Size: 7.1 million square feet
  • Highlights: Theme parks, canals, European-style architecture
  • Why visit? The world’s largest mall by total area, it offers a unique mix of retail and entertainment.

The New South China Mall, located in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China, is a fascinating yet enigmatic structure that has garnered global attention due to its unique history and current state. Opened in 2005, it was designed to be the largest shopping mall in the world by gross leasable area, surpassing even the West Edmonton Mall in Canada and the Mall of America in the United States. However, despite its ambitious scale and grandeur, the mall has remained largely vacant since its inception, earning it the nickname “The Ghost Mall.”

The mall’s design is a blend of modern architecture and thematic zones, featuring areas modelled after international cities and landmarks, such as Paris, Venice, Amsterdam, and Egypt. These zones were intended to offer visitors a global shopping experience without leaving China. The mall also boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a massive indoor amusement park, a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, and even a canal complete with gondolas reminiscent of Venice.

Despite its impressive infrastructure, the New South China Mall’s failure to attract tenants and shoppers has been attributed to several factors. One of the primary reasons is its location. Dongguan, while a significant manufacturing hub, is not a major tourist destination, and the mall’s remote location within the city made it difficult for locals and tourists alike to access.

The lack of anchor tenants further reduced foot traffic, making it even less attractive to potential retailers. Additionally, the rapid rise of e-commerce in China during the mid-2000s shifted consumer behaviour away from traditional brick-and-mortar retail spaces, further exacerbating the mall’s challenges.

Over the years, the mall has become a symbol of overambition and miscalculation in the retail and commercial real estate sectors. The oversupply of retail space and insufficient demand highlight the risks of large-scale retail development without adequate market research. While there have been occasional attempts to revive the space, such as leasing portions of it for office use or hosting small events, these efforts have not been enough to bring the mall to its intended glory.

Some have suggested converting the mall into a mixed-use development to address the challenges of retail vacancy and attract a broader demographic.

Today, the New South China Mall stands as a surreal and haunting reminder of the complexities of urban development and the unpredictable nature of consumer trends. Its vast, empty halls and deserted walkways have even attracted urban explorers and photographers, who document its eerie beauty and the stories it silently holds. The mall’s decline also serves as a case study of the impact of economic factors and infrastructure investment on urban planning.

In recent years, there has been some speculation about the mall’s future, with discussions around potential redevelopment or repurposing. Concepts such as mall revitalization and attracting tourism have been floated, but no concrete plans have materialized.

However, as of now, it remains a largely abandoned monument to a vision that never fully materialized, offering a unique glimpse into the intersection of ambition, commerce, and urban planning challenges in modern China.

Golden Resources Mall (China)
  • Size: 6 million square feet
  • Highlights: Over 1,000 stores, luxury brands, restaurants
  • Why visit? A paradise for shoppers looking for variety and high-end fashion.

The Golden Resources Mall, often referred to as “Jin Yuan” in Chinese, is one of Beijing’s most iconic shopping destinations. When it first opened in 2004, it was celebrated as the largest mall in the world by gross leasable area, a title it held until the completion of the New South China Mall later that same year.

Located in the Haidian District, a bustling area known for its tech hubs and educational institutions, the mall was designed to cater to the growing middle class and their increasing appetite for luxury goods, entertainment, and modern retail experiences.

Spanning over 6 million square feet, the Golden Resources Mall is a sprawling complex that houses more than 1,000 stores, ranging from high-end international brands to local retailers.

The mall’s modern design features wide, well-lit corridors, glass facades, and an emphasis on creating a comfortable shopping environment. It includes multiple floors dedicated to fashion, electronics, home goods, and dining, making it a one-stop destination for shoppers.

One of the mall’s standout features is its focus on creating a holistic shopping experience. In addition to retail stores, it includes a variety of entertainment options, such as a cinema, an indoor ice-skating rink, and arcade games.

The food court offers a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Chinese dishes to international fast food, catering to the tastes of its diverse clientele. The mall also hosts seasonal events, promotional activities, and cultural performances, further enhancing its appeal as a social and recreational hub.

Despite its grandeur, the Golden Resources Mall faced challenges in its early years. Initially, it struggled to attract sufficient foot traffic, partly due to its location in a less densely populated area of Beijing at the time. However, as the city expanded and the surrounding neighbourhoods developed, the mall gradually gained popularity. Today, it is a thriving commercial centre, drawing both locals and tourists alike.

The mall’s success can be attributed to its adaptability and ability to evolve with changing consumer preferences. Over the years, it has undergone renovations and introduced new features to stay relevant in a competitive retail landscape. For instance, it has embraced digitalization by integrating online shopping platforms and offering services like click-and-collect, blending the convenience of e-commerce with the tactile experience of in-store shopping.

The mall has made strides in sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly designs and improving energy efficiency. It also benefits from excellent transportation access, with public transport options and ample parking facilities for visitors. The introduction of smart retail technologies, such as mobile payments and personalized shopping experiences, has further elevated its appeal.

The Golden Resources Mall is more than just a shopping centre; it is a reflection of Beijing’s rapid urbanization and the growing affluence of its residents. It symbolizes the city’s transformation into a global metropolis and contributes significantly to the local economy by generating revenue and providing employment opportunities. With plans for expansion and enhanced customer services like concierge support and loyalty programs, the mall continues to evolve, ensuring its position as a premier retail destination in China.

Its security measures and family-friendly amenities make it a safe and welcoming place for all visitors. At the same time, its active social media presence and innovative marketing strategies keep it at the forefront of the retail industry.

SM Tianjin (China)
  • Size: 5.9 million square feet
  • Highlights: 5 sections themed by continents
  • Why visit? One of the most uniquely designed malls in Asia.

SM Tianjin is a prominent shopping and lifestyle destination located in Tianjin, China, developed by SM Prime Holdings, a leading mall operator in the Philippines. Opened in 2016, the mall is part of SM Prime’s expansion strategy in China, aiming to bring its expertise in integrated retail and entertainment complexes to the growing Chinese market. Situated in the bustling Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA), the mall serves as a hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and community activities, catering to both residents and visitors.

The mall’s architectural design is modern and expansive and incorporates sustainable elements, reflecting SM Prime’s signature style of creating large-scale, multi-functional spaces.

It features a mix of international and local brands, offering a wide range of products from fashion and electronics to home goods and beauty products. The retail mix is carefully curated to appeal to Tianjin’s diverse and increasingly affluent population, with a focus on providing a premium shopping experience.

One of the standout features of SM Tianjin is its emphasis on family-friendly amenities and entertainment options. The mall includes a state-of-the-art cinema, an indoor ice-skating rink, a children’s play area, and even relaxation zones like a spa and fitness centre, making it a popular destination for families.

It hosts regular events, such as seasonal festivals, cultural performances, and promotional activities, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

The dining options at SM Tianjin are equally impressive, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offering everything from local Tianjin delicacies to international cuisine. The food court is designed to be a social space where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal, further enhancing the mall’s appeal as a community gathering spot.

SM Tianjin also incorporates sustainable design elements and eco-friendly initiatives, reflecting SM Prime’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The mall utilizes energy-efficient systems, waste management programs, solar panels, and eco-friendly materials, aligning with global trends toward sustainable urban development. Features like green rooftops and water conservation systems further emphasize the mall’s dedication to green building practices.

The mall ensures accessibility with excellent public transport links, ample parking facilities, and accommodations for disabled visitors. It integrates digital services like free Wi-Fi, an intuitive mobile app, and interactive directories to enhance the shopping experience. Customer services include a concierge service, a customer service desk, and a lost and found centre. For security and safety, the mall is equipped with surveillance systems, emergency exits, and a dedicated team of security personnel.

Since its opening, SM Tianjin has become a key retail and lifestyle destination in the region, contributing to the economic growth of TEDA and the broader Tianjin area. Its success highlights the potential for international mall operators to thrive in China’s competitive retail market by offering high-quality, integrated experiences that meet the evolving needs of consumers. For visitors, SM Tianjin represents a blend of global retail standards and local cultural influences, making it a unique and dynamic destination in northern China.

CentralWorld (Thailand)
  • Size: 5.9 million square feet
  • Highlights: Shopping, dining, co-working spaces
  • Why visit? A favourite among locals and tourists alike.

CentralWorld, located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand, is one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most iconic shopping complexes. Situated along the bustling Ratchaprasong intersection, it is a cornerstone of Bangkok’s retail, entertainment, and urban lifestyle scene. Since its grand opening in 1990 (and later expanded in 2006), CentralWorld has become a symbol of modernity and urban sophistication, attracting millions of locals, tourists, and expatriates annually.

The mall spans an impressive 8.3 million square feet, making it one of the largest shopping centres in the world. Its sleek and contemporary design features wide open spaces, natural lighting, and a layout that encourages exploration. CentralWorld is divided into distinct zones, each catering to different interests and demographics, including fashion and luxury boutiques, tech hubs and electronics stores, home decor outlets, and a wide array of dining options.

One of CentralWorld’s key strengths is its diverse retail offerings. It houses over 500 shops featuring a mix of international luxury brands, popular high-street labels, and local Thai designers. This blend ensures that the mall appeals to a broad audience, from high-end shoppers to budget-conscious visitors. The mall is also home to department stores like Zen and Isetan, which offer curated selections of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products.

Beyond shopping, CentralWorld is renowned for its entertainment and leisure facilities. The mall features a state-of-the-art cinema complex, a bowling alley, and an immersive digital art gallery, providing visitors with a variety of recreational activities. Additionally, the mall’s open-air plaza, known as CentralWorld Square, is a popular venue for events, concerts, and seasonal festivals. During major celebrations like New Year’s Eve and Songkran (Thai New Year), the square transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, drawing massive crowds.

Dining at CentralWorld is an experience in itself. The mall boasts an extensive range of food options, from upscale restaurants and trendy cafes to street food-inspired stalls. The food court, in particular, is a favourite among visitors for its affordability and variety, offering a taste of both Thai and international cuisines.

CentralWorld also features co-working spaces designed for digital nomads and professionals, integrating shared workspaces within the mall’s environment. The mall’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and green architecture initiatives, reflecting a growing dedication to environmental responsibility.

The mall is deeply integrated into Bangkok’s urban fabric. Its prime location makes it easily accessible via the city’s BTS Skytrain and other public transit options. It is surrounded by landmarks like the Erawan Shrine and Gaysorn Village, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bangkok.

In recent years, CentralWorld has embraced digital infrastructure by offering free Wi-Fi and implementing smart mall features to enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, the mall promotes health & wellness with the inclusion of fitness centres and wellness shops, ensuring a holistic approach to shopping and lifestyle.

CentralWorld remains a dynamic and evolving hub, blending global retail standards with local cultural influences, making it a unique and vibrant destination in the heart of Thailand.

IOI City Mall (Malaysia)
  • Size: 5.3 million square feet
  • Highlights: Ice rink, indoor theme park
  • Why visit? Malaysia’s largest mall, packed with entertainment.

IOI City Mall, located in Putrajaya, Malaysia, is one of the country’s largest and most modern integrated shopping and lifestyle destinations. Spanning over 5.3 million square feet, the mall offers a comprehensive shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. Its contemporary and spacious architecture features wide corridors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for visitors.

The mall is divided into two main phases: Phase 1 focuses on retail and dining, while Phase 2, known as the “Festival Plaza,” emphasizes entertainment and leisure. IOI City Mall is home to over 500 retail outlets featuring a mix of international brands, local favourites, and speciality stores. Shoppers can find everything from high-end fashion and beauty products to electronics, home goods, and unique artisanal items.

One of the mall’s standout features is its extensive entertainment offerings. Phase 2 houses the “Festival Plaza,” which includes a state-of-the-art cinema, an indoor theme park, an ice-skating rink, and a virtual reality gaming zone. These attractions make IOI City Mall a popular destination for families and young adults seeking fun and adventure.

The mall also prioritizes accessibility, with features such as disability access, wheelchair ramps, and elevator access. Additionally, IOI City Mall has implemented various sustainability initiatives, including energy-efficient lighting, waste management programs, and green building practices.

SM Mall of Asia (Philippines)
  • Size: 5.1 million square feet
  • Highlights: Seaside location, arena, amusement rides
  • Why visit? Offers a stunning oceanfront shopping experience.

The SM Mall of Asia, located in Pasay City, Philippines, is one of the largest and most iconic shopping destinations in the country and Southeast Asia. Opened in 2006 by SM Prime Holdings, the mall is a flagship project of the Sy family, the founders of the SM Group, and has since become a landmark in Metro Manila.

Situated along Manila Bay, the mall offers not only a world-class shopping experience but also stunning views of the bay, particularly during sunset, making it a popular tourist destination for both locals and tourists.

Spanning over 5.1 million square feet, the SM Mall of Asia is a sprawling complex divided into four main buildings: the Main Mall, the South Parking Building, the North Parking Building, and the Entertainment Mall. Each section is interconnected and designed to cater to different aspects of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure.

The mall’s layout is spacious and modern, with wide walkways, natural lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere. One of the mall’s most distinctive features is its location by Manila Bay. The Mall of Asia Bay Area, an open-air esplanade, offers visitors a chance to stroll along the bay, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the picturesque views.

The SM Mall of Asia is renowned for its extensive retail offerings. It houses over 600 stores, ranging from international luxury brands and high-street fashion to local retailers and speciality shops.

Entertainment is a major draw at the SM Mall of Asia. The Entertainment Mall is home to the IMAX Theatre, one of the largest in the country, as well as a regular cinema complex, an Olympic-sized ice-skating rink, and a variety of arcade and gaming centres.

The mall also features the SM By the Bay Amusement Park, which offers rides and attractions for all ages, including a giant Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of Manila Bay.

Dining at the SM Mall of Asia is an experience in itself. The mall boasts a wide array of dining options, from fast food and casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.

The SM Mall of Asia is also a hub for events and activities. It regularly hosts concerts, cultural performances, seasonal festivals, and promotional events, drawing large crowds and adding to the mall’s lively atmosphere.

In recent years, the SM Mall of Asia has embraced sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient systems, waste management programs, and eco-friendly practices.

Lotte World Mall (South Korea)
  • Size: 5.1 million square feet
  • Highlights: Connected to Lotte World theme park
  • Why visit? A blend of shopping and world-class attractions.

Lotte World Mall, located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is a premier luxury shopping destination that offers a unique blend of high-end retail, entertainment, and cultural experiences. With a total floor area of 5.1 million square feet, the mall is a modern architectural marvel that boasts a sleek and contemporary design.

The mall’s luxury retail offerings are unparalleled, with over 1,000 stores, including flagship outlets of international luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Prada. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and food courts.

Entertainment is a key component of Lotte World Mall’s appeal, with a state-of-the-art cinema complex, an IMAX theatre, and a 4D screening room. The mall is also home to an aquarium, which offers an immersive experience with its diverse marine life exhibits.

In addition to its retail and entertainment offerings, Lotte World Mall is also a cultural hub, regularly hosting art exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural performances. The mall’s central location and accessibility via public transportation make it a convenient venue for both local and international events.

Lotte World Mall has also embraced sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient systems, waste management programs, and eco-friendly practices. These efforts reflect the Lotte Group’s commitment to environmental responsibility and align with global trends toward sustainable urban development.

Isfahan City Center (Iran)
  • Size: 5 million square feet
  • Highlights: Amusement park, cultural exhibits
  • Why visit? A mix of traditional and modern Persian shopping experiences.

Isfahan City Center, located in the historic city of Isfahan, Iran, is a premier luxury shopping destination that offers a unique blend of traditional Persian and modern shopping experiences. With a total floor area of 5 million square feet, the mall is a modern architectural marvel that incorporates elements of traditional Persian design.

The mall’s retail offerings are diverse and extensive, with over 700 stores featuring international luxury brands, local Iranian designers, and speciality shops. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from traditional Persian cuisine to international favourites.

One of the mall’s standout features is its entertainment and leisure facilities, including a state-of-the-art cinema complex and an indoor amusement park. The mall also serves as a cultural hub, hosting events, exhibitions, and performances that showcase local talent and cultural traditions.

Isfahan City Center has also prioritized sustainability, implementing energy-efficient systems, waste management programs, and eco-friendly practices. These efforts reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility and align with global trends toward sustainable urban development.

Wuhan Mall (China)
  • Size: 4.8 million square feet
  • Highlights: Large retail stores, entertainment zones
  • Why visit? One of China’s top-tier mega malls.

Wuhan Mall, located in the heart of Wuhan, China, is a premier luxury shopping destination that offers a unique blend of high-end retail, fine dining, and entertainment experiences. With a total floor area of 4.8 million square feet, the mall is a modern architectural marvel that showcases elegant designs, spacious interiors, and high ceilings.

The mall’s luxury retail offerings are unparalleled, with a range of international high-end brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and Cartier. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and a food court featuring local Chinese cuisine and international dishes.

In addition to its retail and dining offerings, Wuhan Mall features a range of entertainment and leisure facilities, including a state-of-the-art cinema complex, cultural events, art exhibitions, and seasonal festivals.

Wuhan Mall has also prioritized sustainability, implementing energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly practices. These efforts reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility and align with global trends toward sustainable urban development.

Dubai Mall (UAE)
  • Size: 12.1 million square feet
  • Highlights: Aquarium, ice rink, luxury shopping
  • Why visit? It’s among the world’s most famous malls!

The Dubai Mall, located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, is one of the world’s largest and most iconic luxury shopping destinations. With a total floor area of 12.1 million square feet, the mall is a modern architectural marvel that offers an unparalleled blend of luxury retail, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

The mall’s luxury retail offerings are unparalleled, with a range of international high-end brands, including Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, and Rolex. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries and food courts to fine dining restaurants.

In addition to its retail and dining offerings, the Dubai Mall features a range of entertainment and leisure facilities, including a state-of-the-art aquarium, an ice rink, a virtual reality theme park, and an edutainment centre.

The Dubai Mall has also prioritized sustainability, implementing energy-efficient systems, waste management programs, and eco-friendly practices. These efforts reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility and align with global trends toward sustainable urban development.

Which is the biggest mall in Asia?

The New South China Mall is the biggest by total area.

What is the most visited mall in Asia?

The Dubai Mall receives the highest number of visitors.

Are Asian malls bigger than American malls?

Yes, most Asian malls surpass American malls in size and variety.

What is the best mall for luxury shopping in Asia?

Lotte World Mall and Dubai Mall are top choices.

Which Asian country has the most mega malls?

China leads with several of the world’s biggest malls.