Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar teases Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel project

Alabbar shared a computer‑generated visual of a plaza‑style development and said a unique skyscraper is ready, according to his Instagram post and remarks at the Rise conference.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 15 Oct 2026 01:06:54 GMT

Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar posted a short video on Instagram on 14 October, previewing a development called Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel in Downtown Dubai.

What happened

The Instagram post, dated Wednesday, shows a CGI rendering of a plaza with pedestrian zones, illuminated architecture and the Burj Khalifa in the background. The caption reads: “Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel — coming soon.” Alabbar did not give an investment figure or an opening date.

What the reports add

Gulf News noted that the teaser arrives as Emaar continues its Dh1.5 billion expansion of Dubai Mall announced in mid‑2024, which includes the District with 279 retail and food outlets and a Grand Drive extension slated for completion in the second half of 2028. The outlet said it is unclear whether the new plaza is part of that expansion or a separate project.
Khaleej Times added that Alabbar made the tease hours after speaking at the Rise conference in Dubai, where he said Emaar will soon unveil a skyscraper that will be “one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.” He described the building as “fully designed and ready” and said the launch depends on logistics and the opening of the Hormuz entrance.

What was said

Alabbar told the Rise audience: “We have a unique building that’s fully designed and ready… It’s probably going to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.” (Khaleej Times). He also added that the project’s timing hinges on the Hormuz entrance opening and improving conditions. (Khaleej Times)

How it came about

Emaar’s broader growth strategy has been documented in recent Felo News coverage, including the Ibn Battuta Mall new openings and the upcoming reopening of The Plaza mall in early 2027. These pieces illustrate the emirate’s ongoing retail and hospitality expansion, of which the Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel appears to be the latest addition.

Key facts

Mohamed Alabbar posted a video preview of Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel on Instagram on 14 October. (gulfnews.com)
The teaser shows a CGI plaza with pedestrian areas and the Burj Khalifa in the background. (gulfnews.com)
Alabbar said at the Rise conference that a new skyscraper will be "one of the most beautiful buildings in the world" and is fully designed. (khaleejtimes.com)
Emaar announced a Dh1.5 billion expansion of Dubai Mall in mid‑2024, targeting completion in the second half of 2028. (gulfnews.com)