Dubai: Mall of the Emirates Is Adding A ‘Hangout’ With 4 New Entertainment Concepts & 18 Eateries

Mall of the Emirates is set to get a new destination for dining, <a href="https://comicvibe.com/dlyr-the-new-temple-of-virtual-reality-and-immersive-entertainment-on-pariss-doorstep/” title=”D'LYR: The new temple of virtual reality and immersive entertainment on Paris's doorstep”>entertainment and socialising. Majid Al Futtaim has announced The Hangout by Mall of the Emirates, a new indoor and outdoor precinct forming part of the mall’s AED 5 billion transformation. The new destination will roll out in stages, with openings planned throughout 2026 and into early 2027.

The Hangout By Mall Of The Emirates Is Coming

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The new precinct will bring together entertainment, family activities, restaurants and outdoor spaces, giving visitors more ways to spend time at the mall beyond shopping.

Four entertainment concepts will anchor the development.

Activate Brings Interactive Gaming

Activate is scheduled to open in October 2026 after making its debut at City Centre Mirdif. The interactive gaming concept features 12 illuminated rooms with more than 50 challenges that combine movement, competition and technology.

The experience will be open to guests aged six and above.

SOCO Adds Bowling, Simulators And More

SOCO is expected to open in Q4 2026 across 2,700 sq. m. The social entertainment venue will feature bowling, UAE-first simulators, augmented reality darts, karaoke and private VIP party rooms. Food and drinks will also form part of the experience, giving groups the option to combine entertainment with dining.

Explorers Is Designed For Kids

Coming in Q1 2027, Explorers will offer a 2,500 sq. m play and learning space aimed at children aged one to 12. The venue will include suspended net structures, STEM-led water activities and practical workshops covering areas such as cooking, woodworking and arts.

Magic Planet Returns In A New Format

Magic Planet will also make its return in 2027 with a refreshed concept. The family entertainment brand has long been part of the Mall of the Emirates experience, and its new version will form another major component of The Hangout.

18 Dining Spots Are Planned

The line-up includes 12 restaurants, four kiosks and two food outlets incorporated into the entertainment venues. Visitors can expect a mix of cuisines, including Indian, Levantine, Italian and Pan-Asian food.

Several names have already been confirmed. They include Fatt Pundit, Crunch, Apollo, Asma, Junk Smash Burger, Public Pizzeria, Crystal Jade Noodle Bar and Feels. More restaurants are expected to be announced as the precinct takes shape.

Designed with landscaped areas, the space will offer an al fresco setting during Dubai’s cooler months. Fully operable façades will connect the outdoor courtyard with the indoor areas, allowing the space to be used for dining, social gatherings and events.

A new climate-controlled pedestrian route will connect The Hangout with New Covent Garden Theatre and Fashion Dome. This is designed to make moving between the different parts of the entertainment district easier.

What Else Is Part Of The AED 5 Billion Transformation?

The AED 5 billion transformation also includes a luxury wellness club, additional dining areas and a new theatre. Plans also cover upgrades to accessibility and mobility around the destination, including barrierless parking.

Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied

When does The Hangout open?

In phases through 2026 and into early 2027. Activate opens in October 2026, SOCO in Q4 2026, Explorers in Q1 2027 and Magic Planet in 2027.

Which restaurants are confirmed?

Fatt Pundit, Crunch, Apollo, Asma, Junk Smash Burger, Public Pizzeria, Crystal Jade Noodle Bar and Feels, with more to be announced.

What is The Hangout by Mall of the Emirates?

A new indoor-outdoor lifestyle and entertainment precinct with four entertainment concepts and 18 F&B experiences, part of the mall’s AED 5 billion transformation.

Deeplata Garde| Senior Content Writer

Deeplata Garde is a Senior Content Writer with 8 years of experience crafting stories on food, travel, sports and pop culture. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media from the University Of Mumbai and has spent her career turning everyday moments into narratives readers can’t scroll past. Powered by black coffee, dark chocolate & a concerning number of open tabs, she spends her non-working hours chasing sunsets, recommending restaurants & reading in a quiet corner.

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First Published: October 01, 2026 5:11 PM