A guide to Dubai's Al Fresco Malls

Dubai - City Walk and BoxPark, both located on Al Wasl Road, have drastically transformed the city's shopping mall culture

One of the most striking things of driving down Al Wasl Road is the spectacular Burj Khalifa looming in the skyline along with the traditional shops that have been around the area since the early 90s. But over the past few years, Al Wasl Road has become an uber-cool district thanks to concepts such as City Walk and BoxPark that have infused life into one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods.
Both the concepts have become increasingly popular, both with residents and tourists alike, and with the pleasant weather currently upon us, this is the best time to explore all that these unique concepts have to offer. 
City Walk
Located right opposite Life Pharmacy on Al Wasl Road, the first thing you notice about City Walk is the elegant wooden panels of the façade and the modern exterior that stands out from anything in the area. Resembling the outdoor plazas in Paris or Rome, it is an outdoor concept that offers an eclectic mix of retail and dining outlets. The area is perfect for those early morning walks, or for catch-up sessions with friends in the evenings as it easily blends street café culture with high-end dining, offering something for even the most discerning of visitors.
Its signature attraction is the water fountain that is situated at the centre of the development, and is designed to create a bustling public square offers diners a chance to enjoy a meal overlooking the water. The space further has a bright children's play area for the little ones to have fun. The area features cute kiosks housing everything right from cupcakes to frozen yoghurt stores, along a green promenade and onsite car parking.
Foodies will love sampling meals at outlets such as Hummingbird Bakery, Mo's, Pappa Roti, Sapori Di Bice, and Nar among others. While shopaholics can shop to their hearts' content at stores like S*uce in the Hood, Rivoli, Roberto Cavalli Décor and Sephora. Spanning a large area, City Walk offers open spaces and Al Fresco cafes, all with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. It makes for an ideal place for a chilled out evening, where you can stop for a bite after a spot of shopping.