If you don’t have any plans this weekend, how about taking a trip to the mall? Whether you are in dire need of some retail therapy or just want to mark the end of the week by spending a few hours in the food court, all the best shopping malls in Islamabad offer something for everyone.
Of course, there is no shortage of markets in Islamabad. However, if you are a fan of buying everything under one roof while strolling in a super-luxury air-conditioned building, you probably prefer concrete malls over traditional markets.
Depending on your personal preference and other factors, such as accessibility, you might already have a favourite mall. But have you ever wondered which one might be the best of them based on the number of outlets, dining experience, entertainment options and other facilities?
If so, take a look at our comparison of the best shopping malls in Islamabad.
Comparison of Best Shopping Malls in Islamabad
Here’s an overview of the top three shopping destinations in Islamabad.
Let’s take a look at the facilities and services available at these shopping malls in Islamabad to help you figure out which of these stands out to be better than the rest.
The Centaurus
Standing tall on Jinnah Avenue in Blue Area, The Centaurus is not just the biggest shopping mall in Islamabad, but it has also become one of the main tourist attractions in the meticulously planned city on the foothills of Margalla. Home to over 200 outlets of leading local and international brands, this grand shopping centre in Islamabad covers an area of 283,140 sq ft and is quite easily accessible via Metro Bus.
Located in the heart of the city, this architectural marvel consists of three skyscrapers. The complex includes the five-storey Centaurus shopping mall, a luxurious 36-floor hotel, residential apartments and corporate offices.
Regardless of the fact whether you enjoy shopping or not, the Centaurus shopping mall in Islamabad is one of the best places to visit in Islamabad. From featuring open-air eateries to boasting a children’s play area, this majestic mixed-use real estate development offers much more than a traditional shopping experience to the residents of the green city.
Facilities that make Centaurus one of the best shopping malls in Islamabad
Apart from various boutiques, bookstores, jewellers, opticians and hundreds of other outlets, the lavish shopping mall also houses Cineplex – one of the best cinemas in Islamabad. Funcity, the first-of-its-kind family entertainment facility in the city, is also located on the fourth floor of this top shopping destination. The place offers thrilling rides for both kids and adults along with nearly 50 different types of arcade and video games.
The Centaurus also has one of the best food courts in the city, featuring everything from fast food joints to eateries serving authentic cuisines from around the world. If you aren’t a huge fan of food courts, you can perhaps check out the restaurants on the terrace that offer a picturesque view of the majestic Margalla Hills.
Other facilities available at one of the best shopping malls in Islamabad include access to an electronic directory, around-the-clock security, emergency response team, mobile charging stations, ATM machines, wheelchair assistance and much more. The mall also has properly designed baby changing rooms and designated prayer areas for both male and female visitors. Parents with young kids can also use kiddie carts and baby strollers available in the mall.
Address: Jinnah Avenue, Sector F 8/4, Islamabad.
Timing: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM | Friday – Saturday 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Contact: 051-8483040
Giga Mall
One of the most elite shopping destinations in the federal capital, Giga Mall ranks high in the list of best shopping malls in Islamabad. Located in the World Trade Center in DHA Islamabad, Giga Mall is spread over an area of 180,000 sq ft and comprises five levels. Overall, the mall houses over 200 stores of leading brands, both domestic and foreign.
The unique architecture, impressive interior and prime location of this premier shopping centre have also played a huge role in its popularity among the residents of Islamabad. Along with Giga Mall, the 14-storey mixed-use World Trade Center also includes a 267-room luxury 4-star hotel and an office tower.
This state-of-the-art Giga Mall in Islamabad also features an outlet of Carrefour – one of the world’s biggest hypermarket chains, which allows visitors to buy groceries and household products while browsing through the stores of high-end brands.
Facilities that make Giga Mall one of the best malls in Islamabad
When it comes to facilities and services available in Giga Mall, no other place can come close. Cinepax, another top movie theatre in Islamabad, is located on the second floor of the shopping centre, allowing visitors to catch the latest 2-D and 3-D flicks during their trip to the mall.
Not only that, but shoppers can also enjoy scrumptious meals at the eateries located in the food court. Some other facilities at Giga Mall include free WiFi, designated car parking area, ATMs and banks, currency exchange service, smoke evacuation system, fire warning service, and access to wheelchairs among others. There are also quite a few health and fitness centres located inside the mall.
If you have children, you can take them to the Funcity at Giga Mall for an unforgettable experience. It’s also located on the second floor.
Address: Main G.T. Rd, DHA Phase 2, Islamabad.
Timing: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Friday – Saturday 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Contact: 051-8491040
Safa Gold Mall
At Safa Gold Mall in F-7 Markaz, you can indulge in world-class shopping, dining and entertainment facilities all under one roof. This multi-story building is considered one of the most luxurious shopping destinations in Islamabad, as it offers shoppers a wide range of options to choose from. This mall is a must-visit even if you just enjoy window shopping. Covering an area of 28,593 sq ft, Safa Gold Mall is located in one of the busiest areas of the city, which means it’s quite accessible from all parts of the city.
The mall is home to over 150 stores. It features both affordable local outlets and high-end branded shops in Islamabad. It comprises eight floors and has both indoor and outdoor parking areas. Visitors can also avail the valet service.
Safa Gold Mall in Islamabad is also pretty popular among tourists.
Facilities that make Safa Gold Mall one of the best shopping malls in Islamabad
Some of the most noteworthy facilities at Safa Gold Mall include a sauna, swimming pool, ATM machines, free internet, wheelchair assistance, separate prayer rooms for men and women, ample parking space and more. Leisure City Bowling Club, one of the best places to go bowling in Islamabad, is also located in this ultra-modern mall.
Moreover, along with a food court that features outlets of several popular eateries in the city, Safa Gold Mall also offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a scrumptious meal at its rooftop restaurants.
Fitness and health enthusiasts can also join the strength training sessions or yoga classes offered at the fitness centre on the premises.
Address: Jinnah Super, College Rd, F-7 Markaz, Islamabad.
Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Contact: 051-26567646
Which is the Best Shopping Mall in Islamabad?
Still can’t determine the best shopping mall in Islamabad? Well, here’s an overview of the facilities available at the top three shopping destinations in the city.
When it comes to comparing the best malls in Islamabad, all three of these shopping centres offer ample parking space, a safe and secure environment, dedicated prayer areas, food courts and other entertainment facilities that not only make your shopping experience more convenient but also allow you to relax and spend some quality time with your friends and family.
Each mall in Islamabad offers a diverse and vibrant shopping experience. However, it all comes down to which mall suits you better than the rest.
There is no shortage of fun things to do in Islamabad. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you can go hiking on the lush green Margalla Hills or spend some time marvelling at the stunning Pakistan Monument. History buffs can also check out some of the extraordinary museums in Islamabad.
For more information about tourist attractions in Islamabad, head over to Zameen Blog – the best lifestyle blog in Pakistan. You can also share your queries and suggestions with us at blog@zameen.com.
