BUR DUBAI. Located in Bur Dubai, this immense shopping center is an upscale paradise marked by contemporary architecture and a cosmopolitan attitude that makes it a favorite with Dubai's most discriminating shoppers. Al Khaleej Centre features more than 100 retail shops, and large windows in the commons areas offer splendid panoramic views. Aside from its eclectic collection of boutique and specialty shops, one of the mall's more noteworthy sights is its captivating aquarium.

BUR DUBAI. One of the Dubai area's largest and most popular shopping malls, Bur Juman Centre opened in the early 90s. With more than 170 prestigious boutique and specialty shops, shoppers can find everything from Western designer apparel, leather goods and gold jewelry to perfumes, consumer electronics and sporting goods. After checking out racks of the latest lines from Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Escada and Calvin Klein, treat yourself to lunch with an international flair at the mall's extensive food court.

Deira City Centre, as the name suggests, is located in the heart of Dubai, offering the well-heeled business crowd more than 200 first-rate shops, restaurants and other distractions. The Centre boasts a modern, two-level design scheme ­ one that allows for ample natural lighting, oasis-like sitting areas, and CityWalk, a boulevard-like experience with an 11-screen cinema and a variety of dining and nightlife options. The mall also boasts familiar international retailers such as Debenhams, JCPenney, Woolworths, Bennetton and Brantano's Shoe City, as well as regional favorites like Ajmal Perfumes, an upscale purveyor of fine fragrances.

The Festival Waterfront Centre in the heart of the vast Dubai Festival City has a two-floor Marks & Spencer as well as a range of classy outlets selling everything from luxury Blancpain watches to colorful Monsoon dresses. In a novel attempt to marry retail and culture, the mall has an ongoing program of live music, as well as exhibitions on art and photography. An indoor fountain and waterfall that glides over pebbles adds to the generally soothing ambiance.

JEBEL ALI. One of Dubai's most grandiose shopping centers, this themed mall is based on the travels of 14th-century explorer Ibn Battuta and is comprised of six courts, each reflecting the culture and architecture of a different region. The mall houses an amazing array of businesses. There's a 21-screen cinema, IMAX theater, numerous restaurants from small independent cafes to large international chains, a massive supermarket, and a slew of clothing and accessory stores that include elite designer boutiques, trendy casual outfitters and everything in between. A sight to behold, the mall is worth a visit just to see the unique décor and accent pieces in each court, such as a life-size replica of a Chinese junk, an antique elephant clock, and a host of other fascinating inventions. English and Arabic tours highlighting the various historical and architectural aspects of the mall are offered Saturday-Thursday and last about 45 minutes.