September brings another reason to visit Abu Dhabi Mall. On Thursday, 24 September, the Merchants & Makers Market will take over the Central Atrium for a one-day pop-up celebrating local designers, makers, artists and creative entrepreneurs from across the UAE.
From arts and crafts to sustainable fashion, jewellery, skincare and accessories, the market is an opportunity to discover independent homegrown UAE brands and meet some of the people behind them. Entry is free, and the market will be open from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Whether you are visiting with family, meeting friends or simply curious to see what is on offer, here are five reasons to stop by.
1. Discover Local Businesses and Makers You May Not Know Yet
One of the best things about visiting a pop-up market is the opportunity to discover something new.
The Merchants and Makers Market at Abu Dhabi Mall gives visitors a chance to explore businesses and makers outside their usual shopping routine. It is a chance to shop local in the UAE while discovering the ideas and people behind growing homegrown businesses. You may come across a brand you have not encountered before or simply find inspiration while browsing.
2. Find Unique and Handcrafted Products
Most of us head to the mall with a fairly clear idea of what we need. A pop-up market adds an element of discovery to the visit.
Instead of going directly from one store to another, you can take some time to browse the participating merchants and see what catches your attention. It’s especially enjoyable when you are not looking for anything specific and are open to discovering something new.
Visitors can explore arts, crafts, sustainable fashion, jewellery, skincare and accessories, with a focus on high-quality products from independent businesses.
3. Support Local and Independent Talent
Shopping at the Merchants & Makers Market is also a simple way to support local artisans in the UAE and the country’s growing community of independent entrepreneurs.
For emerging businesses, meeting customers face-to-face is valuable. It gives them a chance to introduce what they do, share the thinking behind their business and connect with people who may be discovering them for the first time.
By bringing these businesses together at Abu Dhabi Mall, the market gives UAE homegrown talent a space to connect directly with the wider community.
4. Make It Part of a Family Day at Abu Dhabi Mall
If you are already planning a family visit to Abu Dhabi Mall, the Merchants and Makers Market can easily become part of your day.
Parents can spend some time browsing the market before or after completing their usual shopping. Children can also enjoy the range of hobby and after-school activities available at the mall, including gymnastics at Aerial Gymnastics, music and dance lessons at Melodica, and hands-on woodworking activities at StuDIYo Lab. Abu Dhabi Mall also offers practical shopping options for families and children.
Having shopping, activities, and dining in the same destination makes it easier for families to plan their time without travelling between several locations.
5. You Have Just One Day to Explore It
Unlike Abu Dhabi Mall’s regular stores, the Merchants & Makers Market will be around for one day only. It’s on Thursday, 24 September, from 10 AM to 9 PM in the Central Atrium.
You can stop by while you shop, browse before meeting friends for a meal, or make the market one of the main reasons for your visit that day.
FAQs
When does the Merchants and Makers Market start at Abu Dhabi Mall?
The Merchants and Makers Market takes place on Thursday, 24 September, from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Where is the Merchants and Makers Market taking place?
The event will take place at the Central Atrium in Abu Dhabi Mall.
What can I expect at the Merchants and Makers Market?
Visitors can explore participating businesses and makers in a pop-up setting.
Is the Merchants and Makers Market suitable for families?
Yes. Families can combine their visit to the pop-up with shopping, dining and other activities available at Abu Dhabi Mall. The mall also has several activities for children, making it convenient to plan different parts of a family day in one place.
Is there an entry fee for the Merchants & Makers Market?
No. Entry to the Merchants & Makers Market is free.
What can I shop for at the Merchants & Makers Market?
The market will feature independent SME brands across categories including arts, crafts, sustainable fashion, jewellery, skincare and accessories. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover unique and handcrafted products from local designers, makers and entrepreneurs.
What else can families do at Abu Dhabi Mall?
Families can shop, dine, and enjoy activities for children. These include gymnastics at Aerial Gymnastics, music and dance lessons at Melodica, and creative woodworking sessions at StuDIYo Lab.
