Hamdan Shopping Center, which is more commonly known as Hamdan Centre, is one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest and most popular shopping spots. This heritage shopping destination is very different from the big malls that are now the most popular places to shop in the capital. It has a sense of history, personality, and deals that you won’t find anywhere else.
This in-depth guide will cover everything you need to know about Hamdan Shopping Center, including its history, location, stores, hours, transportation options, and insider tips. This 2,500-word article will be your go-to guide if you’re going to Abu Dhabi and want to shop in a more traditional way.
Introduction
The Hamdan Shopping Center is Abu Dhabi’s oldest mall. It opened in the 1980s. Abu Dhabi was changing quickly at that time, and the center became the city’s first modern shopping center. Even though huge malls like Yas Mall and The Galleria have opened, Hamdan Centre is still known as a great place to find deals and a part of Abu Dhabi’s culture.
You won’t find any high-end international brands here, but you will find gold shops, leather goods, sportswear, and souvenirs, all at reasonable prices. Along with being recognized as part of Abu Dhabi’s protected modern-heritage sites, this building is still popular with residents, tourists, and bargain hunters.
2. Quick Facts at a Glance
- Name: Hamdan Centre (Hamdan Shopping Center)
- Opened: 1980s
- Location: Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street (Hamdan Street), central Abu Dhabi
- Type: Mixed-use building (shops, offices, apartments, parking)
- Famous For: Gold jewellery, leather goods, footwear, sports gear, souvenirs
- Timings: Typically 09:00 AM – 11:00 PM (some shops close 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM for breaks)
Where it is and how easy it is to get to?
Address and Map
The Hamdan Shopping Center is in the middle of Abu Dhabi, on Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, which is also called Hamdan Street. Because it is in the middle of the city, it is easy to get to from anywhere.
By Bus: Routes 5, 10, 54, and 56 all stop nearby. The closest bus stop is “Hamdan St / Liwa Center.”
Taxis: They are easy to find in Abu Dhabi. Just tell the driver “Hamdan Center,” and they’ll take you there right away.
By car: There are paid MAWAQiF parking lots all around the area. Keep an eye out for parking on the street and in the ground. Many times, Sundays and holidays are free.
What to Buy at Hamdan Shopping Center?
The Hamdan Center is well-known for having a wide range of stores. These are the groups that make up its retail scene:
Jewelry and Gold
Shops that sell gold are some of the mall’s biggest attractions. You can expect classic styles, one-of-a-kind items, and competitive exchange rates. The long-time jewelers here have earned people’s trust over the years.
Shoes and leather goods
Leather goods are another specialty, including bags, wallets, belts, and shoes. You won’t find big-name designers here, but you will find high-quality items at low prices.
Sports gear and clothing
People have always gone to the center to buy sports shoes, tracksuits, and other gear. A lot of people still like Hamdan Centre for good deals in this area.
Gifts and Souvenirs
Are you looking for a camel figurine, oud, or other traditional Arabian gifts? The souvenir shops at Hamdan Centre have everything from inexpensive keepsakes to items that are related to the UAE.
Hidden Treasures
- Traditional Arab headwear like ghutras and keffiyahs
- Perfumes and accessories on sale
- A vintage cassette and tape store that collectors love
The layout and atmosphere
The Hamdan Center doesn’t look like a modern mall with shiny glass fronts; it looks more like a souk-meets-shopping complex. The narrow hallways, brightly lit storefronts, and rows of independent shops give it a very old-fashioned feel.
The building is a mix of uses. There are stores on the ground and mezzanine levels, offices on the upper floors, and apartments all around. There is a multi-level parking garage for both shoppers and residents.
Food and Dining Choices
Hamdan Centre isn’t a place for foodies like Yas Mall, but it does have some good places to eat:
- TAZA – It is a well-known fast food place in the complex.
- Nearby Restaurants – Jazz@PizzaExpress, Ritaj, Royal Rajasthan, Caravan, and Asian Inasal are all very close by.
The area around Hamdan Centre has everything you could want, from pizza to Indian curries to Filipino dishes.
Tips for shopping and haggling
Shopping at Hamdan Center is all about getting a good deal. Here are some ways to make the most of your visit:
- Be polite when you haggle: Many stores expect you to haggle, especially for leather, souvenirs, and items that don’t have a set price.
- Check prices: Don’t buy from the first store you see; many stores may sell the same things.
- Check the quality: Make sure you have guarantees and authenticity certificates, especially for leather or gold.
- Cash is helpful: Even though most stores take cards, small stores may prefer cash.
Timings and Best Time to Visit
- General Timings: 09:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Break Hours: Some shops close between 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings (livelier atmosphere and cooler temperatures), mornings if you prefer quiet browsing.
Parking Facilities
Hamdan Centre offers underground parking, while surrounding streets are lined with MAWAQiF paid parking zones. Watch for:
- Standard Zones (Blue/Black): Typically AED 2 per hour
- Premium Zones (Blue/White): AED 3 per hour
- Free: Sundays and certain public holidays
Always check the signage for exact timings and fees.
Nearby Attractions
If you plan a longer day out, combine Hamdan Centre with nearby landmarks:
- World Trade Center Mall & Souk – modern shopping blended with heritage souk-style stores
- Qasr Al Hosn – Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building and cultural hub
- Corniche – perfect for an evening stroll by the waterfront
Conclusion
The Hamdan Shopping Center isn’t as fancy as the new mega-malls, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s a shopping experience that brings back memories, a historic building, and a place where bargain hunters can find great deals. If you want to shop with style in Abu Dhabi, the Hamdan Centre is still a must-see place. You can find everything from jewelry to leather goods, souvenirs to sportswear.
If you’re a tourist looking for cheap gifts or a local who loves to shop the old-fashioned way, Hamdan Centre is a must-see in Abu Dhabi.
FAQ’s
Is the Hamdan Center the oldest mall in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, it is widely known to be the oldest mall in Abu Dhabi, dating back to the 1980s.
What are the hours for the Hamdan Center?
Most stores are open from 9 AM to 11 PM. From 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM, some of them close.
Where can I find the Hamdan Shopping Center?
In the middle of Abu Dhabi, it’s on Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street (Hamdan Street).
What bus should I take to get to Hamdan Center?
You can take routes 5, 10, 54, or 56. Get off at “Liwa Center / Hamdan St.”
Is the Hamdan Center a site of cultural heritage?
Yes, it is one of the more than 60 modern heritage buildings in Abu Dhabi.
Is there a place to park?
Yes, there is parking under the building and on MAWAQiF street.
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