Here is a list of the top shopping malls in Nairobi. The city of Nairobi has, over the past few years, been named one of the top 5 cities in Sub-Saharan Africa with the largest shopping malls. It has been ranked as the largest retail market in East Africa. The developers of Nairobi’s modern malls are building new city hubs where people can live, work, shop, and play all on the same site. They are keen to erect these malls in locations that are nearer to key transport links to make them easily accessible.
The following is a list of the popular and best malls in Nairobi.
List Of Best Malls In Nairobi
1. Business Bay Square (BBS) Mall
The BBS Mall in Eastleigh, Nairobi, opposite Pumwani Maternity Hospital, is massive, covering a whopping 130,000 square metres. It’s one of the biggest malls in East Africa, beating out Two Rivers and Garden City Mall for the top spot. The area around the mall is pretty hectic, with narrow walking lanes and roads that make calling an Uber a nightmare. But the mall itself is a breath of fresh air, promising to house shops that sell genuine brands like Giordano and Linton’s Beauty World. And if you’re hungry, there are plenty of fast food options like KFC, Pizzahut, and Galito’s, as well as a food court on the rooftop. The mall covers 6.4 acres and has everything from fashion stores to banking services. Some businesses have already set up shop, like Optica, Goodlife Pharmacy, Cleanfax Laundry and Cleaners, Beyond Fruits, Healthy U, Artcafe, Carrefour, Absa Bank, SBM, National Bank, KCB, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), Nairobi Women’s Hospital, Arkam Dinner & Sweets and Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed lender NCBA. So if you’re looking for a grand and clean shopping experience, head on over to BBS Mall.
2. Two Rivers Mall
Two Rivers Mall is the new kid in town. The mall is located on Limuru Road, just a few minute’s drive from the village market. Two Rivers is the largest mall in East Africa, and it opened its doors in February 2017. The mall sits on a 100-acre piece of land and features more than 150 stores, both local and international. A French supermarket brand called Carrefour is also housed in the mall but had yet to open its doors by the time the mall was launched. The mall is quite a sensation, and residents of Nairobi and its environs have been flocking to the mall complex for a new experience.
3. Garden City Mall
The Garden City Mall is one of the largest malls in all of Kenya and is a paradise for people of all ages. Special amenities like a 3-acre recreational park, as well as residential and corporate spaces within the mall, are just the tip of the iceberg since the Garden City Mall also has more than 120 local and international luxury brands to leave their visitors spoilt for choice. It is located on the Nairobi-Thika highway. Set in Garden City, off the Thika Super Highway exit, Mi Vida is a residential complex with 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, designed with the idea of convenience and luxurious lifestyles. With Nairobi’s central business district just a short drive away, living at Mi Vida Homes offers the perfect balance between work and peaceful living.
4. Westgate Mall
Westgate Shopping Mall in Westlands is a premier shopping mall in East Africa that offers the finest shopping, leisure, and pleasure destinations for both resident and international visitors. It is the only mall in East Africa that engages shoppers in exciting and enlightening events fit for the entire family. It was first opened in 2007 but later faced a setback after the gruesome terror attack in September 2013. However, it was reopened in 2015 and is as vibrant as ever before. Westgate Shopping Mall attracts a highly cosmopolitan and sophisticated clientele and reaches a well-defined and attractive demographic audience.
5. The Village Market
Village Market is one of the most iconic shopping malls in Nairobi, designed with an African feel. It is located in the Gigiri Area, just before you get to the Runda Estate on Limuru Road. There are over 150 shopping stores in the complex with a variety of products, and you can get just about anything in the mall, which is always buzzing with life. The shopping complex also houses the famous Tribe Hotel within the compound. Plans to expand the mall are currently underway, and a new 3-star hotel will be in the picture in the next few months. The Tribe Hotel has 142 rooms, while the new hotel will have 215 rooms and conference facilities.
6. Galleria Shopping Mall
Located along Lang’ata Road, Galleria shopping mall is strategically located to tap the tune of visitors and tourists heading to various attraction sites in Nairobi, such as Giraffe Center. Although its building is not as massive as Two Rivers Mall, Galleria Mall is a colorful and vibrant structure that boasts remarkable appeal. Standing on 12 acres of land, the mall is a breathtaking structure offering fantastic shopping, dining, and other lifestyle services. Additionally, Galleria Mall has 550 parking bays, a vibrant children’s play area, and a 250-capacity food zone.
If you are looking for a shopping experience that will surpass your expectations, a dining destination with such rich variety leaves you spoilt for choice or a thoroughly enriching lifestyle experience. Then look no further than Galleria Shopping Mall, the home of the complete experience.
7. The Hub Karen
Located in the affluent Karen neighborhood, the HUB Karen Mall is among Nairobi’s best malls to visit. The Hub is a vast complex that contains more details about the medical and fitness center, shopping, and entertainment. Built on a 380,000-square-foot area, this premier shopping mall is all about the experience. The Hub aims to provide unique experiences that you will always cherish with its spectacular design.
The Hub is an environment where you can spend the whole day with all your needs catered to under one roof, from fun activities to branded stores and eateries. Additionally, you will find almost everything you are looking for while shopping with top-rated designers. As you plan your shopping during your safari in Nairobi, make the Hub your stop and have the best shopping experience.
8. Thika Road Mall
Popularly known as TRM, Thika Road Mall is also along Thika Superhighway, hence the name. It is located off Exit 8 on the highway and is one of the largest shopping malls in East Africa. TRM boasts executive shopping complexes, a selection of eateries for every taste, Kenya’s first 5D cinema experience, a kids’ entertainment complex, and the region’s first banking hall in a mall. It is usually open from 8 a.m. through 10 p.m.
9. The Junction Mall
The Junction Mall was opened about fifteen years ago, and it has risen to be one of the best shopping locations in Nairobi. Major roads lead to the junction mall, and it is several minutes away from the central business district. You can access the mall easily, whether you are using public transport or taxis. There is a plethora of retail outlets in this mall, and you will find international and local brands.
When you visit the Junction Mall, you will find international brands such as Woolworths and Adidas. In addition, there is a movie theater where you can watch the latest international movies. If you feel hungry, there are food courts that serve local and international cuisines. There are also fast-food restaurants where you can get your burger or sandwich fix.
10. Yaya Centre Shopping Complex
Located within 5km from the city centre, with adequate access from Argwings Khodek Road and Ring Road Kilimani. Yaya Centre is one of the oldest shopping complexes in Nairobi, having been put up in the early 1980s. Yaya Centre has over the years become one of the leading shopping malls in Nairobi, running in the same league as Sarit Centre, another shopping mall in Nairobi. It is the preferred shopping complex for residents of the Kilimani and Hurlingham areas of Nairobi. It is a modern, multi-functional shopping mall that offers a great experience with the big brands that define Nairobi’s market.
11. The Sarit Centre
The Sarit Centre is among the largest malls in East Africa and one of the oldest in Kenya since its inception in 1983. It is occupied by a diversity of retail shops, offices, medical facilities, and other utilities. It also happens to be a venue for international exhibitions as well as private functions and bouquets. It is located in Westlands and is arguably the busiest shopping mall in Nairobi, with a wide range of amenities for all your daily needs.
12. Capital Centre
The Capital Centre mall is located on the busy Mombasa Road, and it borders South B on the other end. The mall is popular in the area, serving residents around South B and South C. There are several food outlets, fashion stores, banks, and the Uchumi Supermarket. The mall is strategically located. You can easily access the CBD, JKIA, and Nairobi National Park, making it popular, especially among visitors and travelers.
13. Rosslyn Riviera Mall
Rosslyn Riviera Mall offers a range of retail shops, restaurants, a supermarket, a cinema, and a rooftop entertainment area, making it a convenient and enjoyable shopping destination.
14. Gateway Mall
Gateway Mall operates 24 hours a day. Is a modern, state-of-the-art shopping mall with fashion and entertainment. Gateway Shopping is on the list of the best shopping malls in Nairobi and features various shops, including banks, hospitals, supermarkets, perfume stores, and restaurants, to satisfy all lifestyle needs. The ATMs at Gateway Mall are operating 24/7; banks are operating from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and shops are open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. With over 65 shops and spaces, 1000 parking spaces, and 7 financial services The Gateway Mall receives over 40,000 weekly shoppers.
15. Lavington Mall
Lavington Mall is among the top-performing shopping places in Nairobi, located at James Gichuru Road in the suburbs of Lavington. It offers plenty of luxurious services, including branding clothes, bars and restaurants, and entertainment centers with children’s playing grounds. Customers visiting this place are secure because of well-improvised security systems and the use of CCTV.
16. The NextGen Mall
The NextGen mall is located along Mombasa Road, and it is a popular shopping destination among many people because of its location and proximity to the central business district. There are over twenty retail outlets in this mall, and you will get everything under one roof. There are fast-food restaurants as well as food courts that serve local as well as international cuisine.
On the upper floor of the building, there are several bars and restaurants, and you can take time to sample some local Kenyan drinks and check out what it has to offer. The NextGen mall is located closer to premium hotels such as Ole Sereni and Eka, so you can move from your accommodation to the mall with ease.
17. Southfield Mall
Southfield Mall is located at Airport North Road, operating from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Is among the best shopping malls, stocking a variety of goods. On their ground floor, you will find Bata shops, Dr. Mattress, Miniso, Timeless Gift, Color Link Limited, Java House, and KFC. On the first floor of Southfield Mall, you will find Iris Dental Clinic, Craic Lounge, Twilight Baby Mart, Lion Sightfirst Eye Hospital, and Alladin. On the second floor, there is a play zone, Nairobi hospital, smart gym, Absa bank, and party pan, and the third floor is made for events, among other services.
18. The Waterfront Shopping Mall Karen
The mall mostly serves residents of Karen. Several local and international outlets promise to meet all your shopping needs. The mall also offers free parking for the first 90 minutes. Its grounds are frequently used to host musical festivals. One of the mall’s main attractions is the water park. It’s the perfect place for families to have fun.
19. Fedha Vally Arcade Shopping Mall
Fedha Vally is among the top 20 shopping malls in Nairobi, operating from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. It offers a variety of services and products, including food and drinks, the Aga Khan University Hospital, Marketways supermarket, Zucchini Greengrocers, Arena One indoor football, Pump Fitness Gym, and a kid’s play area.
20. ABC Place
The ABC Place is a unique establishment in Nairobi that distinguishes itself as a women-owned business, featuring numerous shops and round-the-clock accessibility. Unlike the bustling malls in the city, it offers a refreshing abundance of parking space for visitors and a spacious atmosphere.
Furthermore, it prides itself on being a highly secure mall. The stores within ABC Place include furniture shops, fashion boutiques, beauty galleries, and a selection of food joints. Getting to the mall from the CBD is convenient, with easy access via Waiyaki Way.
Located in Nairobi, specifically on Waiyaki Way, this establishment operates round the clock, providing services and experiences to its customers at any time of the day. It is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and offers two popular spots: Seven’s Grill and Zucchini Mercury Lounge.
21. Prestige Plaza Shopping Mall
Prestige Plaza is one of Nairobi’s first sophisticated retail malls. Located on Ngong Road, it is away from the noise and bustle of the city centre. Prestige Plaza is one of the more sophisticated retail facilities in Nairobi, described as a “one-stop shopping destination”. Prestige Plaza is home to over 65 stores, including a Nakumatt supermarket with over 75,000 different goods and other well-known shop-in-shop ideas. They also offer a range of retail outlets, specialty stores, coffee shops, and restaurants; a children’s play area; a multi-cuisine food court; a medical center; and access to banking, currency, and ATM facilities.
22. Sky Mall
The mall is a modest shopping center located near Diamond Plaza. It is a decent, straightforward shopping center. There is a food court where the majority of eateries serve authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine. There is also a bakery, a pharmacy, and a grocery shop. Parking is available in the basement for a reasonable price. The Sky Hotel, located on the third and fourth floors, offers rooms to stay.
23. T-Mall
T-Mall is a world of delight at the heart of Nairobi West, offering residents the very best of fashion, food, and fun. Whether you are looking for sophisticated fashion, a gourmet restaurant offering sizzling meals, or an elegant cafe to hang out with your friends,
24. Highwayy Mall
Highwayy Mall, situated near Uhuru Highway, adjacent to Nakumatt Mega, and opposite Nyayo Stadium, is an incredibly trendy shopping destination. It offers a wide range of amenities, such as insurance services, banks, salons, high-end brand stores, charming boutiques, and delectable restaurants. Additionally, it boasts an amazing car parts and accessories shop.
Parking is extremely convenient at Highwayy Mall, with ample space and easy accessibility. You can rest assured about the safety of your vehicle, as the security guards are vigilant. Moreover, you can enjoy your time here until late hours without any concerns. Moving around the mall is effortless, thanks to the elevators and stairs that connect different floors. Furthermore, you’ll be delighted to know that Java and Carrefour are just a short distance away, allowing you to grab a refreshing beverage or a delightful cup of coffee.
25. The Imaara Shopping Mall
The Imaara Mall is a state-of-the-art mall located in Imara Daima along Mombasa Road and Expressway. The mall was constructed in 2018. The Imaara Mall is a world-class modern shopping mall situated at Imara Daima along Mombasa Road. The mall is a one-stop centre for consumers, offering unique retail variety, multiple dining experiences, and health facilities. Some of the big brands that have occupied the mall include Naivas supermarket, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), TenderCare hospital, Airtel, Stanbic bank, Optica, Pharmaplus, Samsung, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), Big Knife, Espresso coffee, Manhattan Club (owned by Bien of Sauti Sol), Text Book Centre, Hotpoint, and Rubis Petrol Station, among many others.
