Top 10 Biggest Malls in South Africa in 2025: Your Ultimate Shopping Guide
Top 10 Largest Malls in South Africa Summary
- Fourways Mall – Johannesburg. GLA: 178,202 sqm. …
- Menlyn Park Shopping Centre – Pretoria. GLA: 177,000 sqm. …
- Gateway Theatre of Shopping – Durban. …
- Sandton City – Johannesburg. …
- Canal Walk – Cape Town. …
- Mall of Africa – Midrand. …
- The Pavilion – Durban. …
- Eastgate Shopping Centre – Johannesburg.
Top 10 Biggest Malls in South Africa in 2025
South Africa’s retail scene is thriving, with some of Africa’s largest and most iconic shopping malls. These massive complexes are more than just shopping destinations—they’re vibrant hubs for entertainment, dining, and lifestyle experiences.
Whether searching for the top 10 biggest malls in South Africa in 2025, planning a shopping spree, or exploring retail giants, this guide covers the largest malls by gross leasable area (GLA), their unique features, and why they are must-visit destinations.
Let’s dive into the top 10 biggest malls in South Africa for 2025!
1. Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga, Durban (220,000 sqm)
Located in the coastal city of Umhlanga, Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the largest mall in South Africa and one of the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere. Spanning an impressive 220,000 square meters, it houses over 460 stores, 70 eateries, and a variety of entertainment options, including an 18-cinema Ster-Kinekor complex, IMAX Theatre, and a wave pool.
Owned by Old Mutual Property, Gateway is a trendsetter in fashion, dining, and leisure, making it a top destination for locals and tourists alike. Open daily, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a world-class shopping experience.
Why Visit? From international brands like Zara to local retailers, Gateway offers endless shopping, plus unique attractions like the Tony Hawk Skate Park.
2. Fourways Mall, Johannesburg (178,202 sqm)
Fourways Mall in Johannesburg claims the title of South Africa’s second-largest mall, with a 178,202 square meter retail space. After a R3 billion expansion in 2019, it now features over 400 stores, 2,500 parking bays, and a two-level food court. Despite challenges with a 15% vacancy rate in 2025, Fourways remains a retail powerhouse with brands like H&M, Woolworths, and Checkers. Its open-air exhibition arena and entertainment zone make it a favorite for families and shoppers. Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM (5 PM on Sundays).
Why Visit? Fourways combines luxury shopping with vibrant entertainment, though it faces competition from nearby Sandton City.
3. Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Pretoria (177,000 sqm)
Just 1,202 square meters shy of Fourways, Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria is a close contender with 177,000 square meters of retail space. This award-winning mall, established in 1979, boasts over 500 stores, 8,250 parking bays, and 16 entrances for easy access. Owned by Pareto Limited, Menlyn Park offers high-end fashion, tech, and dining options, making it a premier destination in Gauteng. Open daily with concierge services and family-friendly amenities.
Why Visit? Menlyn’s diverse tenant mix and IMAX theatre provide a top-tier shopping and entertainment experience.
4. Sandton City, Johannesburg (146,803 sqm)
Sandton City, located in Johannesburg’s affluent Sandton district, covers 146,803 square meters after a 2011 expansion. With over 300 stores, it’s a luxury shopping haven owned by Liberty Holdings and Pareto. From international brands like Michael Kors to local boutiques, Sandton City offers a premium retail experience. Its sleek design and proximity to the Sandton Sun Hotel make it a hotspot for tourists. Open from 9 AM to 8 PM (6 PM on Sundays).
Why Visit? Sandton City is perfect for upscale shopping and dining, with a vibrant atmosphere in Johannesburg’s business hub.
5. Canal Walk, Cape Town (141,000 sqm)
Canal Walk in Cape Town’s Century City precinct is the largest mall in the Western Cape, spanning 141,000 square meters. With over 400 stores, 8,000 parking bays, and a unique Venetian-inspired design, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Owned by Hyprop Investments, Canal Walk features brands like H&M, Starbucks, and a 20-cinema complex for 4K movie experiences. Open daily with vegan-friendly dining options.
Why Visit? Canal Walk’s circular layout and diverse entertainment make it ideal for a full day of shopping and leisure.
6. Eastgate Shopping Centre, Johannesburg (142,825 sqm)
Eastgate Shopping Centre in Johannesburg’s eastern suburbs covers 142,825 square meters and houses over 300 stores. Established in 1979 and managed by Liberty Group, it’s known for its convenient Call & Collect services and diverse retail mix, including fashion, tech, and food. With steady foot traffic in 2025, Eastgate remains a reliable shopping destination. Open daily with ample parking.
Why Visit? Eastgate’s blend of modern retail and practical services makes it a go-to for Johannesburg shoppers.
7. The Pavilion, Westville, Durban (135,000 sqm)
The Pavilion in Westville, Durban, spans 135,000 square meters and is one of South Africa’s most beautiful malls, thanks to its European architectural features. Owned by Pareto Limited, it features over 200 stores, 5,319 parking bays, and a diverse tenant mix, including Woolworths and Game. Established in 1993, it’s a regional favorite. Open daily with family-friendly amenities.
Why Visit? The Pavilion’s charm and extensive retail options make it a top pick for Durban shoppers.
8. Mall of Africa, Midrand (131,038 sqm)
Mall of Africa in Midrand, Gauteng, is South Africa’s busiest mall by foot traffic, covering 131,038 square meters. Built in a single phase in 2016, it features over 300 stores, 6,500 parking bays, and a modern design inspired by African landscapes. With brands like Pick n Pay and IMAX, it’s a retail marvel managed by Attacq. Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM (10 AM to 8 PM on Sundays).
Why Visit? Mall of Africa’s vibrant events and diverse dining options draw massive crowds year-round.
9. Centurion Mall, Pretoria (133,333 sqm)
Centurion Mall in Pretoria offers 133,333 square meters of open-air shopping since its establishment in 1983. With 260 stores, including anchors like Woolworths and Checkers, it’s a calm yet bustling retail hub in Gauteng. Its 6,200 parking bays ensure easy access. Open daily with a relaxed vibe.
Why Visit? Centurion’s open-air design and comprehensive tenant mix make it perfect for a laid-back shopping day.
10. Cresta Shopping Centre, Johannesburg (114,545 sqm)
Rounding out the list is Cresta Shopping Centre in Randburg, Johannesburg, with 114,545 square meters. Established in 1977, it features 260 stores and unique attractions like the Crest Aquarium. Cresta’s quirky charm and steady traffic make it a local favorite. Open daily with ample dining and entertainment options.
Why Visit? Cresta’s blend of retail and unique features, like the aquarium, offers a memorable shopping experience.
Why Visit South Africa’s Biggest Malls in 2025?
South Africa’s top 10 biggest malls are more than just shopping centers—they’re economic and cultural landmarks. With nearly 2,000 malls spanning 24 million square meters across the country, these retail giants dominate the landscape. They offer:
- Diverse Retail: From luxury brands like Hugo Boss to local gems like Maxhosa, there’s something for every budget.
- Entertainment Galore: Cinemas, skate parks, wave pools, and live events ensure endless fun.
- Dining Variety: Food courts and restaurants cater to all tastes, from vegan dishes to gourmet burgers.
- Convenience: Ample parking, extended hours, and services like concierge and Call & Collect enhance the experience.
Despite challenges like rising vacancies (e.g., Fourways’ 15% vacancy rate) and online shopping growth (up 66% from 2020 to 2023), these malls continue to thrive due to their strategic locations and experiential offerings.
Tips for Visiting South Africa’s Biggest Malls
- Plan: Check mall hours (most open 9 AM to 8 PM, shorter on Sundays) and parking rates (e.g., Fourways offers free parking for 30 minutes on weekdays).
- Explore Events: Malls like Mall of Africa host fashion shows and live performances—check schedules online.
- Bring Cash: Some smaller stores or markets (e.g., Rosebank Sunday Market) may prefer cash.
- Visit Off-Peak: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends for a relaxed experience.
FAQs About South Africa’s Biggest Malls
1. What is the biggest mall in South Africa in 2025?
Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Durban, with 220,000 square meters, is the largest.
2. Are these malls open now?
Yes, all listed malls are open daily, typically from 9 AM to 8 PM (shorter hours on Sundays). Check specific mall websites for exact times.
3. Which mall has the most stores?
Menlyn Park in Pretoria, with over 500 stores, has the highest store count.
4. Are there hardware or furniture stores in these malls?
Yes, malls like Mall of Africa and Centurion feature stores like @Home and Game, which sell furniture and hardware-related items. Specific hardware or furniture chains like Builders Warehouse or Coricraft may have standalone locations nearby.
5. How do these malls compare to the 2023 or 2024 rankings?
The 2025 list reflects updates like Fourways’ expansion and Gateway’s consistent lead. Rankings align with 2023 and 2024 data, with minor shifts due to renovations.
Conclusion
South Africa’s top 10 biggest malls in 2025—from Gateway Theatre of Shopping to Cresta—offer unparalleled shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, or Cape Town, these retail giants cater to every need, blending local culture with global brands. Plan your visit to explore these iconic destinations and discover why they’re the heartbeat of South Africa’s retail scene. For more details, check mall websites or visit Entrepreneur Hub SA for the latest retail insights.
Ready to shop ’til you drop? Which of these malls is on your must-visit list? Share your favorite in the comments below!
