South Africa's 10 biggest shopping malls
Where in South Africa is the biggest shopping mall? Find out below.
One thing South Africa does not lack is shopping malls and shopping centres, especially in large urban areas.
These days, it seems designated shopping spots are popping up around every corner, with new ones being built almost daily.
Although there are many smaller malls across the country, South Africa is also home to some of the largest shopping centres on the continent.
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These malls typically offer everything from daily shopping and affordable retailers to luxury stores that provide world-class retail experiences.
According to The South African, the biggest mall in South Africa is currently Fourways Mall in Gauteng, based on its Gross Lettable Area (GLA), the total area of a commercial property that can be leased to tenants.
Closely following Fourways Mall are Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria and Gateway Theatre of Shopping in uMhlanga.
Here is the full list of the 10 biggest shopping malls in South Africa:
1. Fourways Mall, Johannesburg – 178,202 sqm
With a GLA of around 178,000 sqm, Fourways Mall is South Africa’s largest shopping centre, featuring over 350 stores, extensive family entertainment, and more than 8,000 parking bays following its major 2019 expansion.
2. Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Pretoria – 177,000 sqm
Covering about 177,000 sqm, Menlyn Park has around 500 stores, large outdoor dining areas, and eco-friendly architecture, making it one of South Africa’s most innovative malls.
3. Gateway Theatre of Shopping, uMhlanga – 176,400 sqm
Spanning roughly 176,400 sqm, Gateway offers over 380 stores, extensive entertainment such as IMAX cinemas and arcades, and about 12,000 parking spaces in Umhlanga Ridge.
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4. Sandton City, Johannesburg – 147,941 sqm
With 147,941 sqm of space, Sandton City is one of Africa’s premier luxury malls, combining high-end retail, offices, and top-tier dining in the heart of Johannesburg’s business district.
5. Canal Walk, Cape Town – 147,834 sqm
Encompassing 147,800 sqm, Canal Walk is styled in "Cape Venetian" architecture and houses over 400 stores, major entertainment venues, and a wide variety of restaurants.
6. Eastgate Shopping Centre, Johannesburg – 142,825 sqm
Measuring about 143,000 sqm, Eastgate is a long-standing retail hub offering fashion, dining, and leisure across 300 stores, with extensive modern upgrades since its 1979 opening.
7. Centurion Mall, Centurion – 133,333 sqm
At 133,333 sqm, Centurion Mall features over 230 stores, an open-air design, family facilities, and strong transport links connecting Pretoria and Midrand.
8. Mall of Africa, Johannesburg – 131,038 sqm
Opened in 2016 with about 130,000 sqm of space, the Mall of Africa hosts over 300 stores, a vibrant outdoor plaza, and over 6,000 parking bays within Waterfall City’s mixed-use development.
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9. Pavilion Mall, Durban – 122,768 sqm
Spanning approximately 122,768 sqm, The Pavilion Mall features more than 255 stores, cinemas, and dining spaces, serving as a major retail destination for the Durban region.
10. Cresta Shopping Centre, Johannesburg – 114,545 sqm
With a GLA of 114,545 sqm, Cresta is one of Johannesburg’s oldest malls, offering over 260 stores, entertainment options, and modern facilities after several refurbishments.
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Images: Accelerate Property Fund