Dubai’s long-standing and fondly remembered Lamcy Plaza in Oud Metha is preparing to return to the retail market after nearly nine years of closure, reopening under a new name, The Plaza. However, an official opening date has yet to be announced.

Opened in 1997, Lamcy Plaza was one of Dubai’s best-known shopping destinations before the arrival of major malls such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. The five-storey centre housed more than 150 shops, a cinema, a hypermarket and a food court. It is particularly remembered by long-time Dubai residents for its distinctive décor, including a clown that moved up and down a rope between floors.

The mall ceased operations in March 2017 following a fire. Despite initial plans to reopen, the building remained closed for years.

After several unsuccessful attempts to sell the property, Lamcy Plaza was finally sold at auction in September 2025 for AED 188.7 million. The buyer’s identity has not been publicly disclosed.

Significant changes have now been made to the building’s exterior, and The Plaza has been unveiled as its new name. Recent reports confirm that the property will once again operate as a commercial centre, although no details have been released about its retail tenants, new facilities, opening hours or official launch date.

The mall’s return will bring one of Dubai’s most recognisable former shopping destinations back to the city’s retail scene after nearly a decade.