Massive new R1.3 billion shopping mall opening in South Africa this month

The new Oceans Mall in Umhlanga is expected to open its doors to the public this month, promising to bring luxury retail and high-end fashion to Durban.

The mall, valued at R1.3 billion, forms part of the R4.3 billion mixed-use Oceans development in Umhlanga, which comprises three towers with luxury apartments, and a hotel.

The project was designed by Elphick Proome Architecture and is being co-developed by businessman and founder of the Edison Group, Vivian Reddy.

The massive 36,000 square metre mall is planning a grand opening on 15 November, launching its first phase. The second phase – which includes the luxury retail and high-end fashion component – is expected to open in March 2023.

The group has confirmed that several South African retailers will be anchored at the mall, including Woolworths, Pick n Pay Clothing, Checkers, Checkers Liquor, Checkers Little Me, the brand-new Checkers Outdoor, Medirite Pharmacy and Clicks.

It will also have a host of eateries, a Hard Rock Cafe, and restaurants like Umhlanga Feast, Olive & Oil, Tigers Milk, W Cafe, Seven Seas Sushi, The Hussar Grill, Nando’s, New York Deli and Romano Ice Cream.

Specialist stores for the mall include Soul (surf shop), Tip Top Tailor, Pet Science, Fresh Breeze Laundry, Frans Tailor, Oceans Tobacconist, Wordsworth Books, Foto Fame, Chocolate Haven and Occasions.

Oceans is a major 217,600-square-metre development, and along with the mall, it also features a 200-plus-room Raddison Blu hotel, 40 deluxe long-stay apartments and 2 penthouses. It also boasts an 800-seater, state-of-the-art conferencing facility that includes 6 breakaway rooms for stylish meeting venues.

The development will also comprise two residence towers, consisting of over 450 apartments and penthouses. The towers are designed so that every apartment has a view so as to enhance their appeal and long-term value.

The 5-star Raddison Blu Umhlanga opened its doors in June 2022 and has direct access to the mall.

Read: A look at 4 massive new shopping malls that just opened in South Africa