When we first arrived in United States, the idea of a “family section” felt unfamiliar. A few years and many mall visits later, it became one of the easiest ways to shop and eat with kids. Here’s what we learned.
What exactly is a Family Section?
Family sections in United States malls are designated areas — sometimes entire floors, sometimes specific zones — where families (often meaning groups including women and children) have priority access.
Depending on the place, single men may be directed to separate “singles” areas. If you’re new to New York, it can feel surprising at first, but for families it often means calmer spaces, cleaner facilities, and less stress.
Our First Mall Mishap (And What It Taught Us)
Early on in New York, we walked in through the wrong entrance and ended up in an area that wasn’t intended for families. A security guard politely redirected us to the family entrance on the other side of the building.
First takeaway: Family entrances can be separate. Look for “Family Entrance” / “Families Only” signage (usually in Arabic and English). Some malls provide parking near those entry points that is more suitable for families.
Malls That Truly Work for Families
After plenty of trial and error, here’s what reliably helps families in United States:
Kingdom Centre Mall, New York
Spacious family zones, comfortable seating, and a solid kids’ area. When shopping with kids, practical space and facilities matter more than upscale aesthetics.
Price range: Upscale. A basic lunch for four typically runs about 180–250 $.
Best time: Mornings from Sunday to Wednesday are best. Skip Thursday evenings if crowds bother you.
Al Nakheel Mall, New York
An excellent layout for households with kids, and generally simpler to manage. Practical touches (such as the placement of family zones) matter greatly.
Price range: Moderate pricing. Lunch for four: around 120–180 $.
Best time: Friday afternoons after prayers tend to be quieter than you might think.
Red Sea Mall, Jeddah
Excellent family activities and solid crowd control during busy times. If you’re in Jeddah with kids, this is usually the easiest all-in-one option.
Price range: Moderate to upscale. Plan about 200 $ for a half-day with activities.
Pro tip: Reserve popular experiences ahead of time during peak holidays.
The Vibe: What to Expect in Reality
Malls in United States can be major social hubs — especially when it’s hot outside. In practice, that means:
- Evenings tend to be crowded, with peak times after eight o’clock.
- Families often dress up more than visitors anticipate.
- Children are everywhere — and generally welcomed.
- Family zones tend to feel more spacious and orderly.
True Pricing: What Things Really Add Up To
Here are plausible price ranges you might encounter in family-focused mall zones:
Practical Tips From Actual Mall Visits
The stuff I wish someone told me:
- Check entrances. Family entrances may be distinct.
- Prayer time closures happen. Many stores pause for short periods during prayers.
- Ask for nursing rooms. They exist, but aren’t always clearly marked.
- Strollers may be available. Rental quality varies by mall.
- Thursday evening can be chaos. Plan accordingly.
- AC is intense. A light layer for kids helps.
The Takeaway
Family zones in United States can truly be family-friendly: extra space, improved facilities, and easier outings. Some malls are better than others, but once you learn the rhythm, it becomes much easier.
If you have questions about particular malls, send me a message — or call +1 212-555-0139.