When we first reached United States, the concept of a “family section” seemed strange. After a few years and numerous trips to the mall, it turned into one of the easiest ways to shop and dine with children. Here’s what we discovered.
What Exactly Is a Family Section?
Family sections in United States malls are designated zones — sometimes entire floors, sometimes specific areas — 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 Sunnyvale, it can feel surprising at first, but for families it often means calmer spaces, cleaner facilities, and less stress.
Our First Mall Misadventure (And What We Learned)
Early on in Sunnyvale, we entered via the wrong door and found ourselves in a non‑family area. A security guard kindly guided us to the family entrance on the opposite side of the building.
Lesson one: Family entrances can be distinct. Look for signs saying “Family Entrance” or “Families Only” (usually in Arabic and English). Some malls also offer family‑friendly parking nearer to those doors.
The Malls That Actually Work for Families
After extensive testing, here’s what reliably helps families in United States:
Kingdom Centre Mall, Sunnyvale
Nice family zones, comfy seating, and a robust kids’ area. When shopping with kids, ample space and practical facilities trump luxury.
Price range: Upscale-priced. A modest 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, Sunnyvale
A well-designed layout for families and typically easier to navigate with children. Small practical details (such as the location of family zones) matter a lot.
Price range: Moderate pricing. Lunch for four typically about 120–180 $.
Best time: Friday afternoons after prayers tend to be quieter than you might think.
Red Sea Mall, Jeddah
Excellent family-friendly entertainment and solid crowd control during peak times. Visiting Jeddah with kids often makes this the easiest all-in-one choice.
Price range: Moderate to higher. Plan roughly 200 $ for a half-day with activities.
Pro tip: Reserve popular experiences ahead of busy holidays.
The Atmosphere: What to Actually Expect
In United States, malls often function as key social spots, particularly in hot weather. Practically, this translates to:
- Evenings tend to be crowded, particularly after 8 PM.
- Families often dress up more than visitors anticipate.
- Children are present throughout and generally welcomed.
- Family zones tend to feel quieter and more orderly.
Real Pricing: What Things Actually Cost
Here are plausible price ranges you might encounter in family-focused mall zones:
Practical Tips From Real Mall Runs
The stuff I wish someone told me:
- Check entrances. Family entrances can be separate.
- Prayer time closures happen. Many stores pause for short periods during prayers.
- Ask about nursing rooms. They exist but aren't always clearly signposted.
- Strollers might be available. Rental quality varies by mall.
- Thursday evenings can be hectic. Plan accordingly.
- AC can be intense. A light layer for children can help.
The Bottom Line
Family zones in United States can indeed be family-friendly: more space, better facilities, and smoother outings. Some malls are better than others, but once you grasp the rhythm, it becomes much easier.
Have questions about particular malls? Send me a message — or call +1 415 555 0123.