Kabul City Center: A Modern Hub in the Heart of Kabul
Experience modern Kabul at the City Center: shopping, dining, and culture in a vibrant, secure environment in the heart of the capital.
Kabul City Center is more than just a shopping mall; it's a symbol of Kabul's journey toward modernization [11]. Inaugurated in 2005, it was the first indoor shopping mall in the city and remains a bustling hub in the Shahr-e Naw district [8, 11, 16]. The mall features over 100 stores, offering everything from local handicrafts to international brands [2, 9, 11, 15]. You'll find jewelry, electronics, clothing, and books, alongside boutiques selling traditional Afghan garments and modern fashions [2, 11]. The food court provides a variety of dining options, with both Afghan and international cuisine [2, 9, 11, 15]. The mall is known for its see-through elevators and escalators, which were the first in Kabul and became a local attraction [2, 8, 11]. Despite facing security challenges in the past, Kabul City Center has been rebuilt with enhanced security measures, including blast-resistant glass and thorough screening [8, 11]. It remains a vibrant social gathering point, hosting events and activities that foster a sense of community [9, 11]. Kabul City Center is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM [15]. It's a place where families come to spend time together, young people meet with friends, and business professionals conduct meetings [11]. The mall is a testament to the enduring spirit of Kabul and its people, representing progress and hope for the future [11].
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience [9, 15].
- Try local Afghan dishes at the food court for an authentic taste of Afghan cuisine [9, 15].
- Be prepared for a security check at the entrance [8, 11].
- Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards [9].
A brief summary to Kabul City Center
- G5M8+26W, Kabul, Shahre Naow, AF
- +93799909624
Getting There
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Taxi
Taxis are a common way to reach Kabul City Center from various points in Kabul [3, 6, 18]. From the Khyber Hotel, a taxi ride to Kabul City Center will cost approximately 200 AFN, though this may require some negotiation [3]. The ride is about 4.6 km [3]. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps [4, 6]. Be prepared to pay a base fare of 100 AFN, plus 50 AFN per kilometer [4]. An 8km taxi ride in Kabul will cost around 470 AFN [5, 7]. Be mindful of traffic conditions, which can affect travel time and fare [3, 19].
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Walking
If you are already in the Shahr-e Naw area, walking to Kabul City Center is a viable option. From Ansari roundabout, it is a short walk [9]. Be aware of your surroundings and local customs while walking [11]. The mall is located at G5M8+26W, Kabul, Afghanistan [9]. Walking from the city center will take approximately 37 minutes, covering a distance of 3.0 km [8].
