Journey back to 1976 with me. We are standing in front of Ali Mall. This wasn’t just another mall. It was a game-changer. Ali Mall was the first fully air-conditioned mall in the Philippines. It was also the first with integrated shopping and parking.
The story of Ali Mall begins with a boxing legend. It is named after Muhammad Ali. He had just won the “Thrilla in Manila” at the Araneta Coliseum. This cemented his place in boxing history. The Araneta family honored him by naming their new mall after him. Ali even attended the inauguration. He didn’t charge any royalty fees.
Imagine stepping inside Ali Mall for the first time. The cool air hits you. It’s a welcome escape from Manila’s heat. You see the first Cineplex. It started with two cinemas. Later, it expanded to four. There was also Skatetown. This was the largest indoor skating rink at the time. Ali Mall also pioneered the food court concept. It was initially known as the Food Gallery. These were all firsts for the Philippines.
Ali Mall quickly became a popular destination. People came from all over to shop and dine. They could also enjoy the entertainment. It housed the first branches of Papemelroti, Blue Magic, and Rusty Lopez. These brands are still here today.
In 2009, Ali Mall underwent a major renovation. A skywalk connected it to SM Cubao. This symbolized the friendship between the two malls. The interiors were modernized. New sections were added to cater to changing tastes. The Ali Mall Cineplex 4 was also upgraded.
ALI X opened in 2019. This is a section dedicated to arts, lifestyle, and interests. It has novelty items, antiques, and art. You can also find music and memorabilia here.
Today, Ali Mall has a wide variety of shops and restaurants. There is also a one-stop government and banking center. You can even find a passport office here. Ali Mall continues to evolve with the times. It still retains its pioneering spirit.
The Ali Mall also has a glass painting of Muhammad Ali. It is named “Alive”. It commemorates his victory in the “Thrilla in Manila”.
The Araneta Group plans to redevelop Ali Mall as part of its Vision 2030. This will include a mixed-use development with four towers. This shows that Ali Mall will continue to be a vital part of Araneta City.
So, as you explore Ali Mall remember its history. Remember its legacy. It’s more than just a mall. Ali Mall is a symbol of innovation. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Manila. It all started with a boxing legend and a vision.