It is estimated that by the time it closes tonight, 75,000 people will have visited the Dundrum Town Centre on its first day of operations.
The first phase of the south Dublin centre, which is the largest retail development in Europe, opened this morning.
The Cathaoirleach of Dén Laoghaire-Rathdown County, Niamh Breathnach, officially opened the centre, which is to employ 4,000 people across 90 stores in its first phase.
The centre has cost €850 million to complete. Phase one includes some international retailers who have never traded in Ireland before.
When eventually completed, the centre will feature 25 restaurants, a 12-screen cinema complex and a public theatre.
The developers say it will contribute around €150 million annually to the local and national exchequers in the form of rates and tax receipts.
However, many local residents are concerned the centre will cause traffic congestion and affect their quality of life.
Small shopkeepers, based in Dundrum's old shopping centre which is due to be demolished, are also unhappy.
