The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an incredible list of activities, offering visitors a chance to enjoy unforgettable moments. This year’s festival is packed with exciting entertainment, stunning fireworks, unique events like the launch of DSF Auto Season, luxury shopping, and delicious food experiences. All of these attractions take place during Dubai’s pleasant winter season, making the event feel truly special and magical.
This year, DSF promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Visitors can look forward to endless shopping deals, family-friendly activities, and live shows that will keep everyone entertained. From exploring the city’s festive decorations to enjoying outdoor markets and street performances, there is something for every visitor to enjoy. With Dubai’s winter offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures, the festival creates the perfect setting for both residents and tourists to make amazing memories.
Discover Outdoor Adventures Beyond Shopping Malls
While the malls are full of exciting deals and big discounts, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy too. Here are some great outdoor experiences you should definitely explore:
Enjoy Delicious Food at CanteenX
Visit CanteenX at Mushrif Park’s Gate 1 and treat yourself to tasty dishes from some of Dubai’s best food places like Lazio, Montauk, Foul and Tamees, Mitzumami, The Honestry, and Humm Crumbs. This special food event is designed with four fun and interactive zones, each offering unique experiences for everyone.
You can join interesting workshops such as learning how to make sushi, brewing matcha tea, crafting delicious ice cream, or even trying your hand at origami. Making the event even more fun are six cheerful new characters – Twirlo, Bunzi, Pizzani, Matcho, Scoopi, and Mallow – who will help guide you through the zones. On top of that, enjoy live music and performances by traditional Oud players, the Emirati music group Fourmanos, and former X Factor contestants who will add a lively atmosphere.
You can also read: The Ultimate Guide to Dubai Metro: Timings, Tickets, and Travel Tips
Event Timings:
Weekdays: 4 PM to midnight
Weekends: 4 PM to 1 AM
(Dates: December 13 to December 31)
Catch Stunning Nighttime Shows
DSF Drone Show
Prepare to be amazed as 1,000 drones create breathtaking light displays in the sky above Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR. These colorful and vibrant shows are sure to leave you spellbound. Make sure you catch the special pyro drone show on December 13, which includes an incredible display of fireworks lighting up the night.
Timings:
8 PM and 10 PM daily
(Runs until January 12)
Firework Shows
Enjoy stunning firework displays at Festival Bay in Dubai Festival City Mall and the beautiful Hatta mountains. Each show is perfectly timed to the famous DSF song “Dubai Kawkab Akhir” by Rashed Al Majed, making it a truly special and memorable experience for everyone to enjoy.
Timings:
Festival Bay: Every day at 9 PM
Hatta Sign: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM
(Event runs until January 5)
Experience Stunning Light Displays
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) brings back its popular Dubai Lights event for the fourth year, offering a wonderful experience with dazzling light displays all over the city. You can enjoy artistic light sculptures at Al Seef and Bluewaters or see inflatable designs at Dubai Design District that celebrate unity. Each place is perfect for taking amazing photos. Starting December 20, the Al Marmoom desert will also showcase a grand and beautiful light display that you shouldn’t miss.
Locations:
Al Seef, Bluewaters, Hatta, Dubai Design District, Nakheel Mall, Palm West Beach, and Al Marmoom.
Top Outdoor Activities to Try
- Fun for Families at Dubai Festival City Mall:
DSF Nights at Festival Bay offer fun activities for the whole family with free concerts every Saturday featuring popular singers like Diana Haddad, Yara, and Ibrahim Sultan. Kids can enjoy exciting shows and meet favorite characters like Bluey, Barney, and Miraculous Ladybug. On Sundays, don’t miss the amazing performances from X Factor contestants.
Timings:
Concerts: Every Saturday
X Factor: Sundays at 8 PM
(Event runs until January 12)
Exciting Adventures in Hatta
For those who love nature, Hatta is perfect for outdoor fun with activities like hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and kayaking. You can also enjoy tasty food from vendors such as GOAT Burger and Damani Bites while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains.
Timings:
Sunday to Thursday: 4 PM to 10 PM
Friday and Saturday: 12 PM to midnight
(Event runs until January 5)
Shop and Eat at e& MOTB
Explore a lively mix of fashion, art, and food at e& MOTB in Dubai Design District. With a cool neo-vintage theme, this outdoor festival has pop-up shops, live music, and delicious food from 25 vendors. Enjoy free concerts by popular Gen Z artists, making it a great spot to visit.
Timings:
Monday to Thursday: 4 PM to 10 PM
Friday: 4 PM to midnight
Saturday and Sunday: 12 PM to midnight
Relax in Al Marmoom Desert
Take a break in the peaceful Al Marmoom desert, where you can enjoy special activities like outdoor movie nights, live oud music, and seasonal dishes. Make sure to take photos of the stunning mirror art from Dubai Lights.
Timings:
4 PM to midnight
(Event dates: December 20 to January 12)
Get Ready for DSF Auto Season
Celebrate car culture at the first-ever DSF Auto Season. Enjoy exciting car parades, displays of classic cars, and thrilling races at places like Dubai Festival City and Dubai Autodrome. Key events include the Oman to Dubai Parade and the Michelin 24 Hours Race.
Timings:
January 1 to January 12
Locations: Circuit De Meydan, City Centre Mirdif, and Dubai Autodrome
Conclusion
The 30th Dubai Shopping Festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration filled with amazing experiences. With a great combination of shopping, fun entertainment, and exciting outdoor activities, this year’s festival promises to bring special moments for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you don’t miss these wonderful events happening all through the winter season.