Dubai’s iconic Shopping Festival (DSF) celebrates its 30th anniversary with an unprecedented array of dazzling experiences. From world-class entertainment and thrilling adventures to unparalleled shopping deals and grand raffles, the festival promises an unforgettable celebration across the city from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025.
A Milestone Celebration
The 30th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival is set to be the most extraordinary yet, offering a packed calendar of events designed to entertain all ages. Organized by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the festival kicked off with the spectacular 321 Festival, featuring renowned Arab and South Asian artists, alongside daily drone shows, fireworks, and family-friendly entertainment.
Unforgettable Experiences
DSF’s third week continues to captivate with a diverse range of activities and new attractions:
- The Uncommon x DSF: A brand-new desert experience at Al Marmoom, running until January 12, 2025, featuring lighting installations, firepit gatherings, a mirror maze, and outdoor cinema nights.
- Festive Shows: Enjoy classic holiday performances like "The Nutcracker" at Dubai Opera (until December 22) and "Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" at Zabeel Theatre (until December 24).
- Concerts: A-list artists grace the stage, including Yara (December 21), Hany Shaker (December 26), and Sergei Makovetsky (December 26). Live X Factor shows continue every Sunday at Dubai Festival City Mall.
- Family Entertainment: CoComelon Live: Sing-A-Long (December 20-21), Aladdin in Dubai (December 20-29), and the Sonic Stage Show at City Center Mirdif (until January 7, 2025) offer fun for the whole family.
Dazzling Displays and Attractions
The city’s skies are illuminated with spectacular displays:
- Daily Fireworks: Catch mesmerizing fireworks at Dubai Festival City Mall nightly at 9 PM, and at Hatta every Friday and Saturday at 8 PM.
- Twice-Daily Drone Shows: Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR, host awe-inspiring drone shows at 8 PM and 10 PM, featuring 1,000 drones creating captivating visuals.
- Dubai Lights: Interactive light installations by international artists are showcased across various locations, including Bluewaters Island, Al Seef, and Hatta, celebrating the five elements.
Shopping Extravaganza and Prizes
The DSF Sale Season launches on December 26, offering incredible discounts and opportunities to win:
- DSF Sale Season: Enjoy up to 75% off across over 800 global brands in 3,500 outlets citywide, from December 26, 2024, to February 2, 2025.
- Raffles and Prizes: Participate in various raffles, including the DSF VISA DIB Millionaire for a chance to win 1 million dirhams, and the Dubai Jewellery Group’s raffle for a share of AED 1.5 million in gold.
- Gaming Experiences: GameQuest Express at Ibn Battuta Mall (December 20-29) offers free-to-play zones and tournaments, while City Centre Deira provides pixel-themed gaming experiences with instant prizes.
Returning Favorites
Popular attractions continue to draw crowds:
- CanteenX: A vibrant outdoor market at Mushrif Park until December 31, featuring unique food, live DJs, and performances.
- DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall: Daily activities, live concerts, and IMAGINE shows.
- DSF x Hatta: Hatta Wadi Hub transforms into a winter retreat with outdoor entertainment, activities, and fireworks.
- Ripe Market: A lively community market at Dubai Police Academy Park every Saturday and Sunday, offering artisan stalls, fresh produce, and food trucks.
To navigate the festival’s extensive offerings, visitors can utilize the all-new digital DSF Map, an interactive online guide to explore all experiences and events across the city.